Stay up-to-date with the latest in the world of Harley-Davidson. From new model releases and technology advancements to company announcements and industry insights, this category covers all the breaking news and essential updates about Harley-Davidson. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a rider, or simply curious about the iconic brand, our news section keeps you informed on everything happening with Harley-Davidson, including events, partnerships, and trends shaping the future of motorcycling.
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WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Derrick Van Orden, R-Prairie du Chien, is known for making an impression on Capitol Hill each day as he arrives for work.
Key Information
Members of Congress are returning to Washington via various modes of transport for the first time since the election.
A Wisconsin Republican is arriving at the Capitol differently: on his motorcycle.
Congressman Derrick Van Orden values his Harley Davidson, considering it a symbol of America.
The former Navy SEAL, whose district includes Eau Claire and La Crosse, just secured re-election.
The new Republican in Congress is thought to be the only one commuting by motorcycle. On his initial journey to take his seat two years ago, he rode his Harley from Wisconsin to Washington.
“This is a 2019 Harley Davidson Softail Slim, manufactured in Milwaukee. So this is indeed Milwaukee iron,” explained Van Orden.
While I dislike leaving my family and Wisconsin to head back to DC, it’s always wonderful to have a friend waiting for me here. Let’s Roll. pic.twitter.com/UbbiSnOLcO
— Derrick Van Orden (@derrickvanorden) July 7, 2024
Van Orden, who just secured his re-election from a predominantly rural district in southwestern Wisconsin, said his bike symbolizes America.
“It was built by hardworking tradesmen and women,” he elaborated. “And we need more of that here. We need individuals who are connected to their constituents.”
Having served as a Navy SEAL with multiple deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, he treasures his experiences with his Harley.
“I enlisted in the Navy at 18, and I have held significant responsibilities throughout my life. As I began deploying frequently to combat and lost many friends in training and warfare — 21 of them, to suicide, of the SEALs — finding time to disconnect from everything became increasingly crucial as I grew older and took on more responsibilities. Riding gives me the chance to put those worries aside for a few moments.”
For Van Orden, riding his motorcycle is the essence of freedom. He joked that while he’s on the road, even his staff cannot reach him.
(Spectrum News 1/Charlotte Scott)
Currently, Van Orden takes pride in teaching his grandchildren how to ride. Although he once could simply pack his belongings in a bag and embark on solo adventures, he now jokingly says he would require 15 sidecars for his family, as “I’m not leaving them behind.”
However, Van Orden did express a desire for another motorcycle.
“I would like to personally appeal to you and your audience to contact Mrs. Van Orden and support the ‘Derrick Van Orden needs another motorcycle’ caucus. I would greatly appreciate that,” he said with a grin. “I would love to have a motorcycle with a sidecar to take my grandkids along for candy distribution at parades.”
Whether or not he gets a sidecar, he plans to keep commuting to Capitol Hill as he has for the past two years: donning boots and riding his beloved Harley Davidson made in Wisconsin.
These were the sentiments expressed by former Green Beret Adam Smith to his fiancée on September 28 regarding his 3-year-old daughter Tove and her mother. Their home in North Carolina was situated merely 40 yards from a torrent of water, swollen beyond its banks due to Hurricane Helene. No communication had been established with them since Thursday night, and it had now turned to Saturday.
Despite the grim outlook, Smith felt compelled to attempt a rescue, teaming up with a friend of a friend who owned a helicopter. He was on board for the mission.
“When we landed, the greatest joy of my life unfolded before my eyes,” recounted Smith, founder and CEO of a tactical training company called Savage Freedoms. “My daughter came running around barefoot, skipping and twirling in a grassy field, and it was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever witnessed.”
This rescue led Smith to an important realization: it wasn’t sufficient to save just Tove and her mother. There were numerous others in distress — and Smith had the expertise to assist. Thus, Savage Freedoms Relief Operations, known as Savage Ops, was established in the parking lot of a Harley Davidson shop in Swannanoa, dedicated to providing relief supplies, rebuilding infrastructure, ensuring vehicle access, offering logistical support, and instilling hope in hurricane-affected residents. By the tenth day of Savage Ops’ formation, around 120 individuals had joined him through word of mouth, most being former special operators.
