Cyclerides.com Weekly Update
12/7/05
 

Greetings Riders,
 
Well, after a year that has flown by,
we are now only 17 days from Christmas, which means Toy Runs and Dealership sales are now in full swing. Be sure and look at the events calendar on www.cyclerides.com , or look below to take advantage of the large savings being offered by the dealerships in motorclothes and parts.
 
This past Saturday was the 3rd annual Toys To Kids Ride which turned out to be one of the best ones yet.
Riders started lining up at 8:00am on the street next to Wesley Bolin Park. As riders lined up and waited for the ride to begin, they were treated to Coffee, Donuts and Bottled Water while listening to Christmas music in the plaza area of the park. And as usual, some riders were decked out with Christmas ornaments.
 
At 11am the ride
took off for our final destination at The City of Glendale's Murphy Park where 200 screaming kids were waiting for us in the amphitheater of the park. For me, this has always been a real special part of this ride when the riders arrive and the children really let them know that they are appreciated. I have to admit, I got cold chills as I rode in above the amphitheater and caught my first glance of the kids screaming and waving their arms at us. That is a feeling that you just can't buy.
 
The riders parked their bikes and started filing
down the steps to deliver their toys as Christmas music was being played by the DJ. You could hear loud screams every few seconds as riders would throw candy to the kids as they dropped off their gifts. It was fun to watch some of the kids as you could see their eyes getting big seeing the kinds of quality toys they were going to be able to choose from.
 
Once the pandemonium had died down we were ready to start the entertainment
with Robert Van Arlen who entertained the kids and the crowd with Boomwhackers. Robert uses boomwhackers and music to deliver a positive message to the kids. On this day there were 500 boomwhackers past out to the riders to participate in the program as well. After Robert was finished entertaining the kids and a few announcements were made, it was time for a little Rock and Roll from the past. That's right, Elvis was IN the building and ridden onto the stage on the back of a yellow Road Glide. He rocked the house with a medley of his hits and it wasn't long until it seemed like everyone was onstage dancing along with the King of rock and roll.
 
When I booked Elvis to come play this event,
I wasn't sure if the kids would even know who he was, but as I was watching the show I saw one boy about 11 years old mouthing right along to the words of the song. I guess it is true, Elvis lives on and his music is timeless. He truly had the kids and everyone amped up leading up to the grand finale of passing out the gifts.
 
Once Elvis was done, we restored order so that we could to the finale of the day,
which was to let the kids pick out any 3 toys that they wanted. We enlisted help from the riders to pass out the toys that the children chose from the huge stacks. The kids do really well in this process although watching it looks a little more like organized chaos. Not only is this a great thing for these kids on this day, but this is also a reward for them for being disciplined throughout the year. And you can tell that it works, all of these kids are polite and well mannered. The teachers say that these kids talk about and look forward to this day all year long.
 
A lot of you have asked the question about where the kids come from.
The kids that are brought to this event are from the Thomas J. Pappas School in Phoenix and Tempe founded in 1990 that cater to homeless children. The first school, operated by the Maricopa County Regional School District, was located at an Episcopal Church in downtown Phoenix.  This "one-room schoolhouse" was the beginning  of what is today the most successful national model in addressing the specific and unique needs of homeless children.  The homeless population in the Valley of the Sun continues to grow even today.  Currently, Maricopa County serves over 1100 homeless children per day and approximately 3000 students per school year. At this particular event, there were 20 "Katrina Kids" that were in attendance and received your gifts. Take a look at their web site and see how you can help. http://www.tjpappasschool.org/
 
This was the 3rd year for the Toys To Kids event and I think this was the best one yet.
I would like to thank the City of Glendale for opening their arms for the motorcycle riders to come to their City and providing the kids with tokens for lunch from the vendors. Thanks also to Robert Van Arlen, J.R. from Die Hard Karaoke, "Elvis" Bret Kaiser, CCV for the water, Tully's Coffee, Ed LeClere from NP Group for the Boomwhackers, Arizona Bike Week and the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for all of their help.
 
Here are a couple of emails I got after the ride. 

Barry,
Just a quick thank you for the great ride on Saturday. This is a ride we look forward to every year.  Keep up the good work. The photo I have attached has a short story to go with it.  I was sitting in the front row when I overheard a boy behind me say, "
this is the best day of my life".  I turned around and said, "well we better get a picture of this day for you".  I took a picture of him and his buddies.  They were so polite and thanked me for taking their picture and for coming to the event.  The boy that made the comment is the one with the sunglasses on.
 
