The Dangers of Races like the Hoka Hey

<i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In the news today is an article about a woman from Seattle that participated in the 2010 Hoka Hey Challenge.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">She was on the last leg of the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13749-seattle-woman-sentenced-in-harley-biker-race-crash">Hoka Hey - riding in Alaska, when she fell asleep and crashed into 2 bicyclists.</a> The bicyclists were triathletes who were training and their bicycles were worth about $4,500 each.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Vik Livingston, 54, will spend 16 months in jail for 2 misdemeanour counts of assault and was ordered to pay restitution of $9,000 for the bicycles.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">During that same race another motorcyclist,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span>Charles C. Lynn, 44, of Florida, died in Wyoming when he apparently fell asleep and crashed.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoka_Hey_Motorcycle_Challenge">Racing for $500,000 in cash cost two bikers their lives.</a> Kenneth J. Greene, 63, of Ocala, Fla., was killed at 107 Mile of the Glenn Highway between Palmer and Glennallen when he drove onto the shoulder, lost control and crashed. (It is believed he was taking a short cut to reach Homer Alaska as where he crashed was not part of the official race route)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">800 people started out on the 2010 race with somewhere around 200 riders finishing it.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The term Hoka Hey means "It's a good day to die" - it was the battle call of Sioux warrior - Crazy Horse and was the theme of the 2010 race.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On their web site for 2011, however, the claim now is "It's a good day to Ride".</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Participants of the race must sleep outside, no hotels or motels or any inside accommodations, they must follow the route, are limited to a 6.2 gallon fuel tank, the bike has to be a Harley, (Can be a custom but certain restrictions apply), the bike must have a working odometer...the restrictions are many.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On top of the $1,000 entry fee every rider pays their own expenses: fuel and meals.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For riders who are not accustomed to long distance riding, this can be a deadly race. Between dehydration, fatigue and the inherent dangers of competition, I wonder, is $500,000 really worth the risk. Many say yes.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Harley-Davidson sponsored the 2011 race which had riders traverse 14,000 miles at much personal expense. The cost out of pocket  to participate was somewhere around $5,000 - $10,000 depending on the individual rider's situation - not including the fee and riders did crash and were injured.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Bill Alviles from Las Vegas tells his story of participating in the 2011 challenge on the Las Vegas H-D blog (<a href="http://lasvegasharley.wordpress.com/2011/08/30/hoka-hey-challenge-rider-bill-aviles-in-his-own-words/">http://lasvegasharley.wordpress.com/2011/08/30/hoka-hey-challenge-rider-bill-aviles-in-his-own-words/</a>)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This year the winner did not get the full $500K but shared it with the top 11 contenders - No where on their <a href="ttp://hokaheychallenge2011.blogspot.com/">blog </a>or <a href="http://www.hokaheychallenge.com/index.html">web site</a> could I find the prize pay outs. (The rules stated the prize would be split between the top 25, but only 11 crossed the finish line in the prescribed time)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Next year's Hoka Hey is reportedly going to be only 7,000 miles - the reasoning behind that is to attract more participants and will take about 12 days as opposed to the 40+ this years race took to accomplish.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Do you have what it takes? Is long distance riding your thing? I for one would not participate in a race like this, I like long distance riding but seriously feel that this type of race is too dangerous - but that is one woman's opinion.</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;">Some bikers in Los Angeles get involved with the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13747-wednesdays-child-three-brothers">Wednesday's Child Project</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/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13750-rockers-motorcycles-added-to-classic-california-sale-custom-bikes-from-guns-n-roses-and-godsmack-members-featured-in-bonhams-upcoming-los-angeles-auction-3-november-2011-san-francisco-on-the-heels-of-the-news-of-vehicles-from-fonzie-and-elvis-to-">A motorcycle auction in Los Angeles</a> is attracting bikes from some big names including: Elvis, Madonna,  The Fonz, k.d Lang, God Smack & Guns & Roses</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A company in Australia is making motorcycles <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-health-and-tech/336-contacts/13738-02-pursuit-motorcycle-runs-on-compressed-air">that run on compressed air</a></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 in the feeds today over at <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a> where we sift through the news so you don't have to.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Until Monday, have a safe and wonderful weekend...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive betty</span></i><br /> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Editor & Rider</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></span>

