Hey,
Sturgis is beating down on us like the sun on Margarita Ville. The party mode takes over everything as everyone gears up for the ride. Ray Wheeler is working with his team in San Jose to dyno tune his Twin-Cam Hyabusa monster. His computer crashed, so just as the action heats up his reports dropped off. Keep your fingers crossed for a report next week.
Let’s hit the news, while I scramble between aligning the Mudflap Girl FXR, reaching out to Mc Master Carr for Shovelhead taillight parts, or messing with my screenplay writing project.
Let’s see what happens next.
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BIKERS CRUISE INTO STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY EARLY TO RENOVATE VETERANS’ CLUB AS PART OF CRAFTSMAN “MAKE A DIFFERENCE” TOUR–United to Give Back
WHAT: Leather-clad bikers aren’t the only ones making their way into Sturgis, S.D. for the annual motorcycle gathering. The Craftsman “Make A Difference” Tour and its 36-foot trailer, filled with the brand’s newest and most innovative tools, will be motoring into town to make much needed repairs to the Sturgis Veterans’ Club. Volunteers from Sears Heroes at Home, Rebuilding Together, the Craftsman Club, a part of the Shop Your Way Network, American Legion and Harley-Davidson’s HOG Club will be rolling up their sleeves to give back to the rally’s host city.
On Monday, July 29, volunteers will begin a three-day renovation project on the Sturgis Veterans’ Club that includes plumbing and electrical work, bathroom renovations, landscaping, painting and more, using Craftsman tools. The Sturgis Veterans’ Club serves the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
The Craftsman “Make A Difference” Tour was launched by the brand in April to inspire Americans to open their toolboxes and start working with their hands to make a difference in communities across the country. To learn more about the Craftsman “Make A Difference” Tour and view photos from each stop along the way, visit Craftsman.com/MakeaDifference.
WHEN: Wed. July 31, 2013 – Culmination of Veterans’ Club Renovation
o 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Volunteers perform various activities including painting, landscaping, etc.
WHERE: Sturgis Veterans’ Club
868 Main St.
Sturgis, SD 57785
NANCY PELOSI, CREEP ENABLER—
–By Michelle Malkin
The most powerful female Democrat on Capitol Hill has turned her back on women. Again. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, entrenched 13-term incumbent, refuses to say whether creepster San Diego Mayor Bob Filner should resign amid an avalanche of longstanding sexual harassment allegations, staff resignations and now a lawsuit.
“What goes on in San Diego is up to the people of San Diego. I’m not here to make any judgments,” declared the very same feminist crusader who has spearheaded unabashedly judgmental nationwide attacks on the so-called “Republican War on Women.”
Democrat Filner’s former spokeswoman revealed Monday that he ordered her to “work without her panties on” and viewed women “as sexual objects or stupid idiots.” Other women alleged that Democrat Filner groped, forcibly kissed and harassed them. His own fiancee broke up with him two weeks ago after taking stock of his “abusiveness” and “disrespect” for women. Filner “apologized” and admitted, “I need help,” but he refuses to step down.
The sheriff’s office has set up a Bob Filner Abuse Hotline, and the mayor is now forbidden from meeting with women behind closed doors. At least one legal expert believes some of the claims rise to the level of sexual assault.
Instead of anger toward her misogynistic Democratic colleague, Pelosi got all hot and bothered at a journalist who asked her last week about the former 10-term California congressman — with whom she co-founded the Congressional Progressive Caucus, by the way. “Don’t identify him as my former colleague,” Pelosi snippy-snapped.
Okey-dokey. Let’s just refer to boorish Bob Filner as the latest beneficiary of Pelosi’s Democratic Male Perv Protection Racket. When it comes to holding scandal-plagued predatory liberal men accountable for their scummy behavior, See No Evil Nancy’s pattern of malign neglect is unrivaled.
In a New York non-shocker of the year, another of Pelosi’s former colleagues, Anthony Weiner, is embroiled in a new sex controversy. Weiner admitted Tuesday that transcripts of lewd sex chats between him and a 22-year-old woman in 2011 — leaked on a gossip site called “The Dirty” — are real. His apparent nom de sext: “Carlos Danger.”
Michelle Malkin is a conservative blogger, columnist, regular Fox News contributor, and author of many New York Times bestselling books.