Barry,
Thank you very much we had a great time on the toy run.   I took
my son to show him how good it feels to help others and to help build good father and son memories.   My best bud took his daughter we all had a great time. Thank again, keep them coming we will keep supporting. 
 
Thanks to all of you that attended the ride and "made a memory" for all of these kids from the Pappas Schools. This might be the highlight of their Christmas this year.
 
I took a lot of pictures from the ride. Click Here for
Photos from Toys To Kids 2005
Here is a 4 minute way to see the pictures with music.
Click Here for the
Video from Toys To Kids 2005
 


Highlights This Week
 
December 9th - 11th
Third Annual
Arizona Motorcycle Expo
 
Saturday, December 10th
Chester's Harley-Davidson Demo Day.
Isn't this great? The Harley Dealers are starting give DEMO RIDES!
 
Sunday, December 11th
The 1st Annual Red Kettle Run.
Make a difference in a child’s life this Christmas.
 
Sunday, December 11th
9th Annual Christmas Angel Tree Run.
Run sponsored by A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona.

 


  

This Week's Bike Night Events 

Tuesday Nights 

New!! New!!
Chester’s Harley Davidson Biker Night at the Tilted Kilt in Tempe!  If you are looking for some fun on a Tuesday night, With 2 outdoor patios and plenty of excitement, This place is a good time! The Tilted Kilt is home to the best Scotch-Irish experience in Arizona, with an award-winning menu, classic pub fare, and signature Kilt items sure to please any palate—not to mention twenty four globe-spanning beers on tap!  Biker Night Tuesdays also mean $3 Jack Daniels and half-price appetizers.  And, with a Tilted Kilt Biker Night Card, you receive 15% OFF your total bill.  So what are you waiting for? Come on down and have a craic with Chester’s Harley-Davidson! The Tilted Kilt is located at 660 W. Warner Rd. in Tempe, AZ. Just 1.5 miles East of I-10 on Warner Rd. 480-592-0102. Click Here for Map.
 
Hooters at 1-17 and Bell Rd. Tuesday Bike Night. Hooters at I-17 and Bell will be hosting a new Bike Night every Tuesday night from 6pm - 9pm. They will feature a "Ride In" Bike Show with weekly prizes for 1st - 3rd. And then, the third Tuesday of every month we will crown the Bike of the Month with a Grand Prize. We will have $2 Bud, Bud Light, and Bud Select bottles. There will be 20% off of all food and merchandise when you ride in on your bike. Stop by for loads of Raffle Prizes. There will be VIP Motorcycle Parking and you will be greeted at the front door by a Hooter's Girl waiting to give you your raffle ticket. Hooter's is located in the Bell Canyon Shopping Center at 2834 W. Bell Rd., West of I-17 on Bell Rd. 602-375-0000.   

Thursday Night

Superstition Harley-Davidson and Spirits Bar and Grill have teamed up to bring riders in the Far East Valley a great Thursday bike night. For those of you in Far East Mesa and Apache Junction, you now have a place to go on Thursday nights. And better yet, just for riding your bike to Spirits, they will give you a free hamburger. That’s right, every rider to show up on their bike between 7-10pm will receive a free hamburger! Stick around and win great prizes and raffle items from Superstition Harley-Davidson. Spirits is located at 9303 E. Apache Trail in East Mesa. One block East of Ellsworth on Apache Trail (Main St.). Come sit on the patio and watch the bikes roll in, stay inside and enjoy a game of pool, and friendly wait staff.  The large dance floor is always open with music from Goodtime Charlie The OUTLAW DJ playing The Best of Country and the Best of Rock and Roll every Thursday night from 8:30p.m till 2am. With an extensive food menu, 2 patios, and monitors inside to watch your bike, Spirits is the hottest Bike night place to be in the east valley. The LEGEND of Spirits Lives on. More info at Superstition HD at 480-346-0600 or 480-986-5572.

Hooters Mesa Thursday Bike Night. Hooters in Mesa located at 6730 E. Superstition Springs Blvd. will host a Bike Night every Thursday night from 6-9 pm. If you haven't seen this Hooters yet you will have to stop by and take a look. This is one of the nicest locations that they have. Hooters will $2.00 Corona's and 20% off of food and merchandise if you ride your bike in. Stop by for raffles prizes every Thursday Night with Big Raffle prizes the first Thursday of every month. For more information call 480-396-9396.