“Green Berets, Navy SEALs, pararescue, and MARSOC personnel from national strategic assets took the initiative — we had everyone,” Smith stated, estimating that his team logged nearly 29,000 man-hours in the initial two weeks. “By day 10, we had almost a million pounds of supplies delivered.”
Justin Neal, a former Army Ranger, is now part of what locals named “the redneck air force.” He and about 40 other former Rangers ventured into western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene struck, eager to lend a hand. After receiving a call regarding the operation at the Harley Davidson, he felt compelled to learn more.
“Ask for a guy named Adam,” his source advised. And he did; within five minutes, Neal committed to the effort.
“We don’t seek glory; we’re here solely to assist,” said Neal, a soldier from 2012-2017. “I planned to stay for three days, but ended up staying for 10. I just couldn’t walk away.”
Neal, Smith, and their peers encountered devastation on a scale that was hard to comprehend. Smith described it as “the worst destruction I’ve ever encountered, even more severe than a war zone.” Many people who spotted Savage Ops’ shirts didn’t even introduce themselves — they simply burst into tears and embraced the team members out of gratitude.
“We work from dawn till dusk every day,” Smith shared, indicating his intent to remain in western North Carolina for the foreseeable future. “The operations are ongoing with road and yard cleanups, mucking out homes, construction projects, sourcing hay and feed for livestock, and fundraising to pay contractors to help them resume their work.”
Their work garnered attention from former President Donald Trump, who met with Smith on October 21 at an auto repair shop in Swannanoa. However, the true significance lies in the sense of purpose and unity Savage Ops has provided its members, including Neal.
“I hadn’t felt this level of purpose since my time in Afghanistan,” he expressed. “I find more meaning in Savage Freedoms than I have in my whole life, including my military service.”
Currently, Smith emphasized, their mission is to restore North Carolina to its former state. Achieving this will require determination, effort, and funding — but Savage Ops is ready for the challenge.
“We cannot allow western North Carolina to be overlooked,” Smith affirmed. “And we won’t.”
Two Harley-Davidson locations are competing in a heartwarming contest this holiday season.
Motorcycle enthusiasts will have the final say in determining which Harley-Davidson dealership in Indiana will emerge victorious in a friendly food drive challenge.
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The two Harley-Davidson locations are giving back this holiday season (stock image)Credit: Getty
The motorcycle shops in Valparaiso and Michigan City are organizing a food drive to benefit local nonprofits and assist the community during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season.
Participants will choose a side, and the dealership that collects the most donations will be declared the winner.
Donors will select either Team Valparaiso or Team Michigan City when making their contributions of nonperishable goods or cash.
“We always strive to make a positive impact, especially during Thanksgiving,” stated Harley-Davidson Sales and Motorclothes Specialist Ginger Misch, as reported by LaPorteCounty.Life.
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“While living expenses have increased, many are still feeling the squeeze on their income, making extra assistance crucial.”
Harley-Davidson customers are encouraged to choose a location and donate as soon as they can.
Contributions to Team Valparaiso will be directed to Hilltop Neighborhood House, a community center that offers early childhood education and food pantry services.
Donors who choose the Michigan City location will support Arise and Shine, a food assistance and outreach organization.
Misch emphasized that these drives are a meaningful way for people to care for one another.
“We want everyone to have enjoyable meals during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and throughout the year,” the specialist remarked.
American Pickers’ Mike Wolfe takes 1934 Harley valued at $88k ‘out for a spin’ after dropping $12k on similar antique
“Events like this ensure that others have food to eat, alleviating one worry from their lives.”
Both Harley-Davidson locations are accepting nonperishable food items and monetary donations for the food drive.
Food contributions will be delivered directly to the respective nonprofits.