CHANCE OF A LIFETIME–Honor Our Military and Ride With the Cast of FX’s Sons of Anarchy 3rd Annual Boot Ride and Rally to be held Sunday, August 25, 2013 in Los Angeles, CA to benefit military personnel, and their families, through the Boot Campaign.
Austin, TX (July 24, 2013) – Few things compare to a motorcycle ride through Southern California. What if you could enjoy the open road with the cast from FX’s hit show Sons of Anarchy? That’s exactly what you can do August 25th at the 3rd Annual Boot Ride and Rally benefiting our military through the national nonprofit, The Boot Campaign. http://BootRide.com
The 3rd Annual Boot Ride and Rally takes place on Sunday, August 25th in Los Angeles, CA. This one-of-a-kind ride allows you to role with the cast – Kim Coates, Mark Boone Jr., and Theo Rossi just to name a few – of FX’s Sons of Anarchy and our nation’s fearless military veterans. Ride spots are extremely limited to ensure an intimate VIP experience for all riders.
In 2010, the cast of FX’s Sons of Anarchy joined the Boot Campaign’s network of celebrity supporters when they posed for their official “Boot Photo”. Since then, the cast has become a powerful advocate of the Boot Campaign not only through the annual Boot Ride and Rally, but also through various speaking engagements, media appearances and fundraising events throughout the year.
“I’m proud to be an Ambassador for the Boot Campaign, and couldn’t be more excited to participate in the 3rd Annual Boot Ride & Rally,” said Theo Rossi, actor on FX’s Sons of Anarchy. “I am in complete awe of our military men & women and their families, and seeing the general public come from all over to participate, wear their boots and embrace this event, is truly inspiring.”
The Ride rolls out from the coast and straight into the Rally (party time!) at the Happy Ending Bar and Restaurant on Sunset Blvd in Hollywood.
At the Rally, rock out to performances by Blackberry Smoke, Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown, and other surprise guests. You can snap photos of your favorite Sons of Anarchy cast member on the Red Carpet, and much more! This year, the Boot Campaign has a special surprise in store to benefit Southern California Veterans affected by homelessness. Hands down, this is a party like none you’ve ever experienced!
The Boot Ride and Rally is an annual event that has raised more than $100,000 to provide direct assistance to military, past and present, and their families through the Boot Campaign.
Ride tickets start at $150/ person. Your Ride ticket also gets you into the Rally. You can purchase a Rally only ticket; prices start at $35/ person. Get your tickets now: http://BootRide.com
Thank you to Boot Ride & Rally Sponsors: Sponsors: Wild Turkey, Shiner Beer, BIKERNET.COM, Twentieth Century Fox, Vista Energy, Bates Footwear, and Wella. Additional Sponsorship and Volunteer opportunities are available.
Sign up on http://BootRide.com
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT SETTLES FOR THE WORD OF THE DAY–dispositive dih-SPOZ-i-tiv, adjective:
Perhaps it had been a hallucination, or it was a false memory. Boggs had even predicted that later Ellis would doubt the incident had even happened—which seemed dispositive toward the dead man’s reality…
Looks and charm were often dispositive, the more attractive partner sailing on to other waters.
Dispositive comes from the word dispose meaning “to put in a particular place.”
BRAND NEW, Bikernet Reader Comment!–
Installing The Baker XL6
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=9181
Love it. Just sold my Dyna and bought a ’13 Sporty 48. Only thing I miss is gear #6. Disappointed to find out Baker no-makey the XL6 for anything newer than 2003! How do we convince them that making a newer XL6 is a good idea given there is a DECADE’s worth of Sportsters out there needing overdrive?
–El Fontain
elfonain@yahoo.com
Kansas City, MO
I’ll work on it.–Bandit
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HANG ON FOR THE POLITICAL ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE DAY–Jesse Jackson has added former Chicago Democrat Congressman Mel to Rainbow/PUSH Coalition’s payroll. Reynolds was among the 176 criminals excused in President Clinton’s last-minute forgiveness spree. Reynolds received a commutation of his six-and-a-half-year federal sentence for 15 convictions of wire fraud, bank fraud, and lies to the Federal Election Commission. He is more notorious, however, for concurrently serving five years for sleeping with an underage campaign volunteer.
This is a first in American politics: An ex-congressman who had sex with a subordinate….won clemency from a president who had sex with a subordinate…then was hired by a clergyman who had sex with a subordinate! His new job? YOUTH COUNSELOR
STURGIS MUSEUM “The Exhibit”–
Hello Industry Associates: Good morning and how are you? Hope this message finds you having the weekend of you life. Speaking of the time of your life, that is just around the corner. That being the 73rd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
As you have probably seen and / or heard, we have a full line up of cool events where the museum is either hosting or involved. All of it benefits the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum in our efforts to raise funds for that new building as well as day-to-day operations.
