Franks Biker News

11/23/2009 02:59:50 AM

Anderson-McQueen Family Tribute Centers Collects Toys for 22nd Annual Jim Rosenkrans Memorial Toy Run

Local funeral home calls on the community to fill their Harley-Davidson® hearse with toys.

St. Petersburg, FL, November 23, 2009 --(PR.com)-- It may not be Santa's sleigh, but Anderson-McQueen Family Tribute Centers' 2008 Harley-Davidson® Road King hearse, Glory Ride™, will be featured in the 22nd Annual Jim Rosenkrans Memorial Toy Run. Local residents have the opportunity to 'fill the ride' as the funeral home collects new, unwrapped toys at each of its St. Petersburg locations until Friday, December 4, 2009.

Northeast St. Petersburg Tribute Center
2201 Dr. M.L. King Street North
St. Petersburg, FL 33704
(727) 822-2059

Tyrone Tribute Center
7820 38th Avenue North
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
(727) 347-6636

American Legion Post 14 is also collecting toys to fill the hearse. On Saturday, December 5th, donors will have the opportunity to see Glory Ride and drop off a toy for the toy run.

American Legion Post 14
1520 4th Street North
St. Petersburg, FL 33704

"Jamie Rosenkrans and Jim's Harley-Davidson have a long history of giving back to our community," said John McQueen, chief operations officer for Anderson-McQueen. "With the help of our neighbors, we will fill Glory Ride to ensure that every child will have a toy this Christmas."

Sponsored by Jim's Harley-Davidson of St. Petersburg, the event runs on Sunday, December 6th through St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach and Pass-A-Grille. More than 2,500 people and 1,800 bikes rode in the 2008 toy run. Additional information about the Jim Rosenkrans Memorial Toy Run is available online at www.jimshd.com.

About Anderson-McQueen Family Tribute Centers
Anderson-McQueen Family Tribute Centers is a second-generation funeral home and the only private, on-premise crematory serving the St. Petersburg area. Best known for personalized funerals, Anderson-McQueen offers unique services that may include memorial videos, balloon or butterfly releases, live webcasts, and Glory Ride™, a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle hearse. Pet Passages, cremation services for pets, is a growing area of service. Additional information about Anderson-McQueen can be found online at www.andersonmcqueen.com.

Thousands of engines revved up to help kids - Las Cruces Sun-News - LAS CRUCES — In addition to leather and chrome, thousands of motorcycles roared through the streets of Las Cruces on Sunday decked out in red and green garland and glittery holiday frills and carrying teddy bears, dolls, board games and other toys as part of the Toys for Kids Motorcycle Parade.
As many as 3,000 motorcyclists participated in the 29th annual event, which provides toys to the children of the Tresco TOTS program, a nonprofit early intervention agency in Doña Ana County, said organizer Theresa Adams.
An estimated 4,000 toys were donated as part of the event, which began at the Mesilla Valley Mall, where motorcyclists embarked on a parade throughout Las Cruces and ending at the Dickerson's Event Center for food, music, a bike show and other entertainment.
"The parade continues to grow and grow each year," Adams said. She noted about eight motorcyclists participated in the first Toys for Kids Motorcycle Parade and about 2,000 rode in last year's event.
"People realize this is all about the children and really want to do their part to make this time of year special," she said.
Toys will be distributed by Santa Claus in early December to the children of the Tresco TOTS program and their siblings, with additional toys and funds dispersed to many community agencies to help families in need throughout the county.
"Kids from Truth or Consequences to Santa Teresa to Sunland Park to Vado will all see the benefit from this event," Adams said.
Donning a green and red elf hat, John Corkran of Las Cruces prepared to ride in the parade with a sleigh full of toys in tow, but instead of reindeer, a Honda Gold Wing motorcycle carried this elf and more than 300 toys throughout Las Cruces.
"I built the sleigh four years ago and take it out every year a couple weeks before (the parade) and bolt it to the frame of my trailer," he said.
Having done some serious shopping last weekend, Corkran, an engineer with GeoControl Systems Inc., said the company donated money to help him purchase toys for the event and Wal-Mart pitched in by adding toys to his sleigh.
"I had two shopping carts and several boxes filled with toys," he said.
"I like to try something new every year," Corkran said, pointing out sleigh bells attached to the back of his trailer. "The first year (I rode in the parade) toys were falling out, but I've learned how to keep them secured in the sleigh."
As he cruises down the streets of Las Cruces, "everyone always beeps and waves or gives me a thumbs up," he said.
While Corkran and coworker Tom Martinez of Las Cruces both admitted to a love of riding motorcycles, the latter added, "More than anything, though, this event is for a good cause."
Martinez, a chemist for Jacobs Engineering, continued, "With the economy the way it is, people realize we all need to step up and do something for the kids."
Hot Wheels, trucks, Barbie Dolls, educational games and more were strapped on to motorcycles ridden by Martha Aguirre of El Paso and a group of her friends on Sunday.
"We're all reindeers today," said Aguierre, who got into the holiday spirit, displaying a glittery pair of red antlers atop her head.
"We're teachers, doctors, lawyers, but today, we're all reindeers," chimed in Yvonne Salazar of El Paso. "We all got together and road from El Paso because we have a love of biking and wanted to help the kids."
For more information, visit www.toysforkids-lc.org .

Investigation continues in pizza parlor triple murder - Whittier Daily News - PICO RIVERA - Five months after a pizza parlor shooting spree that left three dead, an active investigation is still ongoing. No directly linked arrests have yet been made.
Three men were killed and seven people wounded June 27 after at least two gunmen opened fire on a large crowd gathered at a Slauson Avenue pizza parlor.
"We're still actively investigating that case," said Sheriff's Homicide Detective Philip Guzman. "Most of the information is still confidential because it's an ongoing investigation."
Members of a local motorcycle club, the Oldschool Riders, were holding a fundraising event in the parking lot of Falcone's Pizza, 9247 Slauson Ave. and about 50 people - including women and children - were in attendance, authorities said.
Two cars approached the crowd from opposite sides of the parking lot at about 6:45 p.m. carrying at least two men with handguns who began firing into the crowd, authorities said.
Police initially identified three suspects - John Perez, 43, of Pico Rivera, Christopher Johnson, 18, of Montebello and Rudy Ruiz, 30, of Whittier and arrested all three.

Ruiz and Johnson were released soon after their July 24 arrest because the District Attorney's Office wanted detectives to investigate further, authorities said.
Perez is serving time in county jail after pleading no contest to resisting or obstructing an officer, said Jane Robison, spokeswoman for the District Attorney's Office.
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Police arrested Perez after he led them on a car chase along area freeways and surface streets on June 30, and he is serving time for charges related to the chase, authorities said.
"Homicide investigators initiated a surveillance that resulted in the pursuit," Guzman said. "Ultimately (the car Perez was riding in) crashed and he was apprehended."
The car Perez was in was one of two cars seen at Falcone's, Guzman said.
Guzman would not say whether the three initial suspects are still under investigation, but said they are all members of two Pico Rivera street gangs.
No evidence suggests the Oldschool Riders have gang ties and neither did any of the deceased victims - Carlos Carrera, 39, of La Habra, Garret Dandini, 25, of Whittier and Tony Dandini, 39, of Whittier - authorities said. Falcone's isn't a known gang hang-out.
One wounded man claimed to be a past member of the Mongols, a criminal motorcycle gang, Guzman said, but it didn't appear that the shooters had targeted anyone in particular.
There is no known motivation for the shooting, Guzman added.
"It seemed to be pretty random," Guzman said. "(The shooters) didn't care who they hit. One of the surviving victims did claim he used to belong to the Mongols but he said he no longer does. There's no way to know if the gunmen even knew he was part of the crowd."
The Mongols are not known to be currently feuding with any Pico Rivera street gangs, authorities said.
The motorcycle gang is mobile and not territorial like street gangs, and members don't tend to have problems with each other, said L.A. County Sheriff's Sgt. Mark Bailey.
About four years ago the Mongols had a disagreement over drug sales with the Mexican Mafia, a prison gang that controls Latino street gangs in Southern California. The Mexican Mafia put a "green light" on Mongols members, or a go-ahead for gang members to kill them on-sight.
The dispute seems to be over, Bailey said.
The two gangs Perez, Johnson and Ruiz are members of aren't rivals, Bailey added.
In the meantime investigators are remaining largely mum as they continue to work on the case.
"It had to have been planned for both shooters to be at opposite ends on the parking lot (at the same time)," Guzman said. "There were a lot of people in between."

