Everyone in North Central Texas is invited to the 4th Annual North TX Firefighters Fundraiser - Chili Cook-off & Motorcycle Run, October 26, 2013, American Legion's Park, Whitewright, Texas.
Helping North Texas Volunteer Fire Departments buy what they need to save lives, then go home.
Attention chili cooks, motorcycle riders, volunteer fire departments and Halloween costume contestants! Compete for over $3,000 in prizes and 16 awards at the North TX Firefighters Fundraiser on October 26, in Whitewright, Texas. Anyone can enter. Proceeds will be divided among the volunteer fire departments that participate.
The first 15 chili contestants who register early will be entered into a drawing for a $75 gift card from Academy Sports & Outdoors donated by Plano and McKinney. Must be present to win. Cook-off is CASI-sanctioned. CASI rules for fairness and safety must be followed.
The first 25 motorcycle riders who register early will be entered into a drawing for $100 dining card donated by Rick's Chophouse, McKinney. Must be present to win.
The Best-Decorated Firefighter Boot Contest winner takes home a prize for their volunteer fire department. You can vote for your favorite boot by dropping donations into the boot(s) you like best. The boot with the most money wins, and the VFDs take home the collections in their respective boots.
Kids! Costume contest prizes. Halloween tattoos. Loads of trick or treat candy will be handed out by the American Legion. Meet real volunteer firefighters and learn how boys and girls can be firefighters when you grow up.
Spectators! Come early and watch all kinds of motorcycles as they depart from Whitewright from 8:15am-10:00am.
Have breakfast and lunch in the park with the Friday Women's Club Bake Sale and 4th Monday food vendors, including breakfast tacos, hot breakfast plates with biscuits, cappuccino, cocoa, cider, snow cones, homemade desserts, hamburgers, BBQ sandwiches, funnel cakes.
Negotiate bargains with the 4th Monday Trade Days merchandise vendors and the Friday Women's Club of Whitewright rummage sale.
www.FunSaturday.com email texasVFD@gmail.com or call 903.818.9023.
Contact: Ella Fitzbag Vendor Contact: Andrew 972.480.3389
VFDs get one complimentary entry fee that can be used for the cook-off or motorcycle run.
Each VFD gets one equal share of the proceeds. You can enter as many additional chili teams and motorcycles as you want at the $20 entry fee.
All contestants who register early are entered into door prize drawings. Pay at the event or online. Credit cards accepted online.
Drawing for chili contestants who register early:
$75 gift card from Academy Sports & Outdoors, donated by the McKinney store. Must be present and checked-in at the event.
Drawing for motorcycle riders who register early:
$100 dining card from Rick's Chophouse, McKinney.
Must be present and check-in at the event.
Enter the VFD Best-Decorated Boot Contest. The public votes for their favorite boots by dropping donations into the boots they like best. The 4 VFD boots with the most money win trophies, and each VFD takes home the donations in their respective boots.
_____________________________________
Source: KTen (Anderson, 10/24)
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Come Celebrate 10 Years of Record Breaking Speed at the Texas Mile’s 10th Anniversary Event
What started as a grassroots motorsports event a decade ago is now one of the nation’s premier speed events for those on four or two wheels. The Texas Mile, now in its third season at Chase Field after being at a Goliad facility the previous seven years, is held twice a year, March and October.
The Texas Mile is open to drivers of sports cars, motorcycles, trucks, and concept race cars. It features professional racers, novices and amateurs alike who all have a need for speed. The competitors and spectators come from over twenty-five different states and all areas of Texas to enjoy this festival of motor sports. The cities of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Corpus Christi, Rockport, Victoria and Beeville are represented by record holders in various classes, loyal fans and supportive sponsors. An international presence is also represented with some participants and media coming from The U.K., Taiwan, Dubai, Chile, Mexico and Canada.
THE CONCEPT IS SIMPLE: DRIVERS LINE UP and GO AS FAST AS THEY CAN TO OBTAIN a TOP SPEED in ONE MILE.
THE GOAL? Try to top the Mile’s record of 263.3 mph or at least be the fastest car, truck or motorcycle in their vehicle’s class or just to achieve their personal best.
A Ford GT topped the record with a mph of 267 in March and he is back to ensure this potential new record remains standing. He has other competitors back to battle for Texas Mile supremacy.
Motorcycle fans can see some of the fastest people on two-wheels. 5-Time motorcycle land speed record holder, Valerie Thompson (A woman on a mission with the need for SPEED) returns to The Texas Mile on her BMW SS 1000 R. And you can expect speeds of around 250 mph from Hussain Alsowaigh on his Suzuki Hayabusa.
Spectators can witness racers going full throttle and get up close to the vehicles and many of the drivers as they prepare to take down the Texas Mile’s speed records.
Speed fans come to see Porsches, Corvettes, Cadillac’s (a strong contingency of 18), Audis, BMWs, Dodge Vipers, Dodge Challengers, Ford Mustangs, Ford GT’s, Lamborghinis, Harley Davidsons, Kawazakis, Saabs and even Mini Coopers and Volkswagen Beetles speed down the mile-long track.
