Remembering....Riding and tears

<i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Since I got the word on Wednesday night August 18th that my brother had passed away at age 48 - leaving behind a wife and and 18 year old son, I have been - <b>off</b>, for the lack of a better term.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am continuing with my Awareness Conga as I am one of those who truly believes that going back for a funeral is pointless. And let me qualify that statement. I spent a week with him, his wife and son pitching in to do what I could to help out. I am so deeply grateful for that time. There will be tons of aunties and uncles, my mom and my sister there along with in laws and friends. It is after the funeral when everyone has gone back to their lives and my sister in law is on her own with a son who is away at university for his mechanics ticket that I intend to go and spend some time with her.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I can do my grieving while I ride, then no one has to see this tough, crusty old biker bird cry.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I loved my brother, ours was not always an easy relationship but that does not change the fact that I loved him and in his own way I know he loved me... It is hard as the eldest in the family to bury someone younger than you and it must be rough on my mom burying a a son but that is life.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's not always easy but it is always rewarding and beautiful if you choose to look at it that way...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Having made calls to family and dealing with my own sadness I am behind on my travel blogs for the Conga but they will get done over the next few days. The good news is my boss can't fire me.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I would love to meet with you - my Conga Itinerary is located: <a href="http://www.firre.ca/">www.firre.ca</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you have the time and are so inclined email me at: bdbetty @ gmail.com (fix the spaces)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am looking forward to the Biker's Church event today in Ottawa - we have a quick stop in Petawawa first... </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Lou from the Hero's Highway Ride and his friend Graham are riding with hubby and I today!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I will sign off now asking you all to say a prayer for my brother's family and that you look at the people you love, and make sure they KNOW you love them...don't let those words go unsaid...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>In the News today:</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/1649-ab-rider-down/6535-motorcycle-driver-crashes-into-moving-truck-on-trans-canada-carried-for-5"> rider from Calgary AB hit a moving semi in the rear</a>, was dislodged from his bike and ended up on the back fender of the truck for over a half KM until a passing motorist was able to alert the driver. The rider has suffered life threatening injuries.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/1650-bc-rider-down/6554-one-man-injured-in-fort-nelson-motorcycle-accident-"> Fort Nelson BC a rider from Ohio</a> crashed but no details other than he was airlifted to Vancouver have been released.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/1650-bc-rider-down/6554-one-man-injured-in-fort-nelson-motorcycle-accident-">Cambridge ON a rider</a> was injured seriously after a truck turned left infront of him</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 - visit<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/"> www.beltdrivebetty.com</a> to see all of the news that is making the headlines today....  My prayers go out tp the injured riders and their families...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are MANY, MANY events this weekend - no mater which one you choose to attend PLEASE - Ride defensively, ride your own ride - do NOT let peer pressure get the best of you...Ride like everyone around you is BLIND, has an UNSAFE load and IS out to get you and please - ride Proud not Loud - invest in a 140 DB Air horn instead! </span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty </span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A MAX Award winning web site!</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bustedknucklenews.com/">www.bustedknucklenews.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.canadianriders.ca/">www.canadianriders.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.riderfriendly.ca/">www.riderfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bikerfriendly.ca/">www.bikerfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.greatcanadiandayrides.com/">www.greatcanadiandayrides.com</a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">National VP of Marketing</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>oundation for <span style="font-weight: bold;">I</span>njured <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>iders, <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>ights & <span style="font-weight: bold;">E</span>ducation</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.firre.ca/">www.firre.ca</a></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/MkykqmWUuSZSzQy9wgWg3f01WF4.txt"> </a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc; font-size: 13.3px; padding: 5px 0pt;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contact Me <a _service="" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/beltdrivebetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Linkedin" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/linkedin.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/beltdrivebetty?ref=profile" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Facebook" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/facebook.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Blogger" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/blogger.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://twitter.com/bdbetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Twitter" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/twitter.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a></span></div>

Remembering....Riding and tears

Belt Drive 2 4:09 AM

Since I got the word on Wednesday night August 18th that my brother had passed away at age 48 - leaving behind a wife and and 18 year old son, I have been - off, for the lack of a better term. I am continuing with my Awareness Conga as I am one of th… Read more »

Read more »

I am so disgusted...

