Karen Margaret Marco, 67, has passed away, leaving a lasting legacy full of passion, dedication, and unconditional love. She departed this life on April 2, 2025, at the Cornerstone Hospice House in The Villages, FL.
A graduate of Jordan Elbridge High School, Karen worked for many years in the banking sector. Following her time in banking, she found her true calling at St. Camillus Health and Rehabilitation Center in Syracuse, NY.
Karen and her husband Tom relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, moved to Wentzville, Missouri, and ultimately enjoyed their retirement in Summerfield, FL. She cherished riding her own Harley Davidson motorcycle with Tom and had a passion for traveling while creating memorable moments with her family and lifelong friends.
Her warmth, kindness, and selflessness will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Karen was predeceased by her parents, Hervey D. Forward and Carol M. (Derschang) of Elbridge, NY.
She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Thomas J. Marco; her brother, Hervey C. Forward (Ruth Plank) of Lady Lake, Florida; her children, Joseph Beaulieu (Emily) of Olympia, WA, and Aaron Forward of Navarre, FL (Brittany), along with grandchildren Donovan, Colin, and Aiden; stepdaughter Jennifer Marco of East Syracuse, NY; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Karen requested no calling hours. A family gathering will take place at Green Lawn Cemetery later this year. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Karen’s memory to The American Cancer Society.
A Maple Hill man is currently hospitalized following a tragic accident on Sunday that claimed the life of his wife.
Edward Brumfield, aged 47, is reported to be in fair condition at New Hanover Regional Hospital in Wilmington, after being airlifted due to his injuries. His wife, Sally Brumfield, sadly did not survive.
The motorcycle that Edward Brumfield was operating collided with a truck that unexpectedly entered their path, resulting in both of them being ejected from the vehicle.
Robert Wooten, 74, has been charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and failure to yield following the incident at approximately 3 p.m. on Gurganus Road, about a tenth of a mile from N.C. 53, according to Highway Patrol 1st Sgt. David Oglesby.
Wooten was attempting to make a left turn into a driveway while driving a 2000 Ford pickup truck westbound on Gurganus Road when he collided with the 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by Edward Brumfield, the Highway Patrol stated.
Following the crash, Wooten was brought before a magistrate and released on a bond of $2,000. A court date has been arranged for July 7.
A Maple Hill resident has been charged in connection with a Sunday afternoon accident that resulted in injury to a motorcycle rider and the death of his wife, who was riding as a passenger.
According to the Highway Patrol, Wooten was making a left turn in his 2000 Ford pickup truck on Gurganus Road when he struck the motorcycle driven by 47-year-old Edward Brumfield from Maple Hill.
The collision caused both Edward Brumfield and his wife, Sally, to be thrown from the motorcycle.
Sadly, Sally Brumfield succumbed to her injuries, while Edward Brumfield was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Authorities report that a Maple Hill woman has lost her life following a motorbike accident.
Media sources indicate that a truck turned into the motorcycle’s path, prompting Edward Brumfield to attempt to lay the bike down to avert the crash, ultimately sliding underneath the truck.
His wife, Sally Brumfield, aged 49, tragically died from the injuries sustained in the accident, while Edward Brumfield was taken to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development, Ville Tavio (Finns), emphasized the necessity of EU unity regarding the matter.
Earlier reports indicated that the tariff counteractions would focus on US products and brands, including American whiskey, Levi’s clothing, and Harley Davidson motorcycles. Image: Esa Syväkuru / Yle, Linus Hoffman / Yle, Henrietta Hassinen / Yle
The EU is set to unveil its initial countermeasures against tariffs proposed by the United States, as disclosed by Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio (Finns).
Tavio addressed reporters at a press conference after a gathering of EU trade ministers in Luxembourg on Monday afternoon.
Recently, US President Donald Trump revealed expansive tariff proposals targeting goods and services from the EU and numerous global trading partners. The 10-percent “baseline” tariff on imports from various countries initiated over the weekend while EU nations now face a 20-percent levy.
The European Commission is currently preparing to present the suggested countermeasures to EU member states. Initial reports hinted that these tariff countermeasures would target US products and brands, including American whiskey, Levi’s apparel, and Harley Davidson motorcycles.
Tavio mentioned that the counteractions should not disproportionately affect any member state. He also stated that products essential for security and energy production would be exempt from any potential counter-tariffs.
He reiterated the importance of EU solidarity on this issue, insisting that no state would benefit from straying from the collective EU stance.
Authorities have reported that a man from Lexington lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Lauderdale County on Saturday.
