OFF THE WIRE
Published: 6:46PM Friday July 30, 2010
Source: ONE News
Hell's Angels are taking their fight to repeal Wanganui's gang patch ban to the high court but police claim the ban has cleaned up the city.
In the nine months since the ban came into force , wearing gang patches in the city has resulted in 13 people being prosecuted.
The motorcycle gang claims the law breaches the Bill of Rights and before the bylaw was introduced last September, the Hell's Angels unsuccessfully lobbied the council to stop the ban from going ahead.
They have filed a high court claim to repeal the bylaw after being turned down by the district court.
"The application is about whether or not the council had the power to pass the bylaw," the gang's lawyer Steven Rollo said.
Wanganui's Mayor, Michael Laws, said the law is hurting the gangs and they'll try anything to get it overturned.
And the mayor has police figures on his side. A police report says that between March 2009 and March 2010 the number of gang members in the city has fallen by 15%.
And police say that thanks to the ban, the gang presence is less noticeable, there has been less intimidation for the community and fewer confrontations between gangs.
But the police chief responsible for putting out the report said while the ban had helped, good policing and strong anti-gang operations that have put members in jail or driven them out of town have also played a significant role.
A date for the hearing is yet to be set.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Outlaws in Ontario since 1977 BIKER GANGS
OFF THE WIRE
Posted By SARAH DEETH , EXAMINER POLICE WRITER
Posted 1 day ago
The Outlaw Biker Gang has a long history of criminal activity that includes violence and drug trafficking.
This past weekend, nine of their members were spotted in the city.
Det.-Sgt. Len Isnor, who has worked for 15 years in the OPP's biker gang enforcement and organized crime bureau, knows the history of the Outlaw Biker Gang.
"They're involved in anything that would make them money," Isnor said.
The Outlaws came to Canada from the U.S. in 1977, he said, and began taking over Satan's Choice clubs. At the time, there was a Satan's Choice chapter in Peterborough, he said.
About half of those members became members of the Outlaw gang, he said. The other half remained part of Satan's Choice.
As the Outlaws grew they eventually conflicted with the Hells Angels, climaxing in a war in Quebec in the 1990s.
The Outlaws lost and were pushed out of Quebec and back to Ontario, Isnor said, where they've been running about half a dozen chapters ever since.
The club was further decimated in 2002, he said, due to a police operation dubbed Project Retire.
That culminated in either jail or prison sentences for about 45 club members.
Now those members are getting out of jail and the club is beginning to recruit again, Isnor said.
The Peterborough area has traditionally been associated with Satan's Choice, he said, which merged with the Hells Angels in 2000.
Should an Outlaw chapter open in the area, Isnor said, it could potentially lead to a turf conflict, given the history of the two clubs.
There hasn't been any confirmation that a chapter is opening in Peterborough, he said.
The Bandidos, now defunct in Ontario, managed to co-exist with the Outlaws, Isnor said, at one point managing to build up an alliance of sorts.
Isnor said the Outlaw club is relatively small, with about 50 to 60 members in Ontario, compared to the 170 Hells Angels members.
sdeeth@peterboroughexaminer.com
Posted By SARAH DEETH , EXAMINER POLICE WRITER
Posted 1 day ago
The Outlaw Biker Gang has a long history of criminal activity that includes violence and drug trafficking.
This past weekend, nine of their members were spotted in the city.
Det.-Sgt. Len Isnor, who has worked for 15 years in the OPP's biker gang enforcement and organized crime bureau, knows the history of the Outlaw Biker Gang.
"They're involved in anything that would make them money," Isnor said.
The Outlaws came to Canada from the U.S. in 1977, he said, and began taking over Satan's Choice clubs. At the time, there was a Satan's Choice chapter in Peterborough, he said.
About half of those members became members of the Outlaw gang, he said. The other half remained part of Satan's Choice.
As the Outlaws grew they eventually conflicted with the Hells Angels, climaxing in a war in Quebec in the 1990s.
The Outlaws lost and were pushed out of Quebec and back to Ontario, Isnor said, where they've been running about half a dozen chapters ever since.
The club was further decimated in 2002, he said, due to a police operation dubbed Project Retire.
That culminated in either jail or prison sentences for about 45 club members.
Now those members are getting out of jail and the club is beginning to recruit again, Isnor said.
The Peterborough area has traditionally been associated with Satan's Choice, he said, which merged with the Hells Angels in 2000.
Should an Outlaw chapter open in the area, Isnor said, it could potentially lead to a turf conflict, given the history of the two clubs.
There hasn't been any confirmation that a chapter is opening in Peterborough, he said.
The Bandidos, now defunct in Ontario, managed to co-exist with the Outlaws, Isnor said, at one point managing to build up an alliance of sorts.
Isnor said the Outlaw club is relatively small, with about 50 to 60 members in Ontario, compared to the 170 Hells Angels members.
sdeeth@peterboroughexaminer.com
ATTIKA7 plays @ U.S. Surf Open >> downtown Huntington Beach July 31
OFF THE WIRE,
Screwdriver, check these guys OUT!!!!
ATTIKA7 performs the opening event U.S. Surf Open –downtown Huntington Beach, Saturday July 31
1 block from the H.B. Pier @ Gallagher’s. Performance starts at 10pm.
Come out to see the ‘SONS of ANARCHY’ charity chopper on display, the 1st official ‘sneek peek’ before the charity auction to benefit THE WOUNDED WARRIORS FOUNDATION, built by T-Rod & Rusty @ Illusion Cycles as commissioned by FOX21TV and SutterInk.com
ATTIKA7 merch & J8 Jewels, Elegant Rocker Couture will be available.
Watch ATTIKA7’s new ‘INTO THE BLACKNESS’ video, newly edited w/ more choppers, fully compressed:
http://il.youtube.com/user/Attika7rocks
Catch this killer ATTIKA7 ‘CRACKERMAN’ video by our buddy CHURCH.
You’ll see Metal Mulisha, Rob Zombie & a bunch of Mayhem Fest fun:
http://www.attika7.com/mayhem/index.html
(Mr. 187 - this one’s for YOU)
ATTIKA7 NEW WEBSITE:
www.attika7.com
Gallagher’s – H.B. (corner of Main St. & Walnut Ave.)
300 Pacific Coast Highway Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 536-2422
Parking structure directly across the street.
Screwdriver, check these guys OUT!!!!
ATTIKA7 performs the opening event U.S. Surf Open –downtown Huntington Beach, Saturday July 31
1 block from the H.B. Pier @ Gallagher’s. Performance starts at 10pm.
Come out to see the ‘SONS of ANARCHY’ charity chopper on display, the 1st official ‘sneek peek’ before the charity auction to benefit THE WOUNDED WARRIORS FOUNDATION, built by T-Rod & Rusty @ Illusion Cycles as commissioned by FOX21TV and SutterInk.com
ATTIKA7 merch & J8 Jewels, Elegant Rocker Couture will be available.
Watch ATTIKA7’s new ‘INTO THE BLACKNESS’ video, newly edited w/ more choppers, fully compressed:
http://il.youtube.com/user/Attika7rocks
Catch this killer ATTIKA7 ‘CRACKERMAN’ video by our buddy CHURCH.
You’ll see Metal Mulisha, Rob Zombie & a bunch of Mayhem Fest fun:
http://www.attika7.com/mayhem/index.html
(Mr. 187 - this one’s for YOU)
ATTIKA7 NEW WEBSITE:
www.attika7.com
Gallagher’s – H.B. (corner of Main St. & Walnut Ave.)
300 Pacific Coast Highway Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 536-2422
Parking structure directly across the street.
Hells Angels clubhouse may go up for sale
OFF THE WIRE
Manitoba seeking court approval to sell it under new provincial law
Winnipeg — The Canadian Press
Published on Thursday, Jul. 29, 2010 3:01PM EDT
.The Manitoba government has seized a Hells Angels clubhouse in Winnipeg's north end, and is seeking court approval to sell the building.
The province is asking the Court of Queen's Bench to order the forfeiture of the house and its contents.
The government is using a recent provincial law — the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act — that allows the province to take the proceeds of crime and sell them to raise money for victims or crime-fighting programs.
There's no word yet on when a judge will hear the matter.
Police raided the house last December as part of Project Divide, a series of drug raids in Manitoba and British Columbia that resulted in charges against 31 people.
Manitoba seeking court approval to sell it under new provincial law
Winnipeg — The Canadian Press
Published on Thursday, Jul. 29, 2010 3:01PM EDT
.The Manitoba government has seized a Hells Angels clubhouse in Winnipeg's north end, and is seeking court approval to sell the building.
The province is asking the Court of Queen's Bench to order the forfeiture of the house and its contents.
The government is using a recent provincial law — the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act — that allows the province to take the proceeds of crime and sell them to raise money for victims or crime-fighting programs.
There's no word yet on when a judge will hear the matter.
Police raided the house last December as part of Project Divide, a series of drug raids in Manitoba and British Columbia that resulted in charges against 31 people.
Articles from CA. about MC safety stops
OFF THE WIRE
http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/BreakingNewsTeam/59465 Bakersfield police conducting motorcycle safety operation
The Bakersfield Police Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on August 1, 2010. Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where crashes occur. Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other vehicle drivers that can lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries and fatalities.
Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in California, increasing 175 percent in the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998 to 560 killed in 2008. Since April of this year two (2) motorcyclists have lost their lives in collisions on Bakersfield roadways.
Factors contributing to motorcycle crashes very often include speeding and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs by motorcyclists. The Bakersfield Police Department is also reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.
Another major factor leading to motorcycle crashes is inexperience. Riders, young and old, are encouraged to seek training and safety information. Many people are riding motorcycles without the proper motorcycle license endorsement and without the skills necessary to ride safely.
Rider’s can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/BreakingNewsTeam/59465 Bakersfield police conducting motorcycle safety operation
The Bakersfield Police Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on August 1, 2010. Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where crashes occur. Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other vehicle drivers that can lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries and fatalities.
Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in California, increasing 175 percent in the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998 to 560 killed in 2008. Since April of this year two (2) motorcyclists have lost their lives in collisions on Bakersfield roadways.
Factors contributing to motorcycle crashes very often include speeding and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs by motorcyclists. The Bakersfield Police Department is also reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.
Another major factor leading to motorcycle crashes is inexperience. Riders, young and old, are encouraged to seek training and safety information. Many people are riding motorcycles without the proper motorcycle license endorsement and without the skills necessary to ride safely.
Rider’s can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
State Highway Patrol urges biker safety as Sturgis rally approaches
OFF THE WIRE
South Dakota may not have a helmet law for motorcyclists, but that doesn't mean bikers shouldn't wear them, according to state Highway Patrol officials.
"As fun as motorcycles are, you're very vulnerable if you're riding one," Major Randy Hartley, acting superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, said in a news release. "The best protection for anyone on a motorcycle is a helmet."
Last year, 16 motorcyclists died and 508 were injured in crashes on South Dakota highways. Statistics show that nearly 30 percent of motorcycle crashes in South Dakota occurred in four counties -- Custer, Lawrence, Meade and Pennington -- during a 12-day period surrounding the Sturgis motorcycle rally
"When the rally approaches, we see increased bike traffic mixing with the already heavy summer motorist travel," Hartley said. "Bikers and motorists can increase their chances of staying safe as they travel if they make an extra effort to be aware of each other and respectful of each other's presence on the road."
Among tips the Highway Patrol recommends include:
•Motorcyclists should ride in single-file or staggered lines and avoid crowding the center line or crowding motorists.
•Motorists should remember not to crowd cycles. Motorcycles have the same rights on the road as motorists.
•Motorists and cyclists should follow the recommended speed limits. Motorcyclists should be especially aware of speed limits on curves.
•It is against the law to drink and drive. Motorists and cyclists should make sure they have sober drivers.
•Motorists should remember to buckle up.
•Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets.
The Sturgis rally officially begins Aug. 9 and concludes Aug. 15.
South Dakota may not have a helmet law for motorcyclists, but that doesn't mean bikers shouldn't wear them, according to state Highway Patrol officials.
"As fun as motorcycles are, you're very vulnerable if you're riding one," Major Randy Hartley, acting superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, said in a news release. "The best protection for anyone on a motorcycle is a helmet."
Last year, 16 motorcyclists died and 508 were injured in crashes on South Dakota highways. Statistics show that nearly 30 percent of motorcycle crashes in South Dakota occurred in four counties -- Custer, Lawrence, Meade and Pennington -- during a 12-day period surrounding the Sturgis motorcycle rally
"When the rally approaches, we see increased bike traffic mixing with the already heavy summer motorist travel," Hartley said. "Bikers and motorists can increase their chances of staying safe as they travel if they make an extra effort to be aware of each other and respectful of each other's presence on the road."
Among tips the Highway Patrol recommends include:
•Motorcyclists should ride in single-file or staggered lines and avoid crowding the center line or crowding motorists.
•Motorists should remember not to crowd cycles. Motorcycles have the same rights on the road as motorists.
•Motorists and cyclists should follow the recommended speed limits. Motorcyclists should be especially aware of speed limits on curves.
•It is against the law to drink and drive. Motorists and cyclists should make sure they have sober drivers.
•Motorists should remember to buckle up.
•Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets.
The Sturgis rally officially begins Aug. 9 and concludes Aug. 15.
MAINE:UPDATE!!
OFF THE WIRE
UPDATE!! Bikerbits readers are the best! A few weeks ago bikerbits ran an article about an 82 year old Veteran, James Meehan, whose 1976 Sportster which was attached to a side car was stolen.
This listing drew attention not only from MA., but from folks in Illinois, and as far away as Wisconsin!
A listing on Craigslist from Maine was given to the Washington County Sheriff's Dept, for them to follow up on, from the Illinois reader.
I spoke with Paula of the Washington County Sheriff's Department yesterday, and she informed me that the department was finally able to gain access to the premises where the bike was; checked it out, and discovered it was not the same vehicle, unfortunately.
I then called Jim in Maine to inform him of the investigation's development, and he was so thankful that folks he didn't even know took enough interest to try and make a difference.
Jim, at age 82, is a senior aide, meaning that he will take elders to the doctor's for their appointments, deliver meals to shut ins, etc. He says "Everybody in town knows me and my bike!"
And I bet they do!
What I'd like to try and do, is somehow organize a fundraiser... simultaneously possibly from all over the country to attempt to raise funds to purchase Jim a new bike to replace the one that was stolen!
Possibly we could contact LoJack and see if they'd be kind enough to donate a LoJack system for the new bike, so this doesn't happen again!
Do I hear any interest from any of my readers? If so, let me know...at: Gypsypashn@bikerbits.info
Thanks~
Gypsy
MAINE:
Thank you readers, who took the time to read Jim Meehan's story, and the time to contact me asking "HOW YOU COULD HELP"!
Right now there's a call into Harley Davidson put in by Joe OBorney from Illinois to see if possibly there's a way they could assist us in this. I also contacted the Chief of the Bangor Police on Facebook after I received a request from him to be his friend! Sent him the story... trying to get a rise from him as he is a lot closer to Jim.
And right now, there are people either willing to put on a fundraiser or there are people willing to send money to a fund... and this does our heart good!
Imagine if we could pull this off? And make the man whole again?
Again, there will be no bikerbits for the next couple of weeks.... but upon return, I hopefully will have some GOOD NEWS... stay tuned faithful readers!
And thank you all again! :*)
Gypsy
UPDATE!! Bikerbits readers are the best! A few weeks ago bikerbits ran an article about an 82 year old Veteran, James Meehan, whose 1976 Sportster which was attached to a side car was stolen.
This listing drew attention not only from MA., but from folks in Illinois, and as far away as Wisconsin!
A listing on Craigslist from Maine was given to the Washington County Sheriff's Dept, for them to follow up on, from the Illinois reader.
I spoke with Paula of the Washington County Sheriff's Department yesterday, and she informed me that the department was finally able to gain access to the premises where the bike was; checked it out, and discovered it was not the same vehicle, unfortunately.
I then called Jim in Maine to inform him of the investigation's development, and he was so thankful that folks he didn't even know took enough interest to try and make a difference.
Jim, at age 82, is a senior aide, meaning that he will take elders to the doctor's for their appointments, deliver meals to shut ins, etc. He says "Everybody in town knows me and my bike!"
And I bet they do!
What I'd like to try and do, is somehow organize a fundraiser... simultaneously possibly from all over the country to attempt to raise funds to purchase Jim a new bike to replace the one that was stolen!
Possibly we could contact LoJack and see if they'd be kind enough to donate a LoJack system for the new bike, so this doesn't happen again!
Do I hear any interest from any of my readers? If so, let me know...at: Gypsypashn@bikerbits.info
Thanks~
Gypsy
MAINE:
Thank you readers, who took the time to read Jim Meehan's story, and the time to contact me asking "HOW YOU COULD HELP"!
Right now there's a call into Harley Davidson put in by Joe OBorney from Illinois to see if possibly there's a way they could assist us in this. I also contacted the Chief of the Bangor Police on Facebook after I received a request from him to be his friend! Sent him the story... trying to get a rise from him as he is a lot closer to Jim.
And right now, there are people either willing to put on a fundraiser or there are people willing to send money to a fund... and this does our heart good!
Imagine if we could pull this off? And make the man whole again?
Again, there will be no bikerbits for the next couple of weeks.... but upon return, I hopefully will have some GOOD NEWS... stay tuned faithful readers!
And thank you all again! :*)
Gypsy
Friday, July 30, 2010
1 More Article from CA. about MC safety stops
OFF THE WIRE
http://www.insidesocal.com/crime&courts/2010/07/police-targeting-motorcycle-sa.html Police targeting motorcycle safety By Larry Altman on July 28, 2010 2:26 PM Sorry if you already got your ticket, but you shouldn't be speeding anyway.
I got this last night from Hawthorne PD, but was working the Lennox bondage club killing and didn't realize this was today.
So you've been warned for the afternoon. Ride carefully:
The Hawthorne Police Department, Manhattan Beach Police Department, and Hermosa Beach Police Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on Wednesday, July 28th, 2010. Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where crashes occur. Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other vehicle drivers that can lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in California, increasing 175 percent in the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998, to 560 killed in 2008. The City of Hawthorne has had 2 fatal motorcycle accidents and 10 motorcycle injury accidents since 2008.
Factors contributing to motorcycle crashes often include speeding and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs by motorcyclists. The Hawthorne Police Department is also reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.
Another major factor leading to motorcycle crashes is inexperience. Riders, young and old, are encouraged to seek training and safety information. Many people are riding motorcycles without the proper motorcycle license endorsement and without the skills necessary to ride safely.
Rider's can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.
http://www.insidesocal.com/crime&courts/2010/07/police-targeting-motorcycle-sa.html Police targeting motorcycle safety By Larry Altman on July 28, 2010 2:26 PM Sorry if you already got your ticket, but you shouldn't be speeding anyway.
I got this last night from Hawthorne PD, but was working the Lennox bondage club killing and didn't realize this was today.
So you've been warned for the afternoon. Ride carefully:
The Hawthorne Police Department, Manhattan Beach Police Department, and Hermosa Beach Police Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on Wednesday, July 28th, 2010. Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where crashes occur. Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other vehicle drivers that can lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in California, increasing 175 percent in the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998, to 560 killed in 2008. The City of Hawthorne has had 2 fatal motorcycle accidents and 10 motorcycle injury accidents since 2008.
