Niagara Peninsula: Where Farm-to-Table Actually Means Something

Most restaurants claim "farm-to-table" these days, but in Ontario's Niagara Peninsula, it's not marketing speak - it's geography. When your restaurant sits in the middle of some of Canada's most fertile farmland, fresh ingredients aren't a concept, they're a given.

Treadwell Farm-to-Table Restaurant sits in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, surrounded by the vineyards and orchards that supply its kitchen. 

The menu changes with what's being harvested, which means every visit offers something different. This isn't a restaurant that sources locally because it's trendy - it sources locally because the best ingredients are literally growing next door.

Trius Winery and Restaurant earned its Michelin Guide recognition by showcasing the region's agricultural bounty alongside exceptional wine. The combination creates an experience that justifies the drive from anywhere in Ontario. 

When a restaurant earns Michelin recognition in a region known for its culinary scene, you pay attention.

Peach Country Farm Market represents something increasingly rare - a family-run operation growing peaches and nectarines for generations. Their 4.2 rating reflects what happens when people do one thing exceptionally well. 

During peach season, this becomes a destination, not just a market.

The Niagara Peninsula's unique microclimate creates growing conditions that can't be replicated elsewhere in Canada. The same soil and weather that make the wines exceptional also produce fruits and vegetables with flavors that remind you why people used to plan meals around seasons.

These aren't tourist traps trading on location - they're establishments that have earned their reputations by delivering experiences that live up to the region's agricultural heritage.

Links:Treadwell Farm-to-Table Restaurant
Trius Winery and Restaurant
Peach Country Farm Market

Planning an Ontario culinary extension to your trip? 

As a Certified Travel Agent with CMTA Travel Services, I can help map out your complete Niagara Peninsula route, including wine country accommodations and seasonal timing for the best agricultural experiences. Contact CMTA Travel Services for personalized travel planning. Email: exec.director@motorcycletourism.ca

Motorcycling in Canada - A Ride Through Our History - Part 5

Motorcycling in Canada - A Ride Through Our History - Part 5

Ontario has had a very interesting relationship with the motorcycle!

In 1834, Toronto became the new name for York.  The name was officially changed because of the number of communities in the region named York, not to mention the county that the town was located in! In 1879, manufacturing in Ontario began to boom largely due to the high tariffs placed on American made goods.  The great fire of 1904 set things back a little in Toronto, but the opening of the Canadian Pacific Railway further spurred on the economic growth of the region.
By 1912, Hendee Manufacturing had opened a plant on 12 Mercer Street in Toronto.

Yes, for a short period of time in history, Indians were produced in Canada!

But let's step back to 1910 - a year that saw two of Canada's best racers hit the scene.

Ted Sturgess

In 1910, the oldest motor cycle dealership in Canada, Sturgess & Sons Motor Cycles opened in Hamilton ON.

Young Ted Sturgess became one of Canada's most successful dirt and road race riders.

Invited in 1939 to race in the English National League, Ted returned home at the outbreak of World War II.

He served for four and a half years in the RCAF and then went on to win many more Canadian titles on his motorcycle.

Sturgess & Sons Motor Cycles

Harold Cole - Canmoto.ca

Also in 1910, a young man named Harold Cole bought his first motorcycle, a 500 CC Yale.

His very first action was to take the bike to the racetrack, a dirt oval in Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto.

He was 15 years old and none of the other racers would let him compete at either Exhibition Place or Scarborough Beach, but he made the best of it by practising, a lot.

1911 was a big year for the 16 year old Cole. His first race in Waterloo, he won the heat and the three mile final, then, on a loaned Indian a week later, he won at Exhibition Place. During the Canadian National Exhibition in late August  of 1911, he set a five mile record then he won a 25 mile event winning the Commeford Cup and the Dominion Championship!

By 1913, Harold Cole had become a dominant figure in racing in eastern Canada and having beaten Joe Baribeau paved the way for him to be paid $500 by the Toronto Motorcycle Club to race exclusively in their events. It didn't hurt that he ended up winning a similar amount in prize money!

The outbreak of the First World War in 1914 put an end to the racing career of Harold Cole.

As with British Columbia, Vancouver and Vancouver Island in particular, where shipping made motorcycles easier to obtain than in the prairies, Ontario became a hotbed for the motorcycle rapidly. Manufacturers began seeing the value in forming motorcycle clubs to promote their brands and the first of these types of motorcycle clubs to open in Ontario was the British Empire Motorcycle Club in 1928.