Hooters at Arrowhead Bike Night. Continues Giveaways and Raffles. Ride by and join in on the fun! Hooters will host a Bike Night every Thursday at the Hooters at Arrowhead located just 1 block S. of Bell on 83rd Ave. Stop by for some great food and Hooters Hospitality. There will be 20% off menu items, $2.00 Corona Thursdays and plenty of parking next to the outdoor patio. Stop by for some giveaways and raffles from Hooters and Arrowhead Harley as well as great wings and fun at Hooters. Click Here to see Pictures and all the detailed information.

Casey Jones Grill Bike Night. A valley favorite bike night for over 3 years. Ride in and sit out on the patio for what I call the Best Cheesesteak Sandwich in town. This thing melts in your mouth.  They have 3 new pool tables, darts and foosball. Located in the Mervyns Shopping Center on the SE corner of 43rd Ave. and Thunderbird Rd. Casey Jones is a great place for a bike night featuring a large outdoor seating and over 150 people inside. And for those of you that want to watch a sporting event they have 50 TV's scattered throughout the restaurant connected to satellite to get any game you can think of. They have a full menu for lunch, dinner and a Happy Hour from 11:00AM - 7:00PM and a reverse happy hour from 10:00PM - 12:00 Midnight. $1.75 domestic bottles and $2.00 Jacks. There are always a lot of bikes showing up for bike night at Casey Jones Thursday night. Join them for open mic night on Wednesdays. Sunday. You can always count on lots of bikes here.

The Bike Night At The Billet Bar. Voted "BEST BIKER BAR IN PHOENIX" by New Times. There is no better place to watch all the Bikes ride down Scottsdale road than from The Billet Bar Patio. The Billet is ALWAYS packed with bikes Every Day. Stop by and take a look at the New Flamed Booths on the Paradise Patio. The new bars front and rear provide spacious seating, fresh air atmosphere, perfect temperature and courteous staff. The food is amazing and always the latest in cold libations await. You can sit at the back bar and watch your favorite TV on any of the seven big inch televisions. Play pool, listen to the latest music and socialize. The front patio seats over 75 people and is perfect for people watching on Scottsdale Rd. The Billet Bar is located right next to Genesis Custom Cycles on 3752 N. Scottsdale Rd. Check it out this Thursday night and all weekend long. Info: at 480-941-1876. Click Here for the New Billet Bar Page with pictures. 

Every Saturday and Sunday  

Cave Creek Roadhouse Bike Weekend. Take a ride and stop by the Hottest New Restaurant/Bar in Cave Creek where every weekend will be Bike Weekend. There is plenty of motorcycle parking right out front. I have mentioned this place before and now it has finally opened to rave reviews. CCR is located on Cave Creek Rd. in the heart of Cave Creek directly across from Harold's. It is a restaurant and bar that focuses on a broad menu of good food and has a large bar for socializing with your riding pals for a good time. It is built to look like something out of the 1800's, but it is brand new. Stop by this weekend for lunch, dinner or just to have a drink and take a look at the place. I can tell you that their hamburgers and steak fries are exceptional. Mrs. C. had the swordfish and said it was very good.
Live Music Every Weekend:

Thursday: Live Music with Todd & Ethan 8:30pm - 12:00am
Friday: Live Music with "Easton Ashe" 9pm - 1:30am

Saturday Night: Live Music with "T.A.T.E." 9pm - 1:30am

Sunday: Live Music with "Walt Richardson" 5pm - 9pm

Click here for the Cave Creek Roadhouse website.  480-575-3098

Sunday

Sugar Daddy's Blues Biker Sunday Brunch.
Now is the perfect weather to be sitting out on the Sugar Daddy's patio, listening to Live Music while dining from the Brunch Menu. Live Music from 10am on the patio.
And Sunday Brunch Just Got Better! You now have 3 options to choose from.
Option #1:
Eggs Benedict – Grilled English muffins, smoked ham, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
Served with your chose of fresh fruit or crispy potatoes. ($8) or
Sugar’s Pancakes – You won’t eat pancakes anywhere else. Buttermilk pancakes served with butter and syrup. ($5)
Option #2: Can’t decide what to eat? How about an All-You-Can-Eat buffet for ONLY $12.
Option #3: Order off our regular menu.
Our 5,000 sq. ft. temperature controlled patio has six air conditioning units, misters, and plenty of shade. Sugar Daddy's patio, food and entertainment is becoming a regular Sunday stop. If you haven't tried it yet, give them a try. Complimentary coffee is now served. Make Sugar Daddy's Blues your stop on your ride down Scottsdale Rd. for
Brunch or Lunch from 10am - 4pm. Enjoy live music from 10am - 2pm Or maybe just relax on the patio with your favorite beverage and enjoy the beautiful weather and watch the bikes roll down Scottsdale Rd.  Click here to see the awesome pictures and details of Sugar Daddy's located at 3102 N. Scottsdale Rd. between Indian School and Thomas on the West side of the road. Stop by and check it out. A great place to hang out. Plenty of Bike Parking. If you have suggestions, email them at sugardaddysaz@aol.com . 480-970-6556.