Factors contributing to motorcycle crashes often include speeding and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs by motorcyclists. The Hawthorne Police Department is also reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.
Another major factor leading to motorcycle crashes is inexperience. Riders, young and old, are encouraged to seek training and safety information. Many people are riding motorcycles without the proper motorcycle license endorsement and without the skills necessary to ride safely.
Rider's can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.
Federal court allows failure to provide adequate warning claim to proceed against motorcycle maker
OFF THE WIRE
Shook Hardy & Bacon LLP
Gary Long, Greg Fowler and Simon Castley
USA
July 22 2010
A federal court in Georgia has determined that the plaintiff’s failure to read the warnings provided by the companies that made a motorcycle and tires involved in a fatal crash is not a bar to claims that the defendants “failed to provide an adequate warning regarding the dangers of overloading the motorcycle.” Morris v. Harley Davidson Motor Co., No. 3:09-cv-74 (U.S. Dist. Ct., M.D. Ga., Athens Div., decided July 7, 2010). The owner’s manual and information on the motorcycle itself provided warnings about not exceeding the gross vehicle weight rating, which would have allowed “an additional 420 pounds of weight capacity for the rider, any passenger, cargo, and accessories.” The weight of the motorcycle’s owner and his deceased wife alone exceeded this limit. The owner’s manual also warned against using the motorcycle to pull a trailer; when the rear tire blew out, the owner, with his wife as a passenger, was pulling a trailer with the motorcycle.
The defendants sought to dismiss the strict-liability inadequate-warning claim, saying it failed as a matter of law because the plaintiff failed to read the warnings in the owner’s manual or provided on information plates attached to the motorcycle. According to the court, the defendant misconstrued the nature of the failure to warn claim by framing it as an alleged inadequacy of the language used. Here, the allegation challenged “the adequacy of the efforts of the manufacturer or seller to communicate the dangers of the product to the buyer or user.” Questions about a warning’s placement, color, print size, or symbolism are for the jury in Georgia, and the court determined that genuine issues of material fact exist “as to the adequacy and reasonableness of Harley-Davidson’s means and method of conveying the warnings.”
Shook Hardy & Bacon LLP
Gary Long, Greg Fowler and Simon Castley
USA
July 22 2010
A federal court in Georgia has determined that the plaintiff’s failure to read the warnings provided by the companies that made a motorcycle and tires involved in a fatal crash is not a bar to claims that the defendants “failed to provide an adequate warning regarding the dangers of overloading the motorcycle.” Morris v. Harley Davidson Motor Co., No. 3:09-cv-74 (U.S. Dist. Ct., M.D. Ga., Athens Div., decided July 7, 2010). The owner’s manual and information on the motorcycle itself provided warnings about not exceeding the gross vehicle weight rating, which would have allowed “an additional 420 pounds of weight capacity for the rider, any passenger, cargo, and accessories.” The weight of the motorcycle’s owner and his deceased wife alone exceeded this limit. The owner’s manual also warned against using the motorcycle to pull a trailer; when the rear tire blew out, the owner, with his wife as a passenger, was pulling a trailer with the motorcycle.
The defendants sought to dismiss the strict-liability inadequate-warning claim, saying it failed as a matter of law because the plaintiff failed to read the warnings in the owner’s manual or provided on information plates attached to the motorcycle. According to the court, the defendant misconstrued the nature of the failure to warn claim by framing it as an alleged inadequacy of the language used. Here, the allegation challenged “the adequacy of the efforts of the manufacturer or seller to communicate the dangers of the product to the buyer or user.” Questions about a warning’s placement, color, print size, or symbolism are for the jury in Georgia, and the court determined that genuine issues of material fact exist “as to the adequacy and reasonableness of Harley-Davidson’s means and method of conveying the warnings.”
10NR21 - MRF News Release - US EPA Considers Lowering Motorcycle Sound Emissions Levels
OFF THE WIRE
10NR21 - MRF News Release - US EPA Considers Lowering Motorcycle Sound Emissions Levels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 2010
Contact: Jeff Hennie, Government Relations and Public Affairs
US EPA Considers Lowering Motorcycle Sound Emissions Levels
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has learned that the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has begun collecting data from the industry to consider lowering the allowable decibel level for motorcycles. Currently the allowable sound any vehicle can generate is capped at 83db.
The EPA has sent letters to nine companies that either import or build aftermarket exhaust systems or complete motorcycles. This small sample size is troubling for a couple of reasons. First, it is not representative of the much larger motorcycling community that will be affected by changing the regulation, rendering the survey results questionable at best. Second, any time a federal agency wants to spend taxpayer money to survey a group of 10 or more individuals or organizations, they must obtain approval from the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The approval process isn’t easy and can often be drawn out, giving American citizens the right to weigh in on the agency’s application for permission to survey. However, when an agency only contacts nine organizations, they don’t have to tell anyone or get permission from the OMB to move forward on the survey, making the process lack transparency.
Why just motorcycles? It appears that the EPA doesn’t want to curb all noise, or even all vehicle noise, just noise coming from two-wheeled vehicles. We at the MRF find that distinction discriminatory and simply unacceptable, not to mention that it suggests a more personal agenda and not an agency-wide push. What sort of impact will new decibel levels have on retailers and ultimately motorcycle owners? Alarmingly, this does not appear to have been addressed. After reviewing the survey questions, it appears that the EPA is only concerned with the impact on manufacturers.
While public correspondence has not revealed the EPA’s true intention to lower the allowable decibel limit, the EPA indicated in a private phone call with the MRF that it would certainly not be raising the standard or keeping it the same. That leaves one option, lowering the decibel standard for motorcycles.
The MRF is working with Congress to get the EPA to explain their intentions and motivations. The MRF is also working to meet directly with the EPA to further determine exactly is going on with this issue.
You can view the actual EPA questionnaire on the MRF website at http://www.mrf.org/pdf/EPA_questionnaire_June2010.pdf
10NR21 - MRF News Release - US EPA Considers Lowering Motorcycle Sound Emissions Levels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 2010
Contact: Jeff Hennie, Government Relations and Public Affairs
US EPA Considers Lowering Motorcycle Sound Emissions Levels
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has learned that the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has begun collecting data from the industry to consider lowering the allowable decibel level for motorcycles. Currently the allowable sound any vehicle can generate is capped at 83db.
The EPA has sent letters to nine companies that either import or build aftermarket exhaust systems or complete motorcycles. This small sample size is troubling for a couple of reasons. First, it is not representative of the much larger motorcycling community that will be affected by changing the regulation, rendering the survey results questionable at best. Second, any time a federal agency wants to spend taxpayer money to survey a group of 10 or more individuals or organizations, they must obtain approval from the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The approval process isn’t easy and can often be drawn out, giving American citizens the right to weigh in on the agency’s application for permission to survey. However, when an agency only contacts nine organizations, they don’t have to tell anyone or get permission from the OMB to move forward on the survey, making the process lack transparency.
Why just motorcycles? It appears that the EPA doesn’t want to curb all noise, or even all vehicle noise, just noise coming from two-wheeled vehicles. We at the MRF find that distinction discriminatory and simply unacceptable, not to mention that it suggests a more personal agenda and not an agency-wide push. What sort of impact will new decibel levels have on retailers and ultimately motorcycle owners? Alarmingly, this does not appear to have been addressed. After reviewing the survey questions, it appears that the EPA is only concerned with the impact on manufacturers.
While public correspondence has not revealed the EPA’s true intention to lower the allowable decibel limit, the EPA indicated in a private phone call with the MRF that it would certainly not be raising the standard or keeping it the same. That leaves one option, lowering the decibel standard for motorcycles.
The MRF is working with Congress to get the EPA to explain their intentions and motivations. The MRF is also working to meet directly with the EPA to further determine exactly is going on with this issue.
You can view the actual EPA questionnaire on the MRF website at http://www.mrf.org/pdf/EPA_questionnaire_June2010.pdf
A few months ago, the Vago's were being blamed for these "attacks" I wonder what happened.
OFF THE WIRE
Hemet police say a fire that damaged an evidence building may be the seventh attack on police in six months.
Lt. Duane Wisehart says Monday the someone set a fire in the building overnight, destroying some evidence and causing an undetermined amount of damage.
Wisehart says investigators believe the fire is related to previous attacks on police in the city 90 miles southeast of Los Angeles.
Those included filling a building with flammable natural gas vapors, rigging a booby trap that nearly shot an officer, placing an explosive device under an unmarked police car, and setting four city trucks on fire.
No arrests have been made.
Hemet police say a fire that damaged an evidence building may be the seventh attack on police in six months.
Lt. Duane Wisehart says Monday the someone set a fire in the building overnight, destroying some evidence and causing an undetermined amount of damage.
Wisehart says investigators believe the fire is related to previous attacks on police in the city 90 miles southeast of Los Angeles.
Those included filling a building with flammable natural gas vapors, rigging a booby trap that nearly shot an officer, placing an explosive device under an unmarked police car, and setting four city trucks on fire.
No arrests have been made.
10NR22 - MRF News Release - MRF URGENT CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
OFF THE WIRE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
23 July 2010
Contact: Jeff Hennie, Government Relations and Public Affairs
MRF URGENT CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
A mandatory roadside motorcycle stop may be coming to a town near you, reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked for applications from law enforcement outfits to apply for a new pot of taxpayer money designated for pulling motorcyclists off the road to lecture them about safety.
The MRF strongly opposes this sort of discrimination against motorcyclists. “Pulling over law-abiding motorcyclists does not make anyone safer and is huge waste of taxpayer money,” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs for the MRF.
NHTSA’s request for applications asks law enforcement officials to submit plans similar to what New York State Police did last summer. They set up outside big public motorcycle gatherings and pulled every single motorcyclist over to the side of the road to lecture them about safety, drinking and riding, proper tire inflation, and so on.
The MRF feels there are much more productive and less discriminatory ways to promote safety for motorcyclists, and is disappointed that this approach was decided upon behind closed doors by a group of federal employees who apparently did not consult anyone in the motorcycling community for their input and expertise in motorcycle safety.
This particular project is limited to five law enforcement agencies, and total funding is capped at $350,000. In these tough economic times, that’s a ton of money. The deadline for applications is August 13, and to the MRF’s knowledge, no applications have yet been submitted.
The MRF will be investigating to determine if NHTSA and the federal government have legal jurisdiction to fund states to single out one particular type of vehicle for clearly discriminatory practices over other vehicles, and will be working diligently to see that these proposed grants are never awarded.
The MRF encourages you to contact U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood today to voice your displeasure, either by phone: 202-366-4000 or by email: http://ntl.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntl.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php
Contact Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs, at Jeff@mrf.org if you have any questions or need further information.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
23 July 2010
Contact: Jeff Hennie, Government Relations and Public Affairs
MRF URGENT CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
A mandatory roadside motorcycle stop may be coming to a town near you, reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked for applications from law enforcement outfits to apply for a new pot of taxpayer money designated for pulling motorcyclists off the road to lecture them about safety.
The MRF strongly opposes this sort of discrimination against motorcyclists. “Pulling over law-abiding motorcyclists does not make anyone safer and is huge waste of taxpayer money,” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs for the MRF.
NHTSA’s request for applications asks law enforcement officials to submit plans similar to what New York State Police did last summer. They set up outside big public motorcycle gatherings and pulled every single motorcyclist over to the side of the road to lecture them about safety, drinking and riding, proper tire inflation, and so on.
The MRF feels there are much more productive and less discriminatory ways to promote safety for motorcyclists, and is disappointed that this approach was decided upon behind closed doors by a group of federal employees who apparently did not consult anyone in the motorcycling community for their input and expertise in motorcycle safety.
This particular project is limited to five law enforcement agencies, and total funding is capped at $350,000. In these tough economic times, that’s a ton of money. The deadline for applications is August 13, and to the MRF’s knowledge, no applications have yet been submitted.
The MRF will be investigating to determine if NHTSA and the federal government have legal jurisdiction to fund states to single out one particular type of vehicle for clearly discriminatory practices over other vehicles, and will be working diligently to see that these proposed grants are never awarded.
The MRF encourages you to contact U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood today to voice your displeasure, either by phone: 202-366-4000 or by email: http://ntl.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntl.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php
Contact Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs, at Jeff@mrf.org if you have any questions or need further information.
Outlaw Biker: Changing motorcycle stereotypes
OFF THE WIRE, oldie but goodie
http://www.clutchandchrome.com/news/news/outlaw-biker-changing-motorcycle-stereotypes Outlaw Biker: Changing motorcycle stereotypes Monday, 05 April 2010 | Written by Digits
All riders of every age have encountered it. Whether coming from friends and family as you tell them you’re getting a motorcycle or when a non-rider find out you carry the label of biker.
The look of ‘Are you crazy?’ mingled with the fear you’ll start eating babies and pillaging small towns.
How exactly did a form of transport get such a universally strong association to everything bad in our society and more importantly, are we turning the corner of that stereotype?
Ironically, the same media that painted the everyday motorcycle enthusiast as the crazed criminal have been instrumental in bringing the image back to a more realistic version.
Oddly enough, the motorcycle has a touch of blue-blood. Back in the early 1900’s when the motorcycle was gaining popularity it was considered a toy for the rich and a more affordable transportation alternative to the then expensive automobile by the average person. It even became a symbol of the growing emancipation movement by women.
But by the end of the Second World War, America had an abundance of two things; motorcycles and returning servicemen, neither of which the military had any further need for. Although many of the returning soldiers tried to pick up their lives and settled down to jobs, marriage and children, some of the young men were restless, trying to find their place in society and looking for friends that could relate to the experiences they had known.
The post war supply of cheap motorcycles not only presented the restless men an avenue for their youthful energy, the rough and powerful ride from the Harley Davidson or Indian motorcycles of the day gave that edge to life these men had known in war but was hard to find in suburban America. Many chose the life of the road with like minded individuals who liked to ride hard and party harder rather than settle in the routine of a nine to five job, mortgages and the stresses of raising a family. Just as the man either side of them in war was closer than any brother, their fellow riders became family.
Since these were men that were used to serving under a symbol, wearing patches of who they were and what they represented, it wasn’t long before the different groups became more organized and gave themselves an identity, something surely lacking for many. Two of the first such organizations were the Pissed Off Bastards and the Booze Fighters.
How long would these groups have kept the moniker of 'club' and all the civilized air that goes with it will never be known. An event that should’ve been like every one before it became the catalyst that changed Middle America’s perception, and consequently attitude towards the motorcycle and its rider.
Ironically the description and what would become the public perception of 'Outlaw Bikers' came from a leading advocate for motorcycle enthusiasts to this day.
The term Outlaw Motorcycle Club which was originally used by the AMA (American Motorcycle Association) simply to designate motorcycle clubs who didn’t adhere to its standards and whether they could compete in the many competitions held around the country. It was one of these motorcycle competitions in Hollister in 1947 which would become an unclear footnote in riding history and a Hollywood sensation.
The events around an evening which wrapped up the 1947 Gyspy Road Tour would go onto become a famous story in Life Magazine and later made into a movie starring Marlon Brando called 'The Wild One' in 1953.
When the media and consequently the American public reacted to the darker side of the story's telling the AMA tried to distance itself and its members from the bad publicity and the negative feelings towards motorcyclists by claiming that “99% of all of their members are law-abiding citizens and only 1% are 'outlaws' ”.
With Hollywood understanding sensation sold tickets, the floodgates opened for movies featuring fighting sprees, drugs and sexual assaults, all to a chorus of roaring chopper engines, the film and others like it contributed to the negative image of motorcycle riders, especially Harley-Davidson owners.
And some enjoyed the stereotypes.
A 1965 article ‘The Motorcycle Gangs: Losers and Outsiders’ showed such an honest look into the Hells Angels brutal world that the author Hunter S Thompson went on to write an entire book on the club called Hells Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs. These works as well as the media attention would go onto give the Hells Angels their place in American history.
With the image of the outlaw biker firmly entrenched in America’s mind, an actor who starred in a motorcycle gang B-movie a mere three years earlier, would write a movie that not only created a new movie genre, but a new way to look at the motorcyclist.
Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper wrote and starred in Easy Rider, a movie about two men who head out across America on Harley Davidson Choppers trying to find their place in the world. With Dennis Hopper directing, it not only created a new breed of movie known as the ‘road film’, characters with nowhere to go and no reason to get there, but it also associated motorcycles with freedom rather than the hooliganism ‘The Wild One’ had some sixteen years earlier. The film was firmly based in the sixties culture of non-conformism and philosophical outlooks on life, even with the cynical ending of self-disapproval.
But as a generation before it shunned the conventional family life, a new era embraced it staying home, raising children and not riding motorcycles. The two-wheeled industry rode into hard times, not simply from falling sales but also Japanese innovation flooding the international market bringing the end to many famous names such as BSA, Norton and the then Indian and Triumph motorcycle companies.
It could be considered poetic then that the same generation which started the industry's slide would be the one to bring it the breath of life. It was the same broad brush used by the media to paint a segment of society that helped the motorcycle and its rider find its road back into the hearts and confidence of the non-riding American public. The story has been told and retold of the baby boomers sending off the last child only to have an empty nest and some disposable income.
Through the various incarnations of the middle-aged, affluent male taking to motorcycles en masse the public appeared to understand the biker was a neighbor, civil servant, teacher and most of all, a well-known friend. Of course the multitude of toy runs, charity rides and problem-free motorcycle events certainly helped.
The motorcycle industry enjoyed the timing of well made products and smoother rides at the same time the 'me' generation heard the open road calling. Motorcycles started to appear everywhere as the Terminator rode his Harley both on and off the big screen. The motorcycle became a popular and 'hip' form of transportation for younger males with the image furthered in movies starring young action stars
The image of the biker continued to center with Disney’s ‘Wild Hogs’ as a record number of movie-goers watched Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, John Travolta and William H. Macy ride across America in their humorous but life-changing road trip.
Finally, the best test of non-riders separating the media's portrayal of bikers and the everyday motorcycling enthusiast has come of age with 'Sons of Anarchy'.
Taking place in a small town of Charming, California the member of SAMCRO, Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, Redwood Original avoid the law, battle gangs and try to live something vaguely representing a family life. The FX motorcycle drama seems to sit well with not only the United States but viewers worldwide who have made FX’s motorcycle drama ‘Sons of Anarchy’ a hit and roaring into its third season.
Riders and non-riders alike made Sons of Anarchy a hit as the fictitious show about a motorcycle club riding in and out legal situations in a small California town rode away with viewing numbers in the second season. Achieving numbers never seen before with either cable or broadcast television, Sons of Anarchy showed the largest season-to-season growth in adults ages 18-49 with 81 percent more people tuning in and 80 percent increase in males 18 to 49. The total number of viewers for the show grew 72 percent.
With the media and motorcycle enthusiasts having come full circle in nearly seventy years the 'Outlaw Biker' label has been retired to the rare, true motorcycle gang and in Hollywood's latest offerings, leaving the everyday rider to enjoy their favorite past time. But while the label may be finding its proper home, the bikers themselves seem to enjoy its lingering facade of black attire, t-shirts and apparel adorned with skulls and crossbones.
