Tuesday, September 13, 2011
New York - East Meets West and the Strength of America
OFF THE WIRE
One of the best things about late summer every year is the event known as East Meets West, sponsored by the 69ers MC and the Highwaymen MC. Members from each club leave from different starting points (69ers from the East, Highwaymen from the West), then ride to a common destination – the Hillview Tavern in Esperance, New York. The sun was shining and the temperature was somewhere in the perfect 70’s, providing an awesome view of the surrounding countryside. Food was delicious and ready by 2:00 PM, as guests arrived on motorcycles and cars to celebrate this annual reunion of two Northeast clubs.
There were several clubs represented and many individual bikers who came to experience some of the brotherhood always obvious at these events. There were lawnmower races, which incidentally, were really entertaining for this first time observer, and a couple of “slow races” to add a little sportsmanship to the occasion. The band, “Inky Salad” was great! The 69ers North Country Crew and the Highwaymen MC have been in existence in Northeast New York for quite a few years, and have close ties with the biker community.
Many of the conversations were about reflecting on the beautiful day and remembering the attack on our freedom 10 years ago. Bikers represent Freedom and continue to fight for their own rights against a government that seems determined to strip their liberties one by one. Still, as this 10-year anniversary of 9/11 is now upon us, the United States of America come together with a renewed sense of pride and solidarity. Biker or Firefighter, Cop or Citizen, we are all for one on this day.
This “East Meets West” was particularly symbolic, whether the date of the event was intentional or not. The coming together of two very different clubs, on a weekend that will always call to mind the threat to our resiliency as a country, was especially appropriate this year. The camaraderie, love, and respect for each other was evident at this event, which many might never guess would be significant to bikers.
Thank you to the Highwaymen MC and the 69ers MC for doing their part to join this mighty culture of bikers and friends together on this memorial weekend.