Additionally, monetary donations will be utilized to purchase groceries for each nonprofit before Thanksgiving.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, several stores have closed for various reasons throughout 2024, often without explanation.
Here’s a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed this year along with their reasons:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson in Kewanee, Illinois, closed in October after the owners sold the business to Walter Brothers Harley Davidson in Peoria, Illinois.
Many businesses are showing appreciation for veterans today by offering a range of special deals! Veterans can take advantage of complimentary meals, drinks, exclusive discounts, and various other benefits.
TMJ4’s Andrea Williams chatted with Vietnam Air Force veteran Robert Crawford, who shared that these complimentary offers are among his favorite aspects of Veterans Day.
TMJ4, Andrea Williams
Robert Crawford is a Vietnam Air Force veteran.
“All the restaurants give us free food,” he states. “And I’m proud of this country.”
Crawford resides at Veteran’s Manor, which offers safe and affordable housing for veterans like him.
Watch: Discussing what Veterans Day signifies to veterans and their families.
Conversations with veterans about their Veterans Day expectations
Andrea met Doug Dean while biking by the lake. He expressed gratitude towards servicemen, recalling that his brother is also a Vietnam veteran.
TMJ4, Andrea Williams
Doug Dean appreciates America’s servicemen and women on Veterans Day.
“What my brother experienced during the Tet Offensive… I’ll never forget the frightening letters he sent me,” Dean reflected. “It’s a time of deep reflection.”
Starbucks
Gene J. Puskar/AP
Starbucks signage in downtown Pittsburgh.
Need a boost? Enjoy a free tall coffee at Starbucks today! This offer is valid for both hot and iced drinks. To locate a Starbucks near you, click here.
Wendy’s
Reed Saxon/AP
Wendy’s sign at a restaurant in Culver City, California.
Looking for a hearty breakfast? Active-duty military and veterans can enjoy a free Breakfast Combo at Wendy’s during breakfast hours today at participating stores. For location details, click here.
Dunkin’
Gene J. Puskar/AP
A Dunkin’ Donuts logo displayed at a store in Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
Dunkin’ is providing veterans and active military personnel a free doughnut with no purchase necessary, for in-store redemption only. To find a Dunkin’ location, click here.
7 Brew Coffee
7 Brew, Milwaukee Business Journal
7 Brew Coffee is offering veterans a 25% discount on any beverage. Find a store near you by clicking here.
Scooter’s Coffee
Scooter’s Coffee is providing a free medium drink today! This includes any menu item, featuring seasonal and limited-time drinks.
To locate a Scooter’s Coffee near you, click here.
Applebee’s
Veterans are invited to Applebee’s for a free meal.
Additionally, diners will receive a $5 bounce-back card to use within three weeks. Participating locations include those in Milwaukee, Oak Creek, Delafield, Menomonee Falls, and West Allis.
Chili’s
Chili’s
Claim a free meal at Chili’s! This Veterans Day offer includes specific menu items and is available only in restaurants.
Meal options comprise:
– Chicken tenders with fries
– Quesadilla
– Burger with fries
– Soup or salad
Golden Corral
Golden Corral is providing a free meal and beverage to all veterans and active-duty service members as part of its “Military Appreciation Night.” To find a Golden Corral near you, click here.
Cousins Subs
Get a free 7.5-inch sub at any Cousins Subs location today! To find one near you, click here.
Bar Louie
Enjoy a complimentary burger (excluding the Big Louie) at Bar Louie today! The Impossible Burger upgrade is available for an additional $4. This offer is valid for dine-in only. For locations, check the Bar Louie website.
Not interested in food? Here are some engaging activities you can partake in.
Catch a complimentary movie at any Emagine Theatre
What you need:
Guests must present one of the following military IDs:
– Service ID Card
– Discharge Papers
Where:
Any Emagine Theatre locations in Wisconsin.
Tickets can’t be purchased in advance; you must collect your ticket at the box office. To view the full schedule, click here.
