Doc and Abate Dive Deeper Into The Cess-Pit

I've written here before of my distaste for FL Abate's President and paid Lobbyist. I've always felt that holding both positions was a conflict of interest. No one I know disagrees with that opinion either. Thus far, I have withheld my opinion with regards to Doc, on this blog, but I can keep silent no longer.

I am not sure what hold Doc has over FL Abate's board of directors, but it must be something substantial, and perhaps either dangerous or damaging. Any other explanation could only point to extremely ignorant and/or blind qualities of the individuals holding those offices. I cannot believe they are so blind to what is happening right in front of their faces.

As a Lobbyist, Doc's actions leave much to be desired. And apparently, others feel the same. It has been my belief for some time now that state legislators hold very little respect for Doc as a Lobbyist, and perhaps as an individual.

My first suspicion came in the form of viewing their behavior when Doc spoke in front of them at a hearing last fall. Most were whispering between each other, and some were idling flipping through papers in front of them. A few smirked to themselves when Doc made suggestive comments on how well he knew all of them. This was not the reaction I expected to see from those who work with Doc behind the scenes.

The second revelation came when I spoke to an official (who shall remain nameless), and was interesting in speaking with RC and I on our views of what could be done to make highways safer for bikers. She asked if I was affiliated with Abate. When I said no, she said, "oh good, I cannot stand Doc, he is mean, nasty, and spiteful". She gave me her card, and has since kept her word on exchanging ideas and has offered her help in dealing with state reps.

Another person, also nameless, but I will say is a state rep, said he was tired of Doc but felt he had no choice but to work with him. Other Lobbyists have said they have heard this too.

Many of us, RC of Big Bend Bikers For Freedom, Bruce of Bruce-n-Ray's Biker Forum, and others, have been the target of Doc's nastiness first hand.

RC has been threatened physically and refused entry to a State Abate meeting. Bruce had his Abate membership revoked with no forewarning, and I have been attacked for reporting what I saw at a committee hearing, by Doc specifically, and had other members of Abate attack my integrity based on pretty much nothing (apparently, I'm not a "real" biker because my leathers look too new and I don't publish my real name on this blog). One Abate member took exception to my disgust for apathy among bikers in Florida and decided to label me with the "c" word in an email, and copy it to others. Not the stuff one associates with professionalism or integrity in my book.

We have heard of members unceremoniously kicked out of Abate, chapters disbanding, and other members stifled during state meetings when they spoke up in protest. The wonders never cease.

I've heard about nothing but strong-arm actions in this "MRO" of Florida (and I use that term loosely) for the past year and a half, since making my home in Florida. In researching Abate's past, the history is not pretty (a lot of legislative compromises, and blatant financial secrecy).

Conversely, I've also heard about chapters "doing their own thing" and steadfastly keeping to matters at hand. Still, they also refuse to see the writing on the wall; Doc is taking them down, through his own unethical actions, and the fact that the BOD follows him like lambs to slaughter.

Now we have word that the Whitesands Chapter (NW Florida) has disbanded. And the reasons are right in line with all the other horror stories I've heard. Only this time, the facts are out, straight from inside the organization.

In a nutshell, upon asking to be placed on the agenda at a state meeting, Whitesands members and their President, Diana Woods, were refused. Why? Because they wanted to see an accounting of performance and financial disclosure for what the Lobbyist (and President) was doing for his $50k/year pay (62 days of work per year - jeeeez, I'm in the wrong business!).

Read the entire letter from Diana Woods here. Apparently Diana received a certified letter of notice to disband her chapter. As RC says, how can you force disbandment of a chapter that has already disbanded?

Abate has lost a valued member in Diana, and a large chapter membership. That they cannot see the damage this has done, or will do nothing about it, alarms me. It shouldn't, but it does. How many apathetic bikers will stand by and watch more atrocities of this nature within their ranks and look the other way? If not apathetic, how many are simply afraid of retribution? And what does that say about those who are afraid, or about the those they are afraid of?

I know I will get "hate mail" from Abate members. Take your best shot, I know where the delete button is, right after I post your nasty emails on B-n-R forum for the world to see. The events of this past year speak for themselves, and the actions of Abate's president are directly responsible. The perception Florida has of Abate is rapidly going deeper into the cess-pit and Doc is putting it there. Doc's actions are nothing short of a despot, and if you can't see that, well, wish in one hand, shit in the other, and see what you end up with.

Nothing will change that perception until Doc and those in power change it through their own actions. Someone once said to me that good-will is rather like a bank account. You must make sufficient deposits to stay in the black. Too many withdrawals and the perception others have of you goes deeper into the negative. I'd say that Doc and Abate have made far too many withdrawals, and it'll be a long time before that account is reconciled.

Now's your chance to give your opinion anonymously. Vote in the poll (upper right hand corner of the home page).

Thanking Those Who Defend Your Freedom

Being a Freedom Fighter isn't all politicians and legislation. It's also about supporting those who fight next to you, and for you. RC posted a great video sent to him by Papa John, illustrating a universal hand sign for "Thank You" that each and every one of us should be practicing. Check it out here.

Because I travel extensively in my job, I am in airports often. I make a point to address soldiers personally and thank them. They are often alone, and some seem to welcome conversation about where they have been and where they are going. Most are very young, and as a mother, I am struck by just how young they are and feel a strong sympathy for their families.

I know that not all people are as bold as I am, and might feel uncomfortable in addressing them in such a personal way, and some soldiers may also feel uncomfortable. And perhaps when you see a soldier you may be in a hurry to get somewhere and don't have time to stop and chat or vice versa. The universal sign for Thank You is the perfect way to let them know you care and appreciate what they do to protect your freedom. It's such a simple and easy thing to do.

These young boys and girls face atrocities most of us only hear about. Even though the nightmare of war affects fewer of our military than in past wars, that doesn't make it any less important. However, everyone should be aware and understand how significant that statement is when you consider what military personnel has gone through in past wars, and are still facing the aftermath of every day of their lives. Many of whom were spit on when they returned home.

I'm talking about our Veterans. The Vietnam Vets, those of Desert Storm, and many already in Hospitals resulting from injuries and trauma in the Iraqi war. For them, the war will never end.

Yesterday, I accompanied a group of people to the Veterans Hospital in Lake City, FL. This visit was planned and arranged by my friend Jewels (check out a past post on Jewels here), who is a National member of Rolling Thunder, a group dedicated to American POW/MIA soldiers and Veterans of all wars.

That's our Jewels, front and center with the ladened vest. And that's RC being conspicuously inconspicuous in the center back, and me kneeling on the left. The baby carriage holds two "mascot" Chihuahua's, always a hit with those interred in a hospital. Many thanks to Jewels for her big heart and huge efforts in making this visit happen and continue to happen for these deserving souls.

Some of the group dared the predicted thunder storms and rode their bikes, some rode in cars. We were to have lunch with these resident Vets and provide some light in their otherwise routine lives of dealing with any number of disabilities, in a place they have no choice in living.

Our gift to them was us. And it left me with even more respect for those who fight for my freedom. They sacrificed their own well being and happiness for me. For each and every one of us. It was the least I could do; so small of an effort for me, and so huge of a joy for them.

Let me describe to you some of what I saw there:

The hospital looked like most any other hospital; cleaner and nicer than some VA hospitals, and less than others. None that I've been in look like or feel like home. I know. Because of my job, I have been in many hospitals, including VA hospitals, around the country. I did see a view of a garden area where some residents can partake of gardening.

One delightful and very coherent man of an older age, probably of the Vietnam era, was confined to a wheelchair. On his head he wore a red, white and blue do-rag, and his chair was adorned with other American flag elements. He had lost one leg at the hip, and had no use of the other. He told me that the VA had sent him home at one point, but could not provide consistent nursing care for him, so he demanded to come back. He had no choice.