Graham Oates was the first elected president of the British Empire Motorcycle Club.

Graham Oates with his Ariel and Sturgess built sidecar modified to ride the rails.

Born to John Oates and Mary Graham, on January 18, 1897 in Douglas, Isle of Man England, James Walter Oates, or Graham as he was called, was born to promote motorcycle racing.

He moved to Canada in 1927. and served as the vice president for a company called Overseas Motors on Danforth Ave. in Toronto. They imported Rudge-Whitworth, Ariel, Coventry Eagle and Matchless Motorcycles.

Graham rode despatch in both World War I and II. (During World War I on a horse and in World War II on a motorcycle.) In fact, he created a training program for despatch riders during World War II.

He is also the same man who not only rode an Ariel with a side car built by Sturgess & Sons Motor Cycles, right across Canada setting a number of firsts, but he is also the first person credited with riding a motorcycle and sidecar to Fort Churchill (the place of my birth). That trip also made him the only person to ever reach the Hudson's Bay with a motorized, rubber tired vehicle of any kind.

Graham's illustrious career included him being a medalist of the International Six Day Trials from 1933 to 1939.

Toronto and Hamilton are not the only communities from this era who produced or housed famous riders of the day.

From Newcastle Speedway

Belleville Ontario is home to one of Canada's preeminent racers of all time. George Pepper was elected as the president of the Quinte Motorcycle Club in 1933 at 18 years of age.  He had after all competed in the AMA's very first 200 Mile road race in Savannah Georgia in 1932 and competed in the Ontario Tourist Trophy earlier in the year.

In 1936, Belleville sited the Canadian Championship 200 road race. It drew over 20,000 spectators and 35 of the top racers of the day. Starting in 8th position, George rode his single cylinder Norton to first place, 3 laps and was nearly 10 minutes ahead of the Harley factory rider, Babe Tancrede who had started in first.

After a disappointing series of races on the Isle of Mann in 1937, he ended up being invited to compete in the English Speedway Races where crowds could swell to 60,000 and winnings could reach $400 a week.

During World War II, George became a commissioned pilot with the RAF in 1941 and like on the track, he did it with the highest possible scores a pilot could receive. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1942. He and his crewman had shot down 18 enemy bombers, (3 of them in one night raid) in 12 months. George died in November of 1942 during a test flight. His ashes were returned to Canada and he is buried in Belleville cemetery.

Interesting Historical Tidbits:

1894 - Toronto Police Service is the first in North America to use bicycles for patrols

In 1901 - Newmarket ON, seeing a gas powered motorcycle was an oddity that people felt the need to gawk at.

1904 - Walkerville Ontario,  Henry Ford establishes Ford of Canada. This was a completely independent company from the American company although it relied on the American company for engineering and design.

1911 - Toronto Police Service is the first to use motorcycles in Canada.

1916 - The Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings is destroyed by fire. 

1922 - With over 180,000 vehicles on the roads in Ontario, the OPP which were formed in 1909, were already using motorcycles to patrol the highways. Motorcycle officers had to supply and maintain their own bikes!

1927 - The Peace Tower opens alongside the fully rebuilt Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings. This is also the year that Canada celebrates the 60th Anniversary of the Confederation.

1939 - The National War Memorial is unveiled by King George the VI and Queen Elizabeth.

1946 - The first drive in theatre in Canada opens in Stoney Creek Ontario and could hold 750 cars.

1949 - Newfoundland becomes the 10th province of Canada.

Today 13.5 million people call Ontario home. there are over 223,000 registered for highway use motorcycles in Ontario.

I hope you will join me next time as we look at Quebec's history with the motorcycle.

If you are blessed to be riding today, please remember to ride like everyone around you is blind and cannot see you.

And don't forget - Canada's MOST Rider Friendly Community Contest - we are on the hunt for that one community that really welcomes riders...where is it? Help us find out....

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider



































Research for this article:
Toronto Police
Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame
OPP Museum
In Search of the Canadian Car
"Isle of Man Births and Baptisms, 1607-1910," database, FamilySearch

Allen Johnson CVMG

Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame

Archives Canada

Newcastle Speedway
Sturgess & Sons Motorcycles



Disclaimer:
All data and information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. The Belt Drive Betty Blog makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site & will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.