So, follow the link to the July newsletter, “The Exhibit” and right on the first page you’ll see the list of the coolest activities going during the rally.
In addition to that, we have just added a very cool bike to the museum exhibit. Check it out and let us know what you think. Follow the link below:
http://www.sturgismuseum.com/news/read-more-news/july-2013-newsletter-now-online
We appreciate your continued support and sincerely hope to see you at one of these great events during the rally this year.
Have a great day and an excellent weekend.
www.sturgismuseum.com
www.sturgishof.com
HANG ON FOR THE SCOOTER OF THE DAY–Even at 91 years old, Arnold Robinson is probably cooler than you. Don’t take it too hard, the Tauranga, New Zealand native is probably cooler than all of us, too – if his Harley-Davidson styled mobility scooter is anything to go by!
Robinson says his epic biker grandpa scooter uses light motorcycle parts and is based on a Harley-Davidson “style” motorbike. As you can imagine, the scoot gets lots of attention! “What happens is if I leave it outside a shop, people mill around it and do this and that. At one point (I came out of the shop and found) three people taking photos of it.”
The scooter reportedly cost around $6250 New Zealand dollars (call it $4995, US) … which is a great buy considering the ultra-lame and totally boring scooters $4K normally buys you. Robinson agrees, saying “it was a good price to pay for ‘big boys and their big toys’.”
Robinson plans to continue riding his electric scooter to farmers markets and his regular hospital appointments, with the biggest obstacle he’s faced so far being cleaning the bike! “I cleaned it for the first time on Monday. It’s a bit hard for me to clean. I can walk around and do anything myself but I do have the body of a 91-year-old.”
Keep riding strong, Arnold. You da man.
–from E.L. Woody
THIS JUST IN, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
Denco Cycle Refurbished Harman Classic
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=8888
Nice bike! I have a Harman 120-inch engine still in it’s original packing box, but I am missing the front head, it is a long story. If anyone knows where I can purchase a front head I would buy it.
–Graham Wright
axel2009@live.com.au
Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia
MAYOR OF FUN, BEAN’RE ATTEMPTS GUINNESS BOOK OF WORLD RECORDS- Named the official Mayor of Fun at the world famous Buffalo Chip Campground at Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Bean’re brings his Mayor of Fun antics to all kinds of situations doing what he does best, showing off and having fun. This time, the well-known motorcycle character will have fun attempting a Guinness Book of World Records riding a mini bike from Louisville, Kentucky to the Buffalo Chip Campground in Sturgis, South Dakota.
Bean’re is author of Motorcycle Nomad, a story about his continuous life on a motorcycle, which is now in 3rd edition printing. Published by Wolfgang Publications, the book was first released in October 2012.
On July 28th, the Louisville native departs on his 44 year-old European 50cc Lube, a rare mini bike, that features a German NSU Quick 50 4-speed, 2-stroke engine. Available between 1963-1965 it is considered to be one of the best 2-cycle engines ever made. This motor holds a world record at Bonneville for 121 MPH. The current Guinness World Book Record is 450 miles in 4 days and 26 hours riding time.
Bean’re’s inspiration to set this special record is two-fold, “Buffalo Chip wanted to set some world records this year during rally, so I was looking into records that existed and wanted to set my own,” tells the Mayor of Fun. “Since I do alot with mini bikes, I came across the longest distance on a mini bike. I also want to show that you can ride anything to Sturgis no matter the size, the make, or how old it is which are some of the excuses from people claiming why they can’t ride their bikes that far so they trailer them.”
Wearing his custom made daredevil helmet and outfit, he will make his way along back roads, (minibikes are illegal for highways) riding through cities like St. Louis, MO, Omaha, NE, and through small towns like Anamosa, IA, and reservations like Pine Ridge Reservation in SD.
The stop in Anamosa will be at the National Motorcycle Museum where an installation featuring Bean’re’s retired purple chopper and other Bean’re memorabilia is on display. His new custom motorcycle that he built to take the place of the retired chopper will debut at Buffalo Chip during Sturgis. He built the bike exclusively for his unique riding style because this anything goes rider has no known address and therefore lives off his motorcycle.