Already featured in motorsports media including Speed Channel and Hot Rod Magazine, a new TV Series: GEAR HEADS, will be producing an episode at The Texas Mile 10th Anniversary Event.
This year’s Mile is also taking on the task of inspiring the next generation of motor racing enthusiasts. Students from the Coastal Bend College’s automotive department will shadow the Texas Mile’s Tech and Staging inspection crews to learn more about motor sport safety. Texas Mile co-founder Jay Matus got into auto sports because of the inspiration he received while taking auto tech classes at Texas City High School in the 1980s. The ability to pass along the same passion to a new generation of auto enthusiasts is a way for the J&S Matus Motorsports to pay it forward.
For more media related information on the Texas Mile contact Shannon Matus, 281-802-9863, js(at)jsmatus(dot)com. For more information regarding being a participant or spectator, contact Jessica Reyna, 281-303-1844 or email info(at)texasmile(dot)net.
WHAT: Texas Mile 10th Anniversary Festival
WHERE: Chase Field Industrial Complex, 2745 Byrd Street in Beeville, TX
WHEN: October 25-27, 2013:
Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. to dusk, Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
ADMISSION: $20 for 3-day spectator pass, children under 12 admitted free
EXTRAS: Spectators can bring their own chairs, umbrellas and coolers. There are spectator viewing areas and concessions as well.
___________________________________________
Source: Digital Journal (AP, 10/18)
The Texas Mile is open to drivers of sports cars, motorcycles, trucks, and concept race cars. It features professional racers, novices and amateurs alike who all have a need for speed. The competitors and spectators come from over twenty-five different states and all areas of Texas to enjoy this festival of motor sports. The cities of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Corpus Christi, Rockport, Victoria and Beeville are represented by record holders in various classes, loyal fans and supportive sponsors. An international presence is also represented with some participants and media coming from The U.K., Taiwan, Dubai, Chile, Mexico and Canada.
THE CONCEPT IS SIMPLE: DRIVERS LINE UP and GO AS FAST AS THEY CAN TO OBTAIN a TOP SPEED in ONE MILE.
THE GOAL? Try to top the Mile’s record of 263.3 mph or at least be the fastest car, truck or motorcycle in their vehicle’s class or just to achieve their personal best.
A Ford GT topped the record with a mph of 267 in March and he is back to ensure this potential new record remains standing. He has other competitors back to battle for Texas Mile supremacy.
Motorcycle fans can see some of the fastest people on two-wheels. 5-Time motorcycle land speed record holder, Valerie Thompson (A woman on a mission with the need for SPEED) returns to The Texas Mile on her BMW SS 1000 R. And you can expect speeds of around 250 mph from Hussain Alsowaigh on his Suzuki Hayabusa.
Spectators can witness racers going full throttle and get up close to the vehicles and many of the drivers as they prepare to take down the Texas Mile’s speed records.
Speed fans come to see Porsches, Corvettes, Cadillac’s (a strong contingency of 18), Audis, BMWs, Dodge Vipers, Dodge Challengers, Ford Mustangs, Ford GT’s, Lamborghinis, Harley Davidsons, Kawazakis, Saabs and even Mini Coopers and Volkswagen Beetles speed down the mile-long track.
Already featured in motorsports media including Speed Channel and Hot Rod Magazine, a new TV Series: GEAR HEADS, will be producing an episode at The Texas Mile 10th Anniversary Event.
This year’s Mile is also taking on the task of inspiring the next generation of motor racing enthusiasts. Students from the Coastal Bend College’s automotive department will shadow the Texas Mile’s Tech and Staging inspection crews to learn more about motor sport safety. Texas Mile co-founder Jay Matus got into auto sports because of the inspiration he received while taking auto tech classes at Texas City High School in the 1980s. The ability to pass along the same passion to a new generation of auto enthusiasts is a way for the J&S Matus Motorsports to pay it forward.
For more media related information on the Texas Mile contact Shannon Matus, 281-802-9863, js(at)jsmatus(dot)com. For more information regarding being a participant or spectator, contact Jessica Reyna, 281-303-1844 or email info(at)texasmile(dot)net.
WHAT: Texas Mile 10th Anniversary Festival
WHERE: Chase Field Industrial Complex, 2745 Byrd Street in Beeville, TX
WHEN: October 25-27, 2013:
Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. to dusk, Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
ADMISSION: $20 for 3-day spectator pass, children under 12 admitted free
EXTRAS: Spectators can bring their own chairs, umbrellas and coolers. There are spectator viewing areas and concessions as well.
___________________________________________
Source: Digital Journal (AP, 10/18)
Friday, October 18, 2013
Big Ed's next jump: Texas showman aims to soar in the footsteps of Evel Knievel
BRIDGEPORT, TEXAS — In 1973, Big Ed Beckley made his first motorcycle jump, soaring over five cars in the small town of Dighton, Kan.
Then 23, Beckley earned $350 for the feat during the heyday of famed motorcycle jumper Evel Knievel.
Beckley was hooked.
"The coolest thing was I got paid more in that one night than I did in a week at the truck stop," said Beckley, who lived in Scott City, Kan., at the time. "I was like, 'Whoa, no wonder Evel is doing this.' His lifestyle looked really cool, and that's what I wanted to do."