The Dangers of Races like the Hoka Hey

Belt Drive 0 6:20 AM

In the news today is an article about a woman from Seattle that participated in the 2010 Hoka Hey Challenge. She was on the last leg of the Hoka Hey - riding in Alaska, when she fell asleep and crashed into 2 bicyclists. The bicyclists were triathlet… Read more »

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The Boob Tour and other interesting ways bikers support various causes

<i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Biker Comedian James Uloth is coming to Grande Prairie and I can't wait to go the the Stonebridge Hotel to finally meet the man. The Boob Tour is stand up comedy at it's best featuring some talented comedians and they have been affected by Breast Cancer in one way or another. James, at 16, watched his best friends mom die of breast cancer and has wanted to do something positive to impact the disease ever since.</span></i><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-ab-news/292-motorcycle-television/13729-boob-tour-hits-town-fundraiser-fights-cancer-with-laughter">The Boob Tour is the result of that effort.</a></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Begin Quote</b>: To date, the tour has raised close to $150,000 and now that they're entering their second year, Uloth says that word is spreading. Their recent return to Edson and Hinton saw a huge jump in audience attendance.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"People really catch onto the idea and when they see the quality of what we're doing, people really get behind it," he says.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">At this weekend's event, the audience can expect the night to be like any other evening of comedy.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"That's one of the most common questions we get. It's pretty much a regular act, we all touch on cancer a little bit. It's not 90 minutes of boob jokes like some people are afraid of. It's meant to be a laughing affair that's uplifting." <b>End Quote</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Besides James, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"> </span>Lars Callieou, Alysia Wood and Allison Lane, who is a breast cancer survivor will be on stage to fight Breast Cancer with humour...The Boob Tour plays at the Stonebridge Hotel here in Grande Prairie AB on Saturday. Tickets are $30 and can purchased through the Canadian Cancer Society by calling 780-538-8205.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Smithers BC, <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/1607-riding-club-news/13703-nw-hog-bowling">the HOG Chapter is holding a bowling night</a> right after their meeting to discuss the MDA Dance in March. For those of you interested only one member on your team needs to be a HOG member and the HOG Chapter is picking up the tab...</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Ontario, there is a new <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/1607-riding-club-news/13712-cav-sicily-motorcycle-unit-formed">CAV Unit called Sicily, and is named for the 1943 Battle of Sicily</a> when the Allies launched one of the largest combined operations of WWII for control of Sicily.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Begin Quote: There are three regions: 1st CAV which covers central Canada (Manitoba to Quebec), 2nd CAV in Eastern Canada and 3rd Cav in Western and Northern Canada. Members gather in units named in tribute of Canadian Battle Honours. </span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The local unit is in 1st CAV and is named for the 1943 Battle of Sicily when the Allies launched one of the largest combined operations of WWII for control of Sicily.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">“Our mission statement is to ‘ride and have fun, while helping others’,” said Betts whose nickname is Lurch and who was an Administrative Clerk in the military for 14 years.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">CAV does have several charities of choice, such as “Ride for Dad”, an annual ride for prostrate cancer and ICROSS, International Community for the Relief of Starvation and Suffering of the world’s poor. It also supports a number of military organizations including Soldier On and the MFRC (Military Family Resource Centre). End Quote</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Airdrie AB,<a href="ttp://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-suport-our-troops/422-contacts/13709-honouring-airdries-veterans"> the Kosovo Unit of CAV honoured area soldiers</a> who gave up their lives for this country in a moving ceremony and ride.  Begin Quote: The Remembrance Day ride and march began at the Legion and eventually wound its way up Veterans Boulevard where Legion members erected white crosses along the road in memory of the fallen soldiers.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Each cross was starkly marked with the soldier's name, age, rank and date of death ­— a symbol of quiet heroism that was not lost on anyone attending the event.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"I saw one cross that truly moved me," noted Kosovo Unit Secretary/Treasurer Norman Macrae. "It was a boy from the Royal Canadian Navy who was killed in 1916 at the age of 14.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"These crosses represent real people with real names and real families. End Quote</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Information on The CAV can be found at <a href="http://www.thecav.ca/">www.thecav.ca</a></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 interesting news in the feeds today and I hope you will check it out at <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a> where we sift through the news so you don't have to.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I hope that those of you who subscribe to our National Newspaper - The Busted Knuckle Chronicles, are enjoying the paper, it has some wonderful stories in it!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you are fortunate enough to be riding today, Please - ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you and if your baby is put away for the winter, hope you have changed the oils...you gotta protect her yah know!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Have a fabulous Thursday,</span><br /> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty</span></b><br /> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Editor & Rider</span></b><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span>