2 motorcycle riders die over weekend - MiamiHerald.com - KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Two motorcycle riders were killed in separate hit-and-run crashes over the weekend in Osceola County.
The Florida Highway Patrol reports that two motorcycles were traveling on an Interstate 4 exit ramp Saturday when both riders lost control and crashed. FHP says 20-year-old Ross Dale was killed, but the other rider got back on his bike and fled the scene.

Early Sunday morning, FHP says 42-year-old Raul Alicea Nogueras was riding in a merge lane on a Kissimmee street when a van swerved into him. The bike went down and slid onto the shoulder, and the van drove away. Nogueras was taken to a nearby hospital but did not survive.
Charges are pending in both crashes.

The Red Knights MC come out in force for Wallkill benefit poker run - Times Herald-Record - Firefighters volunteer their time to help others. On Oct. 11, Wallkill Hook, Ladder & Hose Company No. 64 held a poker run to benefit local high school student Billy Lapriola, who is battling Hodgkin's disease.
Seventy bikers registered at the Wallkill Firehouse before taking off on the 30-mile scenic ride to the Spring Lake Firehouse in Rosendale for a pancake breakfast. The ride ended at the Wallkill Rod and Gun Club, where the Ladies Auxiliary prepared a pig roast. Music and 40 donated door prizes were also waiting. Local sponsors made donations to make the poker run a success. They included Wallkill Pharmacy, Wallkill Auto Body, Shawangunk Correction Facility employees, Wallkill Physical Therapy and Ott Insurance Co.
The winning poker hand had three aces, second had three queens, and third had three jacks. A 50/50 was also held.
The event planning started in March with a six-man committee, and the chairman was Bill Davidson.
The Wallkill Fire Department meetings are the first Monday of every month. There is bingo on Wednesdays. Doors open at 4 p.m. and the calling starts at 7 p.m. Visit www.wallkillfire.org .
A special thanks to the Red Knights MC of NY, motorcycle-riding firefighters who originated in 1983 out of Boston and are now an international association with 322 chapters. Represented in this event were Chapter 33 of Millbrook in Dutchess County and Chapter 37 of Esopus in Ulster County.
Visit www.recordonline.com/myride to see more photos from the event.

Man on motorcycle dies in 1-vehicle accident - Waco Tribune Herald - A Waco man died early Sunday morning after losing control of his motorcycle, a Texas Department of Public Safety spokesman said.
Billy Edward Wright Jr., 25, failed to navigate a turn while driving a 2007 Honda motorcycle in the 1200 block of Eichelberger Crossing west of Waco. Wright was thrown from the motorcycle when it veered off the right side of the road. He wasn’t wearing a helmet, the spokesman said. No other vehicles were involved.
The wreck happened at
1:53 a.m., and Justice of the Peace Barbara Rusling declared Wright dead at the scene at 2:45 a.m.

Marines and bikers rally Toys for Tots - LubbockOnline.com - Thousands of black-leather clad motorcyclists stood in line Sunday at the Depot District to drop off toys. But dozens of them stepped aside when one biker zoomed up to the U.S. Marine Corps truck serving as a collection spot for Toys for Tots. This biker's ride had training wheels.
Wearing a red, white and blue American flag bandana over his shoulder-length brown hair, 2-year-old Kevin Perez handed two Transformers action figures to the Marines during the 26th annual Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade.
More than 2,000 motorcyclists registered for the Sunday afternoon event where they were asked to bring at least one toy for the charity to give area children.
Walking beside her "motorcycle man" as he rode his blue, electric motorcycle was his mother, Terry Morales. She said it was important to donate toys to children who didn't have as much as hers. "We've got to think about other kids, not only ourselves," Morales said.
The parade began in and around the parking lot of Wild West Harley-Davidson, which sponsored the event, said Danny Barnhill, general manager of the dealership. Barnhill said he was impressed with the number of motorcyclists who joined the parade route across Lubbock along the Marsha Sharp Freeway from the dealership to the Depot District.
"Those guys provide Christmas for West Texas children," he said.
The riders brought well over 2,000 toys - enough to fill three Marine transport trucks, said Marine Cpl. Apollo Castillo. He and about a dozen other Marines helped load the toys into the 20-foot-long, green trucks.
Along with the toys, Castillo said he hoped area children in need would be encouraged to see support from gathered bikers and Marines. "It helps them to see that there are those who are willing to help, even if they are big and tough," he said.

One Dead After Motorcycle Collides With Car - kypost.com - MIAMITOWN, Ohio -- Linda Colgate, 56, was pulling into her Miamitown driveway just before 5 p.m. Sunday, but she never made it home.
"There was a guy doing wheelies down 128, and he has just wrecked," a witness said to 911 operators.
Emergency crews say Colgate was taking a left in the 7300 block of State Rt. 128 when a motorcycle, driven by Bobby Luke, 27, hit the driver side of her car. Colgate didn't survive the accident.
Colgate's brothers say it's something a parent should never have to see.
"My mom came out and seen her the car there, and couldn't figure out why it was there. She walked over and seen she was slumped over, and she was gone," Mel Colgate said.
Emergency crews say Luke went to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries.
Witnesses say Luke was moving after the accident.
"He's been about 30 feet ejected on to the concrete. He rolled thankfully in the grass a little bit," said a witness to a 911 operator.
Police say Luke was traveling at a high rate of speed and in a reckless manner.
Investigators say alcohol was involved.

Bikers plan 10th annual charity ride - Macon Telegraph - Santa doesn’t arrive by sleigh but by motorcycle at the Georgia Industrial Children’s Home.
The local district of the American Bikers Active Towards Education will roll down the road Saturday in a “love run” to benefit the more than two dozen kids at the home.
ABATE started the holiday runs 25 years ago, but this is the 10th anniversary of the event at AP’s Hidden Hideaway on Broadway, district coordinator Delmar Singleton said. The group has been donating to the Industrial Home for the past six years but has also benefitted Kids Yule Love and the Salvation Army.
If this year is like others, each adolescent will be presented with a $100 gift card with hundreds of dollars left over for the home to spend on them during the holidays.
For many of the young people ages 13 to 18, it will be the first time they’ve ever had that kind of money to spend on themselves.
“It’s not unusual for them to have very little in the way of clothing as well as things to make them feel like a normal teenager, like an MP3 player,” said Linda Finley, the home’s director.
The youngsters come from broken homes or are victims of neglect and abuse. Some of them have been in Macon at the North Mumford Road campus for years, although recent state and federal guidelines are designed to move children into more permanent care, Finley said.
The current residents attend public school, where they mingle with students from traditional home environments.
“It’s important for them to look like the other kids and have some of the same things the others have,” Finley said.
In many instances, the children use the money to buy gifts for others.
“So what we actually do is give a gift that keeps on giving,” ABATE member Mike Taylor said.
For motorcycle enthusiasts such as Taylor, the ride gives them as much joy as the kids.
Besides the run, which starts at 1 p.m. at Jugheads in Byron and ends at AP’s Hidden Hideaway on Broadway, the bikers will ride out to the home Nov. 29 for a Christmas party for the youngsters. It’s there that they will hand out the gift cards and enjoy ice cream and cake.
“It moves you sometimes to tears. It’s a real good feeling,” Taylor said. “The kids warm up to you and come up to you after a few years. I feel like it’s making a difference.”
As of this week, the home had 28 residents, but that number could increase by the end of the year.
“The holidays are difficult on families,” Finley said. “If they’re already having a rough time, sometimes the bottom will fall out during the holidays.”
Finley, who is in her first year as director, said she dreaded how the economy might affect donations this year. She’s relieved to hear that the bikers will continue their tradition.
“We’re going to do it rain, sleet or snow because it’s for the kids,” Singleton said. “They don’t have much, and we’ve got a lot compared to them.”
The run costs $15 per person and $25 per couple and includes live music and food at AP’s “end of run” party.
While the group used to collect toys, they found it works better to raise money for the gift cards for the teenagers to purchase what they really want.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t like the bikers’ “toys.”
“The kids get to see the motorcycles. They do wheelies and other things,” Finley said. “That’s pretty cool for everybody.”