The incident occurred at approximately 6 p.m. on Saturday on County Road 483, close to County Road 480, which is situated around four miles southwest of Lexington.
According to state troopers, Danny W. Robinson was fatally injured when his 1990 Harley Davidson FXSTC veered off the road and collided with a fence. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into the accident is still ongoing, as stated by the state troopers.
“Residing in the Volunteer State, our community members are eager to lend a hand to their fellow neighbors in times of need,” stated Beth Koffman, COO of The Community Foundation of West Tennessee.
This week’s storms that devastated Selmer have motivated the West Tennessee community to unite.
“We have many volunteers from our church here today, alongside others from nearby congregations, including those traveling from Boonville, Mississippi, to assist us. Freed-Hardeman University has also sent volunteers down,” remarked John Foote, who is coordinating the volunteer activities at Eastside Church of Christ in Selmer.
Students from Freed-Hardeman University and other volunteers came together to help remove fallen trees in Selmer.
“Upon announcing that the fund was reactivated, donations began pouring in, including some overnight. In just the last 24 hours, we’ve received over $3,500 for the fund,” she noted.
“Currently, we are requesting no further clothing donations as we have more than enough. We need cases of water, non-perishable food items, snacks, hygiene products, baby supplies, and perhaps some blankets,” Staton added.
Due to overwhelming community support for donations, Harley Davidson has requested no further clothing contributions.
“These boxes include beans, canned goods, and similar items. Each box is carefully designed based on years of experience to feed a family of four for five days,” Foote elaborated.
The UK is about to face tariffs enforced by US President Donald Trump, with the measures expected to commence on April 2.
Trump has dubbed this date ‘liberation day’, arguing that increasing the cost of foreign goods in the US will motivate Americans to purchase locally and strengthen their industry.
However, individuals in the US who rely on imported goods will inevitably bear the brunt of these changes.
The UK and US have been engaged in ‘productive discussions’ aimed at reaching a trade agreement that could prevent these tariffs, but time is running out.
A spokesperson from Downing Street stated (via Sky News): “They talked about the fruitful negotiations between their teams regarding a UK-US economic agreement, affirming that discussions will advance swiftly this week.”
In come the new tariffs, unless the UK can secure a trade deal very quickly (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
If an agreement to exempt the UK from tariffs cannot be finalized, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has indicated that the UK ‘reserves the right’ to impose reciprocal tariffs on American goods.
A trade war will not benefit anyone, but if the US imposes a 25 percent tariff on car imports, it will be quite detrimental, and implementing reciprocal tariffs could serve as leverage for urging Trump to reconsider.
The specifics of the UK’s potential tariffs remain uncertain, but the BBC reports that they might target particular products deemed significant by the US.
Harley Davidson motorcycles have been mentioned as a likely candidate for reciprocal tariffs, with notable American brands being potential targets.
The Daily Mail reported that Jack Daniel’s whiskey and Levi’s jeans may also be subjected to tariffs, making them appear pricier and less appealing in the UK market.
The European Union has prepared reciprocal tariffs for such items in the case of a trade conflict, and the UK might consider doing likewise.
Harley Davidson motorbikes, Jack Daniel’s whisky and Levi’s jeans are among the main targets of EU tariffs, and the UK may decide to do similar (Carsten Koall/Getty Images)
UK trade chief William Bain previously cautioned LADbible that Trump’s tariff initiative has ushered in a ‘new era of uncertainty’, but encouraged businesses to ‘keep calm and continue exporting‘.
In advance of the tariffs, citizens in various countries are already boycotting US products, while experts have informed the BBC that imposing tariffs on the US service sector would be considered the ‘nuclear’ option.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper remarked that discussions with the US are ‘intense’ and ongoing.
She stated: “We obviously can’t keep a running commentary on different discussions that are taking place, but we must ensure that our actions align with national interests.”
If tariffs are implemented, the UK’s response will be closely scrutinized.
The Harley Davidson X440 has been on the market for quite some time, but we thought it prudent to take another look and assess its value in 2025 after spending extensive time riding and living with it for a week.
We had the opportunity to test the X440 for a week, and here’s what it was like to own and ride it.
Harley Davidson has long been an aspirational brand, with enthusiasts dreaming of owning their iconic bikes. Many riders band together in a community that spans the globe. Owning a Harley has traditionally been a luxury, often hindered by high import taxes. However, everything changed with the introduction of the X440. Now, nearly two years after its launch, we reassess its value in 2025.
