Hey,
We have daunting questions chasing us for many reasons. Two political basketballs could save this country, so should, would we, could we make them happen. One is our medical system. Should we turn it over to Medicare, eliminate insurance, unless you want it, and save the country trillions, annually? Tort reform is the next one. If we could get a handle on attorneys we would save the country zillions. Unfortunately most politicians are attorneys, so we’re fucked, or are we?
Let me know what you think. Let’s hit the news.
We will kick it off with Art Hall’s shots from the Long Beach Yacht Club, 4th of July, Celebration.
BIKERNET’S 5-BALL RACING LATEST BONNEVILLE EFFORT— The Iron Horse from Johnson motors with only 5/8 horsepower.
It should be from a washing machine. Looking online it looks like it is a motor manufactured by Johnson motors (the outboard motor company) called the Iron Horse.
It was a fairly common motor used in washing machines, power generators, light industrial use. If it is an Iron Horse it is ¾ horse at 1750 rpm, siphon carb, foot pedal kick start though most people use a rope to start them. It spins freely but I haven’t check for spark yet, though it looks like it is very similar to the magneto setup Briggs & Stratton.
–Uncle Monkey
FXR DEAL OF THE WEEK– 1985 FXR Harley-Davidson w/sidecar – $5500 (rockford il). Here is a 1985 FXR w/ California side car, has been sitting in garage for a little over two years, I cleaned the tank and carb, put in fresh gas, new battery, started right up runs pretty good. I got it from a friend of mine who bought it new and had the sidecar put on when he purchased it. He rode up until two years ago. He bought a new bike and lost interest in this motorcycle. It will be a great project or to ride it around the way it is. 5500.00 OBO. Give me a call (815-227-0900)or stop by Mike’s motorcycle shop, 3305 Kishwaukee st. Rockford, IL.
CeeCee Philipps the Marketing & Events Manager for the Harley-Davidson Dealer that will be hosting the Wisconsin HOG Rally on July 11-13 Kutter Harley-Davidson, marking its 30th year in business, has been sold, according to retiring co-founder and owner Joanne Kutter, to Sara and Eric Pomeroy of Delafield, Wisconsin.
The award-winning dealership and its staff of 50 has begun the transition to Boardtrackers Harley-Davidson Kutter Harley-Davidson was started in 1985 by Rudi and Joanne Kutter, in Delevan. Five years later they built the first custom designed Harley dealership in the country in Janesville.
In 1995, the dealership moved across the street into its present home at 3223 North Pontiac Dr. In 2003, Kutter expanded its operations, opening the Kutter Harley-Davidson Shop in Monroe. The Monroe dealership name is still in process and will be released soon. They have received Harley’s highest recognition, the Bar and Shield award, 15 times. www.kutterharley.com
NEWS FROM THE FALCON– Mural mix match, tribute to downtown Long Beach art culture by Falcon.
–Marquis du Cuff
Certified Bikernet Feature Photographer
MAC DONALDS RESPONSE TO DEMAND FOR HIGHER PAY– I guess it’s either this, go out of business or charge $10.00 for a Hamburger.
Here’s McDonald’s answer to $15/hr minimum pay…
McDonald’s first “self-serve” being tested now……
–Bob Clark
Judge Matt Johnson of Waco’s 54th State District Court agreed to extend the grand jury’s term by 60 days through the end of August. The grand jury’s current term was set to expire Tuesday.
In an order signed Tuesday, Johnson said he was extending the term “for the purpose of concluding the investigation into the incident at Twin Peaks, allegations and circumstances surrounding such incident.”
The terms of grand juries can be extended by up to 90 days, but can be done only for the panel to consider one specific issue.
McLennan County District Attorney Abel Reyna did not return phone messages Tuesday left at his office and on his cellphone.
Crawford Long, a lifelong prosecutor who retired from the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office in 2010 after a 30-year career, said there are several reasons why prosecutors might seek to extend the term of a grand jury.