Another young man, with bright strawberry blond hair and the manners of a southern gentleman, who couldn't have been older than 40, was relegated to a walker due to back and leg injuries. I suspect his injuries also included brain or mental injuries as well, as he became overly tired after only an hour visit. But he was so obviously delighted to have the attention from women other than nurses, that I was reluctant to circulate more than I did. He was a delightful man, and was very proud of the lifelong military service his father contributed, and obviously his own as well.

Some of the vets in wheelchairs could not feed themselves, but were delighted to have someone assist. Many were quite aged, and some were very young men. A few had family members present, and their misty eyes matched ours throughout the entire visit. They know all too well the needs of these special people.

Some of the men could not respond to much of anything, yet if you looked closely enough, you knew they loved having us there.

As in the rides I participate in with the Patriot Guard, this visit will not be the last.

I went home to my big house, my daughter (who is home for the summer), and my computer; to write about this experience in hopes of convincing my readers to give a bit of your time to the Vets in your community. To get involved with an organization that contributes to our fallen soldiers; be they disabled Vets, or those who come home to bereaved families. It takes so little, and gives so much back.

It doesn't require a motorcycle, or anything else, except compassion and respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice; their lives, their well-being, their everyday joys in life. All because they were asked to serve, and many who wanted to serve. Their lives have been changed forever, in a service that directly affects each and every one of us. It's not about whether the war is right or wrong, it's about those who served in the name of the Freedom all Americans benefit from.

A quick Google search on Veterans will turn up many ways to volunteer a bit of your time. I have a busy life, like most people. It isn't about what I receive in doing this. However, in giving a small amount of my time to these Veterans and their families, I have received joy back tenfold in seeing the delight on the faces of those who get very little joy in life anymore.

Visit the Patriot Guard website. There are groups all over the country now. Membership is FREE, but no one must be a member to volunteer and participate. Most are motorcyclists, but owning or riding one is not a prerequisite. This organization is dedicated to protecting and preserving the Honor and Respect of our fallen soldiers and their families. Motorcyclist or not, you'll meet some of the most wonderful people, guaranteed.

Visit the Rolling Thunder website too. The link goes to their "About Us" fact sheet. These men and women volunteer their time selflessly and diligently to provide a better life for those who have served. Many of them Veterans themselves.

Both organizations are not-for-profit, yet contribute so much to our armed services.

Show your gratitude for the men and women of our armed forces. Because of them you live free.

Old School, New School, or In-Between School

When it comes to being a Biker, I've never thought of myself as "Old School". Most tell me I can't possibly be Old School because I'm of the female persuasion. In that case, I'm not. And though I've ridden one bike or another since my teens, which seems to be a prerequisite, I still don't see myself belonging to that cliche with any real conviction. Then again, what is Old School? A mentality? A way of life? What you ride? How you ride?

I think my good buddy, RC of Big Bend Bikers For Freedom could answer that question better than me. You see, he epitomizes Old School to me. I've heard some stories from him that would raise the hair on your arms, and some that made me cry with laughter. At the time, I thought, good Lord man, how have you lived this long? Then I'd think, well, my own family and friends have wondered the same thing about me. Yet my stories are vastly different than his.

RC is not a 1%'er, but I know he knows a few. There is no better friend than RC. I know RC always has my back, and I know he reciprocates the respect I hold for him without question. I remember bikers from my youth who could be RC this many years after. So, ya, he's "Old School" to me. And he's my brother.

Life for a woman is vastly different than for a man. Being a wife and mother trumps how often you get to ride, or even if you get to own your own ride. While men seem to have the option to make riding a priority, regardless of family. Funny how that is. Like most wives and mothers, my options were interrupted many times throughout my life. But the love for riding was always there, and I rode when I could, and owned when I could.

My experiences and memories are probably much like RC's, just on a different plane. I managed to skirt the law on many occasions, while still doing anything I damn well pleased, and though I didn't have a label for it at the time, unconventional was always the mode of operation. My life has always been "never a dull moment". I like it that way and you can't have that without risk or mistakes. Even with all the bumps in the road, I wouldn't do anything differently. Except perhaps to take even more risks than I did. Life is too short not to, but you don't learn that until you've lived more than a few decades.

Does "Old School" mean you have a long pony-tail (I have one of those), or a long beard? (Alas, I can't grow a beard.) But most of those I see as Old School have both. I still long for the days of motoring down the highway, going wherever for the day, in jeans, tank, boots, and bandana (they didn't have "do-rags" back then). Cars moved out of the way for you, mothers hid their children. It was a culture and a lifestyle that "good and simple" folk labeled outlaw. They didn't understand (and still don't) that it's all about nonconformity and being free to be who you want to be and who you really are. It makes me smile to myself, because most of those "Old School" Bikers have professional jobs like anyone else, and are contributing citizens of this country. The Biker lifestyle is simply that; no different than any other mode of dress or activity that individuals choose to love and own, and not let anyone gainsay them.

If anything, I think I'm really both - Old School and New School. I love that my bike fires up without stressing my ankle with a kick-starter. Both my ankles are old and tired some days now. And I especially love that I can ride for hours and not feel the engine vibration for the next three days after.

So sue me. Civilization advances, and so does technology. Back in the day, a custom or home built chopper was the only way to have one. Now you can buy one that is already "driveway trained". (For all you newbies, that means it doesn't drip oil all over the driveway or garage.) It wasn't even all that long ago before Harley redesigned their engine mounts to alleviate the engine vibration for the rider. My Dyna vibrates all over the place when I'm at a stoplight, but my body doesn't. How cool is that?

After-Market companies make seats that allows your derriere to continue normal circulation after 30 minutes of riding. That one thing alone would have been novel back in the the early days of riding on a seat that looked (and felt) like an inverted sauce pan.

I think Old School Bikers are the ones who were around to remember all those things; like when people had a healthy respect for them as Bikers, and cops didn't hassle you in every town, and politicians weren't so intent on removing the right to ride as you wish. My dad used to say, "when I was your age, I walked to school in the snow, uphill both ways". An Old School Biker says to his kid, "when I was your age, I had to kick start my bike, and Iron Butt rides really did give you an iron butt".

And perhaps that's why many of them are staunch Freedom Fighters. They remember the days of Easy Rider and life was good. Like RC does. And in that respect, maybe like me too. Though I doubt I'll be growing a beard anytime soon.

So I found this web page that has a quiz, to see if you're "Old School" or "New School", and I thought, OK, I'll bite. Could be a good laugh. And it was. Even funnier to me was the result, which I've posted below. Check it out and have a good laugh yourself. Take the Quiz. Be honest too, because regardless of the outcome, or how you see yourself, the love for riding and the lifestyle it represents is all that matters.

Are you an Old School Biker Your Result: You are old school You are a part of the true biker community. You probably understand the meaning of brotherhood and look after those you ride with as family. Ride Hard - Die Free is not just a fancy patch you bought at a bike rally. You probably ride your bike to Bike Week no matter how far it is. Bikers like you are hard to come by. Keep the shiny side up.
You are new school
Are you an Old School Biker Take More Quizzes

Old School, or New School, ride hard, ride long, ride free. In the end, it's the freedom to be who you are that counts.

Top 100 Motorcycle Blogs: Motorcycle Treasures

I've recently discovered (much to my surprise) that Sam I Am is listed in the Top 100 Motorcycle Blogs on another blog, authored by Cristian Dorobantescu of Bucharest, Romania.

First, let me tell you that there is something for every motorcyclist in this list. I didn't highlight any of them here, because there are too many to list and Cristian already has them listed. Take the time and cruise through them.