Thank you ONTARIO!!!!!

What an incredible weekend.

The Central Ontario Chrome Divas were there in full force, their table was one of the favorite places to be as Diva Carol brought all kinds of baked treats - can you say Bake Sale? The delectable treats were a fund raiser for Prostate Cancer Canada. The girls won the trophy for best booth - that in my humble opinion was, a no brainer and I can't wait to show you the pictures in the paper on Thursday!

I got meet with Jon from Classy Chassis - what a great human being, I can see why the shop is one of the most popular in Ontario!

I saw Elaina from On the Fringe Leather - she does a lot of work for Port Dover's Friday the 13th - you could say she is a staple in the community.

I met Lenny from Biker Injury Group and attended an OCC Meeting where I re connected with Sue Whalen, a para legal - I had known Sue over the internet for years but after MSN shut down, we lost contact.

I saw Shaun deJager from Roadawareness.org - again, I have known Shaun for years via the internet and finally got to meet him. I got great hugs from Shaun and Lou of the Perfect Pigs! Lou is known for his cross Canada trips for Diabetes and as the host for his club for the Hero's Highway Ride - one of the fastest growing rides in Ontario! Heck, my BC sales rep Quentin was even at the show for a few hours as he is currently working in Ontario for his full time job!

Trapper Cane and his lady Pam were at the show - Trapper is the head of the CAV and Pam owns a Tee Shirt Company.

I saw Glenn from Mojo, Steve Schueller - builder extraordinaire, Nancy Mayer and Crystal great lady rider friends of mine, I made new friends and discovered new products.

I spent time with so many incredible, vibrant people that I feel as though I have found a new depth to the passion I feel for my community - I truly did not know it was possible to care this much or feel this much pride - but man is it ever energizing!

I was able to reconnect with one branch, the Ontario branch - of my sisters & my brothers of this great big family I call the family WIND. It was amazing. 

There were a few challenges like the Kawartha's Biker Church booth where all my stuff was stored got flooded and so I had no hand outs - it was disappointing for them as well as a number of their bibles and posters were ruined, but in the end - it didn't really matter - what mattered was the opportunity to talk to people, to hug them, to share and man, we did a ton of that this weekend.

The Ontario riding community is one of the largest in Canada. 

It is diverse, it is caring and compassionate and has so many  wonderful, powerful and energetic people in it. It has a long and rich history and it has pride.

The OCC - the Ontario Confederation of Clubs is a diverse representation of the people of the Motorcycle Community here. 33 clubs, military supporters, 1 per centers, independents, sport bike clubs, business people - all of this incredible diversity and divergent ideas all in one room. 

Riders all, there to share, empower and unite for fair treatment and equity with other motorists. To keep each other informed of the laws and the changes - to support each others events and share ideas or experiences both good and not.

I have NEVER been is a room filled with more brother and sisterhood - it was AMAZING.

Every province should have this kind of group - this kind of support, this level of respect - do all of the groups have the same values? NO. Do they all truly enjoy being around each other - not necessarily - but they are there for the common good. Every club has it's own code of conduct and their own ambitions - but they ALL share the same constraints as other motorcyclists. Loud pipes, handle bar laws, poor road ways, HOV Lane use , insurance - all of these things are barriers or obstacles or issues that our community lives with. By uniting, sharing and educating each other to what is happening in their areas, riders are able to ensure that they know when a law changes or when a bylaw is introduced and how the change affects them. I was impressed with the professional and respectful way the issues presented were discussed.

I left that meeting feeling so hopeful for our community.

Yes - the Ontario riding community is diverse and rich and an enjoyable community to be a part of and I feel honoured to be a part of a community that embraces each others differences, defends each others rights and works together for the common cause and the common good of the entire community at large.

You could say it was a spiritual experience. One I am truly grateful to have had for it truly showed me what is possible. It reminded me of what is possible when people work TOGETHER.

Like always - I welcome your opinions on the topic of the day.

Have a fantastic rest of your Monday!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider
www.beltdrivebetty.com
www.bustedknucklechronicles.com

Hellloooo Ontario

Well - after a full day of driving and flying I arrived at the Toronto Airport an hour and a half late but in one piece - kind of.

I fly Air Canada because West Jet is too expensive for my current budget and that means being squished into the plane like sardines in a can. Talk about uncomfortable. 