HUNDREDS OF BIKERS GATHER GIFTS IN TOY RUN - Hutchinson News - Forget the sleigh. This year, Santa came by motorcycle.
Sunday marked the annual Reno County Toy Run, in which hundreds of bikers from around the region collected toys for The Salvation Army and other charitable organizations and put on quite a parade in the process.
The toy run started over the noon hour Sunday at Hobart Detter field, where motorcycles of all styles - some festooned with holiday décor - gathered and waited, leaning against their stands.
Their owners, many of whom also were "decorated" for the holidays, stood nearby, talking, laughing and generally catching up with old friends.
"This is a good excuse for all bikers to get out and ride," said Hutchinson resident Delbert Truesdell, who has been riding in the toy run with his wife, Sherry, for more than a decade.
"And it really raises a lot of money for a good cause and collects a lot of gifts for kids," Sherry Truesdell added.
Last year, about 750 bikers participated, gathering 1,700 toys.
But last year, the weather for the toy run was "miserable," recalled Larry Pepperd, a member of the local American Legion Riders group. Pepperd figured nicer weather this year would mean a bigger turnout and more toys for the kids.
"We do it all for the kids," Pepperd said. "We'd do anything for kids and for the community."
At 1 p.m., with a roar, the bikes were off.
In the front of the pack, which included a group of flag-bearing American Legion Riders, several of Santa's elves and one Spiderman, was Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bringing up the rear was another Santa riding on a trailer full of kids' bicycles pulled by a semi.
Bikers and riders traveled down Main Street toward 30th Aveue before heading over to Kansas 61 on their way to the Moose Lodge.
Groups of people gathered along the route to watch the bikes go by, and to wave at the bikers.
Dorce Stapleton, of Hutchinson, was one such bystander. She watched the parade from the warmth of her maroon Chevy Caprice. She'd decorated the hood with garland and had an American flag flying out the window.
Stapleton had two nephews riding in Sunday's toy run, she said.
"I really support what they're doing," she said. "It's good for the kids - just a wonderful thing. I like showing them that I support them."
Once the bikers arrived at the Moose Lodge, they placed their toys in the back of a Salvation Army truck and went inside to enjoy a chili feed, live music and an auction.
Participants said while the main goal of the toy drive is to help out needy kids, it has a secondary benefit of allowing bikers to get together for a good time.
For Hutchinson resident John Miller and his daughter Heather Leon, it meant some quality time. Leon came down from Kansas City to ride in the toy run with her dad
"It's nice to spend some time with him and do something good for other people at the same time," she said.
Pepperd added that there isn't much better than getting together with his fellow bikers to have a good time and help kids.
"Bikers will help anyone," he said. "It's just something we do."

Bikers Help Kids In Need - Ozarks First - Bikers hit the road Sunday to make sure kids have something to unwrap on Christmas morning.
"All the money and toys stay here in Dallas County," says organizer Lavern Farmer.
It is the tenth year for Buffalo's Motorcycle Toy Run.
Hundreds of riders make their way through the local roads to drop gifts for Toys For Tots.
Last year, participants helped more than 500 kids in need.
Organizers hoped Sunday's nice weather would bring even better results for this year's event.

Bikers amass toys for children in need - KRQE - ESPANOLA, N.M. (KRQE) - More than 300 bikers took to the streets in Espanola Sunday to gather toys during the city's 24th annual Toy Run.
Sunday's haul was a good one as 500 toys were gathered.
Espanola Mayor Joe Maestas thanked the volunteers on behalf of the children needing Christmas gifts, the city council and the committee that handles it all.
Overseeing the run was Santa Claus, who led the cavalcade on his bright red 1957 Harley Panhead.

Ride For Somer Raises Money For Family - News4Jax.com - ‎Orange Park, Fl. -- Thousands came together in Orange Park Saturday to help out the family of Somer Thompson. The 7-year-old was killed while walking home from school in October.
About 1,800 motorcycle riders participated in an all-day poker run that ended at Whitey's Fish Camp. The event raised money for the Thompson family and Channel 4's Richard Nunn served as emcee.
After the poker run, there was a candlelight vigil. Organizers said about 3,500 people attended the vigil. Somer's mother, Diena Thompson, was there and expressed her gratitude to the crowd for their support.
"Without their support, I don't think I could make it through this. These people make me strong", she said.
Somer's body was found in a Georgia landfill in two days after she disappeared. There have been no arrests in the case. Anyone with information in the case is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.

Hog wild about giving: Texas Thunder Harley Owners Group gears up for annual Toy Run - Lufkin Daily News - Not all of Santa's helpers wear pointy shoes and ride cute, fuzzy reindeer. Some of the most generous ones wear black leather jackets and ride big, shiny motorcycles.
Over the past 10 years, the Texas Thunder Harley Owners Group has added more than $70,000 to the coffers of local charities, including the Family Crisis Center (Women's Shelter of East Texas), the Nacogdoches Senior Center, the Nacogdoches County Fire Department, Child Protective Services, the Foster Parents Association and to the Red Cross to be used for Hurricane Katrina relief. Since 2003, the group has concentrated its efforts on the Family Crisis Center and the Nacogdoches Senior Center, last year donating $6,000 to each organization.
Participants in the 2008 Texas Thunder Harley-Davidson Toy Run make their way through Nacogdoches. This year marks the 10th year of the run, which benefits the Family Crisis Center (Women's Shelter of East Texas) and the Nacogdoches Senior Center.
Margi Preston, executive director of the Family Crisis Center (Women's Shelter of East Texas), accepts a check from the Texas Thunder Harley-Davidson Owners Group. Since 2000, the group has offered its support to the center, which serves nine counties in East Texas.
"At the end of the year, we take whatever money is left after paying our expenses and keeping a little to start the new year, and we divide it in half," explains Robert Dooley, director of Texas Thunder Harley Owners Group Chapter No. 8196. "Half goes to the Women's Shelter, and half to the Nacogdoches Senior Center. With the Women's Shelter, they serve nine surrounding counties, so (by donating) you're helping a large area of East Texas. And last year, the Senior Center ran out of money and they couldn't do Meals on Wheels, so it really helps them out."
One of the group's biggest fund-raisers is an annual toy run, which raises money for both organizations and toys for the children served through the Family Crisis Center. Each year, Texas Thunder HOG collects enough toys to fill a 16-foot trailer, for which Family Crisis Center Executive Director Margi Preston is grateful.
"Their annual toy run has made a difference in the lives of so many children each year at Christmas time," Preston said. "This dedicated group of amazing people, with such compassionate hearts, has been one of our biggest supporters and it is so comforting to know that when we have struggling families with children in need, that they are there to lend a hand and put a smile on their faces — truly, the spirit of Christmas."
This will be the 10th year of the run, which is held each December on the first Saturday of the month. The toy run is an open ride, meaning people don't have to ride Harleys or belong to the HOG to participate.
"Anyone that owns a motorcycle can come," Dooley said.
For just $5 and an unwrapped toy per person, participants get an afternoon of fun that starts with a parade through town beginning at Texas Thunder Harley-Davidson in Nacogdoches, and ends with a barbecue dinner, raffles, a live auction and musical entertainment at LugNutz Sports Bar & Grill, located on S. Hwy. 59, between Nacogdoches and Lufkin. Those who aren't able to make it to the ride can still meet up at LugNutz to take part in the auction and purchase a barbecue dinner, while they last.
In addition to the annual toy run, the group holds other events, including a chili cook-off, throughout the year, with all money raised earmarked for the two charities. This giving nature is something many people don't realize when they think of motorcycle riders, but it's a hallmark of the community, which includes people from all walks of life, Dooley said.
"When you see some shows on TV, it makes it look like we're gun or drug dealers," he said. "But the motorcycle community as a whole is probably one of the most giving groups of people in the United States. If you put out that someone is hurt, or that you need to raise money for kids, they're there, donating their money."
HOG Toy Run
The Texas Thunder HOG Chapter Toy Run is open to all motorcycle riders. After the parade, ride participants and other supporters are invited to LugNutz Sports Bar & Grill for a raffle for an FXRG leather jacket donated by Texas Thunder Harley-Davidson, a live auction, live music and a barbecue dinner. Commemorative T-shirts, designed by Steve Chism, of Dogwood Designs, (shown left) will also be on sale. Proceeds benefit the Nacogdoches Senior Center and the Family Crisis Center (Women's Shelter of East Texas).
When: Saturday, Dec. 5. Registration is from 9 to 11 a.m. The parade begins at noon.
Where: Parade starts at Texas Thunder Harley-Davidson, 2518 NW Stallings in Nacogdoches, and ends at LugNutz Sports Bar & Grill, 5287 S Hwy. 59, between Nacogdoches and Lufkin.
Cost: $5 and one unwrapped toy per person. Donation includes barbecue dinner and entertainment after the parade. For more information: (936) 254-5010.