Cristian has done some very cool interviews with other motorcycle blog authors as well, so don't stop at the blog list when you visit his site.

We all know that one website leads to another, and another from there. And in exploring Cristian's list of motorcycle blogs, I ran across some treasures you may not be aware of.

• For the serious customizer, of any type of bike, you simply MUST look at this website. It'll make you drool and start up a savings account just to buy some of their customized artistry.

Chrome Fusion Custom Engraving
Chrome Fusion eBay Online Store

• For very cool videos and slide shows of women riders, check out this site:

YouTube's Freak~N~Leather

I clicked on their main website, but it must be under construction as the Products page would not open for me. Keep trying. Judging from the videos I watched, it may be a nice resource for leather goods.

• Here's a site I couldn't pass up, even though it's not a motorcycle blog:

NOT NEWS by Drew Curtis' Fark.com

The reality of life often invokes the most laughter.

Then I came upon this motorcycle safety video.....


And this motorcycle awareness vid.....


Neither of which I'd seen before.

Lots more interested me, especially all the great ride stories and awesome photos. Happy surfing.

Clarification on Scooters

In response to a few emails I've received resulting from my last post, I'd like to clarify the purpose of the post. It stemmed from the on-going discrimination the media has for American Bikers. So I'm gonna jump on my soapbox for a moment and vent.

I do not judge anyone on their ride. Many ride Vespas and the like. It is their preference for their two-wheeled pleasure, just as my Dyna is mine. Some prefer to tour the countryside in cages, but those of us who prefer the two-wheeled ride love it for a variety of reasons.

Each of us is unique in our preferences, and that includes our rides. Some like pink, some like chrome, and some like fast. To each his own.


I am sick to death of being "labeled" by the media as a "noise polluter", "rabble rouser", "drunk" and having a "death wish", simply because I ride a big cruiser. I enjoy my ride for many personal reasons, with fuel conservation being but one of those.

Ya, that's me, and I ride a big machine because I love the sound, the look, and the power. My pipes are after-market but are still within the limits of any noise ordinance. I have no desire to ride beyond the limits of the law.

What I ride doesn't mean I am a drunk, or a party animal, or have a "death wish". I hold an engineering position with a global company, have a family, and put my drawers on one leg at a time, same as anyone else.

Sure, there are always those few who cross the line. The "mean" drunk, who also happens to ride a motorcycle, wear leather and gets in a fight. Don't other mean drunks do that too? I'm a mother, and there are bad mothers out there. Does that make me one too? I lived in the Boston area for a time, and each year during sports playoffs, people died due to over-zealous fans, yet society tolerates sports fans as though it were a religion. Yet motorcyclists are lumped into one category and attacked from all directions; directly or indirectly.

In the article highlighted in my last post, the media seemed to take great delight in letting the public know of all these "energy conscious" individuals, who suddenly found the need to buy a two-wheeled conveyance, for whatever reason, and have become paragons of society by attempting to preserve energy. Excuse me? There are hundreds of thousands already out there doing that.

Yet, when a motorcyclist dies at the fault of an inattentive driver who violated their right-of-way, their death is blamed on not wearing a helmet, by the same reporters and online journalists who wrote this "feel-good" article.

We already deal with inaccurate statistics the government likes to use as reason for more regulation that etches away at our freedoms. Sadly, more untrained, unsafe, Moped riders will occupy the roadways because of the energy crisis, and many of them will die because our government refuses to acknowledge that the major cause of motorcycle deaths are those who drive cages and ignore simple driving laws.

Many journalists are now adding the terms "old, fat, balding, long beards, and/or long gray ponytails" to the description of "bikers". At 52 I may be labeled as "old" by some, but none of the other terms fit me, or many others. The media seems intent on stereotyping, and/or segregating out those who ride the larger more powerful machines as being a pariah of society. By labeling us this way, they take journalistic license in creating this "picture" for the rest of society who doesn't know any better.

In 40 years, if I live that long, that will be me in the cartoon, except I'll still be wearing my leathers, and piss on anyone who doesn't like it.

The American Biker IS a "Brotherhood". What they look like has nothing to do with anything. Riding free is just an extension of living free; being who you are, and not giving a rat's ass what others think. And once again, society (and the media) adds labels and descriptions because we aren't mainstream. I often feel as though the media would rather print, "another disgusting biker has been culled from this world", because many of their articles say the same in so many words.

Well, I know hundreds of bikers, and none of them are disgusting. They all have families and those who love them, and who they love. They hold positions of integrity in the working world, just as other non-riders do. With all the laws against hatred and bigotry in this country, it amazes me that our society allows this type of discrimination to continue and does not recognize it for what it is.

This "biker" is Richard Quigley, who successfully beat multitudes of court cases in his lifetime, all in the name of freedom. He had more integrity than anyone I know. HE would not stand for anyone taking away his freedom, or any other biker, and lived his life to that end.

I ride with clean-cut businessmen, long-haired, bearded, tattoo artists, women of all ages, mothers, daughters, sons and fathers. We ride in support of our troops, we ride to end the fight against breast cancer, and we ride for those of us who have fallen. I can't say the same for a good many other people in this world.

Does running out and buying a Moped to save you bucks at the fuel pump put you in that category? Not in my book. So why would I get all warm and fuzzy over that article? I'd rather go for the government jugular, for THEY put us into this energy crisis, not the American people, not the oil companies. Politically incorrect to the end, and proud of it.

No, I really don't care what you ride. I hope to leave a reader with a fire in your gut to stand up for what is rightfully yours; freedom to ride what you want, where you want, wear what you want, and be who you are.

And if it affects those rights, I'll write about it here, guaranteed.

If anything, part of my "personal war" is on the overwhelming state of apathy in this world. I love what I do, what I ride, where I live and work. And I'd fight to the end to keep it all, even if I have to personally object to stupid, narrow-minded journalists who spout propaganda that threatens those freedoms.

And I would inspire others to do the same.

"The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men." ~ Plato

Two-wheeled Conveyence Saves Fuel? What a Concept!

While motorcyclists everywhere are discriminated against, bullied, scoffed at, and treated basically like a pariah, the on-going energy crisis is pushing more and more Americans to buy scooters. Not of the Harley variety, mind you, but of the Vespa kind.

An online Missoula, MT newspaper implies new scooter converts to be energy-conscious citizens. I guess that doesn't apply to those of us who ride "energy efficient" motorcycles of the expensive kind. We just prefer to ride something more flashy or unique, but we are no different really.

One such convert proclaimed that buying a candy-apple red scooter would make him visible to other drivers. Another proudly stated she wore an orange helmet for visibility, and she said, "People respect us." This just about made me choke on my coffee.

Are you getting the theme here? What we are going to see is a sharp rise in deaths as those who learn the hard and irreversible way that cage drivers don't see us, in spite of an orange helmet or a candy-apple red scooter. Add to that all the people riding scooters that don't require a motorcycle endorsement, and thus no rider course.

Of course, one of them had to make the comment that they ALWAYS wore their helmet. I'm guessing they have no clue that their helmet protects their head at speeds UP to 20 mph only? And should a cage mow them down at speeds above that, well, they'll be "Moped Roadkill" anyway.

And Montana only requires those over 18 to wear a helmet. Do you really think all Moped riders are going to wear one?

And what I also see happening is the statistics from the deaths of all these Moped fools will add to the fuel that our government ignites in favor of universal helmet laws, and the growing number of discriminatory laws aimed at motorcyclists.

God help us all. Either the general public is going to learn sooner than later that America's drivers have no respect for two-wheeled vehicles, or our lifestyle is going to become so regulated we'll all have to fore-go the Harleys in favor of a Moped.

Not likely, and over my dead body.

I guess I'll have to stop calling my ride a "scooter" now.