The staff were friendly and my seat mates were really nice people and that made the rather uncomfortable seating bearable at least.

When we finally deplaned I was met by Pastor Dave Neals from the Peterborough Biker's Church and his friend Pastor Harvey. We had a pleasant and uneventful trip to Pastor Dave & Karen's home just outside of Peterborough. By the time we got in it was 1:30 am and I am a beat puppy this morning but I am also excited because this weekend I get to see a ton of friends and business colleagues that I haven't seen since the last time I was in TO for a bike show 2 years ago.

Today I spend some time getting caught up on a full day of emails and paperwork and then tomorrow we head back to TO from Peterborough to go and get our booths set up - Can't wait for Saturday morning and the opening of the National Motorcycle Show!!!

There is a ton of interesting news today - everything from Bikies in Australia being raided - house by house after a shooting - apparently the ploice are worried about a turf war heating up.

In Winnipeg Manitoba the hunt is on for a suspect in a police involved shooting - apparently a domestic situation triggered the shooting and the person sought is thought to be a member of the Rock Machine.

In New Zealand they are tackling motorcycle safety in a grassroots sort of way that I really like...

In Europe - motorcycle manufacturers are very concerned over proposed new safety measures that they say will slow down the evolution and development of green technologies in the industry.

There is a ton of other news for your reading "pleasure" over at www.beltdrivebetty.com

Voting for our February Mens and Ladies calendar pages and the January Kidz page starts today at 9 AM MST!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider
www.beltdrivebetty.com
www.bustedknucklechronicles.com

Ontario BEWARE - Markham MPP Dr. Helena Jaczek is at it again

Remember the MMP in Ontario who wanted to ban kids from riding with their parent on the back of their motorcycle?

Well, this lady is at it again.

She has introduced a Private Members bill to establish a select committee to investigate methods of reducing injuries and fatalities on non-automobile vehicles.

“In the last 10 years, statistics show us that the number of injuries occurring on all terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles and bicycles in Ontario have increased by 66 per cent,” Jaczek commented. “It is time to address the safety surrounding these vehicles in a comprehensive way.”

Now the growth in motorcycles alone in the last 10 year is up 300K
According to Stats Canada there were 330K registered for highway use motorcycles in 2000 and today there are just shy of 600K.

Do you think that more people on the roads have anything to do with that? And how can you compare snowmobiles to motorcycles?

Ontario - why do you keep re-electing this woman? In my humble opinion this woman is dangerous and WILL eventually find a way to shut down outdoor recreations if allowed to. She is, again, IMHO, a loose cannon, someone who wants to make a mark, make her political career a legacy - only you voters can decide her fate.

I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on this MMP and her attempts to take all of the enjoyment out of life. Join the discussion here, on Facebook or in our forums on www.beltdrivebetty.com

In other news:
In Switzerland the Hells Angels are seeking damages from the government after a magistrate ruled officials didn’t have enough evidence to declare the Hell’s Angels motorcycle club a criminal organization.

In Las Vegas the police are going green after receiving a grant from the Consumer Electronics Association - they now have 7 electric motorcycles to cruise the Strip with.

In Michigan an 18 year old girl is charged with 2 counts of negligent homicide for killing two riders while on her cell phone.

In Orgeon, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation is calling on all riders to help curb what their government is doing - the government reportedly wants to divert highway maintenance funds to pay down debt.

In Texas, a woman who ran over a police motorcycle because she was impatient and angry over a funeral cortege for a fallen officer. The woman has been charged with failing to stop and render aid.

Our 2011 Beat the PMS Blues On Line Show 'n' Shine is accepting entries - help a girl out - PLEASE...PMS is a horrid dis-ease and the only known cure according to my Doctor (Mechanic) is to see lots and lots of motorcycles - we have great prizes up for grabs and entry is FREE! Just log in or register on www.beltdrivebetty.com to enter your machine!

There's a ton of other news in the feeds today, visit www.beltdrivebetty.com for your daily fix!

I am getting ready to head out to Calgary for the Calgary Motorcycle show. I look forward to seeing many of you there!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider
www.beltdrivebetty.com
www.bustedknucklechronicles.com

A variety of information out there today...