Even if it is only worn on weekends and between real life commitments
http://www.clutchandchrome.com/news/news/outlaw-biker-changing-motorcycle-stereotypes Outlaw Biker: Changing motorcycle stereotypes Monday, 05 April 2010 | Written by Digits
All riders of every age have encountered it. Whether coming from friends and family as you tell them you’re getting a motorcycle or when a non-rider find out you carry the label of biker.
The look of ‘Are you crazy?’ mingled with the fear you’ll start eating babies and pillaging small towns.
How exactly did a form of transport get such a universally strong association to everything bad in our society and more importantly, are we turning the corner of that stereotype?
Ironically, the same media that painted the everyday motorcycle enthusiast as the crazed criminal have been instrumental in bringing the image back to a more realistic version.
Oddly enough, the motorcycle has a touch of blue-blood. Back in the early 1900’s when the motorcycle was gaining popularity it was considered a toy for the rich and a more affordable transportation alternative to the then expensive automobile by the average person. It even became a symbol of the growing emancipation movement by women.
But by the end of the Second World War, America had an abundance of two things; motorcycles and returning servicemen, neither of which the military had any further need for. Although many of the returning soldiers tried to pick up their lives and settled down to jobs, marriage and children, some of the young men were restless, trying to find their place in society and looking for friends that could relate to the experiences they had known.
The post war supply of cheap motorcycles not only presented the restless men an avenue for their youthful energy, the rough and powerful ride from the Harley Davidson or Indian motorcycles of the day gave that edge to life these men had known in war but was hard to find in suburban America. Many chose the life of the road with like minded individuals who liked to ride hard and party harder rather than settle in the routine of a nine to five job, mortgages and the stresses of raising a family. Just as the man either side of them in war was closer than any brother, their fellow riders became family.
Since these were men that were used to serving under a symbol, wearing patches of who they were and what they represented, it wasn’t long before the different groups became more organized and gave themselves an identity, something surely lacking for many. Two of the first such organizations were the Pissed Off Bastards and the Booze Fighters.
How long would these groups have kept the moniker of 'club' and all the civilized air that goes with it will never be known. An event that should’ve been like every one before it became the catalyst that changed Middle America’s perception, and consequently attitude towards the motorcycle and its rider.
Ironically the description and what would become the public perception of 'Outlaw Bikers' came from a leading advocate for motorcycle enthusiasts to this day.
The term Outlaw Motorcycle Club which was originally used by the AMA (American Motorcycle Association) simply to designate motorcycle clubs who didn’t adhere to its standards and whether they could compete in the many competitions held around the country. It was one of these motorcycle competitions in Hollister in 1947 which would become an unclear footnote in riding history and a Hollywood sensation.
The events around an evening which wrapped up the 1947 Gyspy Road Tour would go onto become a famous story in Life Magazine and later made into a movie starring Marlon Brando called 'The Wild One' in 1953.
When the media and consequently the American public reacted to the darker side of the story's telling the AMA tried to distance itself and its members from the bad publicity and the negative feelings towards motorcyclists by claiming that “99% of all of their members are law-abiding citizens and only 1% are 'outlaws' ”.
With Hollywood understanding sensation sold tickets, the floodgates opened for movies featuring fighting sprees, drugs and sexual assaults, all to a chorus of roaring chopper engines, the film and others like it contributed to the negative image of motorcycle riders, especially Harley-Davidson owners.
And some enjoyed the stereotypes.
A 1965 article ‘The Motorcycle Gangs: Losers and Outsiders’ showed such an honest look into the Hells Angels brutal world that the author Hunter S Thompson went on to write an entire book on the club called Hells Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs. These works as well as the media attention would go onto give the Hells Angels their place in American history.
With the image of the outlaw biker firmly entrenched in America’s mind, an actor who starred in a motorcycle gang B-movie a mere three years earlier, would write a movie that not only created a new movie genre, but a new way to look at the motorcyclist.
Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper wrote and starred in Easy Rider, a movie about two men who head out across America on Harley Davidson Choppers trying to find their place in the world. With Dennis Hopper directing, it not only created a new breed of movie known as the ‘road film’, characters with nowhere to go and no reason to get there, but it also associated motorcycles with freedom rather than the hooliganism ‘The Wild One’ had some sixteen years earlier. The film was firmly based in the sixties culture of non-conformism and philosophical outlooks on life, even with the cynical ending of self-disapproval.
But as a generation before it shunned the conventional family life, a new era embraced it staying home, raising children and not riding motorcycles. The two-wheeled industry rode into hard times, not simply from falling sales but also Japanese innovation flooding the international market bringing the end to many famous names such as BSA, Norton and the then Indian and Triumph motorcycle companies.
It could be considered poetic then that the same generation which started the industry's slide would be the one to bring it the breath of life. It was the same broad brush used by the media to paint a segment of society that helped the motorcycle and its rider find its road back into the hearts and confidence of the non-riding American public. The story has been told and retold of the baby boomers sending off the last child only to have an empty nest and some disposable income.
Through the various incarnations of the middle-aged, affluent male taking to motorcycles en masse the public appeared to understand the biker was a neighbor, civil servant, teacher and most of all, a well-known friend. Of course the multitude of toy runs, charity rides and problem-free motorcycle events certainly helped.
The motorcycle industry enjoyed the timing of well made products and smoother rides at the same time the 'me' generation heard the open road calling. Motorcycles started to appear everywhere as the Terminator rode his Harley both on and off the big screen. The motorcycle became a popular and 'hip' form of transportation for younger males with the image furthered in movies starring young action stars
The image of the biker continued to center with Disney’s ‘Wild Hogs’ as a record number of movie-goers watched Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, John Travolta and William H. Macy ride across America in their humorous but life-changing road trip.
Finally, the best test of non-riders separating the media's portrayal of bikers and the everyday motorcycling enthusiast has come of age with 'Sons of Anarchy'.
Taking place in a small town of Charming, California the member of SAMCRO, Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, Redwood Original avoid the law, battle gangs and try to live something vaguely representing a family life. The FX motorcycle drama seems to sit well with not only the United States but viewers worldwide who have made FX’s motorcycle drama ‘Sons of Anarchy’ a hit and roaring into its third season.
Riders and non-riders alike made Sons of Anarchy a hit as the fictitious show about a motorcycle club riding in and out legal situations in a small California town rode away with viewing numbers in the second season. Achieving numbers never seen before with either cable or broadcast television, Sons of Anarchy showed the largest season-to-season growth in adults ages 18-49 with 81 percent more people tuning in and 80 percent increase in males 18 to 49. The total number of viewers for the show grew 72 percent.
With the media and motorcycle enthusiasts having come full circle in nearly seventy years the 'Outlaw Biker' label has been retired to the rare, true motorcycle gang and in Hollywood's latest offerings, leaving the everyday rider to enjoy their favorite past time. But while the label may be finding its proper home, the bikers themselves seem to enjoy its lingering facade of black attire, t-shirts and apparel adorned with skulls and crossbones.
Even if it is only worn on weekends and between real life commitments
Second trial set for local man in Pagans case
Off the Wire
MCs in the News
CURTIS JOHNSON
Herald-Dispatch.com
HUNTINGTON — A 38-year-old man from Huntington will face a jury Thursday for the second time in as many weeks.
Michael Lloyd Stevens of Huntington faces one count of retaliating against a witness. He was arrested as part of an October 2009 dragnet in several states that rounded up 55 members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club.
Prosecutors tried Stevens’ case last week, but the brief trial ended with a hung jury.
U.S. District Judge Thomas E. Johnston has ordered both sides to try again beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday, July 29, in Charleston.
The indictment charges that Stevens participated with others in autumn 2005 in an estimated three-month conspiracy aimed at injuring an incarcerated Pagan believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
At the time, Stevens was a prison guard at Federal Correctional Institution Ashland. His employment ended in April 2006.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has said nobody died as a result of the alleged conspiracy.
Stevens was among eight local residents charged in the Pagans indictment. The others have been resolved.
A plea hearing once was scheduled in Stevens’ case, but the plea was withdrawn.
original article
MCs in the News
CURTIS JOHNSON
Herald-Dispatch.com
HUNTINGTON — A 38-year-old man from Huntington will face a jury Thursday for the second time in as many weeks.
Michael Lloyd Stevens of Huntington faces one count of retaliating against a witness. He was arrested as part of an October 2009 dragnet in several states that rounded up 55 members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club.
Prosecutors tried Stevens’ case last week, but the brief trial ended with a hung jury.
U.S. District Judge Thomas E. Johnston has ordered both sides to try again beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday, July 29, in Charleston.
The indictment charges that Stevens participated with others in autumn 2005 in an estimated three-month conspiracy aimed at injuring an incarcerated Pagan believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
At the time, Stevens was a prison guard at Federal Correctional Institution Ashland. His employment ended in April 2006.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has said nobody died as a result of the alleged conspiracy.
Stevens was among eight local residents charged in the Pagans indictment. The others have been resolved.
A plea hearing once was scheduled in Stevens’ case, but the plea was withdrawn.
original article
ARIZONA:First Annual "Can You See Me Now?" Ride a Success
OFF THE WIRE
http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/first-annual-can-you-see-me-now-ride-a-success-163107.php First Annual "Can You See Me Now?" Ride a Success
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, more than 75,000 motorcycle riders are injured on America's highways each year, with more than 5,000 killed in accidents.
July 29, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- On May 23, 2010 hundreds of motorcyclists rode from Toby Keith's "I Love This Bar and Grill" in Mesa to Greasewood Flats in North Scottsdale to bring awareness to motorcycle safety in Arizona. The symbolic event, organized by the Phoenix Motorcycle Riding Group and the Phoenix Motorcycle Kruzers, came about as part of a nationwide effort to promote Motorcycle Awareness Month. Similar rides have been organized in Houston, Austin and San Antonio, Texas.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, more than 75,000 motorcycle riders are injured on America's highways each year, with more than 5,000 killed in accidents. The leading cause of motorcycle accidents is, not surprisingly, driver inattention. With distracted driving (usually through texting or talking on cell phones) on the rise, and more people choosing motorcycles and scooters as a more cost-effective means of transportation, riders are more vulnerable than ever. A majority of motorcycle accidents occur during the summer months, when riders must contend with myriad construction projects and a higher number of impaired drivers during summer holidays.
Both Phoenix groups had riders injured in a March 25, 2010 accident on the Carefree Highway when a dump truck hit 10 motorcyclists stopped at a traffic light. The truck driver was not only inattentive, he was also allegedly under the influence of drugs. The accident left four cyclists dead and several others injured.
While motorcycle awareness requires attention from both drivers and riders, motorcyclists can take several steps to protect themselves. First, knowing and respecting the bike's power and capabilities is important. New riders should attend a certified instruction course and be properly licensed. Aside from obeying applicable traffic laws, riders should avoid riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic. Cyclists should also assume that they are invisible to motorists, so using headlights at all times and staying out of drivers' blind spots is critical to avoiding accidents.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can advise you of your rights and options.
http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/first-annual-can-you-see-me-now-ride-a-success-163107.php First Annual "Can You See Me Now?" Ride a Success
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, more than 75,000 motorcycle riders are injured on America's highways each year, with more than 5,000 killed in accidents.
July 29, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- On May 23, 2010 hundreds of motorcyclists rode from Toby Keith's "I Love This Bar and Grill" in Mesa to Greasewood Flats in North Scottsdale to bring awareness to motorcycle safety in Arizona. The symbolic event, organized by the Phoenix Motorcycle Riding Group and the Phoenix Motorcycle Kruzers, came about as part of a nationwide effort to promote Motorcycle Awareness Month. Similar rides have been organized in Houston, Austin and San Antonio, Texas.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, more than 75,000 motorcycle riders are injured on America's highways each year, with more than 5,000 killed in accidents. The leading cause of motorcycle accidents is, not surprisingly, driver inattention. With distracted driving (usually through texting or talking on cell phones) on the rise, and more people choosing motorcycles and scooters as a more cost-effective means of transportation, riders are more vulnerable than ever. A majority of motorcycle accidents occur during the summer months, when riders must contend with myriad construction projects and a higher number of impaired drivers during summer holidays.
Both Phoenix groups had riders injured in a March 25, 2010 accident on the Carefree Highway when a dump truck hit 10 motorcyclists stopped at a traffic light. The truck driver was not only inattentive, he was also allegedly under the influence of drugs. The accident left four cyclists dead and several others injured.
While motorcycle awareness requires attention from both drivers and riders, motorcyclists can take several steps to protect themselves. First, knowing and respecting the bike's power and capabilities is important. New riders should attend a certified instruction course and be properly licensed. Aside from obeying applicable traffic laws, riders should avoid riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic. Cyclists should also assume that they are invisible to motorists, so using headlights at all times and staying out of drivers' blind spots is critical to avoiding accidents.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can advise you of your rights and options.
From CA. Ask a cop: Always ride or drive your vehicles quietly.
OFF THE WIRE
http://www.whittierdailynews.com/news/ci_15606079 Ask a cop: Always ride or drive your vehicles quietly By Officer Al Perez Posted: 07/26/2010 12:22:35 PM PDT
I was asked recently about the rules and regulations for loud exhausts on cars and motorcycles.
Well, we do see many cars, trucks and motorcycles having altered exhaust systems. I have spoken to some owners who come in to our CHP office to have their citation cleared. When I asked why they made these changes to their vehicles, most of them said they did it because they thought it made their vehicle "sound cool," or they thought it would enhance the performance of their vehicles by increasing the horsepower.
I spoke with a motorcycle owner who came in to have a ticket signed off for a loud exhaust. He said one of the reasons he changed from stock to a louder exhaust was because he heard that "loud pipes save lives."
I did some research on "loud pipes save lives," and I could not find a credible study that shows riding a quiet motorcycle is any less safe than riding a loud one. In fact, there are thousands of riders who ride their quiet bikes safely every day.
There are many other proven ways to improve motorcycle safety, such as attending a safety class taught by a qualified instructor, wearing highly visible, bright color clothing, not riding when tired and absolutely no riding after consuming alcoholic beverages.
One of the articles I read said the following:
"The Harley Davidson Company asks its customers to ride quietly, and the largest motorcycle organizations, the American Motorcyclists Association and Motorcycle
Riders Foundation, also urge its members to ride quietly and respectfully." I found that there are many riders who truly believe the loud pipes on their motorcycles have saved their lives, while just as many others say you can really only hear those loud pipes when you're on the bike or behind the bike, because the sounds are emitting to the rear, and not the front.
In any case, when the owner of a motorcycle, car, or truck alters the exhaust system to make it louder, he or she is in violation of the law. In fact, motorcycles made after 1982 should have an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) noise compliance label.
If you look under "Noise Control System, Tampering" in any motorcycle owner's manual, you will see a warning to the owner that removal or replacement of any noise control system component may be prohibited by law. I also found out that most companies who sell after-market exhaust systems and mufflers display the following statement, "This product is designed for use in close course racing and not intended for highway use."
The following California Vehicle Code sections are the laws governing the alteration and amplification of exhausts systems on motor vehicles.
Section, 27150 (a) reads as follows: "Every motor vehicle subject to registration shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise, and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device."
This law applies to all motor vehicles on public highway and does not apply to passenger vehicles being operated off the highway in an organized race.
Section 27151 (a) reads as follows: "No person shall modify the exhaust system of a motor vehicle in a manner which will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the motor of the vehicle so that the vehicle is not in compliance with the provisions of Section 27150 or exceeds the noise limits established for the type of vehicle in Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 27200). No person shall operate a motor vehicle with an exhaust system so modified."
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has issued 15,045 citations for violation of section 27150 (a) and 13,799 citations for violation of section 27151 (a). These citations were issued from 2005 to current date and 1,965 of these citations were issued to motorcycles.
If you make these types of modifications to your car, truck or motorcycle for a reason such as, "sounds cool, more horsepower or loud pipes save lives," you are in violation of the law and are taking a risk of being cited for such violation/s.
If any of you have been issued a citation for operating a motor vehicle in violation of sections 27150 or 27151, I will explain the process to have them cleared or signed off.
If you received a citation for a car or truck, the only certified agency to sign off these types of violations is the Bureau of Automotive Repair, State Referee. You can call their Scheduling Center at (800) 622-7733 and make an appointment.
If you received a citation for a motorcycle, you are currently not required to take your motorcycle to a State Referee; the CHP can sign off these types of violations on motorcycles.
Once the citation has been signed off, you must show proof of correction to the court. Keep in mind the court now charges $25 for dismissible infractions.
As always buckle up and make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled, no matter how short or long your trip may be.
Officer Al Perez works out of the California Highway Patrol's Santa Fe Springs Division. E-mail him with your parking- or traffic-related questions to alf.perez@chp.ca.gov
http://www.whittierdailynews.com/news/ci_15606079 Ask a cop: Always ride or drive your vehicles quietly By Officer Al Perez Posted: 07/26/2010 12:22:35 PM PDT
I was asked recently about the rules and regulations for loud exhausts on cars and motorcycles.
Well, we do see many cars, trucks and motorcycles having altered exhaust systems. I have spoken to some owners who come in to our CHP office to have their citation cleared. When I asked why they made these changes to their vehicles, most of them said they did it because they thought it made their vehicle "sound cool," or they thought it would enhance the performance of their vehicles by increasing the horsepower.
I spoke with a motorcycle owner who came in to have a ticket signed off for a loud exhaust. He said one of the reasons he changed from stock to a louder exhaust was because he heard that "loud pipes save lives."
I did some research on "loud pipes save lives," and I could not find a credible study that shows riding a quiet motorcycle is any less safe than riding a loud one. In fact, there are thousands of riders who ride their quiet bikes safely every day.
There are many other proven ways to improve motorcycle safety, such as attending a safety class taught by a qualified instructor, wearing highly visible, bright color clothing, not riding when tired and absolutely no riding after consuming alcoholic beverages.
One of the articles I read said the following:
"The Harley Davidson Company asks its customers to ride quietly, and the largest motorcycle organizations, the American Motorcyclists Association and Motorcycle
Riders Foundation, also urge its members to ride quietly and respectfully." I found that there are many riders who truly believe the loud pipes on their motorcycles have saved their lives, while just as many others say you can really only hear those loud pipes when you're on the bike or behind the bike, because the sounds are emitting to the rear, and not the front.
In any case, when the owner of a motorcycle, car, or truck alters the exhaust system to make it louder, he or she is in violation of the law. In fact, motorcycles made after 1982 should have an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) noise compliance label.
If you look under "Noise Control System, Tampering" in any motorcycle owner's manual, you will see a warning to the owner that removal or replacement of any noise control system component may be prohibited by law. I also found out that most companies who sell after-market exhaust systems and mufflers display the following statement, "This product is designed for use in close course racing and not intended for highway use."
The following California Vehicle Code sections are the laws governing the alteration and amplification of exhausts systems on motor vehicles.
Section, 27150 (a) reads as follows: "Every motor vehicle subject to registration shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise, and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device."
This law applies to all motor vehicles on public highway and does not apply to passenger vehicles being operated off the highway in an organized race.