The next year, Beckley watched with fascination as Knievel tried to fly over Idaho's Snake River Canyon in a steam-powered rocket. That attempt, which drew worldwide attention, failed when the parachute opened prematurely, sending Knievel down into the canyon, where he landed near the river's edge. He had only minor injuries.
Beckley never forgot the stunt.
With the 40th anniversary arriving next September, Beckley, now 63, plans to star in the sequel to Knievel's jump.
On Sept. 27, he bid a whopping $943,000 in an Idaho state auction to lease the landing site on one side of the canyon.
"I've never done anything like this before," Beckley said with a laugh. "I've got a lot to learn how to fly this thing so I don't smash into the north rim of that canyon wall."
The first order of business for Beckley - who calls himself the "world's largest motorcycle jumper" - is to lose weight. He's already dropped about 100 pounds, down from a peak of 389.
Then, riding a rocket-assisted motorcycle that has yet to be built, he plans to soar across the canyon on Sept. 7, 2014, the day before the 40th anniversary of Knievel's jump.
Beckley insists that he will have a better outcome than Knievel.
"He got himself a big bottle rocket," Beckley said. "He actually made it to the north rim, but the parachute opened early and blew back into the canyon. My deal is completely different."
Weight loss isn't the only challenge facing Beckley.
He will have to reach speeds above 300 mph, then fly his rocket-powered motorcycle 1,600 feet across the canyon, then slow down enough to land safely on the other side with the help of parachutes. While he has made numerous jumps, his longest has been 156 feet, a fraction of the canyon's span.
"The only problem is you've got to be doing over 300-something mph through the top of this deal and about 400-something feet in the air," Beckley said. "This canyon is not some other motorcycle jump. This canyon is 460 feet deep and about 1,600 feet across."
While he plans, Beckley has one more event scheduled locally. On Oct. 19, he will jump over 10 cars at a festival in Boyd, Texas.
But the Snake River jump is taking up most of his time.
At his office behind his home in Bridgeport, Texas, which is filled with photographs and posters of previous jumps, as well as several motorcycles, Beckley has been swamped with calls from around the country since he won the auction.
A promoter best known for his monster truck and motocross shows, he relishes the possible financial windfall from jumping the canyon.
With two other main investors, Beckley believes he can sell the television rights for a multimillion-dollar sum.
"There's only three principal investors, including Ed Beckley," he said. "And I'm the one that stands to reap the most benefits."
If this one succeeds, Beckley - in true Evel Knievel fashion - boasts that he will do jumps across the Mississippi River in St. Louis and the Nile River in Egypt.
Beckley moved to Texas in 1974 and regularly did motorcycle jumps at a track in Odessa. He was badly injured that year when the handlebar of his motorcycle impaled his leg in a crash.
He wouldn't jump for four years as he recovered.
When he returned in 1978, motorcycle jumps were at the height of their popularity, and he crisscrossed the country appearing at drag strips and raceways.
At one point, he came up with the idea of trying to jump from one World Trade Center tower to another. In his office, Beckley has a framed photo of himself standing in front of the towers. He says the stunt was called off when New York Mayor Ed Koch was voted out of office and replaced by David Dinkins.
During the 1980s, Beckley jumped at places like Reunion Arena, Madison Square Garden and the Silverdome outside Detroit. In the Madison Square Garden jump, he said, he propped his bike up against a security guard's toilet so he would have enough takeoff distance.
In 1994, he stopped jumping and became more focused on his son's motorcycle racing career.
He would start jumping again in 2012 but was injured in a test jump at an event in Salt Lake City. He spent days in intensive care, then recovered from his injuries and jumped 10 cars in Billings, Mont., in June 2012.
His website, bigedbeckley.net, details his recent jumps and the plans for his Snake River adventure.
"I just kind of got off into his life, and now I'm getting back into mine and I'm having a lot more fun," Beckley said.
Even though Beckley has committed nearly $1 million to the Snake River jump, it isn't guaranteed to take place. He still must win over a number of officials in the Twin Falls area.
"We'll certainly be looking forward to the opportunity to capitalize on the anniversary of the Evel Knievel jump," said Shawn Barigar, president and chief executive officer of the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce. "But I'll be honest: There are a lot of unknowns right now."
Other state and local agencies must also sign off, Barigar said.
"The process that happened with the state only dealt with the landing side of this jump," said Barigar, who also serves on the Twin Falls City Council. "There will still be an application and permitting process for our side of the canyon."
The hesitancy stems not only from ensuring the safety of the jump but also from making sure that Twin Falls doesn't take a financial hit.
During the Evel Knievel jump, some vendors were left with unpaid bills.
"Some of it is fact and some of it is folklore," Barigar said. "It's hard to know what happened 40 years later."
But Barigar said there is support for the jump if it is done correctly. Forty years later, the jump site is still a tourist attraction.
"I think there is cautious optimism," Barigar said. "... People back then didn't understand the scope and impact, but this time people are certainly thinking about the possibilities."
Beckley began wooing Twin Falls officials more than a year ago. He understands the doubts, but he believes he can address those concerns and bring a lot of attention to the city.