If you are in Vancouver, check out the Gas Town Show 'n' Shine being hosted by BCCOM.
The gals from the Swan City Charities have their new 18 month calendar on sale...it will benefit the Vancouver Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society. The ladies are reporting that just as many if not more women buy their calendar that men do!

The ABATE in Ontario is planning on going ahead with their plans for a campground. They were recently denied their permit to hold a motorcycle rally on their property because they didn't have their rezoning papers in on time but held their event anyway.
The Mayor is upset and so are a bunch of the neighbors. Because the 50 acre parcel is in a fragile eco area with wetlands and  is also zoned as rural a number of the area horse farmers and others do not want to see a private campground in their community.

The ABATE - according to its neighbors and the various articles in the news has in many ways violated the local bylaws by allowing people to camp on their property. According to one neighbor there has been camping on the property since May.

According to the news reports, Local Pastor Daniel Cudney and his wife Bev would like to see some negotiation happen between the community and the ABATE as neighbors as they feel the good done by the rally for the local economy is very important.

Their application for re zoning will be heard soon, I wonder if going against the mayor's and councils wishes with regards to their rally will put them in tough or help them? We shall be watching and waiting to hear what happens.


As always, your feedback and input is ALWAYS very welcome...

In the news:
In the US of A a Texas motorcycle officer apparently dumped his bike during a motorcade for President Obama because of a pothole....


Friday the 13th in Port Dover is tomorrow! The town is bracing for record numbers as they get ready to host the 50th Friday the 13th celebration since the events inception!

In BC - The Gas Town Show 'n' Shine is this weekend...Visit our events calendars for more event information for right across the country! If your event isn't listed - get on it - it is FREE to do!

Old Aged Pension reform is in the news again - what do we have to do to stop these people and their ridiculous ideas???

If you are traveling - please be careful of this scam - it is simple and catches many people unaware...Credit Card Scam

And again - sadly we have more accidents and a death to report...please visit the rider down section of our web site

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!

Belt Drive Betty

www.beltdrivebetty.com

A MAX Award winning web site!

www.bustedknucklenews.com

www.canadianriders.ca

www.riderfriendly.ca

www.bikerfriendly.ca

www.greatcanadiandayrides.com

National VP of Marketing

Foundation for Injured Riders, Rights & Education

www.firre.ca

Contact Me

Discrimination - a wider problem than we may understand

It appears that the discrimination that many riders face may be a far wider problem than we realize.
What makes me say that? Well - it appears that in Ontario at least - that if they were really interested in quelling the noise of motorcycles the way the grumbling has been (In Windsor particularly) then you would think they would embrace the electric motorcycle...but that is NOT the case from what I see in the news feeds this morning.

It appears to me, and this is truly just a hunch, that having people who ride motorcycles as a bad guy target is appealing to that jurisdiction - otherwise why wouldn't you embrace electric motorcycles...

The article entitled "Ontario To Subsidize Electric Cars, Not Motorcycles" points this very sentiment out.

It is a sad statement that we as motorcyclists must face: "This has got to be a blow for electric motorcycle companies, and another sign that the Canadian authorities don't think too much about motorcycle in general." states author Mike Werner.

MD's like Foothills in Southern AB and regions like Surrey, Chilliwack and Delta BC look, Windsor ON and many other jurisdictions are watching what happens with Edmonton's bylaw and await the first trials and court hearings to see if the discriminatory way Edmonton is handling noise issues will be allowed to stand or not.

In other news:
US Highland has named new executive in their bid to get back to business after the tragic plane crash that killed three of their top people.


Harley-Davidson is doing it's part to manage the prices of used bikes...

In Newfoundland The Bacchus Motorcycle Club is claiming harassment and discrimination after a weekend stop by The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary

There are many more news article to read over at www.beltdrivebetty.com in the what's hot section!

I encourage you to join us as a registered member so that you can take advantage of the FREE membership card and the savings attached to that card - it is good for special services and discounts at over 260 locations and growing folks! remember membership at www.beltdrivebetty.com is FREE

We have some great photo contests happening this summer -
check them out here: http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/whats-hot/contests

If you are among the fortunate and you are riding today - PLEASE, ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you, IS out to get you and PLEASE, save those pipes for when a vehicle attempts to violate your right of way...

Belt Drive Betty

www.beltdrivebetty.com

A MAX Award winning web site!

