Toy Run Season

<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You know that the riding season is coming to an end as toy runs are taking place right across this country. It is one of those bitter sweet things that many riders love being a part of.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's a wonderful feeling being a part of something that gives so much joy even though we seldom get to see the result first hand.  I have had the pleasure of volunteering at our local Salvation Army during the Christmas distribution of hampers and gifts and I can tell you that it is an amazing feeling. When you see the parent/s - the working poor and those unable for a variety of reason to work or find work and the happiness on their faces, well it really drives home why we riders do this every year.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Many of you know that some 23 years ago, my daughter and I were beneficiaries of the generosity of the motorcycle community. I know first hand how grateful my daughter and I were. It is the reason I attend as many Toy Runs as I can. I have always paid that kindness forward.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is my fondest hope that every toy run be a huge success and that every rider who attends remembers the reason behind the runs and donates as generously as their budgets will allow - every child deserves a present under the tree on Christmas day.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I would love to hear your personal stories about toy runs - why you attend, have you ever been a beneficiary or known someone who has been? What the runs mean to you...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>In other news:</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On TV: <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/1615-moviestv/12628-occ-foreclosure-gears-of-war-bike-on-ac">OCC is facing foreclosure</a> and <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/1615-moviestv/12626--sons-of-anarchy-season-4-01-out-recap">Sons of Anarchy</a> is back</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">KTM has<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/446-motorcycle-reviews-/12625-ktm-north-america-recalls-off-road-motorcycles-due-to-fall-or-crash-hazard"> announced a number of recalls</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Michelin has a new tire out <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-health-and-tech/336-contacts/12630-michelin-release-new-rubber-for-cruisercustom-motorcycles-">that they claim will last 40K kilometres</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Newfoundland they are getting geared up for the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-nl-travel/475-nl-motorcycle-events/12627-wild-rose-motorcycle-show-n-shine-and-ride-for-wildlife">Wild Rose Show n Shine and Ride for Wildlife</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Comox BC they are <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-bc-travel/308-bc-motorcycle-events/12623-saddle-up-and-join-the-totem-riders-on-annual-teddy-bear-ride">getting geared up for their toy run</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Lloydminster SK/AB they are <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-sk-travel/314-sk-motorcycle-events/12631-the-first-annual-lloydminster-toy-run">getting geared up for their first toy run</a>!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For all the toy runs we know about, <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/events">visit our events calendars</a>!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Don't forget our MC Events App - <a href="http://m.magmito.com/105563/mctravel">have you downloaded it to your phone yet</a>?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a lot of info in the news feeds today that might affect your life as a rider, to stay informed visit <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I have lots on the agenda today - I am putting the finishing touches on the Real Lady Riders Calendar and hoping to start the Men's Calendar today - <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/whats-hot/contests/2012-calendar-contest/2012-calendar-winners-gallery">you can buy a calendar by pre order only</a>! </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you are a lucky dawg and riding today, please ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you and remember to use respect with that right hand...who knows who you might be waking up or disturbing if you don't.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Have a safe weekend, enjoy the toy runs and last of the season events...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Until Monday...</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b>Belt Drive Betty</b></i></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b>Editor & Rider</b></i></span>

Toy Run Season

You know that the riding season is coming to an end as toy runs are taking place right across this country. It is one of those bitter sweet ...

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What is it going to take to get riders to support each other in Alberta - In Canada?