Harley Davidson Museum
Milwaukee Business Journal
The headquarters of Harley-Davidson Inc. located on Milwaukee’s west side.
The Harley Davidson Museum is offering free admission for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families today.
Additionally, the Motor Bar and Restaurant associated with the Harley-Davidson Museum is providing a complimentary meal (up to $14.95) with any beverage purchase on Veterans Day.
Receive a complimentary professional portrait and access to job resources
Saturn Lounge and Staffing Partners are joining forces to host a Free Professional Portrait Day! This event aims to assist veterans in their professional pursuits by supplying high-quality portraits that can be utilized for resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and other career-related platforms.
Additionally, Staffing Partners will provide on-site job resources for veterans in search of employment or career growth.
Where:
Staffing Partners, located at 2217 S 1st St, Milwaukee, WI 53207
When:
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. today
Talk to us:
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Sanford Man Killed in Motorcycle Crash on State Road 44 Photo by iSkyNews.com
By Ciara Perez, News Reporter | iSkyNews (ISC)
Published November 10th, 2024
Lake County, FL — A resident of Sanford tragically lost his life in a motorcycle incident on Saturday evening in Lake County, as reported by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The accident occurred at approximately 5:03 PM on November 9, 2024, at the crossroads of State Road 44 and Bottany Woods Drive.
The 57-year-old motorcyclist was heading southbound on a 2020 Harley Davidson FXLRS when he was unable to manage a curve in the roadway. His motorcycle veered off the right side of State Road 44, crashing into a concrete mailbox. The impact of the collision caused him to be ejected from the bike.
Emergency personnel swiftly transported him to AdventHealth DeLand Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. Officials from FHP confirmed that the rider was not equipped with a helmet at the time of the accident. The man’s family has been informed of his passing.
The FHP continues to investigate this heartbreaking incident to determine the circumstances surrounding this fatal crash.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without express permission from iSkyCreations, LLC. For photo or video purchases related to this story, please contact us at [email protected] or visit our website.
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The Hamilton Police Service is requesting assistance from the community in finding a missing person, Jacob Ramjewan.
On November 9, 2024, around 8:40 p.m., Jacob Ramjewan departed from his residence located near East 14th Street and Brucedale Avenue East. He has not returned, and police are worried about his safety.
Jacob Ramjewan is described as: 31 years old, 5’8”, 250 lbs, with a dark complexion and short black hair. At the time he was last seen, he was wearing a black dress shirt over a Harley Davidson t-shirt, black jeans, and was barefoot.
If you possess any information that may aid our investigators, please reach out to the Division 30 Staff Sergeant at 905-546-3886.
An illustration of the proposed gaming facility included in the variance application documents.
MANCHESTER NH – During a meeting on Thursday evening, the Manchester Planning Board expressed support for a proposal that aims to demolish and reconstruct a new Revo Casino complex located on South Willow Street.
Following the granting of variances from the Manchester Zoning Board of Adjustment last month, two requests were presented to the Planning Board as part of the final steps prior to the commencement of the building reconstruction.
One of the requests involved reviewing a site plan application for the redevelopment, which aims to consolidate three plots into a single new lot. The two lots on John E. Devine Drive, currently home to the Even Hotel and the former Harley Davidson dealership, will effectively merge with the adjacent Revo lot to the south.
In the initial phase of renovations, both the Harley Davidson dealership and the hotel would be demolished to make way for a new two-story casino building measuring 67,175 square feet, accompanied by 290 parking spaces. After this phase, the existing Revo building would be taken down and replaced with an additional 750 parking spots.
The second request pertains to a conditional use permit that would allow the casino to operate without the full complement of required parking spaces during the construction of the additional spaces, which is anticipated to take about 3-6 months. The nearby bank would also be permitted to utilize some of the site’s parking, as demand from the bank and the casino is not expected to coincide.