National VP of Marketing

Foundation for Injured Riders, Rights & Education

www.firre.ca

www.bustedknucklenews.com

www.canadianriders.ca

www.riderfriendly.ca

www.bikerfriendly.ca

www.greatcanadiandayrides.com

Contact Me

Mother Nature is CRUEL and COLD HEARTED!!!!

I get flack because sometimes my blog posts are viewed by people as being negative when in fact what I am trying to do is create dialogue.

I hear a lot of complaining about events or non profit groups that aren't being "run right".

So I am gonna warn you all - if you are not in the mood for an arse chewing - leave NOW.

Today it is about as negative as it gets - I am travelling by bike, it is cold, raining - trying to snow and there are heavy snowfall warnings all around me. I am pissed - and helpless as there is NOTHING I can do about what that evil creature is doing to our riding season and our charitable events. I need to stay put - because safe is good...alive is good. I know it, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.

I love riding, I love my community but I HATE snow in May, June, July...., I dislike the noise bylaws that are springing up everywhere and I intensely dislike when people whine and snivel but never get involved to affect change.

If you don't like something and it is in your power to do something about it or you have knowledge that could make a volunteer organization, a forum, a group or an event better - get off your butt and do something and if you don't then have the good grace to acknowledge those who are at least trying because sincere appreciation will go a long way to getting better results from those who are trying. There is offering constructive criticism and then there is destructive.

Too often people start their own group - their own event - because they don't like what's happening in an existing one - but they never got involved with the existing one to see if they could offer any thing of value.

A divided effort really gets no one anywhere - had these people who started their new gig gotten involved with what is existing they may have been able to truly help grow what existed into something phenomenal but because they did not, no one will ever know how good things could have been.

People who get involved - who do stuff are gonna make mistakes, mis steps - the reason that is...THEY ARE DOING SOMETHING!

The people who never make mistakes, who set themselves up as perfect - they aren't doing anything except pointing fingers.

Here is a Poem that kind of fits the situation...

Do you just belong?

Are you an active member, the kind that would be missed,

Or are you just content that your name is on the list?

Do you attend the meetings and mingle with the flock,

Or do you meet in private and criticize and knock?

Do you take an active part to help the work along,

Or are you satisfied to be the kind who just belongs?

Do you work on committees - to this there is a trick

Or leave the work to just a few and talk about the clique?

So come to meetings often and help with hand and heart,

Don't be just a member but take an active part.

Think this over members, you know what's right from wrong.

Are you and active member of do you JUST belong?

Author Unknown

So folks, the next time you find yourself critisizing, condemning, complaining or bashing others and their efforts ask yourself this...have I done anything to affect change?

If not - you have three choices - complain and condemn - Get involved and if you can't - offer some praise to those who try.

In the news:

A volunteer and incredible man's life is being celebrated - John Coutts funeral is at 2:00 PM on Saturday May 29 at Leyden’s Funeral Home in Claresholm.  The luncheon is right after the service at the Prairie Winds Club House located at 4621 2^nd St N in Claresholm. John was an active and contributing member of the motorcycle community and his loss will be felt for a long, long time to come.

Edmonton has a new noise bylaw! Get ready to pay big if you don't conform...

The helmet Law in BC has passed third reading.

In the US an insurance company survey exposed the fact that about 38 million Americans who are driving should not be behind the wheel!

There are a ton of events coming up all across the country - some are in the latest news feeds and a ton are in our events calendars - become a member on www.beltdrivebetty.com - it is free to belong and has a ton of perks!

If you are in Ontario or Quebec where you are sitting in a heat wave and riding - quit emailing me to rub it in! AND Please people, ride safe, ride like everyone is blind and can not see you - IS out to get you and remember to ride proud NOT loud.

Belt Drive Betty
www.beltdrivebetty.com
A MAX Award Winning Web Site
National VP F.I.R.R.E.
www.firre.ca
Western Canadian MotoRescue Representative
www.motorescue.ca
YOU, make it a great day!
Lord, please keep Your arm around my shoulders
and your hand over my mouth! Amen

Contact Me

Be gentle...PLEASE

Occasionally our event calendars have a date in them that is wrong. We are, for the most part, volunteers who look after the event calendars and we have riding clubs that submit their own stuff. Now we work really hard at checking things and trying to follow up (Which is way more than Motorcycle Monster or Let's Ride or any of the other calendar operators do) but every now and then one slips through the cracks.