“If you have a grand jury that you have already presented a substantial amount of evidence to about something and you feel good about working with that particular group of people, then there is really no reason to re-plow the field starting over with a new one,” Long said.
Because grand jury proceedings are confidential, it is unclear whether prosecutors already have started presenting evidence to the grand jury from the May 17 Twin Peaks shootout, which left nine bikers dead and 20 wounded.
District Clerk Jon Gimble said no date has been set for the current grand jury to return to the courthouse.
Another attorney familiar with the grand jury process who asked not to be identified said it also might have the appearance of impropriety if prosecutors ask the same grand jury to determine whether Waco police officers who shot and possibly killed some of the bikers acted properly, and whether there is sufficient evidence to indict some or all of the bikers.
Those issues probably would be best determined by separate grand juries, the lawyer said, and extending the existing grand jury term before empaneling a new grand jury would allow that to happen.
For the first time in at least 75 years, McLennan County will change the manner in which grand juries are selected because of a new law passed in the final days of the most recent Texas legislative session.
The change ends the so-called key-man system and allows only randomly selected panels to consider whether prosecutors have sufficient evidence for an indictment.
The current system, used in McLennan County for longer than longtime courthouse officials can remember, will end in McLennan County on July 8, although the new law does not take effect until Sept. 1.
The grand jury selected that day will serve for three months and work separately from the current grand jury.
Texas is the last state that allows grand juries to be selected through the key-man method, a system its critics call “pick a pal.”
Historically, McLennan County grand juries have been selected after a felony criminal court judge appoints four or five commissioners. Those commissioners then nominate four or five prospective grand jurors each, and the first 12 who qualify and agree to serve make up the grand jury.
The new method will select grand jury members randomly from lists of registered voters and licensed drivers, just as petit juries in civil and criminal cases are selected.
http://www.wacotrib.com/news/twin-peaks-biker-shooting/grand-jury-extended-m
onths-to-hear-twin-peaks-biker-cases/article_6638fb6b-1a09-54e3-9101-5504618
dfe53.html
–By TOMMY WITHERSPOON
Wacotrib.com
–from Rogue
THE CONFEDERATE FLAG CONTROVERSY– My thoughts on the Confederate Flag
Remove it!
–Bob Clark
AUSTRALIAN CLUB REPORT– Riders around Australia protest against anti-association laws.
Thousands of motorcyclists have turned out at locations around the country to protest anti-association laws either in place or being discussed in their respective states.
Large contingents turned out in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide on Saturday morning .
In Brisbane, the United Motorcycle Council of Queensland vowed to continue fighting against the Queensland Government’s anti-association laws.
The council held an independence day rally at Emma Miller Place to highlight their concerns.
The rally was peaceful even if the message was not.
The council is still angry with the former Newman government for introducing the Vicious Lawless Association Disestablishment (VLAD) laws in 2013.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has vowed to replace them.
“When Newman bought these laws in he thought we were all stupid, he thought the general public was stupid. He thought we’d just roll over and play dead. Have a look at us all here still fighting over a year later,” Yandina Five member Mike Smith said.
The Palasczcuk Government did not escape the criticism either. “The judge last week when he adjourned my son’s cases said the executive of this government have the power to suspend these laws but they haven’t.”
Despite the determination to fight on, lawyers do not believe the legislation will be overturned – but they are advising people not to give up.
“Unity is important. Support for the cause is very, very important. Especially for those who are, I suppose, putting their neck out and being charged under these laws,” lawyer Chris Main said.
In Melbourne, motorcyclist Max Iddles told the protest that bikers would fight similar laws from ever being introduced in Victoria.
“There’s nothing in there about riders, motorcyclist, bikes, bikies, bikers, bike gangs. They are anti-people laws. They want control of the clubs and people,” he said.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said in March that a national approach was needed to deal with criminal groups.
Dale Maggs from the Freedom Riders Association said bikers would stand together to prevent any tougher legislation that targets them.