Sturgis Bike Week is August 5 – 11. Bean’re’s goal is to get to Sturgis on August 1st to a welcome reception at The CrossRoads at the Buffalo Chip® Campground. Fans can follow Bean’re’s adventures at www.everythingbeanre.com
Images courtesy of Bean’re
PELOSI URGES CONGRESS TO UPHOLD CONSTITUTION BY PASSING GUN CONTROL–
Anti-gun U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) recently urged members of Congress to uphold their oath to “protect and defend” the Constitution by passing harsher gun control laws. Yes, Pelosi is proposing that Congress should support the Constitution by radically violating it. Such is the deconstructionist mindset of modern-day gun-control advocates.
As reported by CNS News, Pelosi made the plea in a press release marking the one-year anniversary of the Aurora, Colorado shootings. Said Pelosi: “In Congress, there can be no more fitting memorial to the lives lost in Aurora, in Newtown, and across the country than a concerted effort to enact commonsense gun safety legislation.
We must uphold our oath to ‘protect and defend’ the constitution and all Americans by expanding background checks and keeping dangerous firearms out of the wrong hands.”
As most Americans know, the Constitution was conceived and inherently designed to ensure that the government does NOT attempt to overpower the people with its own agenda or unduly restrict not only the Second Amendment, but any other of our precious, Constitutionally-guaranteed rights.
The CNS News article also noted that the phrase “to protect and defend the Constitution” that Pelosi cited as the reason Congress must enact stricter gun control laws is actually not found in the oath that members of Congress take, but is, instead, a part of the Presidential Oath of Office; a small but significant mistake on Pelosi’s part.
When Pelosi took her oath of office, she did so by saying: “I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. [So help me God.]”
Clearly the Constitution and the Second Amendment need support and defense against Pelosi’s illogical grandstanding and anti-gun agenda.
Motorcycle enthusiasts invade Chesnee for Antique Bikes on Main—
–By Katie Casteel
The sounds of motorcycle engines will fill the city of Chesnee this weekend during the ninth annual Antique Bikes on Main. Motorcycle owners and enthusiasts are invited to come out and enjoy the festivities.
Since 2005, the Chesnee Classic Cycle has been the home for this antique bike rally. The event has grown substantially since that time. Approximately, 10,000 visitors have attended in the past three years.
Clint Button, one of the event organizers, says he is expecting more than that number this year. He also said the weekend is not the typical biker event. It is free and family friendly.
Activities begin at 10 a.m. and last until 10 p.m. Saturday in downtown. The day begins with a Swap Meet, which is a market primarily for bike parts. Visitors can walk around and see all the parts and bike items available for purchase.
Later in the day, a Prayer Ride tour will depart at 1 p.m. from Chesnee United Methodist Church. In previous years, riders have traveled in different directions and visited churches around the area to participate in prayer requests. When the bikers return to Chesnee United Methodist Church, they are welcome to stay and fellowship and enjoy music into the evening..
On Sunday, the official Antique Bikes on Main is from noon to 5 p.m. Main Street will be motorcycle parking only. All types of bikes will be available for visitors to see, from Harleys to Japanese bikes and Indian bikes. Countless vendors from areas all over the Southeast will sell bike related merchandise.
–from E.L. Woody
[page break]
STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM SEEKS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR–The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame seeks a Director of Development to join the team of professionals at the museum. This individual will be an integral part of making sure the museum is not only sustained, but expanded. “As we seek to grow the museum, we’ve recognized the need for a person who is focused on the future,” said Dave Davis, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Board President. “The board is excited about the results of a recent feasibility study in which our supporters overwhelmingly encouraged us to move forward with a large-scale building project and other initiatives. We recognize that the current staff is just not able to handle all of the additional duties this will entail.”
The Director of Development is the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s chief development officer. The position reports to the Executive Director and is charged with both fund and friend raising. The position supports the Museum’s strategic initiatives through development activities designed to increase the Museum’s assets.
Specific responsibilities will include: supporting the Museum’s Major Gifts Campaign, identifying private, public, and corporate/foundation sources of funding, prospect cultivation, proposal development, donor stewardship, facilitating Museum partnerships with corporate donors, and negotiating agreements and contracts related to development activities.
Additional responsibilities will include: assisting with the marketing of the Museum, maintaining relationships with other development professionals, assisting the Executive Director in the development and management of Museum finances and budgets, organizing and managing “friends” groups, developing and supporting the Executive Director and Board in increasing their abilities, compliance with government agency requirements, and establishing and maintaining a donor information system.
