Arkansas - Bikers Are Citizens Like Anyone Else

OFF THE WIRE
John Lasater
 swtimes.com
It seems the current media sensation is the crackdown on motorcycle gangs in our area. We have clubs here, not "gangs."
Who was involved in the stabbing at the fair? Who brawled at Central Mall? The real gangs of Fort Smith, that's who. Not your local motorcycle clubs.
I almost forgot, our illustrious Mayor Ray Baker decreed that "there is no gang problem in Fort Smith."
As far as bikers, who do benefit runs, toy runs and so many other things for our area? Are the police going to crack down on anyone who wears colors or groups such as BACA, the Harley Owners Group, and numerous veterans groups?
Dec. 11, a group of riders was told they could not enter the National Cemetery, even though pre-arrangements had been made. Eventually they were let in, but were told "You are not welcome here" by the director of the cemetery.
I can tell the city and its leaders one thing: Myself and the whole biker community here are not going to put up with being treated as second-rate citizens!
John Lasater
Van Buren