Holiday spirit - Meridian Star - The engines from the pack of Harley-Davidson motorcycles turning off 18th Street onto 23rd Avenue Saturday morning growled toward downtown Meridian.
But instead of carrying a motorcycle gang intent on rampaging through the area, the bikes instead carried members of the ABATE Motorcycle Club whose goal was to deliver Thanksgiving food and canned goods to clients of the Care Lodge Domestic Violence Shelter.
"We rely so much on community, business and organization support for the services we provide so to have these men and women provide us with this donation is a very much appreciated," said Diane Mills, who is the community coordinator for the Care Lodge.
The East Central Chapter of the American Bikers Active Toward Education (ABATE) Club held its Annual Food Run to support Care Lodge Domestic Violence Shelter. The ride set out from Meridian Yamaha located at 915 Highway 19 North in 23rd Avenue community office of the Care Lodge. This is the eighth year ABATE has sponsored the Food Run in support of Care Lodge, according to Gary Minchew, who is the area director of ABATE.
"Club members are happy to support Care Lodge with the food run each year and feel especially good about being able to help the women and children that we know are displaced from their own homes over the holidays," stated Minchew. "Sometimes the ones in need are forgotten."
"Care Lodge truly appreciates the generous support ABATE has provided over the past 8 years," said Leslie Payne, executive director of Care Lodge. "This annual food drive is especially meaningful for us as it helps us stock our shelves right as the holiday season is upon us. We have also gotten to know a number of the riders and it is always exciting to see the long line of motorcycles drive up and pull into our parking lot."
The East Central Chapter of ABATE of Mississippi has about 65 members and is involved in various community service projects throughout the year. The group meets the second Sunday of every month at 1:30 p.m. at Meridian Yamaha.
Established in 1981, Care Lodge is the only domestic violence shelter within east central Mississippi that provides safe shelter, advocacy and assistance to adult victims of domestic violence and their children, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Care Lodge provides services for approximately 500 clients every year and serves the residents of Lauderdale, Clarke, Kemper, Leake, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Scott and Winston counties. For more information, please visit www.carelodge.com or call Care Lodge at 601-693-HOPE.
Miller couldn't thank the riders enough as they helped move the food inside.
"We currently have 23 clients and this will more than give them a very good Thanksgiving banquet," she said.

Bikers raise funds for Toys for Tots - The Free Lance-Star - More than 30 motorcycle riders helped raise more than $2,000 at the recent Toys for Tots Poker Run and Ride.
Despite rainy weather, riders from as far away as Haymarket and Baltimore showed up for the Nov. 14 event, which also resulted in toy donations for the Marine Corps annual Christmas charity.
The band Mainstreet provided free entertainment and several local businesses sponsored the event. They include Fredxburg Media Inc., Paddy's Steakhouse & Pub, Hard Times Cafe, Hooters, Q Ball Cafe and Billiards, Professional Building Maintenance and the Star Radio Group.
Fredericksburg police and the Stafford and Spotsylvania counties' Sheriff's Offices provided escorts for the ride, which ran from the Toys for Tots warehouse in North Stafford to sponsoring businesses in Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County.
"Everyone had a good time and it was a good ride for a great foundation," said organizer Roger Pearson, maintenance superintendent for The Free Lance-Star Publishing Co. "A lot of people donated their time for this event and it was a success, so we will be doing this again next year."
The Star Radio Group--which includes WFLS 93.3, Classic Rock 96.9 and 99.3 The Vibe--will continue accepting donations to Toys for Tots through the campaign's Dec. 12 grand finale at Spotsylvania Towne Centre. For a list of drop-off points, visit www.wfls.com on the Internet.

Salvation Army Toy Drive Kicks Off - NewsWest9.com - MIDLAND - You may notice a growing addition to our news set as the holidays get closer.
The NewsWest 9/Salvation Army Toy Drive kicked off on Saturday.
And as has become a tradition here, it was a motorcycle ride on Saturday morning that got us started.
More than 50 riders gathered at Midland Power Sports on Saturday morning.
They enjoyed a hot breakfast provided by the T-Twister's then saddled up and headed to our studio.
“I've been doing this for 20 some years, bringing presents to these toy runs. It means a lot to the kids, instead of having one present if any, at least they'll have a couple more,” Tom Jones, who rode in from San Angelo, said.
NewsWest 9 would like to thank them for coming out on Saturday.
If you'd like to be a part of the toy drive just drop off a new unwrapped toy at any Midland or Odessa Fire Station, or you can bring it out to the NewsWest 9 studios.

Wheels of Thunder delivers food for those in need - Greenwood Index Journal - Wheels of Thunder Motorcycle Club packed boxes and delivered food Saturday to more than 50 people in need at their seventh annual Food Drive.
The club’s business manager Charlie Gilliam said each year they team up with area bikers, other social clubs, churches and individuals to deliver essential food items to those who are on a fixed income, are sick or unemployed. Donations were dropped off at Performance Cycle in advance of the event, and on Saturday, club members and volunteers packed boxes in front of the store with beans, pasta, vegetables and all manner of canned and boxed items.
This year, the club had 50 referrals and expected to be able to serve at least that many. Last year, 80 boxes were delivered.
"Every time I come out here and do this it touches my heart because it helps people,” Gilliam said. "It’s only a start, but it helps people.”
There are always people in need, but now more than ever, people need assistance, he said.
"It’s hard with people working to make ends meet,” he said. "This is a great time because when you think about Thanksgiving, you think of eating, and there are people out there just trying to survive every day who might go to bed hungry.”
Willie Mae Caldwell said her husband is a biker, and she was drawn into the event by the enthusiasm of everyone involved.
"They do it for a good cause and I wanted to help. They are a good group of guys and they work hard,” she said.

Motorcyclist Injured in Miami County Crash - Muncie Free Press - MIAMI COUNTY, IN – On Friday, November 20, 2009, at approximately 7:35 p.m., officers from the Indiana State Police responded to a two vehicle crash on Miami County Road 1000 North at Meridian Road, which injured a Peru, IN, man.
Preliminary investigation by Trooper Luke Bowyer revealed that Raschel Hayes, 19, Peru, IN, was driving a Chevrolet S-10 pickup truck southbound on Meridian Road. Hayes did not stop for a stop sign at the intersection of County Road 1000 North. She drove the Chevrolet onto County Road 1000 North and was struck in the passenger door by an eastbound 1983 Suzuki GR 6 motorcycle driven by Zariah Barns, 20, Peru, IN. After impact with the motorcycle, the Chevrolet continued southbound coming to rest after striking a home on the southeast corner of the intersection. The home was occupied but no one inside was injured. The residence did suffer significant damage.
Barns was ejected from the motorcycle. He was transported by ambulance from the scene to meet Samaritan Helicopter in a lot at North Miami High School. Barns was then flown to Parkview Hospital in Ft. Wayne with a possible broken arm and leg. Hayes complained of arm pain and was treated at the scene.
Barns was wearing a helmet and Hayes was properly secured with a seat belt. Trooper Bowyer believes the safety devices did prevent more serious injuries in the crash.
This crash is still under investigation.
Trooper Bowyer was assisted at the crash scene by Trooper Mike Meiser, the Miami County Sheriff’s Department, the Peru Fire Department, the Denver Fire Department, and Dukes Hospital EMS.

Bikers Deliver Thanksgiving Feast - WTOK - The clients of Care Lodge Domestic Violence Shelter in Meridian will enjoy a full thanksgiving meal thanks to a group of motorcycle riders with generous hearts.
The East Central Chapter of Abate every year hold a can food drive for Care Lodge. The group drove across down Saturday morning to personally deliver all the items needed for a meal. Area director, Gary Minchew, says his group always wants to remember those in need during the holidays.
"People forget about certain ones in need this time of year. We are just trying to remember everyone at this time," said Minchew.
Care Lodge officials say this donation will go a long way in giving clients a warm thanksgiving.