The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate substantial planning and fundraising skills, and a thorough knowledge of software systems related to fundraising. Additionally, the candidate must have excellent supervision, leadership, team-building, negotiating and contracting skills. Previous experience with fundraising campaigns is extremely desirable. Additionally, the candidate should have the ability create marketing publications, have social networking skills, and be able to work independently without constant supervision. Appreciation for the culture and sport of the motorcycle is also desirable.
The candidate will, at a minimum, hold a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field, and have a successful track record in raising significant funds.
The salary is negotiable and commensurate with experience. The position closing date is August 23, 2013. A complete job description and information on how to apply is available on the museum website at http://www.sturgismuseum.com/assets/file-manager/DD-Full-Description.pdf
SOME MILWAUKEE HOTELS STILL AVAILABLE FOR 110TH ANNIVERSARY–Some hotel rooms have become available during the Harley celebration because of cancellations.
–Stacy Vogel Davis Reporter-
If you waited until the last minute to book a hotel during the Harley-Davidson anniversary celebration (and yes, now is last-minute), you might not be completely out of luck.
Several hotels have rooms opening up now because of cancellations, especially from group bookings.
“We ended up getting a lot of cancellations,” said Nicole Taylor, general manager of Fairfield Inn & Suites Milwaukee Airport in Oak Creek. She said she doesn’t remember this many cancellations at the 105th anniversary, when she was at a different Milwaukee-area hotel.
As I wrote in May, most Milwaukee-area hotels have been completely booked for months in anticipation of Harley’s 110th anniversary celebration Aug. 29-Sept. 1.
Fairfield Inn was sold out by April, but several groups canceled bookings or didn’t take up as many rooms as expected, Taylor said. For example, a group tour out of Missouri canceled because not enough people signed up for the trip.
The hotel’s owner, Wisco Hotel Group, also owns a Holiday Inn Express, Comfort Suites and Candlewood Suites near General Mitchell International Airport, and the other hotels have rooms available as well, Taylor said.
Rooms at the Fairfield Inn are running for about $179 in the days before the celebration and from $279-$309 during the celebration, she said. The hotel requires prepayment and is no longer allowing cancellations.
Other hotels also appear to have some spare rooms. Hotwire.com listed 12 hotels Wednesday available from Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, although only five are in Milwaukee County. Prices ranged from $209 to $479 per night.
The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association has set up a website to help people find hotels during the Harley celebration. As of Wednesday, it listed eight hotels with rooms within 15 minutes of the celebration. The site is updated weekly, so some information might be out of date, and not every hotel has rooms for every night.
–Rogue
Vagos Lawyer: Hells Angel Nevada killing was self-defense– (AP) — A former casino security director says some gamblers continued playing slot machines while others hid for safety during a shootout among rival motorcycle gangs at a Sparks casino.
George Messina testified Wednesday in the trial of a Vagos motorcycle gang leader charged with killing a high-ranking, rival Hells Angel during the shootout in September 2011. Messina is the former security director for John Ascuaga’s Nugget, where the shooting occurred.
Defense lawyer David Houston says Ernesto Gonzalez will testify he shot Hells Angels San Jose boss Jeffrey “Jethro” Pettigrew in self-defense because he feared Pettigrew was kicking another Vagos to death.
Prosecutors allege the international president of the Vagos gave the go ahead for the killing and that Gonzalez stepped forward to volunteer.
The trial continues Thursday and is expected to last at least two more weeks
–Rogue
Sheriff’s Corner: Motorcycles and motor vehicles
— By Todd Dahl
Crow Wing County Sheriff Motorcycles have been a big part of my life for many years. Raised on a small mini bike at the age of 5, I eventually graduated to a smaller dirt bike, a larger dirt bike, smaller road bikes and currently ride a large touring motorcycle.
My love for these machines has never been stronger and find myself wanting to ride mine as much as I can. I have a large amount of saddle time on my bike and would hope I have a certain set of skills to ride and certain attributes necessary to ride at this time in my life, which is over the age of 45.
In Minnesota, a record 237,000 motorcycles were registered in 2012 — a number that has more than doubled since the mid-1990s. With that being said, Minnesota has had a large amount of traffic deaths involving motorcycles with at least 32 motorcycle deaths thus far.