Section 27151 (a) reads as follows: "No person shall modify the exhaust system of a motor vehicle in a manner which will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the motor of the vehicle so that the vehicle is not in compliance with the provisions of Section 27150 or exceeds the noise limits established for the type of vehicle in Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 27200). No person shall operate a motor vehicle with an exhaust system so modified."
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has issued 15,045 citations for violation of section 27150 (a) and 13,799 citations for violation of section 27151 (a). These citations were issued from 2005 to current date and 1,965 of these citations were issued to motorcycles.
If you make these types of modifications to your car, truck or motorcycle for a reason such as, "sounds cool, more horsepower or loud pipes save lives," you are in violation of the law and are taking a risk of being cited for such violation/s.
If any of you have been issued a citation for operating a motor vehicle in violation of sections 27150 or 27151, I will explain the process to have them cleared or signed off.
If you received a citation for a car or truck, the only certified agency to sign off these types of violations is the Bureau of Automotive Repair, State Referee. You can call their Scheduling Center at (800) 622-7733 and make an appointment.
If you received a citation for a motorcycle, you are currently not required to take your motorcycle to a State Referee; the CHP can sign off these types of violations on motorcycles.
Once the citation has been signed off, you must show proof of correction to the court. Keep in mind the court now charges $25 for dismissible infractions.
As always buckle up and make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled, no matter how short or long your trip may be.
Officer Al Perez works out of the California Highway Patrol's Santa Fe Springs Division. E-mail him with your parking- or traffic-related questions to alf.perez@chp.ca.gov
Biker crackdown
OFF THE WIRE
Published on July 26th, 2010
Brodie Thomas There’s a phrase that crops up in news stories on a daily basis in this country. “The individual was known to police.”
There’s a phrase that crops up in news stories on a daily basis in this country.
“The individual was known to police.”
It always makes me want to ask how the police know the individual. Is he your neighbour? Your squash partner? A friend of a friend? Did you pull him over once for speeding? Or was he arrested for attempted murder?
It is an ambiguous phrase that implies guilt by association. In this case, association with the law.
But when we hear it, we all know what it means.
There was a different sort of guilt by association last week in St. John’s. Members of a known criminal organization, the Bacchus Motorcycle Club, were pulled over on the way to Cape Spear by members of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary.
The members of the group were from Nova Scotia and later spoke to the media, claiming they were unfairly targeted by the RNC.
The web comments on these stories were full of back and forth on whether or not the police were right to pull over the bikers. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was quoted by some, citing the right to freedom of association.
While Charter rights are certainly important, the RNC were on the ball for spotting this group and letting them know the police are watching.
If there had been twice as many bikers from your average, friendly motorcycle club such as the southwest coast’s Wreckhouse Riders, they wouldn’t have warranted a second glance from the police.
Having a bike does not make one a criminal. The vast majority ride for the love of the machines. The vast majority of motorcycle clubs are legitimate hobby groups.
But when you’re wearing the flag of a known criminal organization on your back, you’re asking for trouble.
The Bacchus have established links with the Hells Angels. Members of both groups have been convicted of everything from drug trafficking to murder. And criminal convictions against both groups will be seen in the future. I guarantee it.
The Hells Angels, especially, are good at public relations. They will often speak with the media and make public appearances. They will say they are simply the same as any motorcycle club, but that is a bold-faced lie.
Those who join the ranks of The Hells Angels or the Bacchus know what they’re getting into. Our society should stop playing along and giving them the benefit of the doubt when they cry about their Charter rights.
reporter@gulfnews.ca
Published on July 26th, 2010
Brodie Thomas There’s a phrase that crops up in news stories on a daily basis in this country. “The individual was known to police.”
There’s a phrase that crops up in news stories on a daily basis in this country.
“The individual was known to police.”
It always makes me want to ask how the police know the individual. Is he your neighbour? Your squash partner? A friend of a friend? Did you pull him over once for speeding? Or was he arrested for attempted murder?
It is an ambiguous phrase that implies guilt by association. In this case, association with the law.
But when we hear it, we all know what it means.
There was a different sort of guilt by association last week in St. John’s. Members of a known criminal organization, the Bacchus Motorcycle Club, were pulled over on the way to Cape Spear by members of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary.
The members of the group were from Nova Scotia and later spoke to the media, claiming they were unfairly targeted by the RNC.
The web comments on these stories were full of back and forth on whether or not the police were right to pull over the bikers. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was quoted by some, citing the right to freedom of association.
While Charter rights are certainly important, the RNC were on the ball for spotting this group and letting them know the police are watching.
If there had been twice as many bikers from your average, friendly motorcycle club such as the southwest coast’s Wreckhouse Riders, they wouldn’t have warranted a second glance from the police.
Having a bike does not make one a criminal. The vast majority ride for the love of the machines. The vast majority of motorcycle clubs are legitimate hobby groups.
But when you’re wearing the flag of a known criminal organization on your back, you’re asking for trouble.
The Bacchus have established links with the Hells Angels. Members of both groups have been convicted of everything from drug trafficking to murder. And criminal convictions against both groups will be seen in the future. I guarantee it.
The Hells Angels, especially, are good at public relations. They will often speak with the media and make public appearances. They will say they are simply the same as any motorcycle club, but that is a bold-faced lie.
Those who join the ranks of The Hells Angels or the Bacchus know what they’re getting into. Our society should stop playing along and giving them the benefit of the doubt when they cry about their Charter rights.
reporter@gulfnews.ca
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Aim High in Steering
OFF THE Wire
Aim High in Steering
by John Del Santo
Aim WAY up the road watching for tall trucks and
vans swerving in their lane to avoid things in the road.
Last month Caltrans picked up tons and tons of small
items off the freeways and about 50 mattresses, 20 ladders
and a dozen stoves and refrigerators. Last MONTH!
Keep a good following distance. Keeping a good two
or three second following distance will give you the time
and space to avoid things in the road.
Constant surface appraisal can help you keep the
shiny side UP!
Aim High in Steering
by John Del Santo
Aim WAY up the road watching for tall trucks and
vans swerving in their lane to avoid things in the road.
Last month Caltrans picked up tons and tons of small
items off the freeways and about 50 mattresses, 20 ladders
and a dozen stoves and refrigerators. Last MONTH!
Keep a good following distance. Keeping a good two
or three second following distance will give you the time
and space to avoid things in the road.
Constant surface appraisal can help you keep the
shiny side UP!
What puts wind in your sails?
Received this morning and thought I would pass it on . . .
Wind out of my Sails
What pulls the wind out of your sails? For me, I just have to reflect on how good men do virtually nothing to stop evil and how for the most part they don’t recognize it even when it crosses their path. I am also disheartened when good men make form more important than substance.
Form over Substance
Making form more important than substance is evil as far as I am concerned. I see a world that has made “Form” senior to “Substance” This teaches us appearance is everything. It is no wonder we can’t recognize right from wrong. We have a Constitution now in form only.
Constitution in form only
It is not uncommon for people to invoke the Constitution making its form senior to it purpose or substance. Someone came into my office and told me how he came to acquire some copies of our Constitution from the local congressman’s office. I then inquired as to where in the Constitution the congressman was given authority to take the fruits of our labor to hand out Constitutions. By what right do they act?
Rights and Responsibilities
Even the atheists among us concede that we all are endowed with certain rights. listed a few of them in the Declaration of Independence. Does anyone actually think these rights come to us without having to be responsible for them? Rights without sovereignty over them are rights in form only.
Spheres of jurisdiction
Who is sovereign over what realm? Do we own ourselves? Who gave us that ownership? Can we be sovereign over ourselves yet subject to a higher authority who would in turn be the ultimate sovereign? Can we delegate to a state sovereignty over citizens disputes or conflicts? If we do that have lost sovereignty over ourselves? If the State takes control over our endowed rights who then is sovereign?
What is the Purpose of the State?
Was the state not created to secure our rights? When the state violates its designated jurisdiction has form not become superior to substance? If the state takes from you what is yours by endowment (sovereignty over self) what then is that?
What is theft?
Theft is simply taking that which is not yours to take. It can come in many forms. Paper currency printed out of thin air takes from all of us. Our right to be self determined in our actions short of harming others being infringed on by government is a form of theft. Taxation for redistribution is theft and refusing to submit to it might be extremism in defense of liberty.
What is the touchstone of ?
You decide without violating someone else’s unalienable rights.
Can you have liberty when self determinism is destroyed?
No!
Why did God give us pain?
Pain is for the purpose of teaching not to do something that harms the body, mind or soul.
What would happen if we never felt hunger?
We would perish!
What happens if Government feeds people so they don’t feel hunger?
They will not do what is necessary to survive as survival is provided at the expense of someone else. This will cause us to eventually perish.
‘If you give up liberty in the name of security you will end up with neither’
This is not just Benjamin Franklin talking, it is a law of nature. is a two sided coin with responsibility on the other side. Security is impossible without liberty. If you give up liberty, life diminishes in the process.
Why is it we trade our liberty constantly for security?
I say that it is because we are also flawed with a “something for nothing” desire. We think that we will get security by not being responsible for it. We see the loss of liberty as being nothing and security being something. Thus we satisfy the something for nothing desire.
‘All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.’
Yes evil triumphs because good men want something for nothing. They want evil to lose without battling it. Evil is winning the day and it is doing so for this reason for because we value form over substance. Working on substance requires so much more effort than supporting form.
If a few good men do something but most do nothing is that also the same result?
I think the results are the same as a few doing a lot does not hold the line against evil. I think many have to do something even a little something for good to triumph.
The totalitarian regimes of Hitler, Mao, Stalin, and Pol Pot were the fault of whom?
You got it. Good men!
Barry M. Goldwater said ''extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice'' and that ''moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue.''
I would rather give up form than substance any day, and the substance of our system is now control and loss of freedom. The form looks good but the reality or substance doesn’t.
Is it extremism to refuse to take a license from the state to be a minister?
Is it extremism to refuse assent to confiscation of your labor?
Call me an extremist who does not conform to form. I wish you would judge only on substance and let form follow not lead.
What puts wind in my sails is for good men to recognize evil and to do something about it.
Wind out of my Sails
What pulls the wind out of your sails? For me, I just have to reflect on how good men do virtually nothing to stop evil and how for the most part they don’t recognize it even when it crosses their path. I am also disheartened when good men make form more important than substance.
Form over Substance
Making form more important than substance is evil as far as I am concerned. I see a world that has made “Form” senior to “Substance” This teaches us appearance is everything. It is no wonder we can’t recognize right from wrong. We have a Constitution now in form only.
Constitution in form only
It is not uncommon for people to invoke the Constitution making its form senior to it purpose or substance. Someone came into my office and told me how he came to acquire some copies of our Constitution from the local congressman’s office. I then inquired as to where in the Constitution the congressman was given authority to take the fruits of our labor to hand out Constitutions. By what right do they act?
Rights and Responsibilities
Even the atheists among us concede that we all are endowed with certain rights. listed a few of them in the Declaration of Independence. Does anyone actually think these rights come to us without having to be responsible for them? Rights without sovereignty over them are rights in form only.
Spheres of jurisdiction
Who is sovereign over what realm? Do we own ourselves? Who gave us that ownership? Can we be sovereign over ourselves yet subject to a higher authority who would in turn be the ultimate sovereign? Can we delegate to a state sovereignty over citizens disputes or conflicts? If we do that have lost sovereignty over ourselves? If the State takes control over our endowed rights who then is sovereign?
What is the Purpose of the State?
Was the state not created to secure our rights? When the state violates its designated jurisdiction has form not become superior to substance? If the state takes from you what is yours by endowment (sovereignty over self) what then is that?
What is theft?
Theft is simply taking that which is not yours to take. It can come in many forms. Paper currency printed out of thin air takes from all of us. Our right to be self determined in our actions short of harming others being infringed on by government is a form of theft. Taxation for redistribution is theft and refusing to submit to it might be extremism in defense of liberty.
What is the touchstone of ?
You decide without violating someone else’s unalienable rights.
Can you have liberty when self determinism is destroyed?
No!
Why did God give us pain?
Pain is for the purpose of teaching not to do something that harms the body, mind or soul.
What would happen if we never felt hunger?
We would perish!
What happens if Government feeds people so they don’t feel hunger?
They will not do what is necessary to survive as survival is provided at the expense of someone else. This will cause us to eventually perish.
‘If you give up liberty in the name of security you will end up with neither’
This is not just Benjamin Franklin talking, it is a law of nature. is a two sided coin with responsibility on the other side. Security is impossible without liberty. If you give up liberty, life diminishes in the process.
Why is it we trade our liberty constantly for security?
I say that it is because we are also flawed with a “something for nothing” desire. We think that we will get security by not being responsible for it. We see the loss of liberty as being nothing and security being something. Thus we satisfy the something for nothing desire.
‘All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.’
Yes evil triumphs because good men want something for nothing. They want evil to lose without battling it. Evil is winning the day and it is doing so for this reason for because we value form over substance. Working on substance requires so much more effort than supporting form.
If a few good men do something but most do nothing is that also the same result?
I think the results are the same as a few doing a lot does not hold the line against evil. I think many have to do something even a little something for good to triumph.
The totalitarian regimes of Hitler, Mao, Stalin, and Pol Pot were the fault of whom?
You got it. Good men!
Barry M. Goldwater said ''extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice'' and that ''moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue.''
I would rather give up form than substance any day, and the substance of our system is now control and loss of freedom. The form looks good but the reality or substance doesn’t.
Is it extremism to refuse to take a license from the state to be a minister?
Is it extremism to refuse assent to confiscation of your labor?
Call me an extremist who does not conform to form. I wish you would judge only on substance and let form follow not lead.
What puts wind in my sails is for good men to recognize evil and to do something about it.
Feds Peel Back Chrome On Motorcycle Gangs
OFF THE WIRE
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128826377
by Carrie Johnson
July 29, 2010
Audio for this story from Morning Edition will be available at approx. 9:00 a.m. ET
Transcript
July 29, 2010
Last month, federal agents spanned out over seven states to arrest more than two dozen members of the Outlaws motorcycle club and charged them with weapons and racketeering offenses.
The case lifted a curtain on the violent lifestyle of one of the nation's largest outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Joel Page/AP
Members of the Outlaws motorcycle club pass a roadblock as they ride through Hollis Center, Maine. Club members gathered for a memorial service for Thomas Mayne, a club leader who was killed during a shootout with federal agents on June 15. ATF agents were trying to arrest Mayne in his home in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
The gangs don't usually get much attention, aside from a cable television show called the Sons of Anarchy.
But far away from TV screens, investigators are working to infiltrate the closed societies of biker gangs and bring criminal cases against their leaders.
"The investigation shows this group was a calculated criminal enterprise that was involved in trying to take over territory, narcotics routes, gambling establishments, and to utilize the brand of the Outlaws to facilitate criminal acts of not only themselves but other clubs," said Rich Marianos, who supervised the Outlaws case for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sex, Parties And Celebrity
Gang members follow a few simple rules: They have to be men ages 21 and older. They need to ride American-made motorcycles. They meet regularly in sessions they call "church," and they pay dues, usually $100 a month, to cover legal bills and funeral expenses.
Terry Katz investigates biker gangs and says guys who follow biker culture often pay with their blood. One biker in Maine, for instance, died in a hail of gunfire during the Outlaw arrests in June.
"It's a very, very violent existence," Katz said. "You're either going to die from a motorcycle wreck or from a rival gang. You're going to go to jail, usually for substantial periods of time. For them, they live for the moment. They would rather live a life of sex, parties, being treated like a celebrity, for moments ... rather than have a long-term plan of retirement."
New members work their way into the club by serving a kind of probationary period, running errands and sometimes breaking the law.
Neil MacBride, the U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia, said in court papers that Outlaws recognize each other through tattoos and patches they wear on their leather vests.
We're not a gang; we're a club.
- Mark Lester, Outlaw member
"One example is a patch with the letters G-F-O-D, which signifies God Forgives, Outlaws Don't," MacBride said. "Another patch they use reads, 'Snitches Are a Dying Breed,' which signifies the gang's commitment to identify, expel and, if necessary, murder individuals associated with the club who cooperate with law enforcement."
Earlier this year, Outlaw member Mark Lester told a television station in Knoxville, Tenn., that he has a right to meet and ride bikes with his friends.
"None of us are doing anything illegal," Lester said. "We're not a gang; we're a club. We ride and have fun together and that's what the organization is put together to do ... to have charitable events, help the community, and that's what we've been doing."
Lester is one of several former Outlaw leaders arrested this summer. He's now living in a Virginia jail while he and the others await trial in Richmond.
Along For The Ride
Defense lawyers for some of the Outlaws say the government is overreaching in its criminal case. They have signaled in court papers that they will challenge the portrait of the gang as a dangerous, criminal group. And they may argue that investigators entrapped the Outlaws into dealing and using drugs and violence to get their way.
In all, the Outlaws boast more than 1,500 members across the U.S. and a dozen different countries. Investigators say it's usually too dangerous or legally risky to rely on gang members to build a case. Instead, they try to plant undercover agents to go along for the ride.
That's what happened in the Virginia case against the Outlaws. Several undercover operatives became full-fledged members of the gang. They recorded conversations and tipped off police about violent confrontations in the works.
Edgar Domenich leads the ATF's Washington office. He said undercover operatives who sacrifice their own personal lives are essential to the ATF's operation.
"It only works when you have law enforcement undercover agents involved from the very inception," Domenich said.
The strategy poses some risks. Katz, the longtime gang investigator, says biker gangs have gotten sophisticated. Some use polygraphs and private investigators to check out new members. Others scour court records for evidence that applicants to the gang may have testified in a criminal case against bikers.
Related NPR Stories
Federal Charges Target Mongols Motorcycle Gang Oct. 22, 2008
"More and more, they come to rely almost the way industry does on background investigations. And certainly with the Internet, it's easier to get a lot of information about an individual more quickly than it was when I did it," Katz said.
Prosecutor MacBride said that the Justice Department will continue to devote resources to biker cases because the gangs pose a threat to public safety.
"The press recently reported in New Hampshire the shooting of a teenage boy at a pizza joint who was caught in the crossfire between the Outlaws and other motorcycle gang members," MacBride said.
Investigators are still combing through assault weapons, bomb-making manuals, and Nazi flags they uncovered in searches of Outlaw property.
Law enforcement sources say more charges are likely before the Outlaws' trial in October.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128826377
by Carrie Johnson
July 29, 2010
Audio for this story from Morning Edition will be available at approx. 9:00 a.m. ET
Transcript
July 29, 2010
Last month, federal agents spanned out over seven states to arrest more than two dozen members of the Outlaws motorcycle club and charged them with weapons and racketeering offenses.
The case lifted a curtain on the violent lifestyle of one of the nation's largest outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Joel Page/AP
Members of the Outlaws motorcycle club pass a roadblock as they ride through Hollis Center, Maine. Club members gathered for a memorial service for Thomas Mayne, a club leader who was killed during a shootout with federal agents on June 15. ATF agents were trying to arrest Mayne in his home in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
The gangs don't usually get much attention, aside from a cable television show called the Sons of Anarchy.
But far away from TV screens, investigators are working to infiltrate the closed societies of biker gangs and bring criminal cases against their leaders.