<i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Have you read the news about what is going on now in the USA?</span></b></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The NHTSA is funding MOTORCYCLE only check stops.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The AMA is equally disgusted and demanding to know hwy this is being done.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Under its Motorcycle Law Enforcement Demonstration grant program, the NHTSA will award up to $350,000 in total to be divided among as many as five law enforcement agencies to set up traffic checkpoints that target motorcyclists.</i></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>The demonstration program is modeled after a controversial program in New York where the state police set up a series of checkpoints that targeted only motorcyclists, raising the ire of the AMA and motorcycling community. In 2008, for example, New York State Police announced plans to set up 15 checkpoints near motorcycling events that summer. (<a href="http://usridernews.com/2010/08/12/nhtsa-funds-motorcycle-only-checkpoints/">From USRIDER News</a>)</i></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> There needs to be some way to stop these kinds of discriminatory practices folks - now Edmonton is claiming that it's bylaw is working and touting that fact to encourage other jurisdictions to get on the band bandwagon...sad, sad, sad....</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Hubby and I made it to Kenora and had a fabulous meeting and breakfast withe the gang from the MRFD - to read all about it visit my Travel Blog for Ontario: <a href="http://travelontariobymotorcycle.blogspot.com/">http://travelontariobymotorcycle.blogspot.com/</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In other news:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Victoria BC<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6505-morning-crash-on-douglas-street-sends-motorcyclist-into-bus-"> a lady rider was injured</a> when a white SUV moved in to her lane.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Cops for <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6514-cops-for-cancer-sponsor-request">Cancer needs sponsors</a> in BC... </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In PEI they are getting excited about their 1st ever<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6515-inaugural-red-island-motorcycle-rally-coming-to-pei"> Red Island Rally </a>coming up soon...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Corner Brook Newfoundland the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6516-rcmp-release-name-of-man-killed-in-motorcycle-accident">RCMP have released the name of the man who died</a> in an bike crash, his 14 year old passenger was released from hospital on Monday. </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">PLEASE - Ride defensively, ride your own ride - do NOT let peer pressure get the best of you...Ride like everyone around you is BLIND, has an UNSAFE load and IS out to get you and please - ride Proud not Loud - invest in a 140 DB Air horn instead! </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;"><br /></span> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty </span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A MAX Award winning web site!</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bustedknucklenews.com/">www.bustedknucklenews.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.canadianriders.ca/">www.canadianriders.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.riderfriendly.ca/">www.riderfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bikerfriendly.ca/">www.bikerfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.greatcanadiandayrides.com/">www.greatcanadiandayrides.com</a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">National VP of Marketing</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>oundation for <span style="font-weight: bold;">I</span>njured <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>iders, <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>ights & <span style="font-weight: bold;">E</span>ducation</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.firre.ca/">www.firre.ca</a></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/MkykqmWUuSZSzQy9wgWg3f01WF4.txt"> </a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc; font-size: 13.3px; padding: 5px 0pt;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contact Me <a _service="" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/beltdrivebetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Linkedin" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/linkedin.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/beltdrivebetty?ref=profile" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Facebook" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/facebook.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Blogger" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/blogger.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://twitter.com/bdbetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Twitter" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/twitter.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a></span></div>

I am so disgusted...

Belt Drive 0 9:25 AM

Have you read the news about what is going on now in the USA? The NHTSA is funding MOTORCYCLE only check stops. The AMA is equally disgusted and demanding to know hwy this is being done. Under its Motorcycle Law Enforcement Demonstration grant progra… Read more »

Read more »