"I want to be elected mayor, not burned at the stake when I'm done," Beckley said.
__________________________________________
Source: Fresnobe (Hanna, 10/16)
Then 23, Beckley earned $350 for the feat during the heyday of famed motorcycle jumper Evel Knievel.
Beckley was hooked.
"The coolest thing was I got paid more in that one night than I did in a week at the truck stop," said Beckley, who lived in Scott City, Kan., at the time. "I was like, 'Whoa, no wonder Evel is doing this.' His lifestyle looked really cool, and that's what I wanted to do."
The next year, Beckley watched with fascination as Knievel tried to fly over Idaho's Snake River Canyon in a steam-powered rocket. That attempt, which drew worldwide attention, failed when the parachute opened prematurely, sending Knievel down into the canyon, where he landed near the river's edge. He had only minor injuries.
Beckley never forgot the stunt.
With the 40th anniversary arriving next September, Beckley, now 63, plans to star in the sequel to Knievel's jump.
On Sept. 27, he bid a whopping $943,000 in an Idaho state auction to lease the landing site on one side of the canyon.
"I've never done anything like this before," Beckley said with a laugh. "I've got a lot to learn how to fly this thing so I don't smash into the north rim of that canyon wall."
The first order of business for Beckley - who calls himself the "world's largest motorcycle jumper" - is to lose weight. He's already dropped about 100 pounds, down from a peak of 389.
Then, riding a rocket-assisted motorcycle that has yet to be built, he plans to soar across the canyon on Sept. 7, 2014, the day before the 40th anniversary of Knievel's jump.
Beckley insists that he will have a better outcome than Knievel.
"He got himself a big bottle rocket," Beckley said. "He actually made it to the north rim, but the parachute opened early and blew back into the canyon. My deal is completely different."
Weight loss isn't the only challenge facing Beckley.
He will have to reach speeds above 300 mph, then fly his rocket-powered motorcycle 1,600 feet across the canyon, then slow down enough to land safely on the other side with the help of parachutes. While he has made numerous jumps, his longest has been 156 feet, a fraction of the canyon's span.
"The only problem is you've got to be doing over 300-something mph through the top of this deal and about 400-something feet in the air," Beckley said. "This canyon is not some other motorcycle jump. This canyon is 460 feet deep and about 1,600 feet across."
While he plans, Beckley has one more event scheduled locally. On Oct. 19, he will jump over 10 cars at a festival in Boyd, Texas.
But the Snake River jump is taking up most of his time.
At his office behind his home in Bridgeport, Texas, which is filled with photographs and posters of previous jumps, as well as several motorcycles, Beckley has been swamped with calls from around the country since he won the auction.
A promoter best known for his monster truck and motocross shows, he relishes the possible financial windfall from jumping the canyon.
With two other main investors, Beckley believes he can sell the television rights for a multimillion-dollar sum.
"There's only three principal investors, including Ed Beckley," he said. "And I'm the one that stands to reap the most benefits."
If this one succeeds, Beckley - in true Evel Knievel fashion - boasts that he will do jumps across the Mississippi River in St. Louis and the Nile River in Egypt.
Beckley moved to Texas in 1974 and regularly did motorcycle jumps at a track in Odessa. He was badly injured that year when the handlebar of his motorcycle impaled his leg in a crash.
He wouldn't jump for four years as he recovered.
When he returned in 1978, motorcycle jumps were at the height of their popularity, and he crisscrossed the country appearing at drag strips and raceways.
At one point, he came up with the idea of trying to jump from one World Trade Center tower to another. In his office, Beckley has a framed photo of himself standing in front of the towers. He says the stunt was called off when New York Mayor Ed Koch was voted out of office and replaced by David Dinkins.
During the 1980s, Beckley jumped at places like Reunion Arena, Madison Square Garden and the Silverdome outside Detroit. In the Madison Square Garden jump, he said, he propped his bike up against a security guard's toilet so he would have enough takeoff distance.
In 1994, he stopped jumping and became more focused on his son's motorcycle racing career.
He would start jumping again in 2012 but was injured in a test jump at an event in Salt Lake City. He spent days in intensive care, then recovered from his injuries and jumped 10 cars in Billings, Mont., in June 2012.
His website, bigedbeckley.net, details his recent jumps and the plans for his Snake River adventure.
"I just kind of got off into his life, and now I'm getting back into mine and I'm having a lot more fun," Beckley said.
Even though Beckley has committed nearly $1 million to the Snake River jump, it isn't guaranteed to take place. He still must win over a number of officials in the Twin Falls area.
"We'll certainly be looking forward to the opportunity to capitalize on the anniversary of the Evel Knievel jump," said Shawn Barigar, president and chief executive officer of the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce. "But I'll be honest: There are a lot of unknowns right now."
Other state and local agencies must also sign off, Barigar said.
"The process that happened with the state only dealt with the landing side of this jump," said Barigar, who also serves on the Twin Falls City Council. "There will still be an application and permitting process for our side of the canyon."
The hesitancy stems not only from ensuring the safety of the jump but also from making sure that Twin Falls doesn't take a financial hit.