It was said that in many of these deaths since January, half of those killed in motorcycle crashes statewide were over the age of 45 with two recent deaths in our county.
The older we get the more we have to face certain realization. We aren’t as nimble as we once were, we don’t tuck and roll like we did at one time and our reaction time, we all did have, is slowly diminishing with each passing year. A fact of life and sometimes hard to accept.
Is it the fault of the rider at all times, absolutely not, however, we (riders) have to accept our personal challenges and the people who aren’t riders have to accept some things as well: There are more bikes on the road than ever before, these riders need some space and maneuverability and these drivers need to use more caution when it comes to focusing on driving and driving alone.
As we go about our daily travels, remember that one fatality is too many. We all have to work together in an effort to make this work and we all need to focus on three things as we travel our area roads: Patience, common sense and understanding.
Thank you to all, enjoy the rest of the summer and please continue to be safe.
–from Rogue
TRANSLATING ANTI-GUN PROPAGANDA INTO ENGLISH–In George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, a tyrannical government attempts to control how people think by, among other things, reducing language to “a medium of expression for the world-view and mental habits proper to the devotees of IngSoc [English Socialism]” and “to make all other modes of thought impossible.”
In the IngSoc government’s new language, Newspeak, the original meanings of many words are discarded in favor of new definitions designed to conform people’s thoughts to the tyrants’ political objectives. For example, Newspeak phraseology includes this gem, “ignorance is strength,” a nonsensical construction that gun control advocates appear to have taken literally.
Speaking of gun control advocates, that brings us to the Children’s Defense Funds’ (CDF) latest offering, “Protect Children, Not Guns, 2013.” If you can stand it, bear with us now, while we translate a representative sample of the CDF’s gibberish into English, so the real gist of what the group is saying can be conveyed. Sticking with conventional practice, we’ll go with a “Top Ten,” of sorts.
1. “The Senate voted down a package of common sense gun violence prevention measures.”
Translation: This year, the Senate rejected legislation that would have banned semi-automatic rifles like the AR-15, banned standard-capacity magazines that Americans want for self-defense and practical shooting sports, and paved the way for universal gun registration by requiring an FBI background check on private firearm sales. But if we refer to gun bans and registration as “gun safety,” maybe some people who don’t read the fine print will go along with us. Everyone’s in favor of “safety,” right?
Police Agencies Prepare for Hells Angels Rally
Like it or not, hundreds of hells angels are riding into the Stateline. The motorcycle group is stopping for a week on their way to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota. Many members will be camping out at Lyran Park which is managed by the Lyran Society. That’s where their USA Run is scheduled.
Rockford Police know that Hells Angels will be staying at other campsites and also have hotel rooms booked.
Fourteen local members were arrested over the past few days on various felony charges. It’s a reason why Rockford P.D. has enlisted the help of extra officers to patrol.
“We have enough to get the job done. We think between all the agencies involved everybody’s pitched in,” explained Rockford Police Lt. Patrick Hoey.
It’s not just crime police are worried about. They’re concerned for rider and driver safety.
“What really concerns us is the safety for motorcycles. We have so many motorcycle accidents and fatalities with motorcycles. And when you have an influx coming into the community we want to make sure to get the word out to the public. That they’re watching and being extra careful,” said Hoey.
He recommends drivers pay attention and keep an extra eye out for bikers. “What we hate is the common cause of motorcycle accidents. Its vehicles pulling out in front of them because they don’t take that extra look to make sure that the coast is clear,” said Lt. Hoey
–from Rogue
SIDECARISTS RALLY AT THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–Sidecars Unlimited presents the 10th Annual East Central Iowa Sidecar Rally on Saturday, September 7th 2013.
Sidecars Unlimited presents the 10th Annual East Central Iowa Sidecar Rally on Saturday, September 7. The event is hosted by the National Motorcycle Museum, Anamosa, Iowa. Stop by and look over this interesting variety of motorcycle sidecars at no charge, or for just $5 you can be part of the Rally.
The registration fee includes door prizes and Rally registration plus a ride at noon out onto the scenic winding roads of east central Iowa. The bike show includes a variety of sidecar rigs and trophies will be awarded. There are also awards for the best Hard Luck Story, a Mileage Award for the participant who rode in from the greatest distance, best old rig and best homemade rig awards. Bring the kids as there’s also a Youngest Rider Award and, of course, an award for the Oldest Rider. Solo bikes are also welcome.