Bikers protest "no colors" policy at bars, events - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - KINGMAN - No major incidents or disruptions were reported Saturday after more than 500 motorcyclists rolled into Kingman to protest a "no colors" policy recently instituted by several local bars.
Bikers were even served at at least one of the bars they anticipated they would be turned away from. And one bar avoided the controversy altogether by closing.
"Why would they turn us away?" said Steve Musgrave, a member of the Desert Thunder motorcycle club and a registered motorcycle rights lobbyist for eight years. "Our money should be as good as everyone else's."
Musgrave rode 240 miles from Casa Grande to protest the move by several bars in Kingman to post a "no colors" policy. Colors are defined as a patch or insignia that identifies an affiliation with a motorcycle club, although several people have said they've been asked to leave several recent local events for wearing anything motorcycle-related, including Harley-Davidson T-shirts.
In July, motorcyclists in Kingman said they began to notice a visible police presence by the State Gang Task Force at their ride events, including the weekly Bike Night, where riders gather at a local establishment to eat and socialize.
Bike Night, which is sponsored locally by Performance Specialists, moved from Chuy's on Stockton Hill Road to the Sonic Drive-In on Andy Devine in early September after Chuy's instituted a "no colors" policy.
Riders wearing their club colors on Saturday expected to document people who were turned away from Chuy's for a possible class-action lawsuit. Those who arrived armed with discrimination forms, however, found no need for them after they were served, despite wearing their vests.
Bikers were also served at Cerbat Lanes but were asked to leave the Sportsman's bar. Police responded to the location at the request of the bar owner but no arrests were made.
The owner of Mad Dog's closed the establishment Saturday afternoon and posted a notice that as a business, they have the right to establish their own dress code.
Police had a highly visible presence around town and especially outside of the American Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs' meeting, which was held at noon Saturday at the American Legion Hall at E. Oak and Third Streets downtown. A police helicopter circled in the air after the meeting had adjourned, while several marked and unmarked police vehicles drove up and down the street.
Officers in at least one unmarked SUV were taking photographs and video footage of people congregating outside of the meeting. Police from Bullhead City also patrolled the area. Sgt. Bob Fisk with the Kingman Police Department reported no incidents by mid-afternoon.
Anecdotally, those inside and around the meeting traded stories about several riders who had been ticketed or arrested on their way to Kingman, including Sonny Barger, a founding member of the Oakland, Calif., chapter of the Hell's Angels. Barger, 71, was allegedly arrested at a gas station on Interstate 40 just east of Kingman Saturday morning. At least one law enforcement official confirmed the arrest but was unable to provide details.
Dan Balentine, president of the Kingman chapter of the Desert Road Riders, said his club was scheduled last year to host this month's ACMC meeting. It was originally scheduled to be held in Fort Mohave but was moved to Kingman so that riders could protest not only the "no colors" policy, but what the motorcyclists perceive as harassment on the part of police.
"We feel like law enforcement are the one who are trying to create a bad image of us," Balentine said.
Police have been tight-lipped about what prompted the surveillance by the State Gang Task Force in the first place, although Kingman Police Chief Robert DeVries has said previously that police aren't targeting riders as a whole but rather those involved in criminal and gang activity.
Musgrave said it is unfair for police to label motorcycle clubs as gangs.
"We are a club, not a gang. We have regular meetings and pay dues," he said. "Almost everybody here is a law-abiding citizen who has a job and pays their taxes, just like everyone else."

BikeBandit.com Named Top Motorcycle Business Fundraiser for San Diego Ride for Kids® Event

BikeBandit.com, the largest online source for motorcycle parts and accessories, helped set a fundraising record at the fifth annual Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Ride for Kids® last month in San Diego. BikeBandit.com was named the top fundraiser in the motorcycle business category; the event raised an overall new record of $64,493.

The national Ride for Kids® program and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) promote childhood brain tumor research and provide family support through free literature, online conferences and college scholarships. The San Diego Ride for Kids® featured a scenic ride along the southern California coastline near Cardiff. 255 participants took part including the local "stars" of the day, eight brain tumor patients and survivors who rode along with family members or volunteers.

This is the second year in a row that BikeBandit.com has supported the Ride for Kids initiative with $1 from the sale of select motorcycle accessories and apparel from BikeBandit.com donated to PBTF.

"The PBTF Ride for Kids unites the industry that we love with a very worthy cause," said Ken Wahlster, CEO of BikeBandit.com. "We are proud to once again contribute this year, and look forward to fundraising an even larger amount for next year."

Planning has already begun on next year's San Diego Ride for Kids®, taking place on Oct. 17, 2010. BikeBandit.com hopes that the donations they receive in the next year will again set a new fundraising record. To help them make the biggest donation yet in 2010, shop these great products on BikeBandit.com. $1 from the sale of each product will go to support the PBTF Ride for Kids.

For more information, please visit www.rideforkids.org or www.BikeBandit.com.

http://www.bikebandit.com/partsbandit/articles/bb-news/101809_RFK/

About BikeBandit.com:

BikeBandit.com is the web's largest powersports store with more than 8 million factory fresh motorcycle parts and motorcycle accessories online including OEM motorcycle parts from all the major manufacturers, plus a huge number of hard-to-find motorcycle parts, motorcycle helmets, motorcycle gloves and motorcycle accessories from specialist manufacturers.

Ohio man pleads guilty in Pagans case - Huntington Herald Dispatch - CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — An Ohio man has pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge in a racketeering case targeting the Pagans Motorcycle Club
Steve Harlan Stover of Proctorville, Ohio, admitted in federal court Thursday that he helped other Pagans members shut down an affiliated club for being disloyal.
The 50-year-old construction worker pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to commit and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering.
Stover is one of 55 Pagans members and associates from West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Florida charged in the case.
He faces up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing is set for March 8.

Man facing battery charge after fight at saloon - Carlsbad Current Argus - CARLSBAD — A man reported to be a member of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club faces a charge of aggravated battery after several members of the club allegedly attacked a man at the Post Time Saloon recently and beat him with pool cues, flashlights and bottles, a police report stated.
Jimmy Westfall told police he was at the saloon on Nov. 13, and had been separated from his friends when three members of the club began to batter him with various objects. He said he attempted to get away but was overwhelmed.
Westfall told police the assailants then left the saloon, and he followed them. He said he recognized 50-year-old Patrick Methola as one of his assailants. Methola was attempting to leave the scene on a motorcycle, Westfall told police, when he crashed into the trailer hitch of another vehicle and went over the handlebars of the motorcycle.
Other members of the club helped Methola to his feet and he got on the back of another motorcycle and left the scene, Westfall said. The registered owner of the abandoned motorcycle declined to have a crash report completed, the report stated.
A witness at the saloon told police he saw several members of the bike club striking Westfall with beer bottles, pool cues and flashlights. He said he attempted to break up the fight.
A police officer reported finding cuts on Westfall's head and face. Emergency medical service responders treated his wounds. He refused further treatment.
Officers attempted to contact Methola, but were unsuccessful, the report stated.
Methola has not entered a plea to the charge of aggravated battery. He was placed on a secured bond of $5,000.
His preliminary hearing has been set for 9 a.m. Dec. 8 at Magistrate Court before Judge Richard Van Dyk.

Report: Motorcyclist was intoxicated - The Durango Herald - A toxicology report shows that a Bayfield man who died in a motorcycle crash last October in Durango was under the influence of alcohol at the time of accident.
Eric Gomez, 37, was driving a 2009 Harley-Davidson Road King southbound on Camino del Rio when he lost control, struck a merge sign and collided with a guardrail.
The accident occurred at 5:06 p.m. Oct. 25 south of the DoubleTree Hotel, where U.S. Highway 160 merges with Camino del Rio.
Gomez was not wearing a helmet and died at the scene.
According to a toxicology report, he had a blood-alcohol level of 0.106, which is over the 0.08 level that earns drivers a ticket for driving under the influence in Colorado.
Speed also was a factor in the accident, according to witnesses.