Should the Mayor of Sorrento, Louisiana Be Exempt From the Law?

A family is left bereft and in mourning. A wife and mother is left without her husband, their children a father. The death of this motorcyclist has left an untold number of friends and relatives battling the pain and sadness, and asking the simple question, why?

On Monday, October 14, 2007, in Sorrento, Louisiana, the local Mayor, Brenda Melancon, hit and killed a motorcyclist and severely injured his wife. The Mayor said, "I didn't see them coming."

Well, no duh. That's why when you get behind the wheel of a car, you're supposed to follow the laws of driving - and that means stop and look both ways before proceeding. But Mayor Melancon didn't do that. She pulled out of a private drive without stopping or looking and mowed down Jim Pickholtz and his wife, Amy. Jim is dead. Amy has suffered devastating and permanently crippling injuries, and her family is left without income.

And if that isn't bad enough, Amy must live life, such as it is, without her husband now, the love of her life. Their children must now live without their father. Jim was 41 years old. I call that murder, even if the criminal justice system does not. The Pickholtz family are the victims here, as are their extended family and friends. The perpetrator, namely the Mayor, must pay for her failure to value life enough to obey traffic laws. She must pay for her failure to not bother looking. The buck stops here, Mayor Melancon.

Mayor Brenda Melancon was arrested for negligent homicide, negligent injuring, and failure to yield from a private drive, a felony booking in the state of Louisiana. Well that's something anyway. Most of the time, no arrest is made, and often only a traffic ticket is handed out. That's how much value society places on the death of a motorcyclist. So this arrest and charges are a step in the right direction, right?

Well, the Mayor posted bail shortly after being arrested and continued to hold office while going through the legal system, even though she was booked on a felony! Does that make you feel all warm and fuzzy about our justice system?

Now, you can bet your last dollar that had this been you or I, in our civilian jobs, we would be without a job, in a heart-beat. That she was arrested for these crimes, and crimes they are, should warrant suspension in the very least! But the plot thickens..... read on.

Recently, Prosecuting Attorney, Paul Knight, who was working on the criminal case against Mayor Brenda Melancon, has been removed from the case. Hmmmm, do you suppose maybe the Mayor has some behind-the-scenes influence going on here? Maybe the Mayor didn't like Mr. Knight calling a spade a spade.

The case is now being handled by Dana J. Cummings, who is the Director of the Criminal Justice Department in the Attorney General's office.

If you look at Louisiana's Office of the Attorney General home page, the tag line next to a smiling James D. "Buddy" Caldwell, Attorney General, reads:

"Deeply committed to preserving and protecting the health, safety, welfare, and legal interests of all of the citizens of Louisiana".

And if you drill in to the page that describes the Criminal Division, the first sentence there reads as follows:

"The Criminal Division seeks justice on behalf of the citizens of the state of Louisiana by assisting federal, state and local agencies in the investigation and prosecution of a wide range of criminal matters."

Given that Amy Pickholtz (the victim) felt that Attorney Paul Knight was making progress in the prosecution of Mayor Brenda Melancon (the accused), I find it very interesting that he has been removed, and the case reassigned to someone else. I could find no explanation for this.

Without minimizing this case in any way, let me just say that this type of case is common these days. Motorcyclists are killed every day in this country through negligent drivers, without so much as an apology to the victim's surviving family. Case after case recorded has the offender "grinning and dancing out of the court room" with a mere $45 traffic fine - for killing an innocent human being through negligence.

How many times have we heard of someone going to jail over negligent use of a gun? Is this not the same? We have driving laws to protect us from each other. When you kill someone out of negligence, you should pay the price. As Amy Pickholtz says, "there needs to be justice, not just law". If we have laws to deter criminals, then the laws that protect us from death by negligent driver should be driven home with a large sledge hammer and pounded in until it is understood that when you get behind the wheel of a car, you are driving a very big weapon that motorcyclists cannot protect themselves from. Kill a biker, go to jail.

I see no evidence of guilt or remorse here. All I see is her proclaiming that she "looked". So sorry, I looked, so I'm not to blame for killing you. Brenda Melancon continues to do her "duties" as Mayor, takes home a paycheck, and still has her foo-foo dog to sleep with at night. While Amy lives in pain, both mentally and physically, and her children wonder why their daddy will never come home again.

And what does this teach others? That it's OK to kill someone and the excuse of "I didn't see them" is acceptable, when the law clearly states that you must yield the right-of-way? And in order to do that, you must STOP and LOOK first. It's been 36 years since I took Drivers Ed. I still remember that little "rule". Does the Mayor's excuse exempt her from guilt? Certainly not! But I bet she thinks her position as Mayor does, for I have no doubt (no proof, but no doubt) that she used some sort of influence to have Attorney Paul Knight removed from the case and another more controllable person assigned. My research of Dana Cummings shows that he is a brilliant attorney in criminal cases, but will he jeopardize his job in protecting the rights of Amy Pickholtz? Do I really need anyone to answer that question?

And therein lies the corruptness of our public servants. For in their arrogance they feel above the law. I can see it coming. The Mayor will be found liable for a traffic violation, but not of negligent homicide, and Dana Cummings will orchestrate the whole thing. Brilliance only works if you have that brilliance on your side. Dana cummings will not be questioned when he lets the Mayor go free.

So I'll be writing letters in a big way, to the smiling James D. "Buddy" Caldwell, Attorney General, and to Dana Cummings, Director of the Criminal Justice Department, as well as others. I want them all to know that they are now "under the microscope". I don't live in Louisiana, but these "negligent murders" happen in all states, and has an affect on all motorcyclists everywhere.

Public servants should be held to the statement and purpose they are in office to uphold. A Mayor is like anyone else when you strip away the arrogance and title. And Jim and Amy Pickholtz are just as deserving of life, liberty and happiness. One cannot remove the other without consequences. That is, if there's any justice.

If you're any sort of human being, if you have any compassion at all, you'll write letters too. We are a brotherhood/sisterhood and we watch each others' backs. Jim and Amy, and all of their family and friends, have suffered greatly, at the hands of a negligent driver, and she must pay, Mayor or not.

Remind them all of "Buddy's" words on his welcome page, "As your lawyer, I have a tremendous responsibility to protect the public as well as to uphold the laws and the Constitution of Louisiana", and demand that they uphold those words in prosecuting Mayor Melancon of her crimes against Jim and Amy Pickholtz.

You can write to them at the addresses below:

The Honorable James D. "Buddy" Caldwell, Attorney General
Louisiana Attorney Generals Office
Physical: 1885 North 3rd St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Mailing: P.O. Box 94005, Baton Rouge, LA 70804
Phone: 225-326-6100
Email: caldwellj@ag.state.la.us

Dana J. Cummings
Director of Criminal Division, Louisiana Attorney Generals Office
Phone: 225-326-6200; fax: 225-326-6297
Email: cummingsd@ag.state.la.us, criminalInfo@ag.state.la.us

Ms. Linda Southhall, Assistant To The Attorney General
Fax: 225-326-6797
Email: southhalll@ag.state.la.us

Administrative Services Division:
Phone: 225-326-6705
Fax: 225-326-6793
Email: adminInfo@ag.state.la.us

Executive Division, John W. Sinquefield, First Assis. Attorney General:
Phone: 225-326-6705
Fax: 225-342-8703
Email: executive@ag.state.la.us

Investigation Division:
Phone: 225-326-6100, 800-488-2770
Fax: 225-326-6197; investigationInfo@ag.state.la.us

Litigation Division:
Phone: 225-326-6300, 225-326-6705
Fax: 225-326-6490
Email: litInfo@ag.state.la.us

Public Protection Division:
Phone: 225-326-6438
Fax: 225-326-6497
publicprotectionInfo@ag.state.la.us

You should also copy:

The Honorable Bobby Jindal, Governor of Louisiana
Office of the Governor
P.O. Box 94004
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9004
Phone: 225-342-7015
Fax: 225-342-7099
Possible emails for Governor Jindal: constituent@la.gov, info@bobbyjindal.com
Website: http://www.gov.state.la.us/

Email block for mass mailings:

caldwellj@ag.state.la.us, cummingsd@ag.state.la.us,
criminalInfo@ag.state.la.us, southhalll@ag.state.la.us,
adminInfo@ag.state.la.us, executive@ag.state.la.us,
investigationinfo@ag.state.la.us, litInfo@ag.state.la.us,
publicprotectioninfo@ag.state.la.us, constituent@la.gov,
info@bobbyjindal.com

*********************************************************************

Sample Letter:

Honorable Officials of Louisiana,

I have been watching the proceedings in the case of the death of Jim Pickholtz by negligent homicide, negligent injuring, and failure to yield from a private drive, in which Mayor Brenda Melancon was arrested and charged with a felony.