When that happens, it would be deeply appreciated if you would point the errors out using a tad bit of kindness instead of hostility.  The written word comes across pretty harsh at times folks... We appreciate knowing when something isn't right - we WANT our information to be as accurate as possible but PLEASE - just be kind and remember that we do the best we can and if you want better - pitch in and help out, don't kick us!

In Ontario - catering to Bikers just got to be a bigger industry. You have all heard of the Biker Coffee Company (Best damned coffee around - made by riders for riders) well now there is Biker Beer...I haven't heard if the people from this micro brewery are riders but I am going to try and find out...

If you are a dirt biker in PEI around Summerside - be on the watch if you are doing stuff you shouldn't be - the police there are going to be riding ATV's in an effort to nail you!

In the Kootenay's of BC the police are on the look out for a rider who drug a police officer about 30 feet...

In Manitoba - one lucky dude won a Harley...

I was going to go to Thorsby for their show 'n' shine and then to Slack's in Onoway however the amount of snow on the ground in this north country precludes me from going anywhere - which - when I look at the number of articles I have yet to write and the funding applications I need to finish...yah, I guess Mother Nature is sending me a message...

And on the roadways of Canada - the police are going to be extra vigilant and out in far larger numbers than normal for the long weekend...It is the May Long Weekend folks - if you don't want tickets - watch your speed and behaviour - if you want to arrive alive - watch what everyone else is doing.

Belt Drive Betty
www.beltdrivebetty.com

A MAX Award winning web site!
National VP of Marketing
Foundation for Injured Riders, Rights & Education
www.firre.ca
www.bustedknucklenews.com
www.canadianriders.ca
www.riderfriendly.ca
www.bikerfriendly.ca
www.motorcycletourism.ca
www.greatcanadiandayrides.com

Contact Me

An interesting day in the news...

There are some mornings that I sift through the news from the mutlitude of sources that are out there and go wow, not much happening and what is, is boring. Then there are mornings like this one where the news is interesting and thought provoking.


Kingsway Financial is being investigated....

Gilby Clarke - the former bassist for Guns n Roses was injured in a motorcycle crash...
OCC has managed to stay in the spotlight with their new hybrid motorcycle, it appears that Paul Sr has partnered with Lawless Industries on this project.
Here in Alberta The Second Gear Club is having to postpone their race at Chestermere due to the warm weather.
In Ontario they are gearing up for the Toronto Super Show - Wished that I was going but alas...anyway the 31st annual MAX Awards are bing handed out - see who is getting an award...

So what is thought provoking in the news today?
For me it is the rapid advancements that are taking place with motorcycles and hybrid, bio diesel and electrics.

Two years ago these ideas were in the distant future - today they are becoming reality and that distant future is upon us!I would love to hear your thoughts on the advancements that are being made...even if it is Paul Sr that appears to be pushing a lot of stuff forward...

I am on the road today heading toward Edmonton. I will be dropping off our community directory to a number of our business partners along the way and ending up in Leduc at my girlfriend Sandra's place.

Tomorrow will be set up for the Edmonton Motorcycle Show.  Not sure how Edmontonians are going to stack up against |Calgarians in the hugs department but I am eager to find out.

Come visit our Beat The PMS Blues On Line Show 'n' Shine - we have so many incredible prizes up for grabs. If your bike isn't entered -I have one question fo you and one only- WHY? It's free, it's easily done and if you do face challenges Ali and I can helo you so what are you waiting for????

If you are riding today good for you, but PLEASE ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you.
If not, our show 'n' shine may help assauge that PMS...

Belt Drive Betty
www.beltdrivebetty.com
National VP A.I.M. Can
www.aim-can.com

Because of the biker community - A Miracle Happened!

Over the last few weeks we printed two articles in the Busted Knuckle Chronicles - one in French and one in English about an Ontario Chrome Diva who needed help and man did the people who read the Busted Knuckle Chronicles come through in a BIG way.

Two donors - two matches - were found for Diva Lise. At least two people went for the tests and were identified as matches and now on September 22nd, Lise will go for her first consultation for a bone marrow transplant!

I am so humbled and so honored that two of the people who read this paper took the time to give the gift of life. I wished I could hug and kiss you! Lise had no other avenue to have her story told and her plea to be heard. Because you took the time to read the paper - because you took the time to go for the blood test our gal Lise has a shot!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!