Reading police mum on pickup driver in double-fatal motorcycle crash - Eagle Tribune - READING — Investigators are still refusing to release the name of the driver of the pickup truck that collided with a motorcycle Thursday, leaving its two riders dead.
Middlesex District Attorney's office spokeswoman Jessica Venezia said the accident is still under investigation and information on the driver of the pickup truck and whether charges would be filed would have to come from Reading Police.
Reading Police said all information would have to come from Chief James Cormier, but the chief was said to have left for the day by noon yesterday. He did not return phone messages left on his voicemail.
Killed were Penney Jean "PJ" Richards, 25, of North Reading, and Michael A. D'Amore, 32, of Reading. D'Amore was driving the motorcycle with Richards as his passenger when the bike collided with a pickup truck at the intersection of Lowell and High streets. Family and friends of the victims said the two were going to a funeral for a friend, Ryan Golden of Reading, who was killed last Saturday in a crash on Route 128.
Richards was the daughter of Dave and Penny Morang Richards. Penny Morang Richards is a former The Eagle-Tribune reporter who wrote many columns about her daughter.
D'Amore was a life-long resident of Reading, said family friend Debbie Nast. He was the son of Nancy and Michael D'Amore, and the half-brother of Anthony D'Amore.
Nast said D'Amore was an experienced motorcyclist who rode dirt bikes as a kid and a motorcycle as soon as he got his license.
Nast said D'Amore's own motorcycle was being repaired so he borrowed one from a friend.
"He was a safe driver particularly when Penney was on the back," Nast said.
Nast said the intersection where the accident occurred is a dangerous one. The intersection is in a residential area not far from the center of town. Lowell Street (Route 129) is a main drag that leads to Interstate 93.
"It's five roads coming into one," she said. "It's not a very good place to be."
She said D'Amore was well-known in Reading as a "lovable" guy and worked as an electrician for Carleton Electric. She said he worked on many town projects in town.
"Everyone knew him in Reading," she said. "He was one of those guys everybody loved ... He was just one of those guys that is so dependable. You could count on him for anything."

2 motorcyclists die in separate wrecks - Fort Worth Star Telegram - FORT WORTH — Two motorcycle riders were killed in separate wrecks Wednesday, authorities reported. Jimmy Clements, 35, of Arlington was pronounced dead at 4:28 a.m. at John Peter Smith Hospital, according to the Tarrant County medical examiner’s office. He lost control of his Harley-Davidson on the southbound service road of Interstate 35W near Altamesa Boulevard, police reported. Investigators had found no witnesses, and no other vehicles were involved, police Sgt. Cynthia Blake said. About 3:45 p.m., Joshua Denney, 24, of Fort Worth lost control of his Honda as he rode westbound in the 7100 block of Oakmont Boulevard, authorities said. He swerved to avoid another vehicle and hit a curb, Sgt. Pedro Criado, a police spokesman, said in a news release. "The driver and the motorcycle continued sliding and collided into a stationary vehicle." No other injuries were reported. Denney was pronounced dead at the scene, Criado said

Palm Harbor Bike Fest toy run kicks off at new location - Suncoast News - PALM HARBOR - This year's Palm Harbor Bike Fest Toys For Tots Run will kick off in a different location and take another route than in past years.
Motorcyclists are asked to gather for registration from 9 to 11 a.m. today, Saturday, Nov. 21, at Dunedin Causeway Plaza, located at Alt. 19 and Curlew Road. The cost to participate is $5 plus a toy or $10. The run is scheduled to begin shortly after 11 a.m., as a kick-off to the Palm Harbor Bike Fest on Florida Avenue.
For several years, the bike run started at the Walmart on Alderman Road in Palm Harbor. This year Walmart's parking lot could not be used due to store expansion, said Robin Husbands-Cauchi, executive director of Old Palm Harbor Main Street.
A lack of a large parking area for riders to assemble left Old Palm Harbor Main Street officials scurrying around for another site that could accommodate more than 1,500 motorcyclists expected to participate. Just last week it was decided the run could start at Causeway Plaza in Dunedin.
A new run route is also planned. Motorcyclists will ride over the Dunedin Causeway to the entrance of Honeymoon Island State Park, back along Curlew Road to Belcher Road, head north to Klosterman Road, west to Alt. 19 and south to downtown Palm Harbor on Florida Avenue.
Palm Harbor Bike Fest will take place from noon to 9 p.m. and include a series of musical concerts, vendors selling motorcycle items, a bike and collectible car show and many opportunities for food and drink.
"By hosting events like the Fall Bike Fest, the group is able to attract tens of thousands of people to the area, which in turn offers visibility to local merchants and businesses in the district and beyond," said Husbands-Cauchi.
The musical groups scheduled to appear include: The Defendants, performing at 1 p.m.; Highway to Hell, an AC/DC tribute band, 3:30 p.m.; and the Greg Billings Band, 6:30 p.m.
While the official event ends at 9 p.m., the festivities will continue into the night at local restaurants.
For more information, call Old Palm Harbor Main Street, 727-787-4700, or visit www.oldpalmharbormainstreet.net

Police stations serve as Toys for Tots drop-off - Hawaii 24/7 - Big Island police stations will double as drop-off points for Toys for Tots this holiday season.
As part of the toy drive, members of the the county Police Department and the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO) will contribute funds for the purchase of bicycles for Toys for Tots. The goal is to provide a bicycle to one child from each police district.
Toys for Tots was started in 1947 by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. On the Big Island, it is sponsored by the Rock & Roll Motorcycle Club, which is holding its 14th Annual Toys for Tots Motorcade on Dec. 13 in Hilo.
Members of the public may drop off unwrapped toys for children ages 12 and under at any police station from Monday, Nov. 23, through Friday, Dec. 11.
After the Toys for Tots Motorcade, social service agencies will distribute the toys to children in need.

Motorcyclists raise over $196,000 for childhood brain tumor research at Baltimore/Washington Ride for Kids®

The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) and its Ride for Kids® program celebrated a big win at the 18th annual Baltimore/Washington Ride for Kids®. Over 400 motorcyclists and supporters raised $196,468 for medical research and family support programs.

The event began at The Mall in Columbia, Md., under rainy skies. The day soon turned sunny and warm as the riders and their police escort spent over 90 minutes twisting through the Maryland countryside.

After disembarking at the Jack & Jill Ice Cream Distribution Center in Columbia, the motorcyclists enjoyed lunch and settled in for a terrific Celebration of Life program. They heard about the achievements of 11 local brain tumor survivors, including 15-year-old Maggie, who held bake sales to raise $800 for the PBTF.

Zach, 16, spent his summer helping his dad rebuild a 1967 Mustang. "Thanks for all you do, the money you raise helps to keep us here," he told the crowd.

These Ride for Kids® "stars" were also joined by Dr. Greg Riggins, leader of the Brain Cancer Biology and Therapy Research Laboratory at Johns Hopkins, and Dr. Roger Packer, director of the Brain Tumor Institute at Children's National Medical Center and PBTF Scientific Advisory Board member.

The first-place fundraisers were:

Individual: Bob Henig, $59,012
Chapter/Club: The Tribe, $20,785
Motorcycle Business: Bob's BMW, $84,177

Al Leathers of Centreville, Va., won the grand prize, a new Honda motorcycle.

Special thanks went to the event's all-volunteer task force, led in 2009 by Taryn Wilson-Wheatley, Marcy Rich and Joe Pruss.

2010 AMA Pro Superbike Championship Schedule Released

AMA Pro Racing officials recently unveiled the 2010 AMA Pro Superbike Championship schedule, featuring Team AMSOIL road racing star Larry Pegram. The 2010 series will visit nine key markets across the country, with negotiations ongoing for a 10th race to be added in the near future. Races will once again air on the SPEED Channel throughout the season. AMSOIL is the Official Oil of AMA Pro Road Racing and presenting sponsor of the Daytona SportBike class.

2010 AMA Pro Superbike Championship Schedule

March 3 - 5 -                   Daytona International Speedway - Daytona Beach, FL
March 26 - 28 -                Auto Club Speedway - Fontana, CA
April 16 - 18 -                    Road Atlanta - Braselton, GA
May 14 - 16 -                   Infineon Raceway - Sonoma, CA
June 4 - 6 -                      Road America - Elkhart Lake, WI
July 16 - 18 -                     Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course - Lexington, OH
August 13 - 15 -                Virginia International Raceway - Alton, VA
September 3 - 5 -             New Jersey Motorsports Park - Millville, NJ
September 24 - 26 -        Barber Motorsports Park - Birmingham, AL