Event organizer John Dennis of Sidecars Unlimited says,
“This is an event for sidecar enthusiasts and motorcyclists in general to gather, swap stories and just enjoy themselves. We make it fun for the whole family. Event hours are 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and when you attend you get the added bonus of seeing the great new Dirt Track Heroes display at the National Motorcycle Museum.”
Mr. Dennis can be reached at 319.846.2619 if you need more detailed event information.
Remember that when you attend the Rally you can also check out the National Motorcycle Museum with over 400 motorcycles, bicycles, toys and thousands of pieces of artwork, even a restored gasoline station.
“We’re happy to host the East Central Iowa Sidecar Rally at the National Motorcycle Museum. Sidecar operators are a special breed, and the bikes are technically interesting. With the exception of a few high tech designs, sidecar rigs do not lean; they are steered around corners. Geometry of the setup is critical, and this event lets owners discuss their rigs. Sidecars remain uncommon so events like this rally bring enthusiasts together so they can swap stories and learn what’s new. It’s always fun, but also a rolling classroom.”
Sidecars may be one of motorcycling’s best inventions. They extend a motorcycle’s people carrying capacity, make a motorcycle into a family vehicle, even allow a bike to carry packages for delivery. Sidecars have been around since the ‘teens. As soon as motorcycle frames got stronger, engines more powerful and the Model T showed up as competition, motorcycle and sidecar manufacturers stepped up their pace. Today the aftermarket industry offers many options, even complete low profile chassis kits.
California: CITY RETREATS FROM RED LIGHT CAMERA REFERENDUM– Riverside, California to vote on backing out of referendum on red light camera use.
City leaders in Riverside, California are backing off the promise made last November to allow residents to make the call about whether to keep or eliminate red light cameras. The city council votes later today on a staff recommendation to pull the plug on the public vote.
The city has already postponed the ballot measure that was to be considered in June. The city council cited litigation filed by American Traffic Solutions (ATS) to overturn the results of last November’s election in Murrieta, where 57 percent favored shutting off the cameras.
ATS succeeded in finding an activist judge, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Daniel A. Ottolia, willing to block the public from voting on the issue, but the Court of Appeal intervened, said Judge Ottolia was wrong and ordered the vote to proceed.
Despite being chastised by the appellate court, Judge Ottolia returned in April to declare the public’s will invalid after the vote had taken place and Murrieta politicians received the message loud and clear. Because the anti-camera activists had their victory — Murrieta’s city council voted unanimously to take down the cameras in May — they did not file an expensive second challenge to the ruling. ATS pushed for the Murrieta case in the hopes of securing a precedent that could be used against other cities. Riverside fell in line with the camera company’s strategy.
“The trial court’s decision is well-reasoned and it is our opinion that the decision would have been upheld by the Court of Appeal had the ballot measure proponents elected to appeal the judgment,” Riverside City Attorney Gregory P. Priamos wrote in a memo to the council. “The judgment is consistent with the well-settled principle that the state has plenary power and has preempted the entire field of traffic control. Unless expressly authorized by the legislature, a city, whether charter or general law, has no police power over vehicular traffic control.”
Photo enforcement companies have developed this legal argument to keep the public from having any say in the use of automated ticketing because when given a chance to vote on the issue, the public says no nine out of ten times (view list of public votes). The results of public votes are the same in big cities and small towns, regardless of whether the residents tend to be liberal or conservative.
–from Rogue
CHILI COOK-OFF FEEDS STURGIS BUFFALO CHIP GUESTS AND MEALS ON WHEELS COMMUNITY SENIORS–
Sturgis, South Dakota – The Sturgis Buffalo Chip invites area chili connoisseurs and cooks to the inaugural Chipster Thundering Buffalo Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, Aug. 3. This event is part of the Chip’s newest attraction, the Outdoor Rendezvous, which runs Friday, Aug. 2 through Sunday, Aug. 4 on the East end of the Sturgis campground.
The outdoor expo is free to the public and for a $5 donation to the Meals Wheels guests can sample the all chili cook-off flavors, as event proceeds benefit the Meals on Wheels program of Western South Dakota Senior Services. Registration is still open compete in the Buffalo Chili Cook-off .
The Western Buffalo Company brings local flavor to this competition by providing South Dakota buffalo for each contestant to feature as the main ingredient in his or her pot. Chili preparation occurs on site beginning at 10 am, with the event opening for sampling from 4-6 pm. Guests may sample as many of the contestants’ chili recipes as they would like, then vote for their favorites.