It is my understanding that Mayor Melancon has been allowed to continue her job as Mayor during these proceedings. I find that deplorable, while Amy Pickholtz is left without a husband and a family income, as well as permanently crippling injuries. Any other person would have lost their job or in the very least been suspended. One would think the Mayor is "special" and deserves better treatment than your average citizen.

Traffic rules are not guidelines. They are made into law to protect innocent citizens who abide by the law. Yielding the right-of-way requires a driver to stop and look for oncoming traffic before pulling out and making a left-hand turn. She stated that she looked both ways and then pulled out, but the crash was instantaneous; by her own words, she said she didn't even know what she hit. That's a good indication that Jim Pickholtz was much too close for her NOT to see him, IF she had looked. Everyone blames the small size of a motorcycle, but I always see them. Because I LOOK for them. And motorcycles have as much right to be on the road as any other legal vehicle. "I didn't see them", or "I looked" is an unsubstantiated excuse.

Failure to "see" another vehicle or motorcyclist, when a motorist does not look, makes it a willful act. Does her saying she looked make it so? No. Motorcyclists are always watching for those who would pull into their path, and would not willingly hit another vehicle if it can be helped. She was too close for him to do anything. She did NOT look.

The fact that Brenda Melancon is the Mayor should have no bearing on seeing justice done for Amy and her family. A public office does not exempt a person from paying the price of taking a life through negligence. A slap on the hand for Mayor Melancon is only assurance that others will also go unpunished for such negilgence. And let us not forget that such negligence took a life and severely damaged another.

I sincerely hope that removing Attorney Paul Knight from the case was done to strengthen the proceedings with a more knowledgeable Attorney, and not out of concern that Mr. Knight may prove the Mayor's guilt. As that would be criminal too.

As a motorcyclist, I am aware of the high number of deaths caused by a failure to yield, and/or negligence. In most cases the guilty party (proven so in court) is given a slap on the hand or a traffic fine for killing a motorcyclist/bicyclist/pedestrian. That "someone" could be me next time. And it is appalling that our court system cannot see fit to punish those who kill us needlessly. I am a motorcyclist, I am a law-abiding citizen. And never forget that I also vote.

Therefore, I am appealing to you, as a citizen of this country, who has a right to fair and thorough prosecution, regardless of the public office the alleged guilty party holds, to please see that justice is done for Amy Pickholtz. Her husband's death should not be passed off on the excuse of "I didn't see them". For had she truly LOOKED, Amy's husband might be alive today, and her injuries non-existent.

I would also remind you that on your website, the following quotes are displayed for all to see:

"Deeply committed to preserving and protecting the health, safety, welfare, and legal interests of all of the citizens of Louisiana".

and

"The Criminal Division seeks justice on behalf of the citizens of the state of Louisiana by assisting federal, state and local agencies in the investigation and prosecution of a wide range of criminal matters."

and

"As your lawyer, I have a tremendous responsibility to protect the public as well as to uphold the laws and the Constitution of Louisiana"

I urge you to prosecute to the full extent of the law, and to seek the maximum penalty for this death. Five years is nothing compared with what Amy Pickholtz must face the rest of her life. The American public must see that killing needlessly in this manner is not tolerated. Louisiana has the penalties for this crime, please show that your sworn oath to uphold the law applies to all citizens.

Respectfully,

Your Name
Your Address

*********************************************************************

"Drive it like a loaded 357, with a hair trigger."

Freedom Rally at the Capitol

April 14th marked the 2008 annual ride to the Capitol here in Tallahassee, Florida, organized by Abate of Florida. This was the first one of these for me, and one of many for Abate of Florida. I had heard so much about previous years, I needed to see this rally for myself. And besides, I am, after all, a freedom fighter.










I rode with a small group of people who had accepted my offer of a place to stay. That Monday morning, we rode to the starting point at the Monticello KOA, just off I-10, east of Tallahassee. But, when we arrived, I was disappointed in the small number of bikes assembled and hoped that more would already be at the Capitol, or would be riding in from other starting points.

We had a police escort from the campground into the city, and since we were close to the front of the line-up, we were able to park close to the main courtyard where the assembly would take place. We stood and watched the others behind us roll in and park. I estimated about 250 bikes showed up for this important rally. Again, that was a disappointment. The local Breast Cancer Poker Run gets more attendance each year.

The opening speech was given by the State Abate President, James "Doc" Reichenbach. His comments were mostly spoken to politicians and legislators, with many of his comments eliciting a response from those listening. I kept looking around for any of those legislators, but they were conspicuously absent. And I am not surprised, as this was a Monday, a travel day, and many were not even in residence. None came out to address the assembly there that morning. More disappointment.

Following his speech, Doc then read off a list of names; fallen brothers and sisters. After each name a designated person rang a bell. It was a solemn and heart wrenching experience.

Afterward, the crowd disbanded and I watched in dismay as more than half got on their bikes and left. So much for storming the halls of the Capitol building. I went inside with the group I came with, and we went down every hallway on every floor of both the Senate and House buildings. Less than half the Representatives or Senators were in their offices. Planning the rally on Monday was a bad oversight.

I'm told there are 7000 - 7500 Florida Abate members. With all due respect to those who attended - bless you all - I was saddened to see so few Abate members in attendance. I'm not a member of Abate, but I went, I supported this rally, because freedom is a very important part of living in this country. Sadly, that is taken for granted by Americans in general, but should not be ignored by American bikers.

I could say, once again, Florida Abate, where were you? But I don't want to discredit those who rode up from southern points to attend this rally. But with over 500,000 registered bikes in Florida, I will say, where the hell were you, Florida bikers???

Our freedom is so very important. Those who have gone before us must surely be looking down and shaking their heads. I am not sure why I thought this rally would be any different than the absent participation at legislative hearings, but somehow I thought it would be.

This rally should have been first on the agenda of every member of Abate. And certainly most of Florida's bikers. How can legislators take us seriously if they don't see us in overwhelming numbers?

What has happened to "A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactment"? That seems to be gone in Florida, replaced with "American Bikers Aiming Toward Education". By definition, Abate of florida isn't even responsible for bikers rights. How convenient.

Florida has no state MRO (Motorcycle Rights Organization). Abate's Freedom Rally was nothing more than a ceremonial ride. Most came for the fun of it, and missed the entire point. The fun is in the ride, yes, but we ride because we have the RIGHT to ride. The Freedom Rally was all about retaining that right. I look to Abate's President and BOD to get that point across. They may have made an effort, who knows, but they failed miserably.

Florida's bikers need an MRO that will fight for their rights to ride free. I just don't see that happening within Abate. True freedom comes from taking a stand of "no compromise, no surrender". I can't remember when Abate last took that stand.