It’s important to understand that the Harley Davidson brand thrives on passionate enthusiasts. While many are drawn to its offerings out of love, this has sometimes led to internal struggles, particularly with the launch of the X440. Despite reducing the entry price to an accessible level, initial reactions were mixed, as some felt it diluted the brand’s legacy.
Over the course of a week, we clocked more than 500 kilometers on the motorcycle, using it for daily commutes, highway stretches, and grocery runs. We felt that many first impressions were underestimated, and the bike has been misinterpreted in a market ripe for performance comparisons.
Harley X440: Aesthetic Appeal
We received the premium S model with a matte black finish and diamond-cut alloy wheels, and pictures fail to capture its true beauty. The motorcycle’s proportions make it eye-catching, attracting attention even from taller riders. The sleek LED headlights and stylish tank contribute to its appeal, though the rear profile may take some getting used to. Overall, it’s a striking motorcycle.
One of the critiques facing the X440 is its design; many expected it to resemble a traditional Harley. However, we believe it stands out on its own. While it doesn’t conform to the typical Harley aesthetic, it’s certainly an attractive roadster, particularly in matte black. The subtle branding on components suggests its heritage without being a mere replica of its larger siblings.
Harley X440: Build Integrity
In terms of build quality, the X440 faces some shortcomings. The roots of its design are evident, with some components feeling less robust. Issues like peeling paint on the engine casing and impractical mirrors do suggest a cost-conscious production approach. However, the switchgear and frequently touched parts maintain good quality, indicating areas where Harley can enhance their budget offerings.
Harley X440: Technological Features
Harley has integrated a wealth of thoughtful features into the X440. The round instrument cluster, which incorporates a rectangular screen, may seem odd at first but is user-friendly once you acclimate. Smart features, like automatic activation of low beams in darkness and well-designed headlamps, enhance the riding experience. The display is clear and adapts between light and dark modes, includes features like turn-by-turn navigation, music playback control, and even an SOS button for emergencies. The controls are intuitive, allowing users to easily navigate through them without feeling overwhelmed by information.
The technology on the X440 feels seamless and complements daily activities without becoming intrusive. The RPM gauge may be small, but the large speedometer is easy to read and essential during rides.
Harley X440: Riding Experience
What truly matters is the riding experience. We started our journey with zero expectations and concluded with genuine admiration. The sound that greets you upon starting is a deep, pleasing exhaust note. The clutch is light, though its action is extended, and gear transitions are smooth, allowing for drama-free takeoffs. The riding posture is comfortably forward-set, making it suitable for taller riders, but appearances aside, it’s an enjoyable ride.
The X440 prioritizes rideability over raw power. The 440cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine delivers 27 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Despite the seemingly modest power output for a 440cc engine, the abundant torque manifests noticeably during rides. It supports smooth acceleration in various scenarios. It’s not about sheer speed but enjoyable riding, particularly when navigating through urban sprawl. The engine remains composed even at low speeds and higher gears.
We were pleasantly surprised by its takeoff from traffic signals and its in-gear torque, facilitating rapid overtakes without needing to downshift. Engine heat is adeptly managed, even in dense traffic, and vibrations only make an appearance at higher speeds of 110 km/h.
The exhaust note is rich and resonant, easily competing as one of the best-sounding single-cylinder motorcycles available today. Harley has undoubtedly crafted an enjoyable auditory experience, complete with charming pops and crackles during deceleration.
The suspension feels notably firm, lending the ride stability in turns while maintaining decent grip. However, the stiffness can lead to discomfort when riding with a passenger. On bumpy roads, we frequently found ourselves avoiding potholes and reducing speed significantly.
Braking performance is generally satisfactory; the front brakes work exceptionally well, while the rear brakes could use improvement, leading to a reliance on the front braking system.
Harley X440: Pricing Consideration
With a starting price of Rs 2.39 lakhs (ex-showroom), the X440 represents excellent value for money. This motorcycle excels as a daily rider and enjoyable commuter, boasting a balanced array of features.
Harley X440: Conclusion
Ultimately, the value of the motorcycle is subjective. The X440 may not victory in the specifications department against its competitors, but this often overlooks the essence of these motorcycles, which many seize behind their keyboards in comparison. It’s not solely about the top performance or speed; rather, it embraces the unique Harley experience. While it may not be the fastest option, it certainly delivers the joy of riding, capturing the spirit of the motorcycle community.
Special thanks to our friends Gaurang and Humayun for assisting with the photography.