The redesigned parking area will feature green space and improved stormwater permeability to address flooding concerns, as well as an internal “avenue” to manage traffic flow on-site and prominent landmarks near the newly integrated lot’s frontage on South Willow Street, establishing a recognizable point in one of the key gateway areas of the city, just off I-293.
Upon completion, the facility is projected to accommodate 730 gaming seats, include two restaurants, and feature an events center with a capacity of 800 for concerts and 300 for seated events.
The developers of the project have committed to replanting 43 trees removed from the site in another location within the city.
While no formal decision was reached during Thursday’s meeting, feedback from board members was largely affirmative.
“This is a unique opportunity to revitalize an area that serves as a gateway to the city,” noted Planning Board chair Bryce Kaw-uh.
“I appreciate your commitment to the city; this is a valuable project that is greatly needed in that area,” added Planning Board Aldermanic Liaison Dan Goonan.
A determination regarding the two requests is anticipated at the board’s next limited business meeting later this month, with construction on the casino redevelopment expected to span 18 months.
The casino will also require approval from the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for the installation of signage along the city’s right of way on South Willow Street, near the casino entrance. Currently, the casino uses parking spaces within this right-of-way; those will be removed, and a complete redesign of the entrance on South Willow is proposed to enhance traffic flow between the casino and the adjacent gas station.
A prominent figure in a New Zealand crime syndicate and his partner, who collectively reported an annual legal income of only $NZ16,500 ($14,900), have had two properties, $NZ70,000 in cash ($63,200), three vehicles, and a motorcycle confiscated following charges of
dealing methamphetamine
Records from the IRD indicate that the man’s legitimate income averaged approximately $5,400 annually over the past six years.
A leader of the Mongrel Mob and his partner have had thousands in cash, two houses, and three cars seized after being charged with dealing methamphetamine. (Supplied)
The partner’s legitimate income has been around $9,000 annually for the past seven years.
In March, police executed search warrants at several locations associated with the couple.
The man faces charges of possession of methamphetamine for supply, possession in an organized crime group, unlawful possession of a firearm, and failure to comply with obligations related to a computer.
From a Louis Vuitton handbag at a rented property, police seized $61,495 in cash, along with an additional $3,668 from other locations within the property.
Officers also recovered a money-counting machine, a handgun, ammunition, and several mobile phones.
Investigations of encrypted messages on the man’s devices revealed transactions involving 11kg of methamphetamine, valued at over $1.35 million.
The Mongrel Mob, an organized crime group, has chapters throughout New Zealand. (Stuff)
In addition to the cash, authorities confiscated two residences, a 1970 Ford Saloon, a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro, a 2016 Mazda ute, and a 2019 Harley Davidson.
The police commissioner sought a restraining order from New Zealand’s High Court for the confiscated items under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act.
Allegations state the couple maintained a lifestyle inconsistent with their income levels, which included luxurious vacations and extensive home renovations.
Justice Karen Grau stated there were sufficient grounds to suspect the couple had unlawfully profited from significant criminal activities, approving the restraining order that will remain in effect until July next year.
The next court appearance for the man is scheduled for February at Manukau District Court.
William Joseph Jurak, Sr., 80, of LaPorte, Indiana, formerly from Sawyer, passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Woodland Manor in Elkhart.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11 AM EST on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Pike Funeral Home, The Boyd Chapel, located at 9191 Red Arrow Hwy., Bridgman, MI 49106. Interment will take place at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens in Michigan City, Indiana. Family and friends are invited to visit with the family at the funeral home from 10-11 AM on Wednesday, prior to the service. Memorial donations may be made to Traditions Hospice, 3555 Park Place W., Suite 100, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Online condolences can be shared at www.PikeFH.com.
Bill was born on November 25, 1943, in Chicago, to the late William and Victoria (Havlicek) Jurak. He proudly served in the US Army, 101st Airborne Division. He married Geraldine Linduska on June 29, 1965, who sadly preceded him in death on May 17, 2009. Bill had a passion for dancing, visiting flea markets, hunting, trap shooting, and riding his Harley Davidson.