We will see what next year's Freedom Rally brings, and if the biker community in Florida will sacrifice a day of work, skip that poker run, and show up for what is perhaps the most important statement they could possibly make. We have the right to ride free, stand up and count.

Afternote: The Abate state meeting was held the day before this rally. Although it was advertised that all were welcome, member or not, Robert "RC" Conroy was physically prevented from attending the meeting, by two Abate Sgt. at Arms. In addition, another member had his membership revoked without going through the proper procedure outlined in the Abate By-laws. If Abate hopes to increase its membership, this is surely not the way. That Abate's President would condone such acts does nothing to discredit his already questionable reputation.

New Links - Worthy Sites

I've got two new sites for you to check out, but first let me do a little whining ...

This past week has been simply HELL for me. Besides getting only 4 hours of sleep for the past five days in a row, keeping up with work deadlines, I also refuse to allow my personal life to get behind either. I am feverishly trying to get my house in order, after moving into it a month ago, in preparation for guests next week for the Florida Freedom Rally and Run-on-the-Capitol.

This morning, we had severe thunder and lightning storms, which knocked out my power. No biggie, you say? Well usually it is a no-biggie, but with temps up around 78 degrees at night, and the humidity level way up, no power is not a good thing. Not only am I unable to take a shower, but more importantly, I can't get my garage door open on my own without the garage door opener working. It is simply too heavy for me to lift. As a result I missed the ride I had planned for this weekend because my scooter is inside the garage. This problem is now at the top of my list to resolve, since "Florida Flicker & Light" is so unreliable.

But... I digress and all whining aside, perhaps it was an omen that I couldn't get the scooter out this morning, since it is now pouring rain again and the thunder-boomers are rolling through. I hope the power lasts long enough to finish this post before flickering out again.

****************************

Recently I received a reply to one of my blog postings from the editor of an online Motorcycle Magazine, located in my home state of Florida. I didn't respond right away, because, you see, I get contact messages all the time from other online sources, mostly asking for link exchanges. But this one intrigued me.

I checked out the site, and was fairly impressed with the content, but as always, there wasn't much in the way of postings on bikers rights, which is really at the top of my list for things related to motorcycles, besides riding of course. So I wrote her back telling her of my views.

Long story short, we ended up chatting on the phone and I liked what I heard from her. And when she asked me to do a guest column for her e-zine, I agreed. The first of which is the open-letter I wrote to her initially.

Check out CurvesAhead.net. I think you'll be surprised at the friendliness of this website, for both male and female riders. And since it is Florida based, you'll find a comprehensive and thorough list of events to choose from when you're making that difficult decision this weekend of which event to attend on your scoot (that is, if you can get the garage door open).

And you'll find my open-letter to her, right there on the front page. Look for the image of our revered flag. And while you're there, cruise through and look at everything. There's something for every biker here.

***************************

The other site is the brain-child of two bikers in North Texas, Jeff (Rummy) Rumminger and Phil (TJ Willy) Golden, who saw the need and got motivated. It is called Motorcycle Awareness Corps or M.A.C. for short.

They aren't a political organization, or a bikers rights group. They are all about Motorcycle Awareness, for everyone, and dedicated to making "Motorcycle Awareness" a household phrase.

Check it out and lend your support to them. I have no doubt whatsoever that this site will take off like wildfire. Do yourself a favor and be a part of it.

Thumbs up to Phil and Jeff for recognizing the need and not just talking about it, but doing something about it. See what this very worthy website is all about, post their link on your webpage, email them and encourage them, spread the word.

Ooops, the lights are flickering... time to save and post.

Ride safe, ride free.

Study Shows Cell Phones Distract Drivers

BY RITA RUBIN, USA Today

Simply listening to a cell phone distracts drivers, a new study concludes, raising questions about the effectiveness of laws that ban only the use of handheld devices while driving.

California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Washington, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands prohibit drivers from using handheld cell phones, but no jurisdiction bans hands-free phones, says Jonathan Adkins, spokesman for the Governors Highway Safety Association, representing state and territorial highway safety offices.

Allowing hands-free phones "really gives drivers a false sense of safety," says Adkins, adding that he has seen no evidence that bans on handheld phones have prevented accidents.

As a motorcyclist, I've seen this first hand.

Neuroscientist Marcel Just, director of the Center for Cognitive Brain Imaging at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, agrees. Just studied 29 volunteers who used a driving simulator while inside an MRI brain scanner. The volunteers steered a car along a virtual winding road undisturbed or while deciding whether a sentence they heard was true or false.

Listening while driving led to a "significant deterioration in driving accuracy," Just and his co-authors write in the latest issue of the journal Brain Research. The drivers hit the guardrail and veered out of the center of the lane more often while listening.

And we've seen this have a deathly affect on motorcyclists who have been hit head-on by a driver crossing the center line, and many other right-of-way violations caused by driver inattentiveness.

In the listening situation, MRI brain scans found a 37 percent decrease in parietal lobe activity. The parietal lobe is associated with spatial processing, so it is critical for navigation. Activity also decreased in the occipital lobe, which processes visual information.

"Certain activities in life are inherently multitasking, but driving and cell phone use isn't something Mother Nature thought about when she was designing our brains," Just says.

But banning cell phones outright is "too draconian," Just believes. "I could imagine banning them during rush hour, maybe during inclement weather."

Won't happen. How will anyone enforce this? It will take every person who drives to be aware and have consideration for others on the road. What a concept! Sadly, that ain't gonna happen either.

Besides, say Just and Joy Hendrick, who has found that college-age drivers don't brake as quickly when talking on either a handheld or a hands-free phone, it's unlikely that busy lawmakers would support a ban.

What??? Tell some lawmaker (or businessman) they can't do business over the phone while driving, all to save a life? Pffftttt!!! Get real.

For now, the researchers say, they would just like to raise awareness of the problem. Hendrick, a kinesiology professor at State University of New York-Cortland, says drivers need to ask themselves: "Do I need to make this call?" If the answer is yes, she says, then they should think about pulling over or at least keeping it as brief as possible.

Not "think" about it. PULL OVER! Again, what a concept! It all begins with the man/woman in the mirror. My life depends on it. More rider education won't help me (other than watching out for all you cell phone addicted drivers). My helmet won't save me from you either.

Here's a thought. How about all you self-righteous people who lobbied against smokers, put some effort into lobbying against cell phone drivers who are likely to kill your child, sibling or parent while yakking on their cell phone in their car. Either that, or put a mask on. Same thing as a motorcycle helmet, doncha think?

Quig et al vs. CHP - Sweet Victory

The most concise and legally accurate description of the helmet law problem in any state, as explained by Richard Quigley....


" ....the government cannot make any objective standards for helmets without taking on liability, and since they are expressly forbidden from taking on any liability, they can never make an objective standard for helmets. There it is.

Without an objective standard it all becomes ad hoc and arbitrary - Ad hoc and arbitrary is the foundation of vague law - Vague law is Unconstitutional." Quig (1943-2007)



Today, February 8, 2008 marked a hearing date in the contempt case of Quigley et al vs. CHP.

It seems a California Attorney General (AG) got a little too big for her "knickers", as you will see. Read on....

This hearing, titled "Summary Judgment Hearing", was for the AG to request dismissal of the case, based on her opinion that the Plaintiffs failed to prove they have a case.

At this same hearing, the Plaintiffs planned to seek a motion to compel compliance with discovery. Great move, and here's why.

And Don Blanscet, CA Abate Executive Director, comments:

"Ask any Attorney what his chances are for Summary Judgment when he is pissing off the Judge by refusing to comply with simple basic discovery rules, to the extent that we are faced to seek a motion to compel."