The internet can sometimes miss the mark, as keyboard critics can express views that might lack depth. The X440 represents Harley’s effort to make their legendary ownership experiences accessible to a broader audience. While many brands keep their products confined to higher price points, Harley has embraced this challenge creatively, creating a bike that captures the joys of motorcycling.
Tauseef Zia
Tauseef has dedicated his life to automotive performance, sharing his passion for cars and bikes since childhood. When he’s not writing, you can find him working on vehicles or capturing them on the road.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Matthew “Matt” Scott McKelvey, 57, from Stevensville, MI. He left us due to complications from Pulmonary Fibrosis on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. Matt was born on February 19, 1968, in Muncie, IN, to Tim McKelvey and the late Linda (Jones) McKelvey.
A devoted husband and loving stepfather, he was a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend. Matt’s spirit brought joy and laughter to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
In 1986, Matt graduated from Monroe Central High School in Parker City, Indiana, and proudly served in the US Navy on the USS Asheville from 1988 to 1999. He began his career at AEP in 1999, working at the Cook Plant. He earned a BASc in Nuclear Power Technology/Technician and a Masters Certificate in Organizational Leadership from the University of Notre Dame. Matt enjoyed retiring at the age of 54 in 2022, allowing him to travel with his wife. Following retirement, he worked as a contractor for Crane Nuclear alongside his good friend Riley Mayhew.
Matt’s smile was contagious, and he never met a stranger. He cherished golfing with his close friends during the “6 Pak Open.” He was an avid supporter of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Indianapolis Colts, and Cincinnati Reds. Matt loved spending time at their winter home in Florida, enjoying long walks on Siesta Key Beach. He could often be found listening to live music at a local Tiki bar while savoring a cold beer. Other joys in his life included riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and tending to his beautiful garden.
Matt is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne (Mock) McKelvey, whom he married on April 4, 2004; stepdaughter Kelly (Patrick) Grayam; father Tim McKelvey; sisters Abby (Carl) Pettigrew and Mandi (Donnie) Lucas; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda (Jones) McKelvey, and mother-in-law, Maxine Mock.
Though he has departed from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts.
A celebration of life is scheduled for 2 PM to 5 PM on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Pebblewood Country Club in Bridgman, MI.
HYDERABAD: Two young men riding a Harley Davidson motorbike tragically lost their lives after being struck by a speeding car in Secunderabad on Wednesday. The victims have been identified as Pranay, aged 19, and Akshit, aged 21, according to the Mahankali police investigating the incident.
As per police reports, the pair, who lived in Bansilalpet, Secunderabad, were traveling from Paradise junction towards Patny X roads when they were hit by the speeding vehicle. Pranay was the one operating the motorcycle, while Akshit was the passenger; both succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
The driver of the car, identified as Kurmaiah, has been taken into custody for further questioning. He was reportedly en route to pick up a passenger near Patny X roads at the time of the collision, say the authorities. KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Two young men on a Harley Davidson motorcycle were killed in a crash in Secunderabad.
The victims, Pranay, aged 19, and Akshit, aged 21, were struck by a speeding car.
The accident took place near Patny X roads on Wednesday.
Car driver Kurmaiah has been detained for investigation.
Authorities confirmed that both victims died immediately following the collision.
Dennis R. Cardone, aged 82, previously of Frewsburg, passed away peacefully at his home in Jamestown on Friday, March 21, 2025.
Born on July 11, 1942, in Jamestown, he was the son of the late Frank and Maxine Ferry Cardone.
He graduated from Jamestown High School.
Dennis was an enthusiastic member of the Goldwing motorcycle group in Warren, PA. Over the years, he owned numerous motorcycles, but his last Harley Davidson held a special place in his heart. He customized it with a sidecar so that his beloved Karolyn could join him at various motorcycle events, including Sturgis. Together, they explored countless destinations across the United States in their RV, and he found joy in singing karaoke.
Prior to his retirement, he worked at Kane Innovations, and earlier in his career, he drove a delivery truck for a local beer distributor.
Dennis is survived by his two sons: Dion R. Cardone and Kirk M. (Debbie) Cardone; two grandchildren, Jessica Cardone and Cory (Carolanne) Cardone; one great-grandchild, Sophia Cardone; a sister, Paula Cardone; and a brother, Bud (Rose) Cobb.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Karolyn M. Cardone, who passed away on September 18, 2023; a son, David Cardone; a sister, Bonnie Travis; and four brothers: Ralph, James, Frank, and Gregory Cardone.
A graveside service is scheduled for 11 am on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Maple Grove Cemetery in Frewsburg. There will be no visitation.
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