The Boob Tour and other interesting ways bikers support various causes

Belt Drive 0 7:12 AM

Biker Comedian James Uloth is coming to Grande Prairie and I can't wait to go the the Stonebridge Hotel to finally meet the man. The Boob Tour is stand up comedy at it's best featuring some talented comedians and they have been affected by Breast Can… Read more »

Read more »

Canadian Motorcycle Events in 2012

<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Well folks, looks like the 2012 riding season is going to offer we riders here in Canada and those visiting Canada some wonderful opportunities!</span></span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-bc-travel/308-bc-motorcycle-events/13683-great-canadian-bike-rally-rally-report-november-2011">Great Canadian Bike Rally </a>is all set to take place July 12-15, 2012 and they already have some great Canadian talent lined up to entertain you! Joani Bye and the Homewreckers, Steve Kozak and the West Coast Allstars, the ultimate party band: Brickhouse as well as March Hare & Shotgun Messengers.</span></i><br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Mike Fairchild says the street mall in Merritt BC is already booking vendors with many of last years vendors returning and new ones coming on board! I am looking forward to attending this event and being a sponsor again this year!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The organizers of <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-bc-travel/308-bc-motorcycle-events/13695-revved-up-to-raise-awareness-couple-make-it-their-mission-to-educate-the-community-about-the-disease-">Ride to Live in Vancouver and Vancouver Island</a> are getting all geared up for their 2012 ride.  Peter Groenland and his wife Colleen are on a mission to ensure men get their prostrate checked! You can visit them in their booth at the Vancouver Motorcycle Show January 19- 22, 2012</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's going to be a wonderful season - I can just tell, as many motorcycle events are starting to come in all ready.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You can download our FREE Motorcycle Events app for your smart phone be it an IPhone, an Android or any one of 2,000 phones! Here is the address to download the free app: <a href="http://m.magmito.com/105563/mctravel">http://m.magmito.com/105563/mctravel</a></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">And here is the QR Code for those who just want to scan it and download: </span></i></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UwYCjAAmMzssaLiT8XBM1ImvRgR9BgveWlhn5_gsgcxIR_gdjSIanxwXK1voe3ng1GCKYnNt9ON3wVWLkonJK7MAcq4ZysYjhAmMF4VNB07zJN1-1GBsLpVfT40iHNQOT7Zo/s1600/mctravel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UwYCjAAmMzssaLiT8XBM1ImvRgR9BgveWlhn5_gsgcxIR_gdjSIanxwXK1voe3ng1GCKYnNt9ON3wVWLkonJK7MAcq4ZysYjhAmMF4VNB07zJN1-1GBsLpVfT40iHNQOT7Zo/s200/mctravel.png" width="200" /></a></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">And for you event coordinators - <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/events">when you enter your event into our calendars</a> - once it is approved and goes live, it will automatically be available on the App - not only that but your event will also be shareable to 86 social networks including Facebook & Twitter plus by email!  This is the most effective way to get your event information out there and BEST OF ALL - IT's FREE to all of the riding clubs and charities and our Rider Friendly Business Partners!  </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Last year we had almost 1,300 Canadian Motorcycle events in the calendars! They are searchable by province and type of event and will help you plan your 2012 riding season!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Also - back by popular demand this year will be our printed motorcycle calendars in the Busted Knuckle Chronicles. With the help of our layout artist Darryl, we will be once again producing monthly event listings in the paper!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am busy getting the 2012 <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/rider-friendly">Rider Friendly Phone Book</a> ready for it's first printing - we will be distributing the books at the Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver Motorcycle Shows in January, Moncton in February and Toronto in March!  The books are free and subscriptions to the Busted Knuckle will be on sale for $15 for 48 issues or FREE when you join the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/canadian-riders">Canadian Riders Support Network</a>!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Cookie, our calendar gal will be approving events and emailing all of you riding clubs to ensure your 2012 information is accurate...so watch for those emails coming over the next few weeks!