<i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For years I have been calling for riders to get on board with forming a Coalition here in Alberta.</span></i><br /> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span></i> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">BC has the <a href="http://www.bccom-bc.com/">BC Coalition of Motorcyclists</a>, Saskatchewan has a coalition (No web site yet), so does <a href="http://www.cmmg.org/community.htm">Manitoba</a> and <a href="http://www.occ4u.org/">Ontario </a>and even <a href="http://www.fmq.qc.ca/">Quebec</a> has a group that is organized to protect riders rights. But here in Alberta we can't seem to organize ourselves, to work together for the common good.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Instead there are these small pockets of people - very small pockets, who dig in and do what needs to get done and it appears that everyone else either has no empathy or no desire or no time to get involved.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is an article out of <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-ab-news/292-motorcycle-television/12599-wetaskiwin-toy-run-participants-use-venue-to-protest-edmonton-noise-bylaw">Wetaskiwin Alberta where in riders protested the Edmonton Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw by supporting the Wetaskiwin Toy Run.</a> OK, I guess that using a charity to get your point across may have some impact but does the EPS really care why noisy bikes stay out of their city?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Not a chance. You have helped them to achieve their goal. The EPS doesn't care that a charity is being hurt - they are doing their job and that is all they care about.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">What I want to know is, where were these riders when Liane Langlois was working like a fiend to get this bylaw repealed? When the plea was put out there to raise funds to help with the fight - where were they? When the plea for volunteers was put out to gather signatures for a petition, where were they?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I know that life is busy, that it is hard to make time for lobbying, supporting each other but folks, if WE don't do it who is going to?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The city of Edmonton might care about the impact of their bylaw if someone actually did a study that proves the economic benefit that Edmonton derives from motorcycle based charity events, motorcycle tourism and the motorcycle industry and the jobs it sustains that will and are going by the way side.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You see if we had a Coalition - that is something that could have been prepared and presented to Edmonton City Council.  Dollars and sense, statistics - that's what bureaucrats are looking for.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Years ago, BCCOM - the BC Coalition of Motorcyclists tried unsuccessfully to start ACOM here - the Alberta Coalition of Motorcyclists. It failed miserably. Why? Not enough riders would commit to getting involved.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am wondering if finally, the time has come that the Alberta Riding Community is under enough pressure from Law Enforcement and municipalities that they will actually decide to start working together.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Our wonderful highways and the unsafe road repairs in this province and the dangers they hold for everyone who rides, the road snakes, the tire debris, HOV Lane use, the disgusting way many event coordinators are treated with regards to getting their liquor licenses for motorcycle events, the oppressive treatment by police officers of our Veteran's MC's - all of these things could be being fought for, protected if only we had some people paid to do the job - <b>because one thing is for certain, volunteers aren't going to get the job done - not here in Alberta</b>. Too many are burnt out raising money for their local and heartfelt charities, living their lives, raising kids and working.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We need to start a non profit BUSINESS -The Alberta Alliance of Motorcyclists and we need to pay people to work for our rights and freedoms.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We need to find a way for this non profit business to be able to sustain itself.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We would need a full time office admin, a grant writer, a membership manager, a web designer, a media specialist, a lobbyist, a couple of different kinds of lawyers on retainer and a fund raising specialist.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Their jobs would be to lobby for the protection of our Charter rights for free speech, freedom of association and expression and to fight for our rights to expect equal treatment under the law.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">They would keep the community informed through the coalition meetings and through the various medias. The alliance would bring the concerns and needs to the office and the office would then create and execute the plan to address those concerns and needs.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In order to be taken seriously at all, we need to unite. We are some 80K strong here in Alberta. If we raised our voices together - we could make an impact on the quality of our lives as riders.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So, how do we go about finding the right people to fill the positions of lobbyist, activist, rider support services, education and liasoning with the province and police? Well first, we need to get everyone we can to the table.  We need to find a way to raise money to get started.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We then put out a call for people in the community who have the background and skill to do the jobs and we find out what it would cost to have them work for us.  Once we hired at least one staff, then we would need a fundraiser - one person whose job it would be to attract sponsors, host events, and find a way for the non profit to sustain itself.  This person would work hand in hand with the grant writer to identify grants to accomplish certain jobs.