A busy few days ahead

<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Hubby and I are in Yorkton this morning where we woke up to grey and wet skies</i>.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />We have a 700 KM trek to Kenora today and in the morning we hook up with the 10th Anniversary Ride for the MRFD.<br /></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So - there will be no blogging besides the travel blogs for the next couple of days unless I find myself with some time.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is challenging - building the paper bit by bit every day, staying on top of paperwork, meeting people and riding but we are getting in the groove.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Apparently I touched a bit of a nerve with  a few people yesterday with my comments on Pee Wee Herman and Sturgis. I want everyone to understand that as a survivor of abuse - I am not going to condone someone who owns "art" as he called it by way of explicit magazines etc. I know that many may think me unforgiving but when it comes to children and abusers - I know only too well how the abuser can lie, manipulate and generally weasel their way out of things - I experienced that for many years.  Perhaps the man is innocent but I will Never feel comfortable with that individual having any representation around children. But that is just me.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>In the news today:</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Saskatoon the counsellor who wants to <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6494-saskatoon-city-councillor-bob-pringle-threatened-over-motorcycle-noise-issue">quiet the noise from motorcycles</a> is being threatened. </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;">In Newfoundland a <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6491-man-dead-in-burgeo-crash">rider is dead</a> after a crash.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Australia the Hells Angels <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6495-no-fear-where-notorious-motorcycle-gang-hells-angels-tread-">attended the funeral </a>of a reported crime boss.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Ontario - the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6496-building-a-bike-changing-a-life-">Ozzy’s Garage Youth Mentorship Program</a> is working miracles</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Kamloops BC - <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/bc-news/293-motorcycle-television/6497-leave-noisy-bikes-to-rcmp-report">city council is being urged</a> to leave noisy bikes to the RCMP </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you wish to follow our progress on our Awareness Conga visit our travel blogs:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://albertabymotorcycle.blogspot.com/">Traveling Alberta</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://saskatchewanbymotorcycle.blogspot.com/">Traveling Saskatchewan</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">  </span><br /> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">PLEASE - Ride defensively, ride your own ride - do NOT let peer pressure get the best of you...Ride like everyone around you is BLIND, has an UNSAFE load and IS out to get you and please - ride Proud not Loud - invest in a 140 DB Air horn instead! </span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty </span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A MAX Award winning web site!</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bustedknucklenews.com/">www.bustedknucklenews.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.canadianriders.ca/">www.canadianriders.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.riderfriendly.ca/">www.riderfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bikerfriendly.ca/">www.bikerfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.greatcanadiandayrides.com/">www.greatcanadiandayrides.com</a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">National VP of Marketing</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>oundation for <span style="font-weight: bold;">I</span>njured <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>iders, <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>ights & <span style="font-weight: bold;">E</span>ducation</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.firre.ca/">www.firre.ca</a></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/MkykqmWUuSZSzQy9wgWg3f01WF4.txt"> </a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc; font-size: 13.3px; padding: 5px 0pt;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contact Me <a _service="" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/beltdrivebetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Linkedin" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/linkedin.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/beltdrivebetty?ref=profile" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Facebook" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/facebook.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Blogger" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/blogger.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://twitter.com/bdbetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Twitter" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/twitter.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a></span></div>

A busy few days ahead

Belt Drive 0 6:56 AM

Hubby and I are in Yorkton this morning where we woke up to grey and wet skies. We have a 700 KM trek to Kenora today and in the morning we hook up with the 10th Anniversary Ride for the MRFD. So - there will be no blogging besides the travel blogs f… Read more »

Read more »