"The investigation shows this group was a calculated criminal enterprise that was involved in trying to take over territory, narcotics routes, gambling establishments, and to utilize the brand of the Outlaws to facilitate criminal acts of not only themselves but other clubs," said Rich Marianos, who supervised the Outlaws case for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sex, Parties And Celebrity
Gang members follow a few simple rules: They have to be men ages 21 and older. They need to ride American-made motorcycles. They meet regularly in sessions they call "church," and they pay dues, usually $100 a month, to cover legal bills and funeral expenses.
Terry Katz investigates biker gangs and says guys who follow biker culture often pay with their blood. One biker in Maine, for instance, died in a hail of gunfire during the Outlaw arrests in June.
"It's a very, very violent existence," Katz said. "You're either going to die from a motorcycle wreck or from a rival gang. You're going to go to jail, usually for substantial periods of time. For them, they live for the moment. They would rather live a life of sex, parties, being treated like a celebrity, for moments ... rather than have a long-term plan of retirement."
New members work their way into the club by serving a kind of probationary period, running errands and sometimes breaking the law.
Neil MacBride, the U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia, said in court papers that Outlaws recognize each other through tattoos and patches they wear on their leather vests.
We're not a gang; we're a club.
- Mark Lester, Outlaw member
"One example is a patch with the letters G-F-O-D, which signifies God Forgives, Outlaws Don't," MacBride said. "Another patch they use reads, 'Snitches Are a Dying Breed,' which signifies the gang's commitment to identify, expel and, if necessary, murder individuals associated with the club who cooperate with law enforcement."
Earlier this year, Outlaw member Mark Lester told a television station in Knoxville, Tenn., that he has a right to meet and ride bikes with his friends.
"None of us are doing anything illegal," Lester said. "We're not a gang; we're a club. We ride and have fun together and that's what the organization is put together to do ... to have charitable events, help the community, and that's what we've been doing."
Lester is one of several former Outlaw leaders arrested this summer. He's now living in a Virginia jail while he and the others await trial in Richmond.
Along For The Ride
Defense lawyers for some of the Outlaws say the government is overreaching in its criminal case. They have signaled in court papers that they will challenge the portrait of the gang as a dangerous, criminal group. And they may argue that investigators entrapped the Outlaws into dealing and using drugs and violence to get their way.
In all, the Outlaws boast more than 1,500 members across the U.S. and a dozen different countries. Investigators say it's usually too dangerous or legally risky to rely on gang members to build a case. Instead, they try to plant undercover agents to go along for the ride.
That's what happened in the Virginia case against the Outlaws. Several undercover operatives became full-fledged members of the gang. They recorded conversations and tipped off police about violent confrontations in the works.
Edgar Domenich leads the ATF's Washington office. He said undercover operatives who sacrifice their own personal lives are essential to the ATF's operation.
"It only works when you have law enforcement undercover agents involved from the very inception," Domenich said.
The strategy poses some risks. Katz, the longtime gang investigator, says biker gangs have gotten sophisticated. Some use polygraphs and private investigators to check out new members. Others scour court records for evidence that applicants to the gang may have testified in a criminal case against bikers.
Related NPR Stories
Federal Charges Target Mongols Motorcycle Gang Oct. 22, 2008
"More and more, they come to rely almost the way industry does on background investigations. And certainly with the Internet, it's easier to get a lot of information about an individual more quickly than it was when I did it," Katz said.
Prosecutor MacBride said that the Justice Department will continue to devote resources to biker cases because the gangs pose a threat to public safety.
"The press recently reported in New Hampshire the shooting of a teenage boy at a pizza joint who was caught in the crossfire between the Outlaws and other motorcycle gang members," MacBride said.
Investigators are still combing through assault weapons, bomb-making manuals, and Nazi flags they uncovered in searches of Outlaw property.
Law enforcement sources say more charges are likely before the Outlaws' trial in October.
Biker bash set for Burnside this weekend
OFF THE WIRE
By DAN ARSENAULT Crime Reporter
Tue, Jul 27 - 4:55 PM
A Dartmouth-area hotel will become biker central this weekend when the Maritime Biker Federation holds its annual summertime get together.
The now-defunct Halifax Hells Angels chapter created the federation in 2000 and made the gatherings mandatory for members, who are members of their affiliated motorcycle clubs: the Charlottetown Harley Club, the Highlanders from the Antigonish region and Bacchus. Bacchus has several clubs in New Brunswick and a new club in Halifax, which was created out of the old East Coast Riders.
Halifax Bacchus is hosting this year’s event for the federation, and most of the activity will be centred around the Burnside Hotel.
“It’s a private federation and this will be a private party,” said RCMP Const. Stephen MacQueen, who investigates outlaw biker gangs for the provincial intelligence unit.
“It’s simply an event where they get together and party.”
MacQueen said attendance is mandatory for members of the biker’s federation.
He said other motorcycle clubs will send members. There will be Vagabonds, Para-Dice Riders and Red Devils from Ontario, plus a number of Hells Angels from various chapters in central Canada.
“One of the reasons for their event is to show their colours,” MacQueen said.
Police expect up to 120 bikers at the event, which will likely include a barbecue, a group ride (or run) and some partying.
MacQueen said these events usually don’t generate much trouble, although there are sometimes violations of the Motor Vehicle Act.
“We’ve been in touch with them already to lay down kind of the ground rules, how we’re not going to tolerate any offences,” he said. “If there are any problems we’ll have manpower on to deal with them.”
A manager at the Burnside Hotel, who didn’t want to give his name, said they don’t intend to alter their security of make any other changes because of this week’s guests.
(darsenault@herald.ca)
By DAN ARSENAULT Crime Reporter
Tue, Jul 27 - 4:55 PM
A Dartmouth-area hotel will become biker central this weekend when the Maritime Biker Federation holds its annual summertime get together.
The now-defunct Halifax Hells Angels chapter created the federation in 2000 and made the gatherings mandatory for members, who are members of their affiliated motorcycle clubs: the Charlottetown Harley Club, the Highlanders from the Antigonish region and Bacchus. Bacchus has several clubs in New Brunswick and a new club in Halifax, which was created out of the old East Coast Riders.
Halifax Bacchus is hosting this year’s event for the federation, and most of the activity will be centred around the Burnside Hotel.
“It’s a private federation and this will be a private party,” said RCMP Const. Stephen MacQueen, who investigates outlaw biker gangs for the provincial intelligence unit.
“It’s simply an event where they get together and party.”
MacQueen said attendance is mandatory for members of the biker’s federation.
He said other motorcycle clubs will send members. There will be Vagabonds, Para-Dice Riders and Red Devils from Ontario, plus a number of Hells Angels from various chapters in central Canada.
“One of the reasons for their event is to show their colours,” MacQueen said.
Police expect up to 120 bikers at the event, which will likely include a barbecue, a group ride (or run) and some partying.
MacQueen said these events usually don’t generate much trouble, although there are sometimes violations of the Motor Vehicle Act.
“We’ve been in touch with them already to lay down kind of the ground rules, how we’re not going to tolerate any offences,” he said. “If there are any problems we’ll have manpower on to deal with them.”
A manager at the Burnside Hotel, who didn’t want to give his name, said they don’t intend to alter their security of make any other changes because of this week’s guests.
(darsenault@herald.ca)
Gang leader to be released from jail
OFF THE WIRE
By Paul Cherry, Montreal Gazette July 27, 2010 Despite showing little progress toward rehabilitation while serving the past eight years behind bars, Gerald (Gerry) Matticks is scheduled to be released long before the end of his 12-year prison term.
Matticks, reputed to be a leader in the West End Gang, will reach his statutory release date on Aug. 6, the two-third mark of the sentence he received in 2002 after pleading guilty to several charges related to multi-million dollar drug smuggling conspiracies carried out through the Port of Montreal.
Because he was previously turned down for parole, twice, Matticks automatically qualifies for a release under federal sentencing laws. The National Parole Board was recently left with the sole option of releasing him and imposing strict conditions on Matticks's release, despite being advised he made "no particular progress and (has) gained no significant insight into (his) criminal involvement in the (drug smuggling) offences."
Matticks, worked at the port during the 1970s and he wielded considerable influence there while he was snared in a police investigation into how the Hells Angels handled the millions of dollars they made while controlling a large share of drug trafficking in Montreal. Money secretly flowed through apartments in Anjou that the biker gang used as banks, complete with safes, money counters and a computerized accounting system. When the police figured out their accounting system they noticed large amounts of money were being paid to an account belonging to Matticks.
Investigators later learned Matticks was using his influence at the port to help the Hells Angels get hundreds of kilograms of cocaine through. It was alleged during subsequent trials, involving members of the Hells Angels, that Matticks made $13 million in 2000 alone while he helped the biker gang. Matticks denied this during a parole hearing in 2009.
Now, according to a written summary of the parole board's decision to impose conditions, Matticks, 70, wants to "withdraw" to a farm he owns when he is released. His case management team advised the parole board that they "are not convinced that (Matticks) will not be tempted to resume (his) criminal activities once back in the community." They also described his release plan a "rather vague and unstructured." Because of this, the parole board has required that Matticks supply a financial accounting of his revenue and expenses to a parole officer during the remaining four years of his sentence.
He is also required to complete a "community skills maintenance program" and to avoid meeting with anyone he believes might have a criminal record.
pcherry@thegazette.canwest.com
Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Gang+leader+released+from+jail/3327785/story.html#ixzz0uwh89LnG
By Paul Cherry, Montreal Gazette July 27, 2010 Despite showing little progress toward rehabilitation while serving the past eight years behind bars, Gerald (Gerry) Matticks is scheduled to be released long before the end of his 12-year prison term.
Matticks, reputed to be a leader in the West End Gang, will reach his statutory release date on Aug. 6, the two-third mark of the sentence he received in 2002 after pleading guilty to several charges related to multi-million dollar drug smuggling conspiracies carried out through the Port of Montreal.
Because he was previously turned down for parole, twice, Matticks automatically qualifies for a release under federal sentencing laws. The National Parole Board was recently left with the sole option of releasing him and imposing strict conditions on Matticks's release, despite being advised he made "no particular progress and (has) gained no significant insight into (his) criminal involvement in the (drug smuggling) offences."
Matticks, worked at the port during the 1970s and he wielded considerable influence there while he was snared in a police investigation into how the Hells Angels handled the millions of dollars they made while controlling a large share of drug trafficking in Montreal. Money secretly flowed through apartments in Anjou that the biker gang used as banks, complete with safes, money counters and a computerized accounting system. When the police figured out their accounting system they noticed large amounts of money were being paid to an account belonging to Matticks.
Investigators later learned Matticks was using his influence at the port to help the Hells Angels get hundreds of kilograms of cocaine through. It was alleged during subsequent trials, involving members of the Hells Angels, that Matticks made $13 million in 2000 alone while he helped the biker gang. Matticks denied this during a parole hearing in 2009.
Now, according to a written summary of the parole board's decision to impose conditions, Matticks, 70, wants to "withdraw" to a farm he owns when he is released. His case management team advised the parole board that they "are not convinced that (Matticks) will not be tempted to resume (his) criminal activities once back in the community." They also described his release plan a "rather vague and unstructured." Because of this, the parole board has required that Matticks supply a financial accounting of his revenue and expenses to a parole officer during the remaining four years of his sentence.
He is also required to complete a "community skills maintenance program" and to avoid meeting with anyone he believes might have a criminal record.
pcherry@thegazette.canwest.com
Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Gang+leader+released+from+jail/3327785/story.html#ixzz0uwh89LnG
ATTIKA7 in OC sat nite
OFF THE WIRE
downtown HB walnut and main at Gallagers sat nite
-Rusty
attika7.com
http://il.youtube.com/user/Attika7rocks
downtown HB walnut and main at Gallagers sat nite
-Rusty
attika7.com
http://il.youtube.com/user/Attika7rocks
CASacto 9-1-1: Folsom PD announces safety crackdown on motorcyclists Aug. 13-15
OFF THE WIRE
CALIFORNIA:
http://www.modbee.com/2010/07/27/1269133/sacto-9-1-1-folsom-pd-announces.html
Sacto 9-1-1: Folsom PD announces safety crackdown on motorcyclists Aug. 13-15 By Cathy Locke - clocke@sacbee.com
The Folsom Police Department will be conducting a specialized motorcycle safety enforcement operation Aug. 13-15, according to a department news release.
Additional officers will patrol areas frequented by motorcyclists and where prior crashes have occurred, the release states.
Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other violations which lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
Inexperience is cited as a major factor leading to motorcycle crashes. Police encourage riders of all ages to seek training and safety information. Training is available through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. For information and training locations, see the website at www.CA-msp.org, or call (877) 743-3411.
Funding for the operation was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
CALIFORNIA:
http://www.modbee.com/2010/07/27/1269133/sacto-9-1-1-folsom-pd-announces.html
Sacto 9-1-1: Folsom PD announces safety crackdown on motorcyclists Aug. 13-15 By Cathy Locke - clocke@sacbee.com
The Folsom Police Department will be conducting a specialized motorcycle safety enforcement operation Aug. 13-15, according to a department news release.
Additional officers will patrol areas frequented by motorcyclists and where prior crashes have occurred, the release states.
Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as other violations which lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
Inexperience is cited as a major factor leading to motorcycle crashes. Police encourage riders of all ages to seek training and safety information. Training is available through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. For information and training locations, see the website at www.CA-msp.org, or call (877) 743-3411.
Funding for the operation was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
Loud Motorcycles Ride Despite Noise Law Violation
OFF THE WIRE
ARIZONA:
In response to the article below:
Loud Motorcycles Ride Despite Noise Law Violation
Mr. Salinger-I note that your report didn't include how loud the City of Denver's OWN Police motorcycles are. When the ordinance was 'invoked', Denver's Police bikes were HARLEY DAVIDSONS. Those bikes were purchased new from the manufacturer & maintained according to manufacturer's specifications. Those bikes, AT THE FACTORY, measured 84 decibels (db), according to Federal mandate, which require all new models be tested. So it's no wonder Denver P.D. doesn't stop all those bikes that may have "modified" exhaust systems. I'll bet this little tidbit of information goes over real well with the local magistrates, every time some "biker", who's being harrassed, shows up in court to fight what is obviously a discriminatory law...huh?
Sincerely, David "Doc" Pratt, Secretary, JOURNEYMEN M/C
PRESCOTT (AZ)
ARIZONA:
In response to the article below:
Loud Motorcycles Ride Despite Noise Law Violation
Mr. Salinger-I note that your report didn't include how loud the City of Denver's OWN Police motorcycles are. When the ordinance was 'invoked', Denver's Police bikes were HARLEY DAVIDSONS. Those bikes were purchased new from the manufacturer & maintained according to manufacturer's specifications. Those bikes, AT THE FACTORY, measured 84 decibels (db), according to Federal mandate, which require all new models be tested. So it's no wonder Denver P.D. doesn't stop all those bikes that may have "modified" exhaust systems. I'll bet this little tidbit of information goes over real well with the local magistrates, every time some "biker", who's being harrassed, shows up in court to fight what is obviously a discriminatory law...huh?
Sincerely, David "Doc" Pratt, Secretary, JOURNEYMEN M/C
PRESCOTT (AZ)
State Highway Patrol urges biker safety as Sturgis rally approaches
Off the Wire
News
South Dakota may not have a helmet law for motorcyclists, but that doesn't mean bikers shouldn't wear them, according to state Highway Patrol officials.
"As fun as motorcycles are, you're very vulnerable if you're riding one," Major Randy Hartley, acting superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, said in a news release. "The best protection for anyone on a motorcycle is a helmet."
Last year, 16 motorcyclists died and 508 were injured in crashes on South Dakota highways. Statistics show that nearly 30 percent of motorcycle crashes in South Dakota occurred in four counties -- Custer, Lawrence, Meade and Pennington -- during a 12-day period surrounding the Sturgis motorcycle rally
"When the rally approaches, we see increased bike traffic mixing with the already heavy summer motorist travel," Hartley said. "Bikers and motorists can increase their chances of staying safe as they travel if they make an extra effort to be aware of each other and respectful of each other's presence on the road."
Among tips the Highway Patrol recommends include:
Motorcyclists should ride in single-file or staggered lines and avoid crowding the center line or crowding motorists.
Motorists should remember not to crowd cycles. Motorcycles have the same rights on the road as motorists.
Motorists and cyclists should follow the recommended speed limits. Motorcyclists should be especially aware of speed limits on curves.
It is against the law to drink and drive. Motorists and cyclists should make sure they have sober drivers.
Motorists should remember to buckle up.
Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets.
The Sturgis rally officially begins Aug. 9 and concludes Aug. 15.
original article
News
South Dakota may not have a helmet law for motorcyclists, but that doesn't mean bikers shouldn't wear them, according to state Highway Patrol officials.
"As fun as motorcycles are, you're very vulnerable if you're riding one," Major Randy Hartley, acting superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, said in a news release. "The best protection for anyone on a motorcycle is a helmet."
Last year, 16 motorcyclists died and 508 were injured in crashes on South Dakota highways. Statistics show that nearly 30 percent of motorcycle crashes in South Dakota occurred in four counties -- Custer, Lawrence, Meade and Pennington -- during a 12-day period surrounding the Sturgis motorcycle rally
"When the rally approaches, we see increased bike traffic mixing with the already heavy summer motorist travel," Hartley said. "Bikers and motorists can increase their chances of staying safe as they travel if they make an extra effort to be aware of each other and respectful of each other's presence on the road."
Among tips the Highway Patrol recommends include:
Motorcyclists should ride in single-file or staggered lines and avoid crowding the center line or crowding motorists.
Motorists should remember not to crowd cycles. Motorcycles have the same rights on the road as motorists.
Motorists and cyclists should follow the recommended speed limits. Motorcyclists should be especially aware of speed limits on curves.
It is against the law to drink and drive. Motorists and cyclists should make sure they have sober drivers.
Motorists should remember to buckle up.
Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets.
The Sturgis rally officially begins Aug. 9 and concludes Aug. 15.
original article
Sons of Anarchy in the news
OFF THE WIRE
http://www.ugo.com/tv/comic-con-2010-sons-of-anarchy Comic-Con 2010: Sons of Anarchy Confirms Motorcycles, Fighting We rev the engines and hear what the cast and crew had to say about the upcoming season of Sons of Anarchy at Comic-Con 2010.
By Kevin Fitzpatrick
More... Credit: FX VitalsProducts: Sons of Anarchy Genres: Drama Studio: FX Cast Members: Charlie Hunnam, Ron Perlman Network: FX Rev up your bikes, because on September 7th Sons of Anarchy is going to hit the pavement with a vengeance.
The Biker Boys were sadly granted only half a panel, enough time to show off a quick trailer, and chat with cast members Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal, Charlie Hunnam, and creator Kurt Sutter, none of whom seemed entirely too enthused to be there.
Then again, Ron Perlman never seems to be in a good mood, except when he's joking about preferring his luxurious Mercedes to Clay's hog.