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You see there are grants like the ones that we just got conditional approval for here in Grande Prairie.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We are going to be launching a test project for High Collision Intersections.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We could have a professional whose job it would be to write grant proposals for all sorts of things that address needs within our community.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We could have many things being done in a coordinated and effective manner if we treated this like a business. We could be impacting our cities and communities in a very effective way.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Think about seriously folks. We have an Alliance that directs people in an office to meet the needs and objectives of our community.   And then we could have a National Alliance to assist with the exact same issues - sharing of information - assisting with needs on the Federal level....</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Am I a dreamer or what?</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Like every day I welcome your feedback and input. I love it when you talk to me and share with me - it helps me to grow and I feel that it helps many others to grow as well. </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a ton of news today on top of your National Newspaper...it's Thursday so your weekly <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/news/busted-knuckle/about-the-bkc">Busted Knuckle Chronicles </a>should have been delivered with your provincial newsletter. I hope you enjoy the read and consider getting involved.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/news/busted-knuckle/about-the-bkc">Busted Knuckle Chronicles</a> is here to serve every province and every community so if your community or province doesn't have great representation, why not send us in your articles and share what's happening in your community?  An informed community can become a strong and healthy community.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>In other news:</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A group of riders in <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-ns-news/300-motorcycle-television/12612-iron-butt-riders-drive-1600km-in-15-hours">Nova Scotia completed an Iron Butt ride</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Ontario, <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-rider-down/1653-on-rider-down/12610-aurora-motorcyclist-paralyzed-family-hopes-for-recovery-following-crash">a rider is left paralyzed after a crash</a> and the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-on-news/296-motorcycle-television/12608-opp-seeking-information">OPP is looking for a rogue rider</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-on-news/296-motorcycle-television/12605-police-looking-into-exhaust-bylaw">Barrie is considering a noise bylaw aimed at guess who... </a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-on-news/296-motorcycle-television/12598-hamiltons-own-world-of-motorcycles-expo">Hamilton is excited to be getting it's own major bike show</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In BC, <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-bc-travel/308-bc-motorcycle-events/12611-revving-up-for-toy-run">100 mile house is getting ready for it's toy run</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Whistler a guy riding his bike<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-rider-down/1650-bc-rider-down/12604-harley-crash-on-hwy-99-"> in an unsafe manner crashed injuring himself and his passenger</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Alberta, Airdire has given approval for the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-suport-our-troops/422-contacts/12603-city-council-approves-crosses-to-honour-fallen-soldiers-">CAV to put up crosses to honor the fallen of that community</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Yes folks, on top of your provincial newsletter and your National Newspaper, the<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/"> news feeds</a> from the main stream medias and the riding clubs who submitted stuff too late for the above mentioned publication, are full again today!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So come one, get informed. There is no reason for you to not know what is going on in your neck of the woods just because you don't belong to a riding club or get your local newspaper...you can find it all over at <a href="http://www.blogger.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com </a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Riding clubs - the more you share - the better chance you have of growing your events and membership and businesses - when you share whats going on you too have a chance to grow.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So come on folks, spread the word, get involved, talk to each other...let's unite and work together. Our Community is worth Celebrating and PROTECTING - Whining and snivelling isn't going to get us anywhere but a little elbow grease and a whole lot of communication will...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you are riding today, PLEASE ride like everyone around is blind and can not see you.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you are injured in a crash and need help, remember the Rider Friendly Business Association has 2 motorcycle lawyers who can help you. <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/rider-friendly?sobi2Task=sobi2Details&catid=2053&sobi2Id=1152"> Darryl Brown in BC</a> and<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/rider-friendly?sobi2Task=sobi2Details&catid=2048&sobi2Id=329"> Braithwaite Boyle </a>that serves Alberta, BC, the Yukon and NWT (Braithwaite Boyle has many offices to serve you)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Until tomorrow...</span></i><br /> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span></b></i> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty</span></b></i><br /> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Editor & Rider</span></b></i>