In the news today...

Our good friend, Tom Mann of Biker TV is in London hospital in Ontario recovering from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on Sunday. We have no other details than he is doing OK.

My thoughts and healing prayers are with Kathleen Purser who went down in Mayerthorpe on the weekend. She is in the U of A in ICU, fighting for her life.

Duane " Bling" Lowry's Memorial will be held at the Heritage Ranch, the date is still to be announced.

Saskatchewan bikers lover their Timmy's!
10 motorcyclists were having a coffee in the Tim Horton's on Regina's Albert Street and
4th Avenue when they noticed two men putting on masks. One of them had a machete.

That's when the bikers took action. Staff-Sgt Brian Wilkinson says the man with the knife
tried to use it on one of the bikers. "A couple of these helpers jumped the bad guy and took the machete away from him and held him for police."

In Nova Scotia, a rider from Moncton NB and a black bear had an encounter you really don't want....he credits good gear for coming out of it virtually unscathed!

It's been a rough riding season on our community and guys like the 7 in Edmonton who got caught speeding by the police helicopter don't really help our cause much!

The OPP in Ontario are cracking down on aggressive motorcyclists - sport bike riders in particular. They have seized a number of bikes for stunting, speeding and failing to stop for police...when are people going to get it? YOU CAN NOT OUT RUN A MOTOROLA!

I have a question to ask...

When are we riders going to come together as a community, from coast to coast to coast and start creating a positive movement towards safety?

It's time folks. I am sick of seeing people on their bikes wearing sandals, flip flops, shorts, tees and bikini's. I am sick of hearing about people I care about sustaining life altering injuries or dying in avoidable accidents. My heart is heavy people. I am sure yours must be as well...

The Alliance for Injured Motorcyclists of Canada would like to invite you to start a chapter in your region - the Alliance is all about supporting riders and their families in the days, weeks and months after a motorcycle accident. For more information on the Alliance and how to get involved please visit their web site. www.aim-can.com

If you are fortunate enough to be riding today, please take a walk around that Iron Steed of yours. Ride like everyone around you is blind and can not see you, stay hydrated and please use your head for something other than a helmet rack...

Belt Drive Betty

Bill 117 Passes - HUGE Disappointment

We have heard that whatever happens in Ontario will eventually filter down and affect the rest of Canada.

I hope and pray that that is NOT the case here.

Bill 117 went to its second reading and debate in the Ontario Legislature and passed.
You remember - the bill to prevent kids under 14 being allowed on the back of a motorcycle...
So, two more steps and this private members bill will become law.

There is discussion that since the legislature will be closing for Christmas that this bill might not be carried forward - that's about the only hope the rest of us in Canada who ride will have to see this bill stopped.

So, with all the riders who have been up in arms over this - over 900 on Face book etc...why did this bill pass?

Because riders didn't show up to voice their concerns yesterday. The vocal majority showed up in full force though and as we all know - the squeaky wheel gets the grease!
How many riders were on hand? FOUR.

Hell - there were more riders in London England that showed up to protest parking charges for motorcycles than there were in Ontario to protect our lifestyle here.

Our brothers and sisters in Ontario have dropped the ball and if this bill does not die by being left behind over Christmas then guess what boys and girls - eventually - everywhere in Canada this will become a law - its the way of Canada - Ontario and Quebec hold the majority of power so the rest of get screwed. Sigh - it saddens me that our community very rarely bands together to support each other. It will be the death of the biker/rider way of life here in Canada.
Good old Canadian Complacency at its finest.

Enough depressing crap for now...

More prizes have been offered up for our Beat the PMS Blues Show 'n' Shine:

A $50 gift certificate from Northgate Honda
Riders Ranch - Kitchener BC - A nights free camping
Grande Prairie Regional Tourism - A back pack full of goodies

Yes the business community is liking the idea of a winter show n shine - hope you - the riders do too!

Ali has got all of our content coming back on line and soon all of our news and funny stuff, all of our lifestyles info like event articles, music, food etc will be back....actually if you look at the bottom of your profile page you will see that Lifestyles and Funny stuff are already back...

YEAH - finally - its been a rough month but we have gotten through it and I thank everyone for their patience and understanding while we resolved these issues.

Anyway - back to work for me...

Stay safe and warm.


Belt Drive Betty