Here's what we gleamed from the trailer and talkback:
Lots of Motorcycle action, chases and fight sequences...which isn't surprising. Jax exasperatedly claiming "This has to be the end." The season will pick up three or four days after the last finale, dealing with the emotional consequences of Abel's kidnapping, and the legal consequences of Gemma being on the lam. The civil war between Clay and Jax will be put on hold for the time being, as Jax needs Clay to help guide him through this difficult time. "It's all hands on deck," regarding the tone of the upcoming season. Charlie and Ron joked about needing time to recover from that last fight scene. At least four episodes will be set in Belfast, Ireland tracking down the IRA. Sutter indicated that he'd like to delve into backstories, particularly John Teller's, but would never use flashbacks to do so. Having lost their prospect, the Sons will gain three new prospects half-way through the season. You have to love Ron Perlman addressing a fan's inquiry about upcoming plots, by saying spoilers would be a disservice to the storytelling they're trying to do, and balancing it with "just watch the god damn thing." We'll get a little more of the backstory between Gemma and John. Gemma will indeed be kicking much more ass, and "getting very familiar with a gun." Go Leela! Keep the motors running, Sons!
http://www.ugo.com/tv/comic-con-2010-sons-of-anarchy Comic-Con 2010: Sons of Anarchy Confirms Motorcycles, Fighting We rev the engines and hear what the cast and crew had to say about the upcoming season of Sons of Anarchy at Comic-Con 2010.
By Kevin Fitzpatrick
More... Credit: FX VitalsProducts: Sons of Anarchy Genres: Drama Studio: FX Cast Members: Charlie Hunnam, Ron Perlman Network: FX Rev up your bikes, because on September 7th Sons of Anarchy is going to hit the pavement with a vengeance.
The Biker Boys were sadly granted only half a panel, enough time to show off a quick trailer, and chat with cast members Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal, Charlie Hunnam, and creator Kurt Sutter, none of whom seemed entirely too enthused to be there.
Then again, Ron Perlman never seems to be in a good mood, except when he's joking about preferring his luxurious Mercedes to Clay's hog.
Here's what we gleamed from the trailer and talkback:
Lots of Motorcycle action, chases and fight sequences...which isn't surprising. Jax exasperatedly claiming "This has to be the end." The season will pick up three or four days after the last finale, dealing with the emotional consequences of Abel's kidnapping, and the legal consequences of Gemma being on the lam. The civil war between Clay and Jax will be put on hold for the time being, as Jax needs Clay to help guide him through this difficult time. "It's all hands on deck," regarding the tone of the upcoming season. Charlie and Ron joked about needing time to recover from that last fight scene. At least four episodes will be set in Belfast, Ireland tracking down the IRA. Sutter indicated that he'd like to delve into backstories, particularly John Teller's, but would never use flashbacks to do so. Having lost their prospect, the Sons will gain three new prospects half-way through the season. You have to love Ron Perlman addressing a fan's inquiry about upcoming plots, by saying spoilers would be a disservice to the storytelling they're trying to do, and balancing it with "just watch the god damn thing." We'll get a little more of the backstory between Gemma and John. Gemma will indeed be kicking much more ass, and "getting very familiar with a gun." Go Leela! Keep the motors running, Sons!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Maine... checkpoint yields 22 tickets
OFF THE WIRE
MAINE:
http://www.pressherald.com/news/Sundays-motorcycle-checkpoint-in-Arundel-yields-22-tickets-.html Motorcycle checkpoint in Arundel yields 22 tickets By David Hench dhench@mainetoday.com Staff Writer
July 26
Deputies with the York County Sheriff's Office issued citations to roughly 20 percent of the motorcycles stopped at an inspection checkpoint Sunday.
The deputies stopped 116 motorcycles on Route 1 in Arundel checking to make sure they had been inspected and that the riders were aware of new motorcycle laws that took affect this month, according to a press release from Sheriff Maurice Ouellette.
The deputies issued 21 tickets for motorcycles not being inspected and one for not being legally registered. The deputies also stopped 21 cars and gave out six tickets for not having an inspection sticker, the release said.
Motorcyclists were told that a new state law makes it illegal to modify a bike to increase exhaust noise, requires a headlight to be on at all times and restricts the height of handlebars.
Additional motorcycle checkpoints are scheduled for later this summer in Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.
MAINE:
http://www.pressherald.com/news/Sundays-motorcycle-checkpoint-in-Arundel-yields-22-tickets-.html Motorcycle checkpoint in Arundel yields 22 tickets By David Hench dhench@mainetoday.com Staff Writer
July 26
Deputies with the York County Sheriff's Office issued citations to roughly 20 percent of the motorcycles stopped at an inspection checkpoint Sunday.
The deputies stopped 116 motorcycles on Route 1 in Arundel checking to make sure they had been inspected and that the riders were aware of new motorcycle laws that took affect this month, according to a press release from Sheriff Maurice Ouellette.
The deputies issued 21 tickets for motorcycles not being inspected and one for not being legally registered. The deputies also stopped 21 cars and gave out six tickets for not having an inspection sticker, the release said.
Motorcyclists were told that a new state law makes it illegal to modify a bike to increase exhaust noise, requires a headlight to be on at all times and restricts the height of handlebars.
Additional motorcycle checkpoints are scheduled for later this summer in Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.
MASSACHUSETTS:MMA/MRF CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
OFF THE WIRE, And For You To SEnd In,
Screwdiver
MASSACHUSETTS:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MMA/MRF CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
The MMA has long opposed motorcycle-only checkpoints such as those used last year in Sterling, MA, and in neighboring states such as NY. For NHTSA to propose using taxpayer money to propagate this is something we should all be significantly concerned with.
Where the MMA is your Motorcycle Rights Organizaiton here in MA, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is our National Counterpart watching out for your rights in Washington. The MRF Call To Action is something we should all read and consider taking action upon. For example:
Honorable Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Transportation
Dear Secretary LaHood,
I find it disturbing that the National Highway Transportation Safety Authority would consider using my tax dollars against law abiding citizens, yet that’s exactly what I understand is being proposed in their recent call for grant applications solely aimed against Motorcyclists.
I’m one of those law abiding citizens, and I urge you to intervene. The suggestion that more Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints, which I consider a violation of my civil rights, is not part of our system of government, nor will it solve any problems.
There are many issues facing motorcyclists on the road that could and should be addressed – perhaps it’s time to work towards broader education including right-of-way violations rather than Motorcycle-Only checkpoints.
Sincerely,
Member, Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
For More information, please see http://www.massmotorcycle.org or contact Rick Gleason, MMA Legislative Director at LegislativeDirector@MassMotorcycle.org or Doc D’Errico, MRF MA State Representative at doc@derrico.net
Forwarded Message:
MRF E-MAIL NEWS Motorcycle Riders Foundation
236 Massachusetts Ave. NE | Suite 510 | Washington, DC 20002-4980
202-546-0983 (voice) | 202-546-0986 (fax) | http://www.mrf.org
MRF URGENT CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
A mandatory roadside motorcycle stop may be coming to a town near you, reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked for applications from law enforcement outfits to apply for a new pot of taxpayer money designated for pulling motorcyclists off the road to lecture them about safety.
A mandatory roadside motorcycle stop may be coming to a town near you, reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked for applications from law enforcement outfits to apply for a new pot of taxpayer money designated for pulling motorcyclists off the road to lecture them about safety.
The MRF strongly opposes this sort of discrimination against motorcyclists. “Pulling over law-abiding motorcyclists does not make anyone safer and is huge waste of taxpayer money,” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs for the MRF.
NHTSA’s request for applications asks law enforcement officials to submit plans similar to what New York State Police did last summer. They set up outside big public motorcycle gatherings and pulled every single motorcyclist over to the side of the road to lecture them about safety, drinking and riding, proper tire inflation, and so on.
The MRF feels there are much more productive and less discriminatory ways to promote safety for motorcyclists, and is disappointed that this approach was decided upon behind closed doors by a group of federal employees who apparently did not consult anyone in the motorcycling community for their input and expertise in motorcycle safety.
This particular project is limited to five law enforcement agencies, and total funding is capped at $350,000. In these tough economic times, that’s a ton of money. The deadline for applications is August 13, and to the MRF’s knowledge, no applications have yet been submitted.
The MRF will be investigating to determine if NHTSA and the federal government have legal jurisdiction to fund states to single out one particular type of vehicle for clearly discriminatory practices over other vehicles, and will be working diligently to see that these proposed grants are never awarded.
The MRF encourages you to contact U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood today to voice your displeasure, either by phone: 202-366-4000 or by email: http://ntl.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntl.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php
Contact Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs, at Jeff@mrf.org if you have any questions or need further information.
Screwdiver
MASSACHUSETTS:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MMA/MRF CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
The MMA has long opposed motorcycle-only checkpoints such as those used last year in Sterling, MA, and in neighboring states such as NY. For NHTSA to propose using taxpayer money to propagate this is something we should all be significantly concerned with.
Where the MMA is your Motorcycle Rights Organizaiton here in MA, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is our National Counterpart watching out for your rights in Washington. The MRF Call To Action is something we should all read and consider taking action upon. For example:
Honorable Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Transportation
Dear Secretary LaHood,
I find it disturbing that the National Highway Transportation Safety Authority would consider using my tax dollars against law abiding citizens, yet that’s exactly what I understand is being proposed in their recent call for grant applications solely aimed against Motorcyclists.
I’m one of those law abiding citizens, and I urge you to intervene. The suggestion that more Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints, which I consider a violation of my civil rights, is not part of our system of government, nor will it solve any problems.
There are many issues facing motorcyclists on the road that could and should be addressed – perhaps it’s time to work towards broader education including right-of-way violations rather than Motorcycle-Only checkpoints.
Sincerely,
Member, Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
For More information, please see http://www.massmotorcycle.org or contact Rick Gleason, MMA Legislative Director at LegislativeDirector@MassMotorcycle.org or Doc D’Errico, MRF MA State Representative at doc@derrico.net
Forwarded Message:
MRF E-MAIL NEWS Motorcycle Riders Foundation
236 Massachusetts Ave. NE | Suite 510 | Washington, DC 20002-4980
202-546-0983 (voice) | 202-546-0986 (fax) | http://www.mrf.org
MRF URGENT CALL TO ACTION - Mandatory Motorcycle Roadside Stops
A mandatory roadside motorcycle stop may be coming to a town near you, reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked for applications from law enforcement outfits to apply for a new pot of taxpayer money designated for pulling motorcyclists off the road to lecture them about safety.
A mandatory roadside motorcycle stop may be coming to a town near you, reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked for applications from law enforcement outfits to apply for a new pot of taxpayer money designated for pulling motorcyclists off the road to lecture them about safety.
The MRF strongly opposes this sort of discrimination against motorcyclists. “Pulling over law-abiding motorcyclists does not make anyone safer and is huge waste of taxpayer money,” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs for the MRF.
NHTSA’s request for applications asks law enforcement officials to submit plans similar to what New York State Police did last summer. They set up outside big public motorcycle gatherings and pulled every single motorcyclist over to the side of the road to lecture them about safety, drinking and riding, proper tire inflation, and so on.
The MRF feels there are much more productive and less discriminatory ways to promote safety for motorcyclists, and is disappointed that this approach was decided upon behind closed doors by a group of federal employees who apparently did not consult anyone in the motorcycling community for their input and expertise in motorcycle safety.
This particular project is limited to five law enforcement agencies, and total funding is capped at $350,000. In these tough economic times, that’s a ton of money. The deadline for applications is August 13, and to the MRF’s knowledge, no applications have yet been submitted.
The MRF will be investigating to determine if NHTSA and the federal government have legal jurisdiction to fund states to single out one particular type of vehicle for clearly discriminatory practices over other vehicles, and will be working diligently to see that these proposed grants are never awarded.
The MRF encourages you to contact U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood today to voice your displeasure, either by phone: 202-366-4000 or by email: http://ntl.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntl.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php
Contact Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs, at Jeff@mrf.org if you have any questions or need further information.
Hells Angels linked to man found guilty of smuggling ecstasy into the U.S.~
OFF THE WIRE
By Andy Ivens, The Province July 26, 2010 •Story A Washington state man caught smuggling $2 million worth of ecstasy tablets — which he said came from Hells Angels in Canada — was sentenced to 14 years in a U.S. prison Monday.
Christopher Walters, 41, of Ferndale, Wash., received the load of illegal MDMA, or ecstasy, last July from a co-conspirator who drove a jet ski from B.C. to an isolated cove in the San Juan Islands, according to a U.S. Department of Justice press release.
At Walters’s sentencing hearing, prosecutor Lisca Borichewski introduced evidence of a conversation Walters had with a fellow inmate at a Seattle-area jail in March.
Walters told the man, identified in court documents as “confidential source,” he needed to kill the witnesses against him at his upcoming trial.
“Walters said the product came from Canada and belonged to the HA’s (Hells Angels),” said a court document obtained by The Province.
The confidential source began co-operating with the authorities, who urged him to suggest he knew someone who could kill the witnesses Walters wanted eliminated.
“Walters said that it would be OK, however, and he didn’t need a guy because the Hells Angels knew where one of the witnesses was living,” said the document.
Walters, who has a lengthy criminal record including crimes of violence, drew suspicions from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents after he was stopped by U.S. Coast Guard officers in Bellingham Bay in his 19-foot Larsen vessel on July 10, 2009 for a safety inspection.
The Coast Guard found a small amount of marijuana, $1,000 in U.S. bills, numerous cell phones, a global positioning system and a pair of walkie-talkie radios.
On July 17, agents followed Walters and two other co-conspirators to a Ferndale storage facility. A drug dog was called in, and the agents obtained a search warrant for the locker, where they found 100,000 ecstasy pills.
Walters went into hiding, but was arrested Sept. 12 at his girlfriend’s apartment.
“Walters made statements to other co-conspirators that he was being paid $30,000 per load to smuggle drugs for the Hells Angels organized crime group in Canada,” said the press release.
U.S. District Judge James L. Robart took a dim view of Walters’s smuggling activities.
“We need to have sentences that put people on notice in the U.S. and Canada that this conduct will not be tolerated,” he said.
aivens@theprovince.com
Read more: http://www.theprovince.com/news/Hells+Angels+linked+found+guilty+smuggling+ecstasy+into/3325777/story.html#ixzz0uwgKTCXW
By Andy Ivens, The Province July 26, 2010 •Story A Washington state man caught smuggling $2 million worth of ecstasy tablets — which he said came from Hells Angels in Canada — was sentenced to 14 years in a U.S. prison Monday.
Christopher Walters, 41, of Ferndale, Wash., received the load of illegal MDMA, or ecstasy, last July from a co-conspirator who drove a jet ski from B.C. to an isolated cove in the San Juan Islands, according to a U.S. Department of Justice press release.
At Walters’s sentencing hearing, prosecutor Lisca Borichewski introduced evidence of a conversation Walters had with a fellow inmate at a Seattle-area jail in March.
Walters told the man, identified in court documents as “confidential source,” he needed to kill the witnesses against him at his upcoming trial.
“Walters said the product came from Canada and belonged to the HA’s (Hells Angels),” said a court document obtained by The Province.
The confidential source began co-operating with the authorities, who urged him to suggest he knew someone who could kill the witnesses Walters wanted eliminated.
“Walters said that it would be OK, however, and he didn’t need a guy because the Hells Angels knew where one of the witnesses was living,” said the document.
Walters, who has a lengthy criminal record including crimes of violence, drew suspicions from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents after he was stopped by U.S. Coast Guard officers in Bellingham Bay in his 19-foot Larsen vessel on July 10, 2009 for a safety inspection.
The Coast Guard found a small amount of marijuana, $1,000 in U.S. bills, numerous cell phones, a global positioning system and a pair of walkie-talkie radios.
On July 17, agents followed Walters and two other co-conspirators to a Ferndale storage facility. A drug dog was called in, and the agents obtained a search warrant for the locker, where they found 100,000 ecstasy pills.
Walters went into hiding, but was arrested Sept. 12 at his girlfriend’s apartment.
“Walters made statements to other co-conspirators that he was being paid $30,000 per load to smuggle drugs for the Hells Angels organized crime group in Canada,” said the press release.
U.S. District Judge James L. Robart took a dim view of Walters’s smuggling activities.
“We need to have sentences that put people on notice in the U.S. and Canada that this conduct will not be tolerated,” he said.
aivens@theprovince.com
Read more: http://www.theprovince.com/news/Hells+Angels+linked+found+guilty+smuggling+ecstasy+into/3325777/story.html#ixzz0uwgKTCXW
local 6 business meeting
FRIDAY FRIDAY FRIDAY FRIDAY FRIDAY
ABATE LOCAL 6 MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETING
The ABATE Local 6 Business Meeting happens before The Local 6 Monthly Meeting..
This month's business meeting will be on FRIDAY , JULY 30TH 2010
at 6:30 PM at :
JOE'S PIZZA 5583 CLAIREMONT MESA BLVD SAN DIEGO
IN A MALL ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF CLAIREMONT MESA BLVD, IMMEDIATELY WEST OF ROUTE I-805
At the meeting, we discuss the matters that will be covered at Sunday's
meeting.
WHILE LOCAL OFFICERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND, This is NOT just an
officers meeting.....any member is welcome to attend. Questions ???
call John at ( 619 ) 223-0421 ).
ABATE LOCAL 6 MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETING
The ABATE Local 6 Business Meeting happens before The Local 6 Monthly Meeting..
This month's business meeting will be on FRIDAY , JULY 30TH 2010
at 6:30 PM at :
JOE'S PIZZA 5583 CLAIREMONT MESA BLVD SAN DIEGO
IN A MALL ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF CLAIREMONT MESA BLVD, IMMEDIATELY WEST OF ROUTE I-805
At the meeting, we discuss the matters that will be covered at Sunday's
meeting.
WHILE LOCAL OFFICERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND, This is NOT just an
officers meeting.....any member is welcome to attend. Questions ???
call John at ( 619 ) 223-0421 ).
Second trial set for local man in Pagans case
OFF THE WIRE
July 27, 2010 @ 12:00 AM
CURTIS JOHNSON
Herald-Dispatch.com
HUNTINGTON — A 38-year-old man from Huntington will face a jury Thursday for the second time in as many weeks.
Michael Lloyd Stevens of Huntington faces one count of retaliating against a witness. He was arrested as part of an October 2009 dragnet in several states that rounded up 55 members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club.
Prosecutors tried Stevens’ case last week, but the brief trial ended with a hung jury.
U.S. District Judge Thomas E. Johnston has ordered both sides to try again beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday, July 29, in Charleston.
The indictment charges that Stevens participated with others in autumn 2005 in an estimated three-month conspiracy aimed at injuring an incarcerated Pagan believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
At the time, Stevens was a prison guard at Federal Correctional Institution Ashland. His employment ended in April 2006.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has said nobody died as a result of the alleged conspiracy.
Stevens was among eight local residents charged in the Pagans indictment. The others have been resolved.
A plea hearing once was scheduled in Stevens’ case, but the plea was withdrawn.
July 27, 2010 @ 12:00 AM
CURTIS JOHNSON
Herald-Dispatch.com
HUNTINGTON — A 38-year-old man from Huntington will face a jury Thursday for the second time in as many weeks.
Michael Lloyd Stevens of Huntington faces one count of retaliating against a witness. He was arrested as part of an October 2009 dragnet in several states that rounded up 55 members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club.
Prosecutors tried Stevens’ case last week, but the brief trial ended with a hung jury.