What is it going to take to get riders to support each other in Alberta - In Canada?

For years I have been calling for riders to get on board with forming a Coalition here in Alberta. BC has the BC Coalition of Motorcyclis...

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Bikers Protesting - it's happening more and more but is the message getting through?

<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In St John's Newfoundland about 30 riders showed up at city hall to protest about noise by laws.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Their message was clear - <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/301-motorcycle-television/12576-bikers-make-themselves-heard">WE AREN'T THE ONLY one's who make noise.</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">They are tired of having a few "Yahoos" making it bad for all riders and ask city council to make NOISE the issue and not motorcycles. Lawn mowers, sub woofers, brakes, semis, and many other things contribute to noise pollution...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In England they are getting ready to protest yet again,<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/12587-motorway-demo-over-restrictive-eu-rules"> taking it to the freeways like they did over parking charges. This time the protest ride will focus on the same asinine laws that the French are protesting.</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Mandatory ABS brakes, sensors that detect changes/modifications done to your bike without OEM parts among other items.  Some are asking if the 45 MPH protest rides will just pee off other motorists and perhaps the message will get lost. </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Perhaps - but when your government won't talk to you, won't listen - what else do you do?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Kelowna BC, a young woman is on a mission to have the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-law-and-politics/358-contacts/12580-kelowna-family-launches-petition-to-change-national-driving-laws-">Highway Traffic Act changed on a national level.</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Her father was killed by a left hand turning driver.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">According to Ms Tomlinson:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">18.3% of all motorcycle fatalities are caused by another vehicle turning left in front of a motorcycle that was going straight.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Tomlinson's dad was killed because a driver of a vehicle though, he saw the motorcycle coming, thought he had time to turn - had he waited three seconds to make his turn, Tomlinson's dad would still be alive today.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3 seconds - think about that... Tomlinson wants to see the law changed so that a $115 fine is not the only thing a driver receives when someone is injured or killed as a result of their unsafe actions.   </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Interestingly enough, there is a Vulnerable Road Users meeting today - I am on that committee and have asked for the High Collision intersection signs designed by myself, but inspired by Daniel Ross in Nova Scotia - to be on the agenda.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I will also be meeting soon with the City Manager here in Grande Prairie to have a discussion about these signs being placed at specific intersections here as a test.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I look forward to bringing this issue of the petition up today as well.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Now not all of the protests that bikers are undertaking are quite as serious as the ones mentioned above.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you need a great giggle to get your day started, I recommend that you read this exceedingly well done tongue in cheek article that a female pillion rider has written:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a class="contentpagetitle" href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/446-motorcycle-reviews-/12585-an-open-letter-to-motorcycle-manufacturers-from-my-labia">An open letter to motorcycle manufacturers from my labia</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">While the topic of comfort while riding is an important one, this young lady uses extreme humour to get her message across and I think she has done it well! I laughed my ass off reading her writing and then thought why hadn't I or a thousand women before me written the same letter?  Good on you Ashlee and your labia for asking the question and giving the manufacturers the answers too!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Like every day, I invite you to wade in on the topics that affect your life as a rider...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The more we share and discuss what is happening around the world, across the country and in our own back yards, the better off we all will be, an informed community becomes a strong and powerful community.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a ton of other news out there, check it our at <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Until tomorrow...I beg you to please, ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you and PLEASE, use respect with that right hand, the person working night shift that you wake up could be a cop...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b>Belt Drive Betty</b></i></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b>Editor & Rider</b></i></span>

Bikers Protesting - it's happening more and more but is the message getting through?

In St John's Newfoundland about 30 riders showed up at city hall to protest about noise by laws. Their message was clear - WE AREN'...

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Challenging government and STUPID LAWS!