During the Evel Knievel jump, some vendors were left with unpaid bills.
"Some of it is fact and some of it is folklore," Barigar said. "It's hard to know what happened 40 years later."
But Barigar said there is support for the jump if it is done correctly. Forty years later, the jump site is still a tourist attraction.
"I think there is cautious optimism," Barigar said. "... People back then didn't understand the scope and impact, but this time people are certainly thinking about the possibilities."
Beckley began wooing Twin Falls officials more than a year ago. He understands the doubts, but he believes he can address those concerns and bring a lot of attention to the city.
"I want to be elected mayor, not burned at the stake when I'm done," Beckley said.
__________________________________________
Source: Fresnobe (Hanna, 10/16)
Friday, October 11, 2013
Texas Car Armor Company's Viral Response To The Motorcycle/SUV Incident That Involves a Pistol, a Crow Bar and Some Bullet Proof Glass
You have probably seen the story about the violent confrontation between a group of bikers chasing an SUV around New York City. The video and various edited versions of it, have been seen millions of times in less than a week.
Now, one Texas company that retro-fits vehicles with protective armor has created a video response using the incident to attract business.
Texas Armoring Corporation (TAC) is the company. They are in the business of securing vehicles against just about any kind of attack you can imagine.
On a recent episode of the TV show “Incredible Acts of Science,” the company’s president, Trent Kimball described what TAC does to cars, “We’ll take a common, everyday vehicle, take out the entire interior and put in our armored materials in the doors, the windows, the roof, the floor, the fuel tanks…and basically make it a cocoon of armor for the occupants inside the vehicle.” TAC’s clients include politicians, businessmen, celebrities and the Pope.
TAC is offering to armor the SUV of the man at the center of the biker, Alexian Lien…but there’s a catch. TAC will give Lien’s SUV the “cocoon of armor” treatment if their demonstration video hits viral status and collects five million hits on YouTube. TAC posted the offer on their blog page.
In the 55 second clip, TAC shows a man beating on the car window with a helmet – mirroring the incident in the video. However, unlike the window on Lien’s SUV that smashed after a couple of strikes, the TAC-treated window doesn’t break – but the helmet does.
After the helmet attack, a man with a metal bar takes a few swings. They bounce off the glass as well.
In the video, you can see that the iron bar cracks the window slightly, but does not break through the glass. So the TAC crew sent in a guy with a pistol to fire on the car at very close range.
The view from a camera inside the car shows how the armored windows managed to absorb the impact of the bullets.
____________________
source: The Blaze (Opelka, Oct. 4)
Now, one Texas company that retro-fits vehicles with protective armor has created a video response using the incident to attract business.
Texas Armoring Corporation (TAC) is the company. They are in the business of securing vehicles against just about any kind of attack you can imagine.
On a recent episode of the TV show “Incredible Acts of Science,” the company’s president, Trent Kimball described what TAC does to cars, “We’ll take a common, everyday vehicle, take out the entire interior and put in our armored materials in the doors, the windows, the roof, the floor, the fuel tanks…and basically make it a cocoon of armor for the occupants inside the vehicle.” TAC’s clients include politicians, businessmen, celebrities and the Pope.
TAC is offering to armor the SUV of the man at the center of the biker, Alexian Lien…but there’s a catch. TAC will give Lien’s SUV the “cocoon of armor” treatment if their demonstration video hits viral status and collects five million hits on YouTube. TAC posted the offer on their blog page.
In the 55 second clip, TAC shows a man beating on the car window with a helmet – mirroring the incident in the video. However, unlike the window on Lien’s SUV that smashed after a couple of strikes, the TAC-treated window doesn’t break – but the helmet does.
After the helmet attack, a man with a metal bar takes a few swings. They bounce off the glass as well.
In the video, you can see that the iron bar cracks the window slightly, but does not break through the glass. So the TAC crew sent in a guy with a pistol to fire on the car at very close range.
The view from a camera inside the car shows how the armored windows managed to absorb the impact of the bullets.
____________________
source: The Blaze (Opelka, Oct. 4)
Friday, October 4, 2013
Galveston Texas Prepares for the 2013 Lone Star Rally
Known as the largest four-day motorcycle rally in the country, the Lone Star Motorcycle Rally will hold its 12th annual extravaganza this year from October 31-November 3. The Galveston, Texas event is free to attend and registration is not required. A $10/day fee is charged for bike parking; however, riders are allowed to move their bike within the area at no extra charge.
Hundreds of vendors will be there showcasing everything from bike enhancements and the hottest new accessories to jewelry and leather wear, and the days and nights will be full of free concerts and entertainment.
Celebrity appearances will include autograph signings by the stars of FX Network’s hit show, Sons of Anarchy. Mark ‘Bobby’ Boone, Tommy ‘Chibs’ Flanagan and Kim ‘Tig’ Coates will be greeting fans and rally-goers at scheduled meet and greet events at Celebrity Square. This year, the “All Access Pass” gets you into Celebrity Square to mix and mingle with your favorite industry, TV and film stars, with photo and autograph opportunities.