“The Buffalo Chip appreciates the opportunity to assist in raising money for Meals on Wheels by hosting this Buffalo Chili cook-off.” Says Rod Woodruff of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. “South Dakota Buffalo might just be the healthiest red meat and I personally look forward to taste testing the many unique recipes that these contestants are cooking up.”
Both trained and amateur cooks are encouraged to participate in this mouth-watering cook-off. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and for as best decorated chili cook-off kitchen display. To participating in the Chipster Thundering Buffalo Chili Cook-Off, contact Marcia Mayer with the Rapid City Meals on Wheels program at marciamayer@rushmore.com or 605-394-6002.
In addition to the Chipster Thundering Buffalo Chili Cook-Off, the Buffalo Chip’s Outdoor Rendezvous offers a variety of specialty vendors, a barbecue competition and special appearances by Xtreme Shooter, Patrick Flanigan, and drag racer, Andie Gaskins. The outdoor expo outdoor oriented events are just a taste of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s nine-day Motorcycle and Music Festival which also includes the Guns of Freedom shooting event and the Motorcycles As Art exhibit, not to mention performances from bands including Queensrÿche, The Cult, ZZ Top, Halestorm, Buckcherry, Pop Evil and more.
BAKERSFIELD POLICE MOTORCYCLE UNIT IS DISBANDING– Chief calls them dangerous. Injuries forces chief to make the decision.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – A 100 year-old tradition is coming to an end at the Bakersfield Police Department.
The motorcycle unit is being disbanded and Bakersfield Police Chief Greg Williamson is not looking back.
Williamson called motorcycles swift, effective, but dangerous.
He said when he saw too many of his officers getting hurt, he had to make the decision on whether to keep this motorcycle unit or enhance the safety of his officers and disband it.
“It was my decision to make and that’s the decision that I made,” said Williamson.
He said back in 2007 and 2008 he saw an increase in the number of injuries to officers who were on patrol on their bikes.
That coincides with information from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
Their report shows that civilian motorcycle fatalities in California increased 175% between 1998 and 2008.
He said last year they had 20 motorcycles and reduced the unit by nine.
This year he will reduce their 11 bike unit by seven more and the remaining four will be used to patrol the riverbed and tough terrain areas.
Williamson said many of his officers who were hurt on a bike while on patrol had to retire because of their injuries, and that was his tipping point.
“Some of the officers are disappointed. They love it,” said Williamson.
The motorcycle unit started with one officer in 1910 who had to provide his own bike.
Williamson said what has worked in the past isn’t working anymore.
“Eighty-percent of the officers whose names are on the memorial downstairs died as a result of a motorcycle accident in the line of duty,” he said
Williamson said he wants to reassure the public that he will not be scaling back on traffic enforcement.
The officers who are pulled off the motorcycles will get a new assignment and a patrol car.
–from Rogue
PETER FONDA SUES DOLCE GABBANA OVER EASY RIDER T-SHIRTS–
Hollywood actor Peter Fonda is suing the Italian label for up to $6 million after it used his image on T-shirts without his permission.
Peter Fonda is riding down a similar, not so easy road as Rihanna as he sues Dolce & Gabbana.
The 73-year-old actor, best know for producing and starring in the 1969 hit film Easy Rider, filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California for the County of Los Angeles last week over the Italian label making and selling T-shirts with his name and photo without permission.
Fonda is also suing high-end retailer Nordstrom for selling the tops, which feature him in a black and white still from the film, and retailed at around $295 apiece.
THERE’S DA NEWS DAT FITS—Holy shit. I have a mantra for all government entities, “Think FREEDOM first.” If they thought about freedom first they would come up with educational programs instead of laws. They would throw some laws or regs right out the window, because this is a free country. What’s life without freedom? All the safety in the world won’t do us any good if we aren’t free! It’s simple, “Think FREEDOM First.”
Okay, so what will hit Bikernet next week? We have a couple of bike features headed your way, including this FXR from Brass Balls Bobbers. Dar Holdsworth will announce his business relationship with country star Toby Keith on stage in Sturgis.
Another Rogue tech was just posted on Bikernet Trikes. I need to read a 35,000 word story that was submitted to Bikernet several months ago. It’s time for a new Cantina episode. And hang on for daily Badlands Reports from Doc, and a major story from Betsy after the rally.
In the meantime, have a helluva week!
Ride Forever,