<span style="color: #e69138;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">From<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/12559-france-ffmc-fed-up-and-on-the-attack"> Motorbiker.org this morning comes news</a> that French Bikers are well and truly fed up with their government and it's ridiculous new and proposed laws and regulations. </span></i></span><br /> <span style="color: #e69138;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span> <span style="color: #e69138;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">They have launched a massive ad campaign aimed at the government and its over the top regulations, proposed regulations and spending called <b>"Motorcycle Security/Safety: Let's think differently". ..</b></span></i></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Some of the measures that the FFMC (French Federation of Motorcyclists) is protesting:</span><br /> <ul> <li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The inter-ministerial committee on the 11th of May 2011 decided to increase the size of motorcycle license plates to fight against regular excessive speeding, while they only represent 1% of excessive speeds. </span></li> </ul> <ul> <li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The inter-ministerial committee on the 11th of May 2011 decided to make the wearing of a yellow reflective vest mandatory for all bikers riding a motorcycle over 124cc</span></li> </ul> <ul> <li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The price tag of 1000 new Pedagogic Radar Units: <b>$40 million Euro's</b> (These new radars, mostly installed in villages and low speed, single lane areas, will show you your speed, and if you were speeding, how much your fine would have been, and how many points you would have lost if this has been a real radar.)</span></li> </ul> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are many more asinine laws and regulations that the FFMC is protesting through their ads which are very creative, eye catching and thought provoking.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Here in Canada we need our very own version of the FFMC (French Federation of Motorcyclists), that much is becoming very evident...</span><br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">After my editorial last week on the <a href="http://beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/2011/08/hells-angels-cause-stir-and-veterans-mc.html">Veterans Canada MC</a> in BC being singled out for preferential treatment another Veterans Outlaw MC has come under attack, this time in Alberta.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Watch this video and tell me if you aren't disgusted:</b></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /> <center> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmtAY3NXpZM&feature=player_embedded"><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cmtAY3NXpZM&rel=1"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cmtAY3NXpZM&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object></a><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php?option=com_hwdvideoshare&Itemid=589" title="Belt Drive Betty">Belt Drive Betty</a></span></center> </div> </div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>I will again reiterate that the authorities need to get patch savvy.</b></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Just because a Motorcycle CLUB wants a PROSPECTING period to ensure that their members are engaged and active and a good fit for the CLUB - does NOT make them a 1% Club. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">An outlaw club and a 1% club are two very different organizations <b>founded on a single - similar principle </b>- the principle of prospecting.<b> Not buying a patch but EARNING IT.</b></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I spoke with Mackem, VP of the Falcons MC in Medicine Hat after I was sent the link to the above video and the things he told me would curl your hair. The police were actually going to arrest members of the Blue Knights - a police club, members of the UMCI and HOG just because they attended this poker run.</span><br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In all 25 officers were on hand to shut down the poker run.</span><br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The Falcons are going to need some financial assistance to mount a lawsuit against the police services for violating their Charter Rights of peaceful assembly, the right of association and their rights to freedom of expression. When I have more information on HOW MUCH and HOW- I will let you know how to get involved.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Because the RCMP and other police services use of profiling tactics - EVERY BIKER/RIDER who has ever been at an event where a 1% club is present is considered an associate, this is how the police services justify their words and actions. Watch the video - the asking of permission to wear a three piece patch from the dominant club where in you MUST prove you are not territorial, and what your intentions as a club are is enough "proof" for the police services that there must be more behind the "Association" than what there is.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Think about that people. You may think that the issues of three piece patch clubs doesn't affect you but you would be so VERY WRONG.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Right across this country the police services are giving conditional approvals to motorcycle related events to have their liquor licenses - what do I mean by that? Well - look at Orangeville Royal Canadian Legion's motorcycle show 'n' shine this past summer. They were given their liquor license conditional on them banning "Illegal Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Patches" from their event, consequently members of the CAV and other veterans groups were asked to leave. Why? Volunteers who are not a part of the motorcycle community - an many who are,  don't know what the police services mean - who is who and how to tell and the police will not provide that information. So people with one piece patches and Social Club patches were being asked to leave a motorcycle event. Veterans pitted against veterans...</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The police will tell you the Liquor control board is in charge of that decision, the commission will turn the tables on the police and no one gets held accountable for the discrimination.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I know of many events that have been told that they are to ban patches if they want a liquor license. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The Liquor Board takes their direction on the approval of licenses from the police services it really is a collaborative affair.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The misconceptions about patches and what they mean has been brought about thanks to police services who purposely misuse the terminology of our community, perpetuated by main stream media's use of those terms - who don't do their research and the tons of newbies out there who think it is cool to sport a three piece patch but haven't got a clue about patch protocol. Then there is the whole LEMC issue and how that further muddies the waters.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>A THREE PIECE PATCH HAS TO BE EARNED not bought.</b> </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If your club does not have a prospecting period then you should NOT be sporting the three piece patch - PERIOD.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are many police services motorcycle clubs that violate this fundamental principal. Why?</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I believe it is so they can further muddy the waters to justify their jobs and their budgets. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I know of tons of LEMC's (Law Enforcement Motorcycle Clubs) that have a prospecting period, wear a three piece patch and then call themselves 99%ers. WRONG - you can't have it both ways boys - you are an outlaw club. If you want to be viewed as a 99% club then you should not have a prospecting period and you should be wearing the one piece MC patch.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I know of many LEMC's who have ZERO prospecting phase and yet sport a three piece patch - WRONG protocol again folks - YOU should be wearing the one piece MC patch.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If people followed the simple protocols of patch etiquette we would not be having 50% of the issues we do.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If the police services were not being allowed to profile us, we would have even less issues <b>BUT </b>by virtue of the fact that the police services photograph everyone and their motorcycle and plate who attends an event where a 1% club is present, we have all been labelled supporters/sympathisers of criminals. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is long since time that we in Alberta have a rights organization - a coalition of clubs to deal with political and policing issues along with road maintenance, road use and safety issues. I have been flogging this topic for years now but...</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is time that we stop this erosion of our rights and freedoms and it is also long past the time where we should be protecting our right to enjoy our lifestyle.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On the federal level we have two associations that are supposed to be looking after our rights. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.canmocycle.ca/">CMA</a> and the <a href="http://www.motorcycling.ca/mcc/index">MCC</a>.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.canmocycle.ca/">CMA</a> in Canada is virtually non existent outside of the realm of motor sports and the <a href="http://www.motorcycling.ca/mcc/index">MCC</a>, well - it is a manufacturers driven Coalition that has given us the J2825 Motorcycle Noise Standard from the SAE that has created so much controversy in our community. Both of these organizations are centred in Ontario and appear to do little outside of their home province to reach out to the touring rider from outside of Ontario.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There maybe 160K + touring riders in Ontario, but what about the other 500K + or so of us?</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Folks - it is time to get on the bandwagon to protect our freedoms and rights as provided by our Charter.</span></div> <div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you are not getting involved because your club, group, association has never been targeted for special/preferential treatment - then hold on to your saddles folks because there will come a time - very soon that a dominant 1% club is going to move into your town or a non dominant or dominant Traditional Outlaw MC will start up and once that happens your riding club, your events and your lifestyle WILL Be threatened and by then it will be too late - we need people to get organized NOW - to start a defence fund NOW - we need to be proactive and united.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Your complacency towards something you claim to love will be the end of our community and our lifestyle - think I exaggerate? Look at the Edmonton Motorcycle Only Noise BS - or that in Bathurst, Nanaimo, all over Ontario... </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Washington state motorcyclists are a recognized visible minority -  WHY? Because people are active and engaged in the riding community in Washington...they aren't here in Canada, not in any meaningful or collective way which is why the authorities are so successful in doing exactly as they please.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Look at Germany, Rwanda, Croatia, Bosnia and any other oppressed country in the world - HISTORY folks has proven that governments can and do lie to their people because they are afraid that the people will rise up in protest so they hide their agendas and lie to us continually.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you ride a motorcycle and attend show 'n' shines, poker runs, rallies or fund raisers that require a liquor license or police escorts - then guess what folks - <b>like it or not, know it or not YOU have been profiled</b> and YOUR rights have been or will be stepped on, it's simply a matter of time. Don't believe me - talk to the event coordinators...educate yourselves. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Just because your local police services escort or block traffic or your event has gotten it's liquor license doesn't mean that privately - quietly - that the coordinator hasn't been told NO "Illegal Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Patches"...that statement right there is so erroneous as to make me puke, but over and over again the police services spout that disgustingly wrong statement. The clothing of the "Gangs" are not illegal. </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">And NOT ALL 3 piece patch wearing CLUBS are 1%.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /> <ul> <li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">“If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually come to believe it. The lie can be maintained only for such time as the State can shield the people from the political, economic and/or military consequences of the lie. It thus becomes vitally important for the State to use all of its powers to repress dissent, for the truth is the mortal enemy of the lie, and thus by extension, the truth is the greatest enemy of the State.” <img src="http://thinkexist.com/i/sq/as4.gif" /> Joseph Goebbels</span></li> </ul> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /> <div> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /> </span></b></span></span></i></div> <div> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Think about it - think hard.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Do you really love to ride a touring/cruising motorcycle - if your answer is yes, then regardless of whether or not you wear a patch or what patch you might wear - your lifestyle is under siege and only your action and involvement can turn the tides.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It happened in Washington state - the tides turned and bikers are considered a visible minority and it CAN happen here - <b>BUT ONLY IF YOU GET INVOLVED.</b></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is so very much more I could be saying on this topic - I am hoping these condensed versions of what is really going on out there finally get some of you motivated to see real change happen.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a whack of news in the mainstream feeds today - to find out what else might affect your day, your lifestyle and your community check it out at<a href="http://www.beltdrivbetty.com/"> www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Until tomorrow...</span></div> <div> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></i></div> <div> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty</span></b></i></div> <div> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Editor & Rider</span></b></i></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> </div> </div>

Challenging government and STUPID LAWS!

From Motorbiker.org this morning comes news that French Bikers are well and truly fed up with their government and it's ridiculous new...

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