Also new for this year, the Lone Star Rally is proud to announce its partnership with the International Master Bike Builders Association (IMBBA). Well-known custom bike builder, Jeff Starke, founded the IMBBA in 2005. The IMBBA will take the Lone Star Rally to a whole new level as it produces the 2013 Lone Star Rally Bike Show. All IMBBA judges will adhere to a strict set of published guidelines as they award points in several different categories for the bike show on Saturday, November 2. A unique feature of IMBBA judges is that they will remain after the competition to meet with builders and owners, offering tips to help them hone their skills.
Because of its scenic routes, riding is one of the biggest attractions at the Galveston Rally. You can ride along the coast, cruise through the middle of the rally on Strand Street, or ride over the Causeway to Galveston Island. Galveston is a beautiful beach city that has many outdoor pubs and bars, so if you want to take a break from riding, you can enjoy food and beer while watching the other bikes ride by.
The city of Galveston, Texas, is busy preparing for this one-of-a-kind rally. Don’t be left behind as thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts will flock to historic downtown Galveston beginning October 31, for the biggest four-day party in the country.
If you are considering a trip down to Galveston this fall for the 2013 Lone Star Motorcycle Rally, stop by our booth and say “Hi’! We’ll be there during the rally to introduce more riders to BAM, our free roadside and legal assistance program. After all, the Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys are the official legal sponsor of the Lone Star Rally. We Ride—We Care—We Win!
__________________________________
Source: BAM (Nesbitt, 9/30)
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Longhorn Harley-Davidson - Grand Prairie, Texas announces Demo Day. Come test ride the all new 2014 Bike Lineup.
GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas,- Longhorn Harley-Davidson is excited to announce the arrival of the new 2014 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Developed under the name Project Rushmore, Harley-Davidson's 2014 touring and trike motorcycles have liquid-cooled engines and touch-screen electronics bringing a luxury feel to the Harley-Davidson experience.
Eight models were enhanced under Project Rushmore, making it the largest new model launch in Harley's history. The bikes were unveiled to celebrate its 110th anniversary in Milwaukee over Labor Day weekend.
There will be 8 new models with the Project Rushmore features: the Road King, Street Glide, Street Glide Special, Electra Glide Ultra Classic, Ultra Limited, Tri Glide Ultra, CVO Ultra Limited and CVO Road King.
Longhorn Harley-Davidson will be holding its first Demo Day on Saturday, Sept 21st from 10:00 to 4:00. All motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to test ride the new 2014. Then stay and celebrate with us. Live music starts at 12:30 and Mixed Up Burgers will be in the house!
Longhorn Harley-Davidson is located in a 50,000 sq. ft. building at 2830 West I-20, Grand Prairie, TX. 75052. They are a family owned business with one of the largest selection of new and previously enjoyed motorcycles in DFW.
_______________________________________
Source: The Sacramento Bee (AP, 09/20)
Eight models were enhanced under Project Rushmore, making it the largest new model launch in Harley's history. The bikes were unveiled to celebrate its 110th anniversary in Milwaukee over Labor Day weekend.
There will be 8 new models with the Project Rushmore features: the Road King, Street Glide, Street Glide Special, Electra Glide Ultra Classic, Ultra Limited, Tri Glide Ultra, CVO Ultra Limited and CVO Road King.
Longhorn Harley-Davidson will be holding its first Demo Day on Saturday, Sept 21st from 10:00 to 4:00. All motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to test ride the new 2014. Then stay and celebrate with us. Live music starts at 12:30 and Mixed Up Burgers will be in the house!
Longhorn Harley-Davidson is located in a 50,000 sq. ft. building at 2830 West I-20, Grand Prairie, TX. 75052. They are a family owned business with one of the largest selection of new and previously enjoyed motorcycles in DFW.
_______________________________________
Source: The Sacramento Bee (AP, 09/20)
Friday, September 20, 2013
Killeen native revamps, renames biker bar and grill
Located at 704 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd. in downtown Killeen, the bar has fed and entertained the motor heads of Killeen since opening Aug. 15.
“Our goal is to make everyone feel welcomed here,” said Wayne “Wiz” Whisenhunt, owner of Texas Proud Custom Cycles and Texas Proud Bar & Grill. “This is not just a biker bar. Texas Proud is a place where anyone can come in and feel accepted. We’ve got good food, a family-style atmosphere and good live music.”
Whisenhunt, a Killeen native, has had gasoline running through his veins from the time he was born. His father, a soldier stationed at Fort Hood and an avid drag racer, got the young Whisenhunt interested in mechanics and motorcycles from a very early age.
“I got my first bike when I was 15, a 3½ horsepower Rupp mini bike,” Whisenhunt said. “I ended up wrapping it around a tree and had to start working at the Harley-Davidson dealership my father managed to pay for the repairs, and I’m still working on Harleys 35 years later.”
Whisenhunt’s first business, Texas Proud Custom Cycles, began small in 2001. Over the years, it has grown into an almost unrecognizable mecca for Central Texas bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts.
With a full garage offering powder coat, painting, fabrication and distribution of parts, Texas Custom Cycles produces two-wheeled art for clients in and around Central Texas.