This Week 

Arizona Motorcycle Expo. CA International announces the 3rd Annual Arizona Motorcycle Expo to be held December 9, 10, 11, 2005 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. This show is for anyone who loves riding motorcycles. “The intent for this show was to create and provide an atmosphere for the entire family who enjoys all aspects of motorcycling in Arizona”, says Andy Myers, owner of CA International. Whether you ride a Harley, motocross, street bike, cruiser, tourer, or custom bike, Arizona is a great place to ride. Additions to the 2005 Arizona Motorcycle Expo will include Paul Yaffee building a bike in 3 days, Ron Simms exhibition and Johnny Chop and raffle for a XR 50. The Arizona Motorcycle Expo will be held in conjunction with the 2005 Arizona Sand Expo, and new 2005 Arizona Truck Expo & Off-Road Show. Three awesome events, one great location, all at the same time for one price. Each show is separate from each other but attendees are only charged one entrance fee for all three events. Admission is only $12 for all three events and children under 13 are free! More information at www.azmotorcycleexpo.com or call 480-899-6458. Click Here For Map.
 
Saturday, December 10th
Chester's Harley-Davidson Demo Day. Isn't this great? The Harley Dealers are starting give DEMO RIDES! This is your chance to ride that bike you have been wanting to try out. Sit down and get moving on a Harley-Davidson DEMO RIDE Saturday, December 10th from 9am to 4pm at Chester's Harley-Davidson. Then for 2 bucks get yourself a stuffed Idaho Spud—complete with chili and all the toppings—and the best part, your $2 go straight to the Child Crisis Center - East Valley. Test ride a Harley and your stuffed spud is on us! And don’t forget to stuff those stockings with gifts from Chester’s Harley-Davidson. No more phony looks of excitement from friends and loved ones. Instead, shop and find great gifts to fit any budget! Chester's is located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa, AZ. 480-894-0404. Click Here For Map.
 
Sunday, December 11th
The 1st Annual Red Kettle Run. Make a difference in a child’s life this Christmas by participating in our Red Kettle Toy Drive and Run for the Apache Junction Salvation Army.  Drop off your new and unwrapped toys here at Superstition Harley Davidson between November 25 through December 11th and give a child a Christmas they’ll never forget!   Then join us for the festivities on December 11th for a FREE pancake breakfast from 9am to 10am followed with the ride to the Apache Junction Salvation Army to deliver the gifts!  Your participation means so much…remember to drop your new and unwrapped toys off here from November 25 to December 11th. Superstition HD is located at 2910 W. Apache Trail in Apache Junction, AZ. 480-346-0600. Click Here For Map.
 
Sunday, December 11th
9th Annual Christmas Angel Tree Run. Run sponsored by A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona. Sign in from 10am - 11am. Ride leaves at 11:30am. Ride to Arrowhead Mall, pick a wish off the Salvation Army Angel Trees and buy a gift for an underprivileged child. Run leaves Charley's Place, 4324 W. Thunderbird Rd. in Phoenix then returns for food and drink specials, 50/50, Raffles, Silent Auction. 602-432-9073.
 
Sunday, December 11th
Turkey Run. Sponsored by American Legion John J. Morris Post 62 Riders in Peoria, AZ. Ride begins at 10:30am and all turkey donations will be taken to the West Side Food Bank. Breakfast available at the Post from 8am - 10am. Legion is located 3 blocks N. or Peoria Ave. on 99th Ave.
 
Sunday, December 11th
Sun Riders 24th Annual Motorcycle Toy Parade. Register from 8am - 11:30am in the heart of Downtown Tucson, The Tucson Convention Center. Parade leaves 12 Noon Sharp for the Pima County Fairgrounds. $25 per person, run pin available to first 2,000 registrants or $15 plus a toy valued at $10 or more. Includes one free Victory Kingpin Motorcycle raffle ticket to the first 3000 registrants. Door Prizes, Music, Raffles, 50/50 Drawing, Vendors, Refreshments, Drawing for a brand new Victory Kingpin. Special Guest Appearance by Dan Haggerty. 