Eighth defendant pleads in Pagans case - Charleston Gazette - CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- An Ohio construction worker admitted in federal court Thursday that he helped members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club shut down a support club for being disloyal.
Steve Harlan "Creature" Stover, 50, of Proctorville, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to commit and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering.
Stover, one of 55 defendants named in an indictment unsealed last month, is the eighth defendant to strike a plea deal with federal prosecutors. The sweeping, 44-count indictment accuses Pagans members and associates of using violence and intimidation to control territory from New Jersey to Florida.
In November 2004, Stover was a member of the Last Rebels Motorcycle Club, which was affiliated with the Pagans, according to a stipulation of facts entered as part of his guilty plea. Last Rebels wore a "16" patch on their colors, or sleeveless jean jackets, which referred to P being the 16th letter of the alphabet, and symbolized their loyalty to the Pagans.
Under orders from the Pagans, Stover and other Last Rebels traveled with Pagans to the clubhouse of the Road Disciples Motorcycle Club in Portsmouth, Ohio, the stipulation states.
"Stover was told that the [Road Disciples] had failed to fulfill its support club duties and thus the [Pagans] determined that the [Road Disciples] were subject to punishment, including not allowing them to continue as a club in the Pagan Nation," the stipulation reads.
A group, some carrying weapons, traveled from various locations in West Virginia, including Huntington, to Portsmouth, where they confronted the president of the Road Disciples, according to the stipulation.
Believing he would be hurt if he didn't turn over the Road Disciples' "16" patches, the president acquiesced to the visitors' demands, the stipulation states. Later that night, part of the group went back to the Road Disciples' headquarters and took their colors and closed the clubhouse.
Stover faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas E. Johnston on March 8.
Other defendants have admitted to funneling the proceeds of illegal motorcycle raffles (for non-existent bikes, according to prosecutors), helping to stockpile explosives as part of an ongoing feud with the Hell's Angels Motorcycle Club, intimidating other motorcycle clubs, extortion and dealing drugs.
Several Pagans, including national president David K. "Bart" Barbeito, 49, of Myersville, Md., and vice president Floyd B. "Diamond Jesse" Moore, 64, of St. Albans, face federal racketeering charges.
Other counts accuse gang members and associates of kidnapping, robbery and attempted murder for allegedly conspiring to kill an incarcerated member of the Pagans whom they believed was cooperating with law enforcement.
Another defendant, Charles H. "Tombstone Charlie" Nichols, 57, of Roanoke, Va., died last month while in custody at the South Central Regional Jail. Authorities said Nichols died from complications of previous medical conditions.

Ride for the Red to be held Saturday - News Chief - WINTER HAVEN - The Polk County Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold its fifth annual Ride for the Red - a motorcycle poker run - at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, starting at Honda of Winter Haven, at 3699 U.S. Hwy. 17.
The cost is $20 for a single rider and $30 for a rider and passenger. Extra hands are $5 each or three hands for $5.
Those who bring in a toy to donate to Toys for Tots will receive an additional card page.
The event also includes a 50/50 cash draw at the end of the ride. Tickets cost $1 each, $5 for seven or $10 for 15.
The Red Cross also supports Holiday Mail for Heroes. The public is invited to write a message on a card to be sent to those in the military for the holidays. The cards will be mailed by The Red Cross.
For details, call Linda Scialo at 863-294-5941.

Maryland woman dies in Bermuda accident - Baltimore Sun - A Baltimore County woman was killed in a motorcycle accident while traveling in Bermuda, according to law enforcement officials there. Bethany Heinrichs, 33, of Halethorpe was riding a rented motorcycle about 1:50 p.m. Tuesday when she hit a curb on Penders Road in Sandys Parish, according to the Bermuda Police Service. Heinrichs was taken to King Edward Medical Center with chest and abdominal injuries, and was pronounced dead at 8:45 that night.

Waterbury man hurt in motorcyle crash - Barre Montpelier Times Argus - EAST MONTPELIER – A 51-year-old Waterbury man was in fair condition on Thursday at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington after he was airlifted from the scene of a motorcycle crash on Wednesday that occurred Wednesday afternoon.
Philip Hoeppner crashed his motorcycle as he was driving west on Route 2 in East Montpelier near the Plainfield Hardware store, according to the Vermont State Police.
The road was dry, police said, and it's not exactly clear why he lost control of the motorcycle.
Hoeppner told police his back tire went out from under him "and the next thing he knew he was put on a stretcher," said state police trooper James Fox.
"It looks like he lost control of the vehicle…and fell off into the grass area," said Fox.
Rescue workers from East Montpelier responded to the scene along with the medical helicopter.

Mercersburg man killed in a motorcycle accident - Chambersburg Public Opinion - A Mercersburg man was killed in a motorcycle accident on Interstate 81 near Hagerstown.
Maryland State Police said Stephen P. Kulina, 48, Mercersburg, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said Kulina lost control of his 2004 Harley-Davidson around 4:15 p.m. Wednesday as he was entering I-81
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northbound from Halfway Boulevard and overturned, sliding across both lanes of I-81 and hitting the guardrail.
Police said driver error, speed and alcohol contributed to the accident.
One lane of I-81 was closed until 5:55 p.m.

Ormond Beach motorcycle crash critically injures rider; passenger dies - NSBNEWS.net - ORMOND BEACH -- A motorcyclist was clinging to life today and his passenger killed when he struck a guardrail and then a tree while trying to turn onto Fluhart Drive from Riverside Drive, police said.
The passenger, Michael Leveille, 29, of Paltkawas pronounced dead at the scene of the 3:40 a.m. accident, police said.
Steven Row, 25, of Ormond Beach, was transported by EVAC to Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach with life threatening injuries.
Neither man was wearing a helmet, police said. The force of the crash split the sport bike in half, police said.

Desert Blues Tech, to Save Evos from the Twin Cam Menace

D&D Exhaust News

AMA announces 2010 AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series schedule

PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) announced today the 2010 schedule for the AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship. The series determines the country's top ATV hare-scrambles racers in a range of classes with national awards and No. 1 plates.

"Last year, the AMA broke new ground with the AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series," said AMA Director of Racing Joe Bromley. "For the first time, we gave ATV riders their own national hare scrambles series. In fact, we will be recognizing our inaugural-year champions at the upcoming AMA Racing Championship Banquet, this Dec. 4, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, with AMA Racing National No. 1 plates.

"We're looking forward to building on our first-year success this coming year," Bromley continued. "Working with local promoters, we've put together a great series for 2010."

The initial round will be promoted by Evansville MX Park and be held April 17 in Berwick, Pa. The series will then roll through Wisconsin, back to Pennsylvania then New York for the series finale. The six-round series will wrap up Aug. 28 in Courtland, N.Y.

2010 AMA Racing ATV National Hare Scrambles Championship Series Schedule

Round 1
April 17
Evansville MX Park
Duane Fisher
(570) 759-2841
info@evansvillemxpark.com
EvansvilleMXPark.com
LOC: Berwick, Pa.

Round 2
May 29
Sugar Camp Racing
Scott Schwalbe
(715) 272-1101
sugarcampracing@frontier.net
SugarCampEnt.com
LOC: Rhinelander, Wis.

Round 3
June 12
Miles Mountain
Jeremy Richardson
(570) 723-8516
boot46@ptd.net
MilesMountainMX.com
LOC: Elkland, Pa.

Round 4
July 18
Rausch Creek Powersports
Tiffany Tobias
(570) 682-4600
rob@rauschcreekracing.com
RauschCreekRacing.com
LOC: Valley View, Pa.

Round 5
Aug. 28
Knobby Acres
Cindy Davis
(607) 756-5277
mcdavis409@yahoo.com
Wnyoa.net
LOC: Cortland, N.Y.

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.

American Motorcyclist Association urges support for language that would protect kids' access to youth-model off-highway vehicles

PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is urging all motorcyclists and ATV riders to ask their U.S. senators and representatives to support language in an appropriations bill that would allow kids' dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to continue to be sold.

The language, written by Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.) and included in the House fiscal year 2010 Financial Services Appropriations bill, would bar the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) from spending money to implement or enforce a section of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) that relates to youth-model off-highway motorcycles and ATVs.

The CPSIA limits the amount of lead allowed in products meant for children 12-years old and younger. While aimed at toys originating in China, the law also covers youth-model off-highway motorcycles and ATVs because certain parts, including batteries and valve stems, may contain lead.

When the law took effect, off-highway motorcycle and ATV manufacturers told their dealers to stop selling machines meant for kids 12 and under, as well as some of the parts to maintain them. That's because no new or used kids' machines or certain parts for those machines could be sold unless they were tested and certified at government-approved labs to meet the new federal lead-level requirements.

"Unfortunately, while Washington bureaucrats bicker over the meaning of words, the intent of Congress to protect kids from dangerous toys is being ignored," said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. "The federal government is now forcing children to ride adult-sized motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles -- a serious danger that's much more real than the invented threat of chewing on a battery cable or valve stem.

"I don't know of anyone in the House or Senate who intended this, and it's important to off-road enthusiasts and American families that we work together to fix it once and for all," Rehberg said.

Earlier this year, the CPSC said it would not enforce the ban on the sale of kids' dirt bikes and ATVs until May 1, 2011.