At Texas Proud Bar & Grill and a tattoo shop now on the premises, customers can get inked up and grab a beer and some food while waiting on their motorcycles to be worked on in the garage.
“I love this place,” said Matt Numm, a painter by day and bassist by night. “I’ve been coming since the beginning, back when it was called Joker’s. I’ve played a few shows in here back in the day, and this is one of my all-time favorite bars in Texas. The acoustics in here are amazing and are perfect for a show.”
Texas Proud Bar & Grill started out as Joker’s Ice House in 2009. Whisenhunt and the owner of Joker's parted ways this year and Joker's moved to Stan Schluter Boulevard. Whisenhunt reopened his restaurant as Texas Proud Bar & Grill, offering hungry customers a variety of interesting menu options.
“My favorite thing here is the fried armadillo eggs,” Numm said. “They are a jalapeño stuffed with chopped beef and cream cheese, then fried … they are the best.”
Sees bright future
With the early success of his newest venture, Whisenhunt looks ahead and sees a bright future for his business.
“I want to start franchises ... if Hooters can do it, then why can’t I?” Whisenhunt said. “If Texas Proud continues to grow in popularity like it was when we first opened up (as Joker’s) in 2009, then I think I could definitely see another franchise popping up in the next two years.”
Whisenhunt gives credit to the military for making his businesses, and others in the Killeen area, successful.
“Without the military, none of this would be possible,” he said. “I thank God every day that he has gotten me through so much and allowed me to stay in business for close to 13 years. But I’m not doing this for the money; I am doing it because it makes me rich in heart serving the soldiers and the city of Killeen.”
________________________________
Source: KDH News (Papke, 09/20)
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Vehicle/Motorcycle Accident Regularity Possibly Linked to Brain Miscalculating Time of Impact of Smaller Objects
Newswise — Check the local news, and stories of cars pulling out in front of motorcyclists run regularly in the headlines. Recent research by a Texas Tech University psychologist suggests that the regularity of this problem isn’t necessarily a case of poor driving or carelessness, but may be related to a basic human judgment error.
Pat DeLucia, the coordinator of the Human Factors Psychology Program, said her results show that small, near objects can appear farther away than larger, farther objects. The study is published in Current Directions in Psychological Science.
"Small, near objects can appear to be farther away than large, far objects, and so it is thought that that could contribute to motorcycle car accidents." DeLucia said.
Her finding that an object’s size affects distance perception may be the basis of car drivers miscalculating motorcyclists’ distance and speed.
"You can think about the research in terms of if you had a really big ball like a basketball or a softball and you compared that to a marble and both were approaching you, you would see that bigger one is closer even if it was farther away," she said.
The brain uses two visual information cues for judging time to impact, she said. In the first, a moving object is reflected on the eye’s retina. It expands as it approaches the eye, providing the brain accurate information about when the object will hit. This is called an optical invariant.
However, the brain also uses “rules of thumb” as well, such as various “artist” depth cues as a shortcut, she said. Many times, the brain interprets objects with a larger retinal image as closer. Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, the brain may use this shortcut to judge a smaller motorcycle farther away than it actually is, DeLucia said.
“With computer simulations, we had a big, far object and small, near object approaching the viewer, where the small object would hit first,” she said. “We wondered if people would choose the big one, based on the artist depth cue of relative size or choose the smaller one based on the more accurate optical invariant. Unexpectedly, people picked the bigger object again and again. We found people relied on rules of thumb.”
This effect of size on collision perception violates theories of perception that believe people evolved to rely on the most accurate information, such as optical invariants. Instead, DeLucia’s findings suggest that perception is based on multiple information sources.
This size-arrival effect can lead drivers to misjudge when a vehicle would arrive at an intersection and could be considered a contributing factor in motorcycle/vehicle accidents.
DeLucia hopes to find funding from the Department of Transportation to create an education program to inform drivers of her findings to reduce the incidents of these types of accidents.
________________________________________
Source: Newswise (AP, 9/09)
Pat DeLucia, the coordinator of the Human Factors Psychology Program, said her results show that small, near objects can appear farther away than larger, farther objects. The study is published in Current Directions in Psychological Science.
"Small, near objects can appear to be farther away than large, far objects, and so it is thought that that could contribute to motorcycle car accidents." DeLucia said.
Her finding that an object’s size affects distance perception may be the basis of car drivers miscalculating motorcyclists’ distance and speed.
"You can think about the research in terms of if you had a really big ball like a basketball or a softball and you compared that to a marble and both were approaching you, you would see that bigger one is closer even if it was farther away," she said.
The brain uses two visual information cues for judging time to impact, she said. In the first, a moving object is reflected on the eye’s retina. It expands as it approaches the eye, providing the brain accurate information about when the object will hit. This is called an optical invariant.
However, the brain also uses “rules of thumb” as well, such as various “artist” depth cues as a shortcut, she said. Many times, the brain interprets objects with a larger retinal image as closer. Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, the brain may use this shortcut to judge a smaller motorcycle farther away than it actually is, DeLucia said.
“With computer simulations, we had a big, far object and small, near object approaching the viewer, where the small object would hit first,” she said. “We wondered if people would choose the big one, based on the artist depth cue of relative size or choose the smaller one based on the more accurate optical invariant. Unexpectedly, people picked the bigger object again and again. We found people relied on rules of thumb.”