Next Week 

December 13th - 24th
Superstition Harley-Davidson Presents 12 Reasons You Should Make Us Your Holiday Shopping Destination. Now is your chance to SAVE MONEY on your favorite Harley items! From December 13th - 24th Superstition HD will be offering increasing discounts on selected items throughout the store. Check the list and see what days you want to make your visits to buy that perfect Christmas gift at the best price possible. Superstition HD is located at 2910 W. Apache Trail in Apache Junction. Click Here for Map. For more information call 480-346-0600.

December 13th - 13% Off Gloves and Eyewear

December 14th - 14% Off Denim Jackets, Jeans, Shirts and Vests

December 15th - 15% Off Wallets, Purses and Belts

December 16th - 16% Off All Boots

December 17th - 17% Off All Jewelry. Free Gift Wrapping from the AZ Cardinals Cheerleaders from 10-2pm.

December 18th - 18% Off All Leather Jackets, Chaps and Vests

December 19th - 19% Off Loungewear and Sweat-Shirts

December 20th - 20% Off Knives and Key-Chains

December 21st - 21% Off All Kids's Items
December 22nd - 22% Off Bar-Ware and Coffee Mugs
December 23rd - Spend $100 or more and spin the prize wheel to win some great gifts.
December 24th - 24% Off All Christmas Merchandise and Sweaters

December 13th - 24th
Chester's Harley-Davidson 12 Days of Christmas Sales. Don't miss your chance to SAVE, SAVE, SAVE! during Chester's Harley Davidson's 12 Days of Christmas, December 13-24.  Every day’s a new sale, each with unique gift ideas for everyone on your list!  You can even kick back a bit and watch as our helpful Harley elves wrap your gifts, absolutely free!  ‘Tis the season to express your holiday spirit with gifts from Chester’s Harley-Davidson. Find out more at www.chestershd.com. Chester's HD is located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa, AZ. 480-894-0404.

December 13th - 13% Off All Men's and Women's Pants
December 14th - 14% Off Mugs and Barware

December 15th - 15% Off Hats and Glasses

December 16th - 16% Off Jewelry and Watches

December 17th - 17% Off Pick an Ornament for 10% - 30% off your final purchase of Motorclothes, Apparel and Collectibles.

December 18th - 18% Off All Belts and

December 19th - 19% Off Men's and Women's Jackets

December 20th - 20% Off Kid's Items

December 21st - 21% Off Men's and Women's Boots

December 22nd - 22% Off Men's and Women's Chaps

December 23rd - 23% Off Women's Purses and Men's Wallets
December 24th - 24% Off 24% Off all Christmas Items and Pants and Jackets. 

Saturday, December 17th
Buddy Stubbs Customer Appreciation Day. Buddy invites you to stop by and join him for a fun filled Customer Appreciation Day. Not only will you get 15% Off all in stock Parts and Accessories, Motorclothes Apparel and Collectibles, you can also enjoy Buddy's Angels Holiday Fashion Show, Live Music, Free BBQ, Soft Drinks and Hot Cocoa and peppermint candy canes. Ladies of Harley Free Christmas Gift Wrapping. Don't know what to buy? We will have a Personal Shoppers available to assist you that day. Our Thanks to you for a Great Year! Buddy Stubbs is located at 13850 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix. 602-971-3400.
 
Sunday, December 18th
W. Steven Martin's Police Toy Run. Check in from 9:00. Leave at 10:30am in Downtown Chandler. Located at Chandler Blvd. and Arizona Ave. in front of the San Marcos Hotel. To collect new toys and raise money to buy needed items and gifts to be distributed by 500 police officers and firefighters throughout Arizona. $10 donation per bike plus one new unwrapped toy. They need help with Teen Gifts. This year the ride is 80 miles round trip. You will end up back at the starting point in Chandler and draw for door prizes and 50/50 contest winners. You should be back in Chandler by 1:00pm. Police Santa Badge Pin and T-Shirts will be available. For more information call 480-921-6366 or 480-899-0366. 

Extras 

A lot of us like to look at Christmas lights this time of year. Here is a video of a house that the owner apparently has a little more time than I do. This is fantastic. Click Here to View.
 
Could you pass the Citizen Test?
Try this out. It is both educational and fun. 24 out of 30 is considered a passing grade. There are a couple of tricky questions. Click Here to take the test.
 
Here is a video for you non-smokers. I'll bet you all wish you could have done this a time or two.
Click Here to view.
 

Until Next Week,
Blessings and Safe Riding To All,

 
Barry Caraway
"The Road Is Yours -  Take The Ride"

www.cyclerides.com
info@cyclerides.com

 

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