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Coffee Nights, Ride Nights, Group and club meetings, Swap Meets, Rallies, Poker Runs and more are all featured in our calendars and the APP! So what are you waiting for - get your 2012 events added!  </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We are also updating all of the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/canadian-riders">Canadian Riders</a> Information and the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/canadian-riding-clubs-news">Riding Club Web Sites</a> - if your club or group is not represented - send us the information - we can not promote what we don't have! We are overhauling the appearance and delivery of the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/canadian-riding-clubs-news">Riding Club Web Site Links</a> - so watch for those changes to start coming soon - in fact the whole web site is being overhauled and you are going to see some fabulous changes!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Ali and I look forward to your feedback on the changes you'd like to see on the site and the changes we implement - we have been listening and are looking forward to taming the dragon this web site has become! With over 200K pages of information, jokes etc we need to streamline it and that's the mission over the next few months!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We have one other exciting tid-bit for you!  Our 2012 Beat the PMS Blues On Line Show n Shine has already got a fabulous line up of prizes including a campout for 12 in Haida Gawii, a Drift Camera, detailing of your bike, appraisals and soooo much more so start sifting through your photos of that special a baby of yours - we start accepting photos for the competition on January 1, 2012!!!! Voting will begin on Feb 1 ending March 15th with the winners being announced shortly after the 15th of March!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Last year we had over 160 bikes entered - can you help us reach our target of 200 bikes?  I hope so!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The Beat the PMS Blues is a FREE EVENT for members of www.beltdrivebetty.com and remember, membership on our web site is FREE!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>In Other News:</b></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">How would you like to own the first <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/446-motorcycle-reviews-/13701-own-the-first-polaris-made-2012-indian-chief">Polaris produced Indian</a>?</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Bob Marley's boys went on a<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/1615-moviestv/13698--marleys-swop-reggae-for-road-trip"> motorcycle expedition to Africa </a>and you can catch it on TV.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">New Hampshire <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13696-support-bill-to-limit-motorcycle-noise">is not forgetting motorcycle noise</a> even if our bikes are slowly being put to bed.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">East Coast Biker Magazine On Line is <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13687-october-update-from-east-coast-biker">available for your reading pleasure</a></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Michigan, the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-law-and-politics/360-contacts/13690-motorcycle-law-closer-to-repeal">Helmet Law repeal is one step closer to reality</a></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In New Zealand,<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13700-hells-angels-arrested-over-disappearing-deer"> the Hells Angels are in the news for - of all things, poaching</a></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a TON of news in the feeds today over on <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com </a>where we sift through the news so you don't have to!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">That's it for me today - have a fabulous Hump Day and if you are lucky enough to still be riding, please remember to ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></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><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> </div>

Canadian Motorcycle Events in 2012

Belt Drive 0 6:33 AM

Well folks, looks like the 2012 riding season is going to offer we riders here in Canada and those visiting Canada some wonderful opportunities! The Great Canadian Bike Rally is all set to take place July 12-15, 2012 and they already have some great… Read more »