U.S. District Judge Thomas E. Johnston has ordered both sides to try again beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday, July 29, in Charleston.
The indictment charges that Stevens participated with others in autumn 2005 in an estimated three-month conspiracy aimed at injuring an incarcerated Pagan believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
At the time, Stevens was a prison guard at Federal Correctional Institution Ashland. His employment ended in April 2006.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has said nobody died as a result of the alleged conspiracy.
Stevens was among eight local residents charged in the Pagans indictment. The others have been resolved.
A plea hearing once was scheduled in Stevens’ case, but the plea was withdrawn.
E-MAIL BLAST
ABATE LOCAL 6
E-MAIL BLAST
FUTURE EVENTS_____________
SUNDAY AUGUST 1 ABATE Local 6 Monthly Meeting. 12 Noon at Kate Sessions Park , in PB.
Bring a Friend !
SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 1st Fundraiser Party for “TAPS” Teen and Adolescent Services. 1 PM – 5 PM at Kennedy’s Custom Bikes. Oceanside .
SUNDAY AUGUST 8 ABATE Local 11. 11 AM at Connies's. Valley Center , overlooking Lake Wohlford
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 16 Local 27 “Party in the Park” Riverside.
SEPTEMBER 18 – 20 “THE GOLDEN STATE RENDEVOUS” The ABATE State Run at Frandy Campground in Kernville, CA. The best party of the year !
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 18 Annual ROSARITO BEACH Harley Run. Registration at SWEETWATER HARLEY 9:30 am – 11:00 AM.
(bring your paperwork & ID)
E-MAIL BLAST
FUTURE EVENTS_____________
SUNDAY AUGUST 1 ABATE Local 6 Monthly Meeting. 12 Noon at Kate Sessions Park , in PB.
Bring a Friend !
SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 1st Fundraiser Party for “TAPS” Teen and Adolescent Services. 1 PM – 5 PM at Kennedy’s Custom Bikes. Oceanside .
SUNDAY AUGUST 8 ABATE Local 11. 11 AM at Connies's. Valley Center , overlooking Lake Wohlford
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 16 Local 27 “Party in the Park” Riverside.
SEPTEMBER 18 – 20 “THE GOLDEN STATE RENDEVOUS” The ABATE State Run at Frandy Campground in Kernville, CA. The best party of the year !
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 18 Annual ROSARITO BEACH Harley Run. Registration at SWEETWATER HARLEY 9:30 am – 11:00 AM.
(bring your paperwork & ID)
CA: Cracking down on drunk driving
OFF THE WIRE
http://www.ksbw.com/news/24402881/detail.html CHP Cracking Down On Drunken Driving Schedule Change May Help Reduce DUI-Related Crashes POSTED: 8:32 pm PDT July 26, 2010 UPDATED: 8:59 pm PDT July 26, 2010
MONTEREY, Calif. -- The Monterey County California Highway Patrol is making some major changes to its patrols designed to crack down on more drunken drivers and reduce the number of collisions.
CHP Capt. William Perlstein said there have been 10 collisions and 11 people killed in the area.
The quest to keep people safe has spurred Perlstein to change the number of officers he has on local highways and when.
Perlstein said they've looked at six months worth of data to find out when things are happening, when people are injured and killed on highways.
He said what he learned surprise him.
Perlstein said generally they do a lot of work during commute times Monday through Friday, but he said what is unique in Monterey County is they have a lot of tourists on weekends.
With an even higher traffic count on weekends than during commute hours, officers' schedules have been shifted to target those times.
Perlstein said during peak activity -- 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. -- six to eight additional officers are on the road and a DUI vehicle has been designated.
Perlstein said since they started the DUI program July 5 -- for five nights of work -- two officers have made 17 DUI arrests. He said that tells him the program is effective and there are drivers out there we need to work harder to get them off the road.
Completely removing the DUI element of problems on highways could reduce number of fatalities by 40 percent.
Statistics from the new schedules will be collected for the next six months and then analyzed to see if the changes are working.
http://www.ksbw.com/news/24402881/detail.html CHP Cracking Down On Drunken Driving Schedule Change May Help Reduce DUI-Related Crashes POSTED: 8:32 pm PDT July 26, 2010 UPDATED: 8:59 pm PDT July 26, 2010
MONTEREY, Calif. -- The Monterey County California Highway Patrol is making some major changes to its patrols designed to crack down on more drunken drivers and reduce the number of collisions.
CHP Capt. William Perlstein said there have been 10 collisions and 11 people killed in the area.
The quest to keep people safe has spurred Perlstein to change the number of officers he has on local highways and when.
Perlstein said they've looked at six months worth of data to find out when things are happening, when people are injured and killed on highways.
He said what he learned surprise him.
Perlstein said generally they do a lot of work during commute times Monday through Friday, but he said what is unique in Monterey County is they have a lot of tourists on weekends.
With an even higher traffic count on weekends than during commute hours, officers' schedules have been shifted to target those times.
Perlstein said during peak activity -- 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. -- six to eight additional officers are on the road and a DUI vehicle has been designated.
Perlstein said since they started the DUI program July 5 -- for five nights of work -- two officers have made 17 DUI arrests. He said that tells him the program is effective and there are drivers out there we need to work harder to get them off the road.
Completely removing the DUI element of problems on highways could reduce number of fatalities by 40 percent.
Statistics from the new schedules will be collected for the next six months and then analyzed to see if the changes are working.
Tennessee Primary Election
OFF THE WIRE
The Tennessee Primary Election is August 5, and three Republicans and one Democrat are in the running for the governor's seat.
Mike McWherter, son of a former Governor, is running unopposed on the Democratic ticket.
Current Lt. Governor and State Senator, Ron Ramsey; current Knoxville mayor Bill Haslem; and current US Congressman from the 3rd District (Chattanooga area) Zach Wamp are running on the Republican ticket.
Lt. Gov Ramsey will not loose his state senate seat if he does not win his primary. Ramsey is a supporter of motorcyclists. he has been very good on his votes for motorcyclists issues in the Tennessee Senate, and very kind to the Wreaths across America captain in Tennessee, who is also a motorcyclist and member of Patriot Guard. We need him to lead our efforts in the Senate.
Bill Haslem has not made any declarations, nor does he have any legislative history, regarding his interest in motorcyclists' issues. We believe he would not be a dynamic champion for us as motorcyclists, nor as a proponent of the grassroots process of government.
Zach Wamp, since 1994, has been a Champion for motorcyclists in the US Congressional arena. His voting record on our behalf is perfect. He led a press conference on our behalf on November 16, 2007. The MRFPAC has donated to his federal campaigns. He regularly refers to motorcyclists as pure in their grassroots activism and compliments us for our unwaivering patriotism and steadfast belief in freedom. Several times over the past years, Zach has appeared at the start up of the annual Trail of Tears motorcycle ride. He has had an open door policy that is refreshing and appreciated by the motorcycling community in DC and Tennessee. CMT/ABATE does not endorse candidates, as we do not believe in "telling people how to vote." However, this is as close as it gets. Zach's common sense and conservativism will serve us well as both citizens and motorcyclists as our next Governor of Tennessee.
Please share this information with any and all who live and vote in Tennessee. Photos of Zach at our Swapmeet in April, 2010 available on request.
thank you for your interest and attention.
Carol Simpson
Tennessee Motorcyclist
615 944 9797
csfreedom@aol.com
The Tennessee Primary Election is August 5, and three Republicans and one Democrat are in the running for the governor's seat.
Mike McWherter, son of a former Governor, is running unopposed on the Democratic ticket.
Current Lt. Governor and State Senator, Ron Ramsey; current Knoxville mayor Bill Haslem; and current US Congressman from the 3rd District (Chattanooga area) Zach Wamp are running on the Republican ticket.
Lt. Gov Ramsey will not loose his state senate seat if he does not win his primary. Ramsey is a supporter of motorcyclists. he has been very good on his votes for motorcyclists issues in the Tennessee Senate, and very kind to the Wreaths across America captain in Tennessee, who is also a motorcyclist and member of Patriot Guard. We need him to lead our efforts in the Senate.
Bill Haslem has not made any declarations, nor does he have any legislative history, regarding his interest in motorcyclists' issues. We believe he would not be a dynamic champion for us as motorcyclists, nor as a proponent of the grassroots process of government.
Zach Wamp, since 1994, has been a Champion for motorcyclists in the US Congressional arena. His voting record on our behalf is perfect. He led a press conference on our behalf on November 16, 2007. The MRFPAC has donated to his federal campaigns. He regularly refers to motorcyclists as pure in their grassroots activism and compliments us for our unwaivering patriotism and steadfast belief in freedom. Several times over the past years, Zach has appeared at the start up of the annual Trail of Tears motorcycle ride. He has had an open door policy that is refreshing and appreciated by the motorcycling community in DC and Tennessee. CMT/ABATE does not endorse candidates, as we do not believe in "telling people how to vote." However, this is as close as it gets. Zach's common sense and conservativism will serve us well as both citizens and motorcyclists as our next Governor of Tennessee.
Please share this information with any and all who live and vote in Tennessee. Photos of Zach at our Swapmeet in April, 2010 available on request.
thank you for your interest and attention.
Carol Simpson
Tennessee Motorcyclist
615 944 9797
csfreedom@aol.com
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
11 plead not guilty in wedding chapel brawl
OFF THE WIRE
FRANCIS MCCABE
Eleven of 13 co-defendants, including members of the infamous Hells Angels Motorcycle Club , pleaded not guilty Tuesday to assault charges related to a brawl with rival gang members at a downtown wedding chapel in December 2008.
The 13 men were indicted by a grand jury this month on multiple felony and gross misdemeanor counts, including four counts of battery, three counts of battery with use of a deadly weapon, two counts of attempted murder with use of a deadly weapon, and one count each of assault with a deadly weapon, coercion with force and coercion with a deadly weapon.
Two of the defendants, Samuel Murray and Armando Porras, did not have legal representation Tuesday, so their arraignment was delayed until Thursday.
The following men pleaded not guilty to the charges: Charles Goldsmith, Brad Goldsmith, Dominic Orlando, Frederick O'Dell, Brandon Young, James Sexey, John Dawson, Jeffrey Murray, John Merchant, Joseph Gennuso and Joshua Ramos.
Two of the men charged, Gennuso and Ramos, are not members of the Hells Angels, according to their attorneys.
Authorities say there were at least six victims during the melee, including three members of the Mongols biker gang, two of whom were stabbed. The brawl took place at A Special Memory Wedding Chapel on Fourth Street and Gass Avenue.
Defense attorneys have said the 13 men were acting in self-defense.
The brawl followed a wedding ceremony that the Hells Angels were attending. As they were leaving the ceremony, they saw three Mongols who were at the chapel for a different wedding, according to authorities.
The 13 men attacked the Mongols, bludgeoning them with their fists, feet, bottles and trash cans, according to authorities and the indictment.
A female victim was chased from the chapel by a Hells Angel who threw a bottle at her, according to the indictment.
Authorities allege that Jeffrey Murray and Merchant stabbed two Mongols.
Many of the charges allege substantial bodily harm and intent to promote gang activity, which could lead to lengthier sentences if the men are convicted.
Judge Michael Villani ordered bail set at $100,000 for each of the defendants after the indictment was handed down. According to jail records, all but one of the defendants, Samuel Murray, has posted bail.
Initially, no one was charged after the Dec. 20, 2008, incident. Las Vegas police spent two years developing the case and gathering evidence, including video footage.
In November 2009, police served search warrants at six valley locations in connection to several ongoing investigations into the Hells Angels, including the chapel stabbing.
Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039.
FRANCIS MCCABE
Eleven of 13 co-defendants, including members of the infamous Hells Angels Motorcycle Club , pleaded not guilty Tuesday to assault charges related to a brawl with rival gang members at a downtown wedding chapel in December 2008.
The 13 men were indicted by a grand jury this month on multiple felony and gross misdemeanor counts, including four counts of battery, three counts of battery with use of a deadly weapon, two counts of attempted murder with use of a deadly weapon, and one count each of assault with a deadly weapon, coercion with force and coercion with a deadly weapon.
Two of the defendants, Samuel Murray and Armando Porras, did not have legal representation Tuesday, so their arraignment was delayed until Thursday.
The following men pleaded not guilty to the charges: Charles Goldsmith, Brad Goldsmith, Dominic Orlando, Frederick O'Dell, Brandon Young, James Sexey, John Dawson, Jeffrey Murray, John Merchant, Joseph Gennuso and Joshua Ramos.
Two of the men charged, Gennuso and Ramos, are not members of the Hells Angels, according to their attorneys.
Authorities say there were at least six victims during the melee, including three members of the Mongols biker gang, two of whom were stabbed. The brawl took place at A Special Memory Wedding Chapel on Fourth Street and Gass Avenue.
Defense attorneys have said the 13 men were acting in self-defense.
The brawl followed a wedding ceremony that the Hells Angels were attending. As they were leaving the ceremony, they saw three Mongols who were at the chapel for a different wedding, according to authorities.
The 13 men attacked the Mongols, bludgeoning them with their fists, feet, bottles and trash cans, according to authorities and the indictment.
A female victim was chased from the chapel by a Hells Angel who threw a bottle at her, according to the indictment.
Authorities allege that Jeffrey Murray and Merchant stabbed two Mongols.
Many of the charges allege substantial bodily harm and intent to promote gang activity, which could lead to lengthier sentences if the men are convicted.
Judge Michael Villani ordered bail set at $100,000 for each of the defendants after the indictment was handed down. According to jail records, all but one of the defendants, Samuel Murray, has posted bail.
Initially, no one was charged after the Dec. 20, 2008, incident. Las Vegas police spent two years developing the case and gathering evidence, including video footage.
In November 2009, police served search warrants at six valley locations in connection to several ongoing investigations into the Hells Angels, including the chapel stabbing.
Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039.
Quotes From Hunter S. Thompson's Book - Hell's Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
OFF THE WIRE
by Richard Wing, Factoidz Writer (Ranked #9 expert in Biographies & Figures)
American Journalist, Hunter S. Thompson, gained exposure and success from his first book, "Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs", published in 1966. His association with the Hell’s Angels started in the mid-1960’s. The non-fiction book put him on the map of new authors that had spawned out of the beat generation. The book accurately describes the Hell’s Angels as a gang of outlaw thugs who wreak havoc within society and have a general disdain for authority. After completing the book, he was severely beaten by this gang of menacing misfits, and here are several quotes by Hunter S. Thompson regarding the Hell’s Angels.
"The hard core, the outlaw elite, were the Hell’s Angels… wearing the winged death’s-head on the back of their sleeveless jackets and packing their "mamas" behind them on big "chopped hogs." They rode with a fine unwashed arrogance, secure in their reputation as the rottenest motorcycle gang in the whole history of Christendom." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S.Thompson)
"The Edge… There is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over. The others- the living- are those who pushed their luck as far as they felt they could handle it, and then pulled back, or slowed down, or did whatever they had to when it came time to choose between now and later." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S.Thompson)
"Filthy Huns Breeding like rats in California and spreading east. Listen for the roar of the Harley’s. You will hear it in the distance like thunder. And then, wafting in on the breeze, will come the scent of dried blood and human grease … the noise will grow louder and they will appear, on the west horizon, eyes bugged and bloodshot, foam on the lips, chewing some rooty essence smuggled in from a foreign jungle … they will ravish your women, loot your liquor stores and humiliate your mayor on a bench on the village square …" (source Chapter 3, p. 36 Hell’s Angels Hunter S. Thompson)
"Tiny hurts people. When he loses his temper he goes completely out of control and his huge body becomes a lethal weapon. It is difficult to see what role he might play in the Great Society." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S. Thompson)
"A man who has blown all his options can’t afford the luxury of changing his ways. He has to capitalize on whatever he has left, and he can’t afford to admit — no matter how often he’s reminded of it — that every day of his life takes him farther and farther down a blind alley… Very few toads in this world are Prince Charmings in disguise. Most are simply toads… and they are going to stay that way… Toads don’t make laws or change any basic structures, but one or two rooty insights can work powerful changes in the way they get through life. A toad who believes he got a raw deal before he even knew who was dealing will usually be sympathetic to the mean, vindictive ignorance that colors the Hell’s Angel’s view of humanity. There is not much mental distance between a feeling of having been screwed and the ethic of total retaliation, or at least the random revenge that comes with outraging the public decency." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S. Thompson)
"When they are not thus engaged, the Angels - sometimes accompanied by the young children of a member or by the unmarried females who hang out with the club - often rent a dilapidated house on the edge of town, where they swap girls, drugs and motorcycles with equal abandon. In between drug induced stupors, the Angels go on motorcycle stealing forays, even have a panel truck with a special ramp for loading the stolen machines. Afterward, they may ride off again to seek some new nadir in sordid behavior." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S. Thompson)
Websters definition of a gang - a group of people working or acting together; to attack as a group.
Source - Retro Bites: Hunter S. Thompson & Hell’s Angels (1967)
by Richard Wing, Factoidz Writer (Ranked #9 expert in Biographies & Figures)
American Journalist, Hunter S. Thompson, gained exposure and success from his first book, "Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs", published in 1966. His association with the Hell’s Angels started in the mid-1960’s. The non-fiction book put him on the map of new authors that had spawned out of the beat generation. The book accurately describes the Hell’s Angels as a gang of outlaw thugs who wreak havoc within society and have a general disdain for authority. After completing the book, he was severely beaten by this gang of menacing misfits, and here are several quotes by Hunter S. Thompson regarding the Hell’s Angels.
"The hard core, the outlaw elite, were the Hell’s Angels… wearing the winged death’s-head on the back of their sleeveless jackets and packing their "mamas" behind them on big "chopped hogs." They rode with a fine unwashed arrogance, secure in their reputation as the rottenest motorcycle gang in the whole history of Christendom." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S.Thompson)
"The Edge… There is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over. The others- the living- are those who pushed their luck as far as they felt they could handle it, and then pulled back, or slowed down, or did whatever they had to when it came time to choose between now and later." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S.Thompson)
"Filthy Huns Breeding like rats in California and spreading east. Listen for the roar of the Harley’s. You will hear it in the distance like thunder. And then, wafting in on the breeze, will come the scent of dried blood and human grease … the noise will grow louder and they will appear, on the west horizon, eyes bugged and bloodshot, foam on the lips, chewing some rooty essence smuggled in from a foreign jungle … they will ravish your women, loot your liquor stores and humiliate your mayor on a bench on the village square …" (source Chapter 3, p. 36 Hell’s Angels Hunter S. Thompson)
"Tiny hurts people. When he loses his temper he goes completely out of control and his huge body becomes a lethal weapon. It is difficult to see what role he might play in the Great Society." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S. Thompson)
"A man who has blown all his options can’t afford the luxury of changing his ways. He has to capitalize on whatever he has left, and he can’t afford to admit — no matter how often he’s reminded of it — that every day of his life takes him farther and farther down a blind alley… Very few toads in this world are Prince Charmings in disguise. Most are simply toads… and they are going to stay that way… Toads don’t make laws or change any basic structures, but one or two rooty insights can work powerful changes in the way they get through life. A toad who believes he got a raw deal before he even knew who was dealing will usually be sympathetic to the mean, vindictive ignorance that colors the Hell’s Angel’s view of humanity. There is not much mental distance between a feeling of having been screwed and the ethic of total retaliation, or at least the random revenge that comes with outraging the public decency." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S. Thompson)
"When they are not thus engaged, the Angels - sometimes accompanied by the young children of a member or by the unmarried females who hang out with the club - often rent a dilapidated house on the edge of town, where they swap girls, drugs and motorcycles with equal abandon. In between drug induced stupors, the Angels go on motorcycle stealing forays, even have a panel truck with a special ramp for loading the stolen machines. Afterward, they may ride off again to seek some new nadir in sordid behavior." (source Hell’s Angels - Hunter S. Thompson)
Websters definition of a gang - a group of people working or acting together; to attack as a group.