He is survived by his wife, Judy Jurak, whom he married on July 2, 2011; his sons, Bill Jurak, Jr. and Greg Jurak; Judy’s children, Shawn Bell, Troy Bell, and Lisa Wallen; his grandchildren: Amanda (Brian) Brumley, Sara (Caleb) Inman, Kevin, Kristina, and Keith Jurak, Melissa, Michelle, Amber, and Christina Bell, Kameron, Logan, Bailey, and Bryce Bell; as well as a brother, Joe Jurak, and a sister, Janet Jichenor.
Bill was also preceded in death by his son, Danny Jurak.
Arrangements are entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, at 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman.
A woman who has been missing from an outback town in WA since October 8, 1999, was reportedly seen that morning on the back of a Harley Davidson being driven by a member of a motorcycle gang, who was later killed by a sniper, according to an inquest into her death.
Lisa Govan, 28, disappeared after she was seen entering the headquarters of the outlaw motorcycle group Club Deroes in Kalgoorlie around 7:30 AM that same day.
To this day, her body has not been located.
During the inquest on Friday, Club Deroes associate Raymond Fisher stated he was “certain” he saw Ms. Govan on the back of Billy Grierson’s motorcycle the morning she went missing.
Mr. Grierson, who was affiliated with the rival bikie gang Gypsy Jokers, was shot dead in 2000 by a sniper outside the Ora Banda pub, located northwest of Kalgoorlie, allegedly on the directives of a publican and former senior Perth detective, Don Hancock, who himself was later killed in a car bombing.
The crime scene the morning after bikie Billy Grierson was killed at Ora Banda. (ABC News)
Mr. Fisher testified that he was never a full member of Club Deroes, but merely an associate who had been invited to join.
At that time, Mr. Fisher was employed by John Hope, a former member of Club Deroes who is suspected of having lent his Land Cruiser ute to the clubhouse on the morning of Ms. Govan’s disappearance, potentially to dispose of her body.
Raymond Fisher, a former associate of Club Deroes, claims to have seen Ms. Govan on the back of Billy Grierson’s Harley Davidson. (ABC News: Brianna Melville)
Mr. Fisher mentioned that Mr. Hope instructed him to clean the ute after it had been used by club members on the morning of Ms. Govan’s disappearance, stating in court, “I just did a quick spray.”
Ongoing witness inquiries
Mr. Fisher is the last scheduled witness in the inquest, as police have been unable to locate two other witnesses deemed crucial to the proceedings.
Club Deroes member Andrew Edhouse was seen walking with Ms. Govan into the clubhouse around the time she went missing, with a witness asserting that Mr. Edhouse had stomped on Ms. Govan’s head inside.
Lisa Govan was last seen outside the clubhouse of bikie group Club Deroes in Kalgoorlie on the morning of October 8, 1999. An inquest is currently investigating her suspected murder. (Supplied: Family)
Although Mr. Edhouse has not been found, another witness testified that he had contacted him earlier in the week to discuss the inquest.
Authorities were also unsuccessful in serving a witness summons to Ms. Govan’s boyfriend during the time of her disappearance, Timothy Hammel.
Coroner Michael Jenkin informed the court that “witness inquiries” are still ongoing, before adjourning the inquest.
After the court session on Friday, Ms. Govan’s mother, Pat, expressed her satisfaction with the inquest being adjourned and hoped it would provide police with more time to locate key witnesses.
Lisa Govan’s mother, Pat Govan, expressed satisfaction with the adjournment of the inquest. (ABC News: Courtney Withers)
“This gives them ample time to clarify matters and put everything in order, which I am content with,” she stated.
“They are the two main individuals [Edhouse and Hammel]… I just want to resolve this and have it settled.”
(Spectrum News 1/Charlotte Scott)
Gene J. Puskar/AP
Reed Saxon/AP
Gene J. Puskar/AP
Courtesy of Outback Steakhouse
Wilfredo Lee/AP