Here's some history on this case, from the keyboard of Tony "Pan" Sanfelipo himself, founding member of BOLT, when asked for the long and short of it. You'll find the outcome of this hearing below.

(Of course, if you are really into the detailed side of things, there are many informative articles you can read on the BOLT of CA website).

"As you know, the NTSB issued a recommendation that all states should adopt or amend helmet laws to meet compliance with the FMVSS 218 (helmet standard). That's exactly what North Carolina did in January [2008]. Anyway, the boys in California have been fighting tickets there for 17 years...and winning.

"Now comes the great Quig et al vs. CHP, set for trial in May, 2008. That calls for an injunction and declaratory relief, which in road language means, the CHP would be enjoined (stopped) from writing tickets for non compliance with the DOT standard. Quig beat a number, I think 9, of them tickets with his BOLT baseball cap and DOT embroidered on the back. That case had the judge rule to dismiss the tickets, but Quig didn't want a dismissal, because that would just go away for him and not do anyone else any good. So he asked for an injunction, which would stop them from writing everyone up. So be it.

"Meanwhile, the judge was pissed at the CHP for ignoring his earlier ruling that they stop writing helmet tickets unless they sign them off as correctable.

"In California, you can get a fix it ticket for an equipment violation (remember, helmets are listed by NHTSA as motor vehicle equipment, not safety equipment). So it should be a $10 fix it ticket. The problem is, the biker has the right to ask the cop, "officer, how do I fix this?" In other words, tell me what a helmet is or where I can buy one that complies with the law. Since there is no list, there is no law, or at least any way for a cop to tell you how to fix your problem. So we have them right where we want them.

"Then, along comes the Attorney General (AG) and takes this contempt case on in the 6th Appellate Court. The court rules that there is an exclusion in the evidence rule that says, even if it's an equipment violation, if the condition presents an immediate safety hazard to the biker, the cop doesn't have to sign off as correctable and can refuse to let you drive off until you put on a helmet he likes. Wow. The AG thought she had it in the bag at this point.

"The 6th Appellate also ruled that, although Quig's soft cap presented an immediate danger in their mind, as a matter of law if a helmet has a hard shell, it's correctable. That's what we wanted to hear, because the other plaintiffs in Quigs case, Blanscet, Barron, Bianco and Holmes, were ticketed with hard shell helmets. And so were hundreds of others, despite the injunction against this in the Easyriders F.I.G.H.T. Freedom case (an earlier injunction).

"Are you still with me? This ain't easy to explain. Anyway, the AG thought, hey, Quig is dead now, and the 6th [Appellate] ruled that the cops have discretion on whether the helmet is compliant, so let's motion for summary judgment. That means, the Quig et al vs. CHP is no longer relevant. It's a moot case according to the thinking of the AG.

[And the outcome? .... drum roll please....]

"So this motion for summary judgment came up today in court, and if the court granted this, it's all over now, baby blue. Of course, we were on pins and needles because you never know what a judge is going to do. You know what he's supposed to do, but it don't always work out like that. Anyway, low and behold, the judge dismisses the summary judgment and asks why he shouldn't issue the injunction right there and then. That must of blew the AG out of her knickers. I'm sure Quig is dancing in the clouds. So, we go to trial in May.

[After learning the outcome of today's hearing, Don Blanscet went out trolling for another helmet ticket, and I wondered if he could still get one, given the ruling today...]

"Don could still be cited for non compliant helmet, because this still has to be settled in court. He'll have to troll long hours though if the word is out about the summary judgment loss.

"We also want to ask the Supreme Court to retry the 6th Appellate ruling on Quig's soft helmet because, under Buhl vs. Hannigan, and Bianco vs. CHP, followed by the Easyrider case, it was determined that a cop cannot pull you over without probable cause that your helmet didn't comply. The probable cause was, according to the earlier cases, there was no DOT sticker (which later was found not to be necessary anyway) and that the cop knew the helmet didn't comply or he knew there was a recall of that particular helmet, and that the biker knew the helmet didn't comply.

"Whew! How is anyone going to know all that?

[I can hear Tony taking a big breath as he prepares to continue this narrative.]

"As for the baseball cap, it did have a DOT on the back, so there was rebuttable presumption of compliance, because the earlier cases ruled that fabrication isn't an issue. In fact, for a cop or consumer to consider fabrication of the helmet, is absurd (judges words).

"The FMVSS 218 is a performance standard. It tells you what a helmet has to do or prevent to be compliant. Nothing in the standard talks about fabrication. There is nothing in there about a hard shell, 1 inch thickness or any of that nonsense cops say a helmet has to have. They do mention a retention system (chin strap) and that's why Red and Quig and Don have some sort of lace or chin strap attached to their baseball cap, coconut shell or yamaka cap. These guys are characters...I love them."

Let me tell you folks, if you think this has been easy, think again.

And so, as described above, this is a huge victory.

The Judge dismissed the Summary Judgement. And he put the AG in her place by asking why he shouldn't issue an injunction right then and there.

How I wish I could have been a fly on the wall in that courtroom!

And as Don wrote to me today, before firing up the scooter to go "hunting" for another helmet ticket [Got Ticket?]:

Quigley vs. CHP won Big !!!!! I mean we won Big!!!! BIG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Judge says perhaps an injunction is in order for the plaintiffs (thats you !!!!!!!!)

He was very happy with the outcome (ya think?).

As Don says, "we" are the Plaintiffs, and he is right on that point. For this victory was not just for California Bikers, it was for ALL Bikers, as Quigley intended. "Brotherhood knows no boundaries", as is evident here. And this writer is grateful for the work they've put forth to achieve this victory.

What does this mean to you and me? Considerable ground was gained today, through perseverence, a refusal to back down, and a refusal to compromise. They have beat back law makers and law enforcement with the very laws they wrote and [try to] enforce.

But there's no relaxing, as the show is not over.

Trial is set for May 2008. CA Abate and BOLT must still pay their Attorney fees, and they must still keep vigilance. The way looks clearer, but it won't be over until the fat lady sings. They must still fill the Judiciary Fund coffers, to pave the path for the May trial.

Check out the information on the Judiciary Fund and make a much needed donation. Any amount helps. There are hundreds of thousands of bikers out there. Show them you appreciate what they are doing, what Quigley devoted his life to, and help them beat this down to the "whale dung" level (lowest place on earth) where it belongs.

Ya know? I'm hearing the theme for "Rocky" in my head right now... but I hate those musical tunes that play when I open a web page, so I'll let you remember that tune on your own.

And now for the quotes - and I so love good quotes.....

This quote by Napoleon Hill is for the Freedom Fighters in California, and for all those who had/have faith in them and contributed to this cause.

Victory is always possible for the person who refuses to stop fighting.

And this one by Theodore Roosevelt, is for everyone else. But it's not too late. Send your donation today!

Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.


Great job guys!
Florida Freedom Fighters salute you.

Just the Facts Ma'am - Why Bikers Should Vote Ron Paul 2008

As biker, I am concerned with bikers rights, and if you ride, so should you also be. But as an American citizen, bikers rights are just a sub-set of what I believe in; my personal rights and freedoms.

In the video below, Ron Paul speaks of a "message":

Ron Paul is all about personal rights and freedoms. Yes, as with all candidates, Ron has some differing views, no doubt about it. But in comparison to his undying support of the the Constitution, those differences are minor. In the long haul, less government means less infringement on each of our personal rights. Less government means less money stolen from our earnings. Less government means I still only have ONE mother; the woman who gave birth to me.

I want to see less government, less regulation, less, less, less. Don't you? Only through that will everything else follow. Ron Paul has been called "radical". But this country needs sound and even radical changes if we (the people) are to turn things around and take control of our country again.

