1/8/08
Sarasota biker festival draws crowd
His motorcycle version of a Vietnam War memorial -- and his denim vest, bandanna and camouflage pants -- reflect how when he first started riding 48 years ago, "You had to be hard core," he said.
But organizers say the diverse crowd of more than 20,000 people at Sunday's Thunder by the Bay motorcycle festival showed that the culture has broadened.
A motorcycle near Harris' well-armed bike was decorated with dolphins frolicking in a pastel sunset.
The diversity means more money for The Florida Center to help children and families, a favorite fundraiser for the bikers who flock to Sarasota's festival.
Jerry "Roadkill" Galas, a nondenominational minister and snake shop owner who enjoys gourmet cooking, performed the first biker blessing at the event this year.
A vendor was selling elk hide leather chaps lined with rabbit fur for $395. Norma Eveland of Fort Myers sported a leather vest with pink embroidery reading "Club Diva," a women's bike club.
Eveland is the executive director of the March of Dimes in Fort Myers, and goes from cocktails and ballrooms during the week to beer and the open road on the weekend.
"It keeps my life interesting," Eveland said.
The Florida Center has raised more than $600,000 in the past nine years of the festival.
The first festival had 100 riders and raised $100.
This year's edition, featuring famous bike builders, local live music, a poker run, motocross demonstrations, and a downtown festival and bike show, could top $100,000, organizers said.
Some of the people at the festival said riding is synonymous with freedom, America and fun.
"There's nothing like being on a bike and being at one with the earth," said Larry Brotherton of Sarasota, sporting a red-orange goatee and shaved head.
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