This effect of size on collision perception violates theories of perception that believe people evolved to rely on the most accurate information, such as optical invariants. Instead, DeLucia’s findings suggest that perception is based on multiple information sources.
This size-arrival effect can lead drivers to misjudge when a vehicle would arrive at an intersection and could be considered a contributing factor in motorcycle/vehicle accidents.
DeLucia hopes to find funding from the Department of Transportation to create an education program to inform drivers of her findings to reduce the incidents of these types of accidents.
________________________________________
Source: Newswise (AP, 9/09)
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Trail users to benefit from federal funding of Recreational Trails Program
PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- Off-highway motorcycle riders and other trail users stand to benefit from up to $82.4 million in federal funding to be apportioned to 49 states in 2014 through the Recreational Trails Program, the American Motorcyclist Association reports. Only Florida opted out of the program for fiscal 2014.
"As a federal grant program that provides funds to develop and maintain recreational trails, RTP is vitally needed to continue expanding and maintaining off-highway opportunities for riders," said AMA Vice President of Government Relations Wayne Allard. "In fact, RTP funds come from excise taxes generated by fuel purchased for off-highway vehicle recreation -- off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles and off-highway light trucks -- so this is money that rightfully belongs to trail users."
RTP was created by Congress in 1991 with bipartisan support. The Federal Highway Administration administers the program.
Since its inception, the RTP has leveraged more than $787 million of federal grants into more than $1.3 billion in monies to fund recreational trails. Without this vital program, many trails would not have been built and without its continuation, many will face reduced maintenance and possible closure.
Authorized funds are allocated annually by the federal government to those states that choose not to opt-out for that fiscal year. Every year the governor of each state has the option to opt-out of the RTP and deploy the funds to other non-recreational projects.
Each state then manages its funds in consultation with an RTP board that represents both motorized and non-motorized recreationists. RTP funds support motorized, non-motorized and mixed-use trails projects. The only stipulation is that 30 percent of obligated funds must go to motorized trails, 30 percent to non-motorized trails and 40 percent to mixed-use trails.
Over the last year, the AMA and the OHV community have successfully fought against the elimination of the RTP by Congress, stressing the economic and social benefits of responsible recreation. The current federal highway authorization -- known as MAP-21 -- provides $85 million dollars annually for distribution to the states. However, OHV users contribute significantly more to the federal highway trust fund.
"With next year's RTP authorization now set, it's time for off-highway vehicle recreationists across the nation to contact their grant administering agencies and work to secure grants to fund trails projects." said Sean Hutson, AMA legislative assistant. "After all, it's the fuel taxes paid by the OHV community in particular that fund the entirety of this important program."
This marks the second consecutive year that Florida has opted-out of the annual RTP allocation, giving up $5.2 million in funding already paid for by that state's off-highway vehicle recreation community. As a result, Florida has fewer funds to create and maintain safe recreational trails for responsible users.
________________________________________
Source: AMA (AP, 9/03)
"As a federal grant program that provides funds to develop and maintain recreational trails, RTP is vitally needed to continue expanding and maintaining off-highway opportunities for riders," said AMA Vice President of Government Relations Wayne Allard. "In fact, RTP funds come from excise taxes generated by fuel purchased for off-highway vehicle recreation -- off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles and off-highway light trucks -- so this is money that rightfully belongs to trail users."
RTP was created by Congress in 1991 with bipartisan support. The Federal Highway Administration administers the program.
Since its inception, the RTP has leveraged more than $787 million of federal grants into more than $1.3 billion in monies to fund recreational trails. Without this vital program, many trails would not have been built and without its continuation, many will face reduced maintenance and possible closure.
Authorized funds are allocated annually by the federal government to those states that choose not to opt-out for that fiscal year. Every year the governor of each state has the option to opt-out of the RTP and deploy the funds to other non-recreational projects.
Each state then manages its funds in consultation with an RTP board that represents both motorized and non-motorized recreationists. RTP funds support motorized, non-motorized and mixed-use trails projects. The only stipulation is that 30 percent of obligated funds must go to motorized trails, 30 percent to non-motorized trails and 40 percent to mixed-use trails.
Over the last year, the AMA and the OHV community have successfully fought against the elimination of the RTP by Congress, stressing the economic and social benefits of responsible recreation. The current federal highway authorization -- known as MAP-21 -- provides $85 million dollars annually for distribution to the states. However, OHV users contribute significantly more to the federal highway trust fund.
"With next year's RTP authorization now set, it's time for off-highway vehicle recreationists across the nation to contact their grant administering agencies and work to secure grants to fund trails projects." said Sean Hutson, AMA legislative assistant. "After all, it's the fuel taxes paid by the OHV community in particular that fund the entirety of this important program."
This marks the second consecutive year that Florida has opted-out of the annual RTP allocation, giving up $5.2 million in funding already paid for by that state's off-highway vehicle recreation community. As a result, Florida has fewer funds to create and maintain safe recreational trails for responsible users.
________________________________________
Source: AMA (AP, 9/03)
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