I'm tired of my tax money funding our legislators to create hundreds of new and restricting laws every day that infringe on my individual rights; from telling me how to raise my children, to legal confiscation of personal property, including the 15-20 (out of 40) hours I work per week to fund a government that cannot control it's spending and continuously invades my personal life.

Ron Paul has consistently voted no to any new taxes. He wants to phase out many unfair taxes that rightfully belong to each of us, such as capitol gains, inheritance, and death tax.

I'm tired of paying out so much of my earnings in taxes that are spent in other countries, when that money could help me pay my medical bills, and other expenses all Americans pay. When that money should go to our own poor, our own homeless, our own starving children. Ron Paul wants to bring all our troops home, end our world domination policies and give those funds back to Americans, where they should be.

Ron Paul wants to bring our soldiers home. All of them. No other candidate has come close to this statement. How long must we fund 130 military bases worldwide to the tune of 3 Trillion buckaroos each year? How long will the world tolerate our "occupation" on their lands before someone worse than Bin Laden comes along and finds a way to Nuke us? Learning the hard way, in this case, is not an option.

Only with Ron Paul do we have a chance at Freedom and Liberty again. Not to mention restoring worldwide respect for our country.

Hilary, OTOH has a long history of sucking us dry:

"In 2003 and 2004 [Hilary] Clinton grew even more generous with the taxpayers' dollars. She sponsored or co-sponsored 211 bills to increase spending and just three bills to reduce it, yielding a total net cost of $378 billion. This made Clinton the second most "expensive" senator during that time."

And Hilary's response? (drum roll):

While other candidates are addressing issues seriously, Hilary is cackling.

Old habits die hard, and I don't expect Hilary to change colors any more than Osama Bin Laden. In her interviews, Hilary never makes any mention of removing our military presence completely from other countries, only juggling them around some, as if that would make a difference in government spending. She has yet to provide any sound method of paying for all the health care she wants to "give" everyone, including non-citizens. In fact, I've never seen her give a straight or intelligent answer to anything. She plays with our livelihood like an eleven year old plays with Barbie dolls.

As a woman of 52, I've waited many years for a qualified woman candidate for President, and quite frankly, Hilary makes me want to shave my head and pass for a man so I don't have to admit to being a woman. The ignorant women of this country see only a "woman candidate". Oh goody, Women's Lib-ers unite. Where's my paper bag, it's time to puke yet again.

I know! Let's elect Hilary based on her cackling laugh. That's just as good of a reason as any other I can think of. After all, hubby Bill was elected based on his charm and good looks. (Not MY opinion, so don't go there.) Are we supposed to give her "brownie" points because she "stood by" a philandering cheating husband who got caught? All so she could run for President? Sorry Hilary, you lost any respect I might have had for just this reason.

Then we have Mitt Romney, who is, quite frankly, a joke. He can't decide what he is proponent for, or opponent of. He should be renamed "Flip-Flop Romney". (Though I value my summer shoes here in Florida, it will give me cause to chuckle the next time I wear them and accidently step in something nasty.)

Romney supports (for now) illegal wire-tapping and invasive spying on American citizens, including censoring the Internet. His views in nearly every category include discriminatory comments regarding race, gender and/or religion. And he LIES. In his stint as Governor of MA, he closed MA budget gap of $1.2B, not $3B as he claims. In high school, we called that "two-faced".

Can you say "Flip-Flop"?

While Ron Paul is calmly quoting the supreme law, the Constitution, discussing the end to war and the return of our sons and daughters, and lowering our taxes, Mitt Romney is stumbling over his position on issues and beating his chest. And let us not forget that Hilary is busy making her vapid, flowery speeches, that cloak the consequences of her proposed actions, to less than informed young women, who haven't lived long enough to understand the meaning of more taxes imposed on an already over-taxed population, more unnecessary spending in foreign countries, more government spending, more, more more. Which translates into dipping into mine, yours, and every other American's pocket.

Why do I pick on Hilary, a Democrat, AND Mitt Romney, who is a Republican? Because neither, in spite of their party, want to turn the government back over to the people. Neither has any concept of what Freedom and Liberty is. They are both selfish individuals. Hilary wants to be the "First Woman President", just because she's a woman (her only qualification). Mitt Romney just wants to add another notch to his, um, pole - I love me, so you love me, we all love me. [gag]

Ron Paul is a Libertarian running on the Republican ticket. And Ron has all the right agenda. His agenda is my agenda. Because that agenda includes my Liberty, my Freedom.

I am a Libertarian and the following says it all for me:

WHEREAS libertarian Republicans believe in limited government, individual freedom and personal responsibility;
WHEREAS we believe that government has no money nor power not derived from the consent of the people;
WHEREAS we believe that people have the right to keep the fruits of their labor; and
WHEREAS we believe in upholding the US Constitution as the supreme law of the land;

Ron Paul intends to return control of government to the American people, not the other way around. Ron Paul wants states to be vastly more independent, and govern based on what the people of those states want. We are a nation of free individuals, not a nation of uniform servants.

So how does Ron Paul apply to bikers?

If you weren't convinced by the above, Ron's quote below makes it pretty clear how he views bikers rights - just like any other right guaranteed by the Constitution.

Paul said, "wearing a seat belt or a motorcycle helmet "may well be good advice" but should not be mandatory."

In a Ron Paul Presidency, the efforts of bikers to defeat helmet laws would not be saddled with the federal mandate of the NTSB. Or a Federal government intent on absolute control.

And in relation to government controlled health care?

"Once the government gets control of paying the hospital bills, then they want to control our lives," he said.

If the current attempt to force a universal helmet law down our throats isn't enough to concern you, when Hilary hands over our health care to the government, how hard to do think it will be to fight it then? Even our country's no-helmet states.

Ron Paul is for less government, and I believe him. Past history and actions speak volumes.

Carl Fiser, of NewsLI.com said of Ron Paul:

"His voting record is one of the most consistent this writer has ever seen. No flip-flops are to be found [hellooooo, Mitt Romney]. As well, he is a courageous and wise man, and a heck of an economist. Just ask the Wall Streeters. However, he bears to his fellow countrymen (and countrywomen), an empty pot. He can’t claim to have brought you wars or higher taxes, which we now have [Yo, Ho, Hilary]. He never brought you an unbalanced budget, which is a perennial joke. He never voted himself a wage increase and, to this day, gives back part of his salary every year. He has always voted to preserve the Constitution, cut government spending, lower health care costs, end the war on drugs, secure our borders with immigration reform and protect our civil liberties. Sorrowfully, he was outvoted or shot down on all measures. The Constitution has been chiseled down, government spending is through the roof, health care costs are out of control, the war on drugs keeps getting less effective, immigration issues remain unresolved and our civil liberties have been crimped for our own safety. I’ll just throw in that Ron Paul opposes regulation of the Internet; [Flip-Flop, are you listening in on this?], which has been a revolution in the exchange of ideas, this article being a case in point.

The eye-popping reality of the situation is this. No longer can it be said that Ron Paul is running for President. Amazingly enough, his candidacy has been hijacked, and it appears now that the people are running for President. . . through Ron Paul!"

Do YOU want a President who will do what HE/SHE thinks is right? Or do you want a President who will do what we, THE PEOPLE, think is right.

I'm an American citizen, I'm a biker, and I want a President who will work FOR ME, not the other way around.

If you ride, vote Ron Paul.
If you value your right to choose, vote Ron Paul.
If you feel you are the best judge of raising your children, vote Ron Paul.
If you think you'd like to keep more of your paycheck, vote Ron Paul.
If you want our soldiers to come home, vote Ron Paul.

It's that simple. Vote Ron Paul.

Read the issues here.

Sam I am. Still riding free... this year anyway.