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Kids and Motorcycles

<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is an interesting article out of<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13680-should-illinois-require-helmets-for-kids-on-motorcycles"> Illinois this morning about kids and motorcycles</a>.</span></span><br /> <span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is apparently no law governing the wearing of motorcycle helmets for kids in that state.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is a push on to ban kids from riding and at the very least to force helmet laws on their parents and by that I mean to force parents to put helmets on their kids.</span></i><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">What I found bizarre about the topic is the fact that the article sites two crashes involving kids on motorcycles, where both kids were wearing helmets and they also use the death of race Peter Lenz, who was 13 when he died as an example.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Begin Quote:</span></b><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">“Some people don’t understand the vulnerability of children or don’t care,” said Janette Fennell, president of KidsAndCars.org, a nonprofit child-safety organization. <b>End Quote</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Begin Quote:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But in Lorrie Walker’s view, it’s up to lawmakers to help parents make the right decisions.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">She is technical adviser for Safe Kids USA, a nonprofit group aimed at preventing childhood injuries.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">“There are restrictions on rides at Disney World — why do something less for motorcycles?” Walker said.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">“Sometimes parents need guidance. If there’s no law, they assume it’s safe.” End Quote</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Begin Quote</b>:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Secretary of State Jesse White intends to take up the fight again, a spokesman said.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">“It’s common sense,” White press secretary Dave Druker said. “When someone makes a decision to use a motorcycle, they’re making that decision for themselves. (But) children don’t have any say. They should have every defense that they can.” End Quote</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The ABATE feels the government needs to butt out: Begin Quote: “No. 1, it’s not the government’s place to tell anyone what to wear,” said Greg Smith, public relations coordinator for the DuPage/Kane chapter of ABATE, or A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education. <b>End Quote</b></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">What I take away from this article and the arguments of these doctors and safety experts is that they are attempting to make something out of nothing.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The arguments they are using in this article make no sense to me. No where in the article do they report any injuries of kids who ARE NOT wearing helmets and yet these people feel the need to tell parents they have to act responsibly when it appears that they are.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In the one crash that they site, the father died because he wasn't wearing a helmet but his 9 year old daughter WAS wearing a helmet. So tell me how was this parent acting irresponsibly? Simply because his child was a passenger? Or because he chose not to wear one?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If the push is for a helmet law for kids, it seems rather ridiculous to site cases of a kid who was a racer and two kids who were wearing helmets on street bikes. It also seems ridiculous that they site crash stats involving kids yet none of the stats support the argument that parents aren't responsible and need to be told to put a helmet on their kids.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As far as banning kids from riding goes, I wonder at that too.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">With the popularity in this country of the sport of motocross, I wonder at the opinions of the legislators.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Could you imagine attempting to ban kids from riding in this country?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">From what I understand the average law regarding kids as passengers on street bikes is that they must be big enough to have their feet firmly planted on the foot pegs of the bike. This is probably the most sensible approach to the issue of when a kid is old enough to be a passenger. Size, not age. That and a parents individual choice as to their level of comfort with their ability as riders and their choice to involve their child in a family recreation.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The questions this article raises for me are:</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1) If none of the stats support the argument, then what is the issue?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2) Why does the government feel the need to stick its nose into something that appears to be a non issue?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3) Do parents have the right to make motorcycling a family affair?</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I would LOVE for you to wade in on this topic. The discussion is on Facebook, Twitter, here in this blog or in our forum on www.beltdrivebetty.com</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;">The rider who died on the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-rider-down/1650-bc-rider-down/13670-langford-man-named-as-motorcyclist-who-died-in-malahat-crash-">Malahat Highway on Vancouver Island is identified</a> and his family and others are <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-bc-news/293-news-british-columbia/13673-call-to-make-notorious-malahat-safer">calling for the highway to be improved</a>.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A rider  from the Guelph Ontario area with <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-lifestyle/444-rider-training-and-safety/13674-best-motorcyclists-ride-safe-not-loud">300,000 KM under his belt is telling other riders that "Loud Pipes Save Lives" is a myth</a> - that it is smart riding that keeps you safe.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In Sports - <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/sports-international/368-contacts/13682-pre-running-starts-friday-for-44th-tecate-score-baja-1000-desert-race-">the Baja 1000 is set to get underway on Friday</a> with the Pre running, the race starts November 17th.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are other articles in the news feeds that may be of interest to you, check them out at <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com </a>where we sift through the news so you don't have to.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Our calendar sales are over and we have the results:</span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We pre sold 20 Kidz Calendars so the Little Warriors Fund will be getting a donation of $200</span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We pre sold 27 Ladies Calendars so the International Breast Cancer Conga will be getting $270</span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We pre sold 22 Men's Calendars so the CMTA's Injured Riders funs will be getting $220</span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">After all of the excitement of the contests themselves, I am rather disappointed with the actual sales numbers. I had thought that the charitable causes would be a bigger influence in purchases than they were. </span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The calendars go to print tomorrow and should, if all goes well start arriving to the purchasers towards the middle to end of the month.  I thank all those who took the causes we supported seriously. </span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Ali will be putting the print ready files up on our web site for download (They are large files and will take time to download) - the cost will be $10 plus tax for downloading the calendars so that you can print them off at home or Staples and have your own calendar made - perhaps then we will be able to donate more to the charities. It will take a day or two for that to happen though.</span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Have a safe and wonderful Tuesday,</span><br /> <b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b> <b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Belt Drive Betty</span></i></b><br /> <b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Editor & Rider</span></i></b>