One upset American Biker

<i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a "freedom" fighter in the USA by the name of Bruce Arnold.</span></b></i><br /> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></i> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Arnold has been riding and writing for a very long time, he is well "decorated": 50 Iron butts to his credit, former racer, bikers rights activist.....</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">He sends me some of his columns for re printing and<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6469-sturgis-2010-colors-or-weapons-not-welcome-but-pee-wee-herman-is-a-not-so-satirical-commentary-on-the-70th-annual-sturgis-motorcycle-rally"> this latest one really caught my eye and my heart...</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You see it is all about Pee Wee Herman - registered sex offender and alleged child pornographer Paul Reubens - now when I reported on the fact the man lead the Legends ride - no one made one comment - not a one. When we posted the video on our web site - the one where Reubens' was interviewing people,  - not one comment. I waited.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Mr Arnold is the first one to point out the sad and pathetic thing that has become Sturgis.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I can not improve up Mr Arnold's diatribe. He is blunt and straight to the point - since when do bikers embrace a known and registered sex offender? Since when do we tolerate alleged child pornographers?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It was a sick thing IMHO that Pee Wee Herman was invited to be at Sturgis much less head up the Legends ride - and he probably got paid a filthy fortune on top of it all...I for one doubt I will go back to Sturgis anytime soon...the guns and colors ban is one thing - this blatant disregard for our children and their safety - well,it is one I can not ever forgive nor will I forget anytime soon.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">One other thing about Mr. Arnold's exposing some of the behind the scenes truths...this lawyer who brought Reubens' to Sturgis - has IMHO - one sick and disgusting mind and needs to be investigate himself for potential sex offences and pornography violations - because who - other than someone with a really disgustingly sick mind would team Pee Wee Herman up with a children's charity? Kids and Chrome actually had a meet and greet for this man and used it as a fund raiser - what sick and disgusting minds even conceive that kind of crap? That is one charity I will NEVER support...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am sorry - if this is the way the motorcycle community is going to go - if were are going to allow children to be hurt and condone it - then I want out - NOW. This is not the ride I signed on to 30 plus years ago. Sturgis South Dakota - as a town you are quaint and charming as a rally you are getting far too over the top for this gal...until you decide to get back to good old rider values - you have seen the last of me and my money - now if more bikers did the same that might actually be a statement that had some real impact - sad thing is - the riding community has become so diluted with those who do not appear to have the heart of a biker that the commercialization of our community will continue until we are legends in our own minds - wait - I think we maybe are already there....</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As always I welcome your feedback and input - dive in on this topic - maybe you can help me see things in a different light...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><br /> </b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>In the news today:</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Ontario and rider was killed in <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6475-motorcycle-crash-kills-amherstburg-man-">Amherstburg when</a> he lost control and struck a tree.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Also in Ontario - Jean Hamilton has been <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6479-biking-for-brain-injuries-">working for a special cause</a>...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For those of you who love the Tuetul's  - <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6465-american-chopper-becomes-senior-vs-junio">you might be interested</a> in the direction of their new show...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In BC the WRR Conga III for Breast Cancer has raised over $36K - what an amazing thing!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Visit their face book page for the details...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Also in BC - a former <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/bc-news/293-motorcycle-television/6482-being-seen-and-heard-is-for-safety-not-ego-">police officer discusses</a> loud pipes and the fact that he thinks they save lives...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">And in Nova Scotia - the first ever <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6476-participants-enjoy-first-motorcyle-weekend">motorcycle weekend in Truro</a> was enjoyed by many!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For the latest news 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;">PLEASE - Ride defensively, ride your own ride - do NOT let peer pressure get the best of you...Ride like everyone around you is BLIND, has an UNSAFE load and IS out to get you and please - ride Proud not Loud - invest in a 140 DB Air horn instead! </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty </span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A MAX Award winning web site!</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bustedknucklenews.com/">www.bustedknucklenews.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.canadianriders.ca/">www.canadianriders.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.riderfriendly.ca/">www.riderfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bikerfriendly.ca/">www.bikerfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.greatcanadiandayrides.com/">www.greatcanadiandayrides.com</a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">National VP of Marketing</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>oundation for <span style="font-weight: bold;">I</span>njured <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>iders, <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>ights & <span style="font-weight: bold;">E</span>ducation</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.firre.ca/">www.firre.ca</a></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/MkykqmWUuSZSzQy9wgWg3f01WF4.txt"> </a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc; font-size: 13.3px; padding: 5px 0pt;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contact Me <a _service="" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/beltdrivebetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Linkedin" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/linkedin.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/beltdrivebetty?ref=profile" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Facebook" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/facebook.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Blogger" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/blogger.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://twitter.com/bdbetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Twitter" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/twitter.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a></span></div>

One upset American Biker

Belt Drive 0 4:36 AM

There is a "freedom" fighter in the USA by the name of Bruce Arnold. Arnold has been riding and writing for a very long time, he is well "decorated": 50 Iron butts to his credit, former racer, bikers rights activist..... He sends me some of his colum… Read more »

Read more »

When to flip the bird and when not to, a hard lesson on being a show off...

