MY FINAL WRITING PIECE.

FLOSSIE'S BAR (PLACE):

Outside of what appears to be a rather small wooden bar, about a hundred faces composed of middle aged men and women, stand around socializing and drinking. Uniformed in black leather vests, torn jeans, and cut off t-shirts, the cluster of people are surrounded by motorcycles, the gleam of which is very hard to miss, as almost each and every single 2 wheeled-vehicle appears pristine in contrast to the dust and debris they’re parked on.

Located in a small and quiet section of Dania, FL- Flossy’s Bikers Bar is a main attraction for those interested in biking as both a lifestyle and a hobby. To an outsider, the atmosphere might come off as a bit intimidating- tribal even. The majority of women in attendance rode in on a bike, many of which are their own. Every new person who pulls up and parks seems to systematically walk up to a known face and is greeted with a familiar embrace.  Easily, this place can be mistaken for “member’s only.”

However, there is more to Flossy’s than one might conclude from cliché stereotyping or lack of worldly experiences. Although there is no denying that most in attendance share a common vehicular interest, the people here are quite diverse in their lifestyle off road.

“You’re a brave girl for coming here, you know that? Many people who don’t ride bike would never find themselves here ‘cause of what they see in the movies,” says Ross, 73.


In reality, this comment is actually in response to my own awkward attendance, sans-bike and sans-clue. In an effort to appear effortlessly dressed for the occasion, anyone who is not familiar with the world of biking and biker bars will stand out off the strength of trying way too hard. The idea of the place is to come as you are for drink and social gathering. Leaving work behind is idea for a good time.  Acceptance from others is simple. Where as in most cases less is less, at Flossies, less is more.
But besides a good sense of humor, the people here are very welcoming and apparently, trustworthy.


The bartender, Sandy, allows tabs to stay open without holding on to credit cards or personal ID’s for collateral. It is almost as though she barters her trust in those she serve in exchange for the same honesty. Anyone grabbing a beer or daiquiri may walk away and return for another at their own discretion.


“I’ve been coming here for three years now, and never once seen a fight. Real friendly place… Most come on the weekends when they’re off from work and bring their families by for karaoke.”, says Ross.


A bar might be the last place a family would think to attend following Sunday morning mass. However, at Flossies- family and familiarity all together- seems to be the glue that solidifies long term bonds to both the people and the place itself. Not too mention, outside of biking, many of the guests actually lead normal lives that vary from one another. A topic for new conversation each day.


Deborah, for example, finds herself here with her children and husband of several years about once a month. Mostly her attendance is on weekdays, after a par-diem shift. A registered nurse for six years now, she comes by wearing a pink and blue nursing scrub, the sleeves of which are not long enough to conceal about half an inch of detailed ink on her completely painted arm. After having a couple drinks, and showing a picture of her kids and husband, she gets into her Caravan and heads off.


For many that are new to the biking world, Flossies isn't the average biker's bar. Then again, to those who are biking connoisseurs, this world of charitable events and chumminess is indeed the norm. It is clear that the world of biking is so much more than poor media portrayals and tasteless stereotyping. Going to a pub isn't the only place where you can enjoy an alcholic beverage and a conversation. If you want to go to a place where everyone knows your name- Flossies is right up your alley.