Source - Retro Bites: Hunter S. Thompson & Hell’s Angels (1967)
MOTTINGHAM: Appeals by five men jailed for Hell's Angel Gerry Tobin murder refused
OFF THE WIRE
APPEALS launched by five men jailed for the murder of Mottingham Hell's Angel Gerry Tobin have been refused.
The entire South Warwickshire chapter of the Outlaws was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court in November 2008 after being convicted of shooting Mr Tobin as he rode along the M40 in August 2007.
Two shots were fired at the 35-year-old biker from two different handguns as he returned home from the Hell's Angel Bulldog Bash festival in Warwickshire.
One of the bullets skimmed the base of Mr Tobin's helmet, lodging in his skull and killing him instantly.
Simon Turner, aged 41, from Nuneaton, Warwickshire, who was given a minimum term of 30 years for murder and two firearms offences, was appealing his conviction.
Coventry man Karl Garside, aged 45, who received 26 years for murder, was also appealing his conviction as was Ian Cameron, aged 46, also from Coventry, who received a minimum of 25 years for the same charge.
Sean Creighton, aged 44, from Coventry, was appealing against his sentence of a minimum of 28 years and six months in prison for murder and two firearms charges.
Dean Taylor, aged 47, from Coventry, who is serving at least 30 years in prison for murder and possessing a shotgun, was appealing against both his sentence and conviction.
The men appeared in the Court of Appeal on Friday.
Two other members sentenced were Dane Garside, aged 42, from Coventry, who received a minimum 27 years for murder and two firearms offences and Malcolm Bull, aged 53, from Milton Keynes, who was sentenced to a minimum of 25 years in prison for murder and possessing a shotgun.
APPEALS launched by five men jailed for the murder of Mottingham Hell's Angel Gerry Tobin have been refused.
The entire South Warwickshire chapter of the Outlaws was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court in November 2008 after being convicted of shooting Mr Tobin as he rode along the M40 in August 2007.
Two shots were fired at the 35-year-old biker from two different handguns as he returned home from the Hell's Angel Bulldog Bash festival in Warwickshire.
One of the bullets skimmed the base of Mr Tobin's helmet, lodging in his skull and killing him instantly.
Simon Turner, aged 41, from Nuneaton, Warwickshire, who was given a minimum term of 30 years for murder and two firearms offences, was appealing his conviction.
Coventry man Karl Garside, aged 45, who received 26 years for murder, was also appealing his conviction as was Ian Cameron, aged 46, also from Coventry, who received a minimum of 25 years for the same charge.
Sean Creighton, aged 44, from Coventry, was appealing against his sentence of a minimum of 28 years and six months in prison for murder and two firearms charges.
Dean Taylor, aged 47, from Coventry, who is serving at least 30 years in prison for murder and possessing a shotgun, was appealing against both his sentence and conviction.
The men appeared in the Court of Appeal on Friday.
Two other members sentenced were Dane Garside, aged 42, from Coventry, who received a minimum 27 years for murder and two firearms offences and Malcolm Bull, aged 53, from Milton Keynes, who was sentenced to a minimum of 25 years in prison for murder and possessing a shotgun.
Pagan's defendant given probation in W.Va. case, WV
The Associated Press
CHARLESTON, W.Va.
OFF THE WIRE
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) รข€” A Virginia man who pleaded no contest to a state conspiracy charge in a kidnapping case involving former leaders of the Pagan's Motorcycle Club has been put on probation for two years.
Michael Grayson says he's returning home now that the case is over. The 65-year-old Grayson had faced up to five years.
Grayson originally was charged with participating in the alleged kidnapping of several members of the Pagan's Charleston chapter in 2003 during an internal dispute.
Grayson was not among the 56 members and associates of the motorcycle club charged in a federal racketeering case last fall.
___
Information from: WCHS-TV, http://www.wchstv.com
Read originial ==>> Fredericksburg.com - Pagan's defendant given probation in W.Va. case, WV http://fredericksburg.com/News/apmethods/apstory?urlfeed=WFA/content/AP%20Virginia%20State%20News%20-%20No%20Weather/935231e563b94a04a770b48ac3aebf7f-7ae904412fdf4a61a4823c51fe1a0810-entry.xml#ixzz0uql8LC4K
CHARLESTON, W.Va.
OFF THE WIRE
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) รข€” A Virginia man who pleaded no contest to a state conspiracy charge in a kidnapping case involving former leaders of the Pagan's Motorcycle Club has been put on probation for two years.
Michael Grayson says he's returning home now that the case is over. The 65-year-old Grayson had faced up to five years.
Grayson originally was charged with participating in the alleged kidnapping of several members of the Pagan's Charleston chapter in 2003 during an internal dispute.
Grayson was not among the 56 members and associates of the motorcycle club charged in a federal racketeering case last fall.
___
Information from: WCHS-TV, http://www.wchstv.com
Read originial ==>> Fredericksburg.com - Pagan's defendant given probation in W.Va. case, WV http://fredericksburg.com/News/apmethods/apstory?urlfeed=WFA/content/AP%20Virginia%20State%20News%20-%20No%20Weather/935231e563b94a04a770b48ac3aebf7f-7ae904412fdf4a61a4823c51fe1a0810-entry.xml#ixzz0uql8LC4K
Supreme Court jury fails to reach verdict on Sydney bikie's execution killing
OFF THE WIRE
Jodie Minus From: The Australian July 26, 2010
A NSW jury has been unable to reach a verdict in the murder trial of a man accused of the execution killing of bikie gang member Todd O'Connor.
Hugo Jacobs, 28, was on trial in the Supreme Court for the shooting murder of O'Connor on a street at Tempe in Sydney in 2008.
O'Connor, 41, was an associate of Kings Cross nightclub entrepreneur John Ibrahim, whose character, played by actor Firass Dirani, featured in the most recent series of the Nine Network's Underbelly.
Father-of- four O'Connor was also portrayed in Underbelly 3: The Golden Mile as the tuxedo-wearing, balding doorman who carried Ibrahim to hospital after he had been stabbed in the stomach.
The jury had earlier been by Mr Jacobs' barrister, Philip Dunn QC, to put aside prejudice when hearing names of people who featured in the Underbelly television series.
Last Friday Justice Robert Shallcross Hulme directed the jury to try for a majority verdict of 11 to one.
The jury, of mostly young people aged under 30, returned this morning to announce it could not reach a verdict.
Justice Hulme set the retrial down for mention on August 6.
The mother, sister and aunt of O'Connor, who were in court, cried when they learned of the hung jury.
Mr Jacobs has applied for bail, which is opposed by police. The bail application was adjourned to later today.
Prosecutors alleged Mr Jacobs either shot O'Connor with the help of another person or arranged for two hit-men to carry out the job.
Crown prosecutor John Kiely SC said Mr Jacobs owed $300,000 to O'Connor, which was allegedly the motivation for him being being shot seven times in the body and three times in the head.
At the time of his death, O'Connor was under surveillance by the NSW Crime Commission and phone calls between him and Mr Jacobs were being intercepted.
Jodie Minus From: The Australian July 26, 2010
A NSW jury has been unable to reach a verdict in the murder trial of a man accused of the execution killing of bikie gang member Todd O'Connor.
Hugo Jacobs, 28, was on trial in the Supreme Court for the shooting murder of O'Connor on a street at Tempe in Sydney in 2008.
O'Connor, 41, was an associate of Kings Cross nightclub entrepreneur John Ibrahim, whose character, played by actor Firass Dirani, featured in the most recent series of the Nine Network's Underbelly.
Father-of- four O'Connor was also portrayed in Underbelly 3: The Golden Mile as the tuxedo-wearing, balding doorman who carried Ibrahim to hospital after he had been stabbed in the stomach.
The jury had earlier been by Mr Jacobs' barrister, Philip Dunn QC, to put aside prejudice when hearing names of people who featured in the Underbelly television series.
Last Friday Justice Robert Shallcross Hulme directed the jury to try for a majority verdict of 11 to one.
The jury, of mostly young people aged under 30, returned this morning to announce it could not reach a verdict.
Justice Hulme set the retrial down for mention on August 6.
The mother, sister and aunt of O'Connor, who were in court, cried when they learned of the hung jury.
Mr Jacobs has applied for bail, which is opposed by police. The bail application was adjourned to later today.
Prosecutors alleged Mr Jacobs either shot O'Connor with the help of another person or arranged for two hit-men to carry out the job.
Crown prosecutor John Kiely SC said Mr Jacobs owed $300,000 to O'Connor, which was allegedly the motivation for him being being shot seven times in the body and three times in the head.
At the time of his death, O'Connor was under surveillance by the NSW Crime Commission and phone calls between him and Mr Jacobs were being intercepted.
Hells Angels annual gathering low-key
OFF THE WIRE
Casey Kenny
Police say Hells Angels annual gathering low-key
Casey Kenny Jul 25, 2010 16:20:15 PM
10 Recommendation(s) We have some infamous visitors to the city this weekend, but they seem to be staying pretty quiet.
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club is in Calgary celebrating the anniversary of their Calgary chapter at their annual gathering and police are keeping a watchful eye over them.
Duty Inspector Paul Stacey tells 660News that police and the club have a understanding. He goes on to say it's all about respect, keeping the lines of communication open and police can then feel free to attend their gathering and have a conversation.
Stacey adds the RCMP and Calgary police are working together to keep an eye on the club.
Casey Kenny
Police say Hells Angels annual gathering low-key
Casey Kenny Jul 25, 2010 16:20:15 PM
10 Recommendation(s) We have some infamous visitors to the city this weekend, but they seem to be staying pretty quiet.
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club is in Calgary celebrating the anniversary of their Calgary chapter at their annual gathering and police are keeping a watchful eye over them.
Duty Inspector Paul Stacey tells 660News that police and the club have a understanding. He goes on to say it's all about respect, keeping the lines of communication open and police can then feel free to attend their gathering and have a conversation.
Stacey adds the RCMP and Calgary police are working together to keep an eye on the club.
Packing heat: The case for the open carrying of weapons
OFF THE WIRE
Monday July 26, 2010
Anita Roman reporting
According to the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, each and every American citizen has the right to keep and bare arms.
And in Nevada, a person can carry a loaded or unloaded firearm without a permit as long as that weapon is fully exposed. This is referred to as “open carrying.”
Now, there’s a group gaining a lot of attention just by simply following the law.
You may not expect to see armed individuals make their way through the crowded Las Vegas Strip on a Saturday night.
Tim Farrell, however, is part of this group.
“Most people either don't notice or stare but, generally, 99 percent of the comments we receive are positive. A lot of people say thanks for carrying, thanks for standing up for my rights.”
Although the group doesn’t have a name or affiliation, Farrell explains that it does have a purpose.
“It's really for public awareness. Most everyone here open carries daily, everywhere they go. The grocery store, the mall, everywhere they go they are open carrying.”
But while openly carrying a weapon is not against the law, one expert says the practice could frighten tourists. And that's where problems arise.
Gun expert Bob Irwin says there are places where people are not allowed to openly carry guns, such as schools, airports, and jails.
“People see guns on occasion and get upset. ‘Oh my god, there is somebody carrying a gun.’ And they then call the police thinking that the person is committing a crime.”
However, there is no specific law that says anyone cannot openly carry, which is why Farrell says it’s important for people to exercise their rights.
“Don’t be afraid of the repercussions, of police and citizens alike. The only thing that we can do is educate. Once it becomes more and more common, hopefully, there will be less and less encounters, less and less negatives thoughts about it.”
For now, Farrell and his group will continue to meet and carry their weapons out in the open with the hope that more people will come to understand what they are doing and why.
Farrell says last June he had an encounter with police in which he filed a complaint. As a result, Metro Police was required to conduct a mandatory re-training session for their officers regarding Nevada’s open carry law.
Monday July 26, 2010
Anita Roman reporting
According to the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, each and every American citizen has the right to keep and bare arms.
And in Nevada, a person can carry a loaded or unloaded firearm without a permit as long as that weapon is fully exposed. This is referred to as “open carrying.”
Now, there’s a group gaining a lot of attention just by simply following the law.
You may not expect to see armed individuals make their way through the crowded Las Vegas Strip on a Saturday night.
Tim Farrell, however, is part of this group.
“Most people either don't notice or stare but, generally, 99 percent of the comments we receive are positive. A lot of people say thanks for carrying, thanks for standing up for my rights.”
Although the group doesn’t have a name or affiliation, Farrell explains that it does have a purpose.
“It's really for public awareness. Most everyone here open carries daily, everywhere they go. The grocery store, the mall, everywhere they go they are open carrying.”
But while openly carrying a weapon is not against the law, one expert says the practice could frighten tourists. And that's where problems arise.
Gun expert Bob Irwin says there are places where people are not allowed to openly carry guns, such as schools, airports, and jails.
“People see guns on occasion and get upset. ‘Oh my god, there is somebody carrying a gun.’ And they then call the police thinking that the person is committing a crime.”
However, there is no specific law that says anyone cannot openly carry, which is why Farrell says it’s important for people to exercise their rights.
“Don’t be afraid of the repercussions, of police and citizens alike. The only thing that we can do is educate. Once it becomes more and more common, hopefully, there will be less and less encounters, less and less negatives thoughts about it.”
For now, Farrell and his group will continue to meet and carry their weapons out in the open with the hope that more people will come to understand what they are doing and why.
Farrell says last June he had an encounter with police in which he filed a complaint. As a result, Metro Police was required to conduct a mandatory re-training session for their officers regarding Nevada’s open carry law.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Here is the Show guide and the Blog
UNITED WE RIDE..... DIVIDED....WE WALK
LJ JAMES
Here is the Show guide and the Blog can be reached at
bikersofamerica.blogspot.com
Screwdriver and Bill are hosting “THE BIKERS OF AMERICA,
THE PHIL AND BILL SHOW”
Know your Rights show every Thursday at 9 pm Est/ 6 pm Pac.
We invite you to participate by clicking the web address
www.blogtalkradio.com/bikersofamerica. or by calling
#347-826-7753 and follow the prompts.
Or for direct access, just google
screwdriver@alphabiker.com
from there you will get 2 links the radio show and the blog.
You will not want to miss this show!
The next “THE BIKERS OF AMERICA (THE PHIL and BILL SHOW)” will be on
JULY/29/ 2010 at 6pm Pacific and 9pm Eastern. We will be
- Hide quoted text -
featuring different topics Guests from around the World. Bikers
Rights, News off the wire and B.O.L.T updates from across the country.
Other potential topics –
• How Bill and I have been involved with over the years;
• The unconstitutional roadside checkpoints;
• The motorcycle only checkpoints;
• The Helmet Law’s Unconstitutional Enforcement;
• Legislation and Politics;
• The Veterans Groups,
• The V.A. Hospitals, and
• Helping Our Brothers and Sisters when asked.
Participation Options: Our show is flexible so we can either control
the topic or we will be happy to turn the podium to you. Should you
wish to hold the podium, please email me, Screwdriver at
Countermeasures Division (strokerz383@gmail.com). Please not that
this e-mail address is being protected from spambots so you will need
JavaScript enabled to view it.
Let’s Not Forget:
The BikerLowDown Radio Show hosted by Chuck and The Crew. Call in
at 347-237-4874 on Wednesdays at 8pm Est or 5pm Pac at
www.bikerlowdown.com. and our new sister show Hermislive.com
on Sunday`s at 5pm pac, 8pm est.
For broader communication, since these shows are open to the public,
please pass this email along to your family and/or friends, who you
know are interested in Motorcyclist Rights. Remember the bottom-line;
we all have a sincere involvement with knowing, sharing, and/or
enhancing our understanding about our rights as members of the biker
community so I am asking for you, family, and friends to support the
above three (3) shows.
Thank you, in advance, for your anticipated support and participation
in these important discussions.
Philip (aka Screwdriver)
BOLT of California
(760) 207-2965 or strokerz383@gmail.com
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need
JavaScript enabled to view it.
For more information about Bikers Of A Lesser Tolerance, please visit
http://boltusa.org or for California Rights information see
www.boltofca.com
LJ JAMES
Here is the Show guide and the Blog can be reached at
bikersofamerica.blogspot.com
Screwdriver and Bill are hosting “THE BIKERS OF AMERICA,
THE PHIL AND BILL SHOW”
Know your Rights show every Thursday at 9 pm Est/ 6 pm Pac.
We invite you to participate by clicking the web address
www.blogtalkradio.com/bikersofamerica. or by calling
#347-826-7753 and follow the prompts.
Or for direct access, just google
screwdriver@alphabiker.com
from there you will get 2 links the radio show and the blog.
You will not want to miss this show!
The next “THE BIKERS OF AMERICA (THE PHIL and BILL SHOW)” will be on
JULY/29/ 2010 at 6pm Pacific and 9pm Eastern. We will be
- Hide quoted text -
featuring different topics Guests from around the World. Bikers
Rights, News off the wire and B.O.L.T updates from across the country.
Other potential topics –
• How Bill and I have been involved with over the years;
• The unconstitutional roadside checkpoints;
• The motorcycle only checkpoints;
• The Helmet Law’s Unconstitutional Enforcement;
• Legislation and Politics;
• The Veterans Groups,
• The V.A. Hospitals, and
• Helping Our Brothers and Sisters when asked.
Participation Options: Our show is flexible so we can either control
the topic or we will be happy to turn the podium to you. Should you
wish to hold the podium, please email me, Screwdriver at
Countermeasures Division (strokerz383@gmail.com). Please not that
this e-mail address is being protected from spambots so you will need
JavaScript enabled to view it.
Let’s Not Forget:
The BikerLowDown Radio Show hosted by Chuck and The Crew. Call in
at 347-237-4874 on Wednesdays at 8pm Est or 5pm Pac at
www.bikerlowdown.com. and our new sister show Hermislive.com
on Sunday`s at 5pm pac, 8pm est.
For broader communication, since these shows are open to the public,
please pass this email along to your family and/or friends, who you
know are interested in Motorcyclist Rights. Remember the bottom-line;
we all have a sincere involvement with knowing, sharing, and/or
enhancing our understanding about our rights as members of the biker
community so I am asking for you, family, and friends to support the
above three (3) shows.
Thank you, in advance, for your anticipated support and participation
in these important discussions.
Philip (aka Screwdriver)
BOLT of California
(760) 207-2965 or strokerz383@gmail.com
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need
JavaScript enabled to view it.
For more information about Bikers Of A Lesser Tolerance, please visit
http://boltusa.org or for California Rights information see
www.boltofca.com