While the Rehberg language is in the House bill that was approved by the full House and sent to the Senate for consideration, there is no similar language in any Senate appropriations bill. Therefore, the AMA is asking concerned motorcyclists and ATV riders to urge their senators and representatives to include the Rehberg language in the final version of the fiscal year 2010 Financial Services appropriations bill or the Omnibus Appropriations bill, whichever passes the full Senate.

The most effective way to contact your senators and representative is to call them. To obtain contact information for elected officials, go to AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Rights > Issues & Legislation. Additionally, a prewritten e-mail is available immediately to send to lawmakers by following the "Take Action" option and entering the constituent information.

"AMA members and motorcyclists everywhere have shown that we can make a difference when we pull together and act as a group," said Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations. "Now is the time to work with your elected senators and representative to get them to include the Rehberg language in the appropriations bill that comes out of the Senate. Let them know how important it is to continue to allow responsible and safe family enjoyment in riding dirtbikes and ATVs."

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.

Retired officer killed in crash - Jackson Clarion Ledger - Retired Pearl police Capt. George Burgess was on his way to a motorcycle club meeting when his Yamaha cruiser collided with a Ford Taurus on Tuesday evening.
Burgess, 58, died at the scene, at Lakeland and River Oaks drives in Flowood. The driver of the car, whose name was not released, was not harmed.
Burgess retired from the Pearl Police Department in 2001 and worked as security director for Southern Farm Bureau Insurance. He lived in Ridgeland with his wife of nearly 20 years, Gwen.
"He was a very careful and very experienced rider and would never do anything to endanger himself or anybody else," Gwen Burgess said Wednesday, her voice shaky with emotion.
The accident happened around 6:30 p.m., according to Flowood police. Burgess was traveling east when the car turned in front of him, police said.
The accident is under investigation, Flowood Police Chief Johnny DeWitt said.
George Burgess joined Pearl police in 1974, a year after the agency formed. He was one of the first motorcycle patrol officers there, said Pearl police Lt. Butch Townsend, who worked with Burgess for 12 years.
Burgess worked his way up through the department and retired as second in command, Townsend said.
"He was just here visiting us not that long ago," Townsend said.
Pearl Mayor Brad Rogers and his family were close to the Burgess family. Burgess was a "by-the-book" cop and always took an interest in other people, Rogers said.
"George always had time for anybody. He will be missed for sure," Rogers said.
Burgess enjoyed cooking, deep-sea fishing, motorcycles, his family and reading, his wife said. "He was thoroughly enjoying his new job," Gwen Burgess said.
Burgess also is survived by two sons, Marty and Jake.

Local businessman dies in motorcycle crash - Frederick News Post (subscription) - The vice president of operations of a shredding business in Frederick County for more than a decade died Wednesday afternoon in a motorcycle crash just south of Hagerstown in Washington County.
Maryland State Police said Stephen P. Kulina took the ramp from Halfway Boulevard to northbound I-81 at about 4:15 p.m. He lost control of his 2004 Harley-Davidson on the ramp and overturned. He and his motorcycle slid across both lanes of I-81 and struck the guardrail.
Kulina, 48, was pronounced dead at the scene. No charges were filed, said Sgt. T.J. McKenrick of the Hagerstown barrack. No other vehicles were involved, according to witnesses. Speed may have been a contributing factor, McKenrick said.
Kulina's family in Mercersburg, Pa., could not be reached for comment.
Employees of All-Shred Inc. expressed their grief.
"All of the employees are in complete and total shock," senior account representative Emily Shaw said. "Mary Pat (Kulina's wife) is our boss as well as our friend."
The 20 employees were notified Wednesday, Shaw said. Business will be open today.
"All of us have pulled together. We'll keep it running," she said.
Shaw described Kulina as a behind-the-scenes guy. He was in charge of getting the warehouse built in the Stanford Business Park off Mountville Road near Adamstown . His wife ran the business; he oversaw operations.
The company was founded in Middletown . The couple had a heating and air conditioning business that was primarily his, Shaw said.
Another employee, Tom Symonds, said Mary Pat Kulina had family members with her Wednesday night.

In memory of Manny - NorthJersey.com - Coldwell Banker recently supported a great bike ride to Greenwood Lake. Motorcycle riders lead by the Nam Knights and Todd Ward, a close friend of Manny Carabello, raised money on the First Annual Bike Run & Affair with a scenic bike ride on a beautiful day. Later at Camp Veritans in Haledon, a picnic provided by David M. of Foodtown and Tommy Manzo of the Brownstone along with live band music. The money will be used to help defray medical costs for Manny who passed on Feb 17, 2009, as a result of a motorcycle accident. He was a former Coldwell Banker top producer and Realtor of the Year for 2003. For further information on Manny’s fund, contact Patti Tahan at Coldwell Banker Wayne at 973-694-8000. Pictured at the get-together are CB Residential Brokerage Wayne manager along with some fellow associates.

Santa's Cause Poker Run - Greenwood Today - Nov 21, 2009 at Calhoun Motorsports located at 205 Birchtree Dr. in Greenwood SC.
Southern Roads Motorcycle Club, INC. is raising money for A voice for the Children Foundation. This organization helps Kids who are placed in foster care by the state. The 1st bike out at 12:30PM last bike out at 1:30PM. 500.00 Best hand and 50.00 worst. Cost is 15.00 to enter and 5.00 for extra hand. Bikes, cars and trucks welcome. Donations are tax deductible.

Motorcycle Club to have seventh annual 'Food Run' - Greenwood Index Journal - The Wheels of Thunder Motorcycle Club will host its seventh annual “Thanksgiving Food Drive on Saturday.
Assembly is at noon and departure at 1 p.m., with a parade starting at the Greenwood Civic Center and ending at Performance Cycle at 1405 Bypass 72 NE.
All bike clubs, social clubs, car clubs, churches and any other organizations are invited to help with this charitable event.
Needed items include: canned goods, rice, dried potatoes, canned meats and any non-perishable food items or monetary gifts. Official drop-off point is Performance Cycle.
Food boxes will be distributed to the needy by referral. Food boxes will be prepared at Performance Cycle after the parade. All leftover items will be donated to the Greenwood County Food Bank.
For information, contact: Jerry Roman at 980-5573; Gregory Aiken at 337-0313; Charlie Gilliam at 993-5234 or Garrett Herring at 993-1377.

Motorcyclist killed in wreck identified - Charleston Post Courier - A motorcyclist who fell to his death from an interstate overpass in Charleston has been identified as a 35-year-old James Island man.
William Heath Cox was pronounced dead at the scene of the Tuesday night crash. Cox, who was not wearing a helmet, died from head trauma, Charleston County Chief Deputy Coroner Judy Koelpin said.
The wreck occurred about 8:41 p.m. in the area of Coming Street and the Crosstown Expressway. Cox was thrown from his motorcycle while riding on the overpass leading from Interstate 26 to the Crosstown. The motorcycle was thought to have hit the guard rail, police said.
Cox was tossed over the railing and fell onto a vacant lot below the overpass. Police are investigating the accident.

Pa. man killed in I-81 motorcycle crash - The Herald-Mail - HALFWAY — A Mercersburg, Pa., man died Wednesday when his motorcycle slid across Interstate 81 and struck a guardrail, according to Maryland State Police.
Stephen P. Kulina, 48, of Mercersburg, was pronounced dead at the scene, troopers said in a press release. Kulina was the only person involved in the accident, police said.
An investigation revealed Kulina was riding on the ramp from Halfway Boulevard to go northbound on Interstate 81 about 4:15 p.m. when he lost control of a 2004 Harley-Davidson and it overturned, troopers said. Kulina slid across both lanes before striking a guardrail, troopers said.
One lane of Interstate 81 was closed until about 5:55 p.m., troopers said. Speed and operator error contributed to the accident, troopers said.

Report issued on biker's death - The Review - LISBON - The Ohio State Highway Patrol has recently confirmed the death of an Alliance man in July was caused by injuries he suffered in a traffic accident.
Gary Mitchell, 71, Madison Avenue, was operating a westbound motorcycle at 3:15 p.m. July 10 on U.S. Route 30 near Wayne Bridge Road in Center Township when the motorcycle went left of center, struck an eastbound vehicle driven by Aimee Little, 21, West High Street, Lisbon, and struck a guardrail, after which he was ejected into a yard. He was transported by ambulance to Salem Community Hospital and was pronounced dead on July 17 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Youngstown.
The Highway Patrol received confirmation Tuesday from investigator Jesse Hoffman that Mitchell's cause of death was blunt force trauma related to the accident.