Kids and Motorcycles

Belt Drive 0 6:19 AM

There is an interesting article out of Illinois this morning about kids and motorcycles. There is apparently no law governing the wearing of motorcycle helmets for kids in that state. There is a push on to ban kids from riding and at the very least t… Read more »

Read more »

When we riders unite, it is amazing what we can do!

<span style="color: #e69138;"><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">In the US, as here in Canada, there are events that discriminate against our community by posting signs saying motorcycle colours are not allowed. Some of those signs, here in Canada, anyway say things like "No Illegal Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Club Colours", some just say "NO colours."</span></span></i></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Here in Canada, those signs are generally forced on event coordinators by the police services and the liquor boards - the threat is - allow the "Bad Guys" in wearing their colours and we will shut down your event.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">In Shreveport Louisiana, bikers stood up to their state fair board. A campaign on Facebook triggered a ton of calls to the fair board and the next thing you know, the discriminatory signs came down.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This all transpired in the space of one day.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The article in the <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/lastest-international/286-news-international-/13655-state-fair-of-louisiana-will-not-discriminate-against-bikers-continue-reading-on-examinercom-state-fair-of-louisiana-will-not-discriminate-against-bikers-">Examiner goes on to state that bikers in Louisiana</a> still have to fight against the discriminatory practices of the Louisiana Boardwalk that does not allow biker gear to be worn on the boardwalk and that bikers need to continue wearing their colours, patches and gear proudly, continue to do the good works they do and work at changing the fear that the general public has about our community.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Here in Canada, I have been calling for bikers to unite under that same message for a long time.  We need a national organization to protect us, we need to be protected under the charter as far too many people in this country are discriminated against and profiled by police services who use the Liquor Boards and event licenses like the proverbial carrot stick to prevent what they call the show of force by "Illegal Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs".</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The sad fact of the matter is that the police services will not provide event coordinators with the images of the patches and colours that the police services deem as illegal and in order to protect themselves and be allowed to host events and have a liquor license, many events simply say NO CLUB COLOURS.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">It is also sad but true that internal politics in our community prevent us from uniting for protection.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">You have groups, associations and clubs that "dislike and resent each other", that will not work with each other for the common good because they can't see beyond their own narrow views or their own fears and others that simply will not support anything if "THOSE GUYS" are present - meaning 1%er's.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The bottom line is that the discrimination started with "Those Guys" and has now swept through our community like a cancer and fear of reprisal keeps bikers from working with each other on the things that matter most.</span></span><br /> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">You have others who never attend events and since they don't , they refuse to get involved because they feel it doesn't affect them. That kind of apathy affects our community just as bad if not worse than the internal squabbles and the internal discrimination.</span></span><br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Hubby and I just finished watching season three of Sons of Anarchy and for those of you that watch the show there is one underlying theme throughout the show that I observed. People are people, it doesn't matter whether you wear the uniform of the police,  of business or a club - there are crooks, cons and cheats in every walk of life.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The mentality of far too many people who have never really been exposed to our community is one of fear. Fear of the unknown, fear based on what is served up to them in the main stream news and by the police services. Only we can change that fear into something positive and the writer of the article, in the Examiner, Mary Baker is right.... Begin Quote: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">This is only one small victory for the biker community.  