The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce introduces the community’s newest event, Batesville, Bikers, & Backroads, on June 10 and 11
The event welcomes motorcyclists from across the state to participate in a variety of activities, including a Bike Parade on Main Street, a Poker Run, Bike Games, and a Bike Show. The day’s events also include King Tony’s “Yo Face Stunt Show” and an evening Battle of the Bands.
The festivities begin on Friday evening with a special concert appearance by legendary country outlaw singer David Allan Coe. He will perform in concert at Josie’s Steakhouse on the banks of the White River on Friday, June 10. Coe achieved popularity in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “The Ride,” “Mona Lisa Lost her Smile,” “Long Haired Redneck,” and “She Used to Love Me a Lot.” He satirized the themes of country music with his hilarious additions to folk singer’s Steve Goodman’s “You Never Even Call Me by My Name,” written with help from John Prine. Coe’s version of the song took on special meaning for many after Goodman’s death in 1984 at the age of 36. Goodman was best known for writing “City of New Orleans.” Tickets for the David Allan Coe concert are $40 per person, $75 per couple. The audience is limited to 200 people, so purchasing early is recommended. Tickets are available at Josie’s or by calling 870-793-7000.
Saturday’s activities begin at 10:00 am with a Bike Parade down Main Street; Batesville Mayor Rick
Elumbaugh will lead the parade. All other events will take place in Riverside Park.
Saturday Schedule:
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Poker Run Registration 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
First Bike out 11:00 am — Last Bike in 4:00 pm — $5 per Hand
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Vendors (food, beverages, motorcycles, biker clothing and gear) 11:00 am to 11:30 pm
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King Tony’s “Yo Face” Stunt Show at Riverside Park (sponsored by Bad Boy Mowers) —
performances at 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, and 2:30 pm
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Bike Games — 3 pm to 5 pm
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Bike Show — Registration 5 pm to 6 pm; $10 registration. Judging 6 pm to 7 pm
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Battle of the Bands (presented by the Batesville Optimists Club) 5:00 pm to 11:30 pm
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All winners will be announced at the Battle of the Bands at 8:00 pm Admission and parking are free. Visit www.mybatesville.org for hotel and restaurant discounts.
Vendors’ fees and revenue from the sale of Chamber of Commerce merchandise will help fund the purchase of one or more billboards to promote Tourism in Independence County. The Chamber of
Commerce Tourism Committee envisions Batesville, Bikes, and Backroads as becoming an annual event. For additional information contact the Chamber at 870-793-2378 or info@mybatesville.org.