<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #e69138;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sometimes the good old boy upstairs has the most outrageous sense of humour!</span></i></span></span><br /> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></i> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I read with a certain amount of delight about a <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/bc-news/293-motorcycle-television/6452-fickle-finger-of-fate-fells-biker">16 year old BC rider </a>who got a come uppance I hope he won't soon forget.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Apparently this young man took offence to a parking control officer who was chalking tires and decided to flip the man the bird but in the process, the young man forgot he was riding and by the time he looked back at where he was going, he was going straight into the back end of a car that had stopped for the light. Now he is facing a series of fines and an ICBC increase that will cost him a pretty penny - apparently he did not have the "L" magnet on his motorcycle...he was charged with driving with undo care and attention and not having his "L' endorsement visible which is a contravention of his license conditions....</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Ahhh yes, if only every young show off got caught in this manner when they were young, maybe we wouldn't have so many attention seekers driving cars with huge boom boxes cranked to the nines, or semis with Jacobs brakes and straight pipes or riding motorcycles and making the rest of us look bad...<br /></span><br /> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Still - I am grateful one young man got a life lesson - and thanks to the Good Lord, the young man will live to ride another day even if it will cost him and arm and a leg for insurance...</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In other news:</span></b></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A 28 year old BC rider is dead after a<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6461-excess-speed-cited-in-fatal-crash"> crash near Rayleigh...</a>Exessive speed is believed to be the cause.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Port Dover had over 100,000 visitors for <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/component/content/article/6460-port-dover-biker-bash-draws-100000-plus">Friday the 13th!</a></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/component/content/article/6459-mrfd-national-run-update-for-day-14itinerary-for-day-15-"> Motorcycle Ride for Dad</a> National Run is gaining momentum - lots of riders have been coming out to meet the gang - Prostate Cancer is becoming a well known subject that is far less fearful for men to talk about than every before all thanks to men like Garry Janz, Don Cherry, Frm Gen Hillier and the whole gang from the MRFD - I am so honoured to be a bronze sponsor of what they do. </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In <a href="http://news.therecord.com/News/Local/article/761870">Waterloo Ontario a safety blitz </a>was held targeting motorcycles and folks - it appears there are a lot of unsafe motorcycles on the road in Ontario - either that or the view we are being given in the news is very skewed...Out of around 400 motorcycles stopped in the 6 hour blitz - 56 charges were laid<span class="articlebody" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder_article_NavWebPart_Article_ctl00___BodyLineup__"> -</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="articlebody" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder_article_NavWebPart_Article_ctl00___BodyLineup__">The charges included improper helmets, handlebars exceeding 380 millimetres high, defective tires, improper mufflers, no headlights and driving in contravention of license conditions.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="articlebody" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder_article_NavWebPart_Article_ctl00___BodyLineup__">19 motorcycles were hauled away as unsafe to ride due to </span><span class="articlebody" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder_article_NavWebPart_Article_ctl00___BodyLineup__">major equipment defects...</span></span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you have the time to join us - we would love to have you on our <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/firre/index.php/firre-conga-2010">Awareness Conga for F.I.R.R.E.</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you can't join us on the road, consider joining <a href="http://www.firre.ca/">F.I.R.R.E.</a> (Foundation for Injured Riders, Rights & Education) It is the best $20 you will spend on yourself!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You can also follow hubby and I as we light a F.I.R.R.E. across Canada - I will be doing my best to blog daily and keep you informed as to how the fund raising and the Awareness raising is going!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">No matter what event you choose to attend this weekend - PLEASE - Ride defensively, ride your own ride - do NOT let peer pressure get the best of you...Ride like everyone around you is BLIND, has an UNSAFE load and IS out to get you and please - ride Proud not Loud - invest in a 140 DB Air horn instead! </span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty </span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A MAX Award winning web site!</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bustedknucklenews.com/">www.bustedknucklenews.com</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.canadianriders.ca/">www.canadianriders.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.riderfriendly.ca/">www.riderfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bikerfriendly.ca/">www.bikerfriendly.ca</a></span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.greatcanadiandayrides.com/">www.greatcanadiandayrides.com</a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">National VP of Marketing</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>oundation for <span style="font-weight: bold;">I</span>njured <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>iders, <span style="font-weight: bold;">R</span>ights & <span style="font-weight: bold;">E</span>ducation</span></div> <div style="color: #cccccc;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.firre.ca/">www.firre.ca</a></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/MkykqmWUuSZSzQy9wgWg3f01WF4.txt"> </a></span> </div> <div style="color: #cccccc; font-size: 13.3px; padding: 5px 0pt;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contact Me <a _service="" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/beltdrivebetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Linkedin" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/linkedin.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/beltdrivebetty?ref=profile" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Facebook" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/facebook.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Blogger" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/blogger.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a><a _service="" href="http://twitter.com/bdbetty" style="font-size: 10pt; padding: 0pt 2px;"><img alt="Twitter" border="0" height="16" src="http://www.images.wisestamp.com/twitter.png" style="padding-bottom: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="16" /></a></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="articlebody" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder_article_NavWebPart_Article_ctl00___BodyLineup__"> </span></span>

When to flip the bird and when not to, a hard lesson on being a show off...

Belt Drive 0 6:13 AM

Sometimes the good old boy upstairs has the most outrageous sense of humour! I read with a certain amount of delight about a 16 year old BC rider who got a come uppance I hope he won't soon forget. Apparently this young man took offence to a parking … Read more »

Read more »