We still have the prohibitions at the Louisiana Boardwalk and we have the negative image that so many of our neighbors have of us. Continuing to proudly wear our colors and gear while participating in charitable events is one way we can change this image.  And, sticking together as a family, and standing up for our rights as we saw in the State Fair instance, is another.  I'm proud to be a member of the motorcycle community in Shreveport." End Quote</span></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">I hope you will join the discussion on joining forces to work towards the ending of discrimination in and of our community. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, our forums and here in this blog - I love hearing from you!</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><b>In other news:</b></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-rider-down/1650-bc-rider-down/13663--name-of-motorcyclist-killed-on-malahat-withheld-vehicle-driver-may-have-medical-condition-">A 54 year old male rider was killed</a> on the Malahat Highway in BC yesterday. It is believed that the driver of the vehicle has a medical condition that may have been a factor in the crash. Our hearts go out to the rider's family and friends.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Steve Drane Harley-Davidson has donated a <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-bdb-club/330-contacts/13661-donation-drum-piles-up-coins-for-jeneece-place-">reconditioned oil drum FILLED with coins to support Jeneece Place </a>which is </span>being built next to Victoria General Hospital to provide out-oftown families with a home-like place to stay while their children are in town for medical treatment. Seventeen-year-old Jeneece has been the driving force behind the $5.5-million facility after recognizing the need for it during her many trips to Vancouver for specialized care.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">In Saskatchewan, <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-sk-news/295-motorcycle-television/13669-mark-popowichs-funeral">friends and family are going to be laying Mark Popowich to rest</a>, mark died of a heart attack while in Florida.</span></span><br /> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">In Elmira Ontario<a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-rider-down/1653-on-rider-down/13662-motorcycle-horse-and-buggy-collide"> a horse and buggy and a motorcycle collided</a>. Everyone including the horse sustained minor injuries and is OK, the horse and buggy was making a left hand turn out of a driveway when the crash occured.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/whats-hot/2012-calendars-buy-now/real-lady-riders">Today is your LAST DAY to order your calendars</a>. If you miss today - you are out of luck until next year. I will only be ordering a very few extras to ensure that we do not miss anyone who did order. IF I have any left they will be sold at the Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver Bike shows - but that is a HUGE IF - so if you want a Biker Kidz, Ladies of Riding or Motorcycle Men's Calendar - today would be the day to get your order in. Remember $10 from every calendar sold goes to the charity of your choice!</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">There is a ton of news in the feeds today - check out the news that might affect your world over at <a href="http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/">www.beltdrivebetty.com</a> where we sift through the news so you don't have to.</span></span></div> <div> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></i></div> <div> <i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">I wish you a fabulous Monday - if you are still riding, please ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you....</span></span></i></div> <div> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></b></i></div> <div> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Belt Drive Betty</span></span></b></i></div> <div> <i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Editor & Rider</span></span></b></i></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div>

When we riders unite, it is amazing what we can do!

Belt Drive 0 6:36 AM

In the US, as here in Canada, there are events that discriminate against our community by posting signs saying motorcycle colours are not allowed. Some of those signs, here in Canada, anyway say things like "No Illegal Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Club Col… Read more »

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