“It has to stop and it has to stop now. We have to lobby hard and we have to be strong as a united group.”
‘It’s about the weakening of our constitutional protections’
In New South Wales, motorcyclists rode their bikes around the state’s parliament house.
The Brotherhood Christian Motorcycle Club’s Greg Pendlebury addressed the crowd.
“These laws are wrong,” he said.
“They are wrong because they change the definition of crime – from what you do, to who you associate with. In doing that I think they make a grave mistake.
“Having a meal with someone is not a crime. Spending time with someone is not a crime. Talking on the telephone is not a crime. These laws take normal human interaction and turn them into criminal activity. They are wrong and they have no part in our community.”
The anti-consorting laws in NSW were challenged in the High Court last year, but were upheld.
Three men who were charged under the 2012 legislation mounted the challenge on the grounds they infringed the implied right to freedom of association in the Constitution.
The court found the laws were valid and there was no such right to freedom of association.
The court also dismissed claims the laws were at odds with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights because that was not in Commonwealth Legislation.
Wayne Baffsky, a barrister who represents the United Motorcycle Council, said today’s protest “… is not just about bad laws, and it’s not just about laws which are counterproductive”.
“It’s about the weakening of our constitutional protections,” he said.
“People are being targeted for how they look and who they associate with.”
A large group of riders, including members of various motorcycle clubs, gathered on the steps of South Australia’s State Parliament building to protest against the State Government’s proposed anti-biker/anti-association laws.
The government wants politicians, rather than the courts, to have the power to declare clubs and groups “criminal organisations”, which will trigger bans on associating and wearing club colours.
The contingent — which included members of the Gypsy Jokers, Rebels, Commancheros, Ulysses, Longriders and Compadres — rode from a hotel in Port Adelaide to Parliament in a show of solidarity.
Protest organiser Robert “Bear” Cameron, a member of the Gypsy Jokers for over 20 years, said the concerns were about the Government’s push to take the authority for declarations away from the courts.
“Why should it be up to politicians to make that decision when they can’t get anything right, let alone know if someone is guilty or not,” he said.
One time Independent Upper House candidate Mark Aldridge and members of the Liberal Democrats and the Free Australia Party also spoke at the rally.
The Government’s legislation would declare 27 motorcycle clubs, including the Gyspy Jokers, Hells Angels, Mongols and Rebels illegal, with no avenue for appeal.
Earlier this week, the Liberals revealed they would oppose that part of Labor’s plan in favour of a system where politicians could make regulations outlawing groups that were subject to judicial review.
Debate will continue when Parliament sits again later this month
VICTORY 8-BALL VISITS PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK— Take a ride on the Derrel Whitemyer trails to the Pinnacles.
–Bandit
HAPPY BELATED 4TH– Everyone at LRS wishes all our fans a very Happy and Safe July 4th Holiday! In recognition of the Independence Day holiday, you will find special pricing for most of our products on our website.
Visit www.LongRideSheilds.com to take advantage of current offers.
Enjoy The Ride…
Jake Shoemaker, #55 Bonneville Performance / Castrol / Triumph, has qualified for every GNC1 Main this season while riding his Triumph Bonneville and currently sits 14th in the point standings. He is looking to secure his first top-10 finish in the class this season.
“I’m really excited to get back to this track as I was able to ride at Du Quoin in 2007 as an amateur,” said Jake Shoemaker. “This is going to be my first time here with a big bike, and I’m confident that the Bonneville Performance / Castrol / Triumph Bonneville can run up front.”
Brandon Robinson, #44 Latus Motors Racing / Castrol / Triumph, currently sits fifth in the point standings with two podium finishes and qualifying for two Dash for Cash races in the GNC1 class this year. Robinson has finished in the top 10 in four out of five races and hopes to continue that streak in Du Quoin.
“I’m really looking for the getting on the Latus Motors Racing / Castrol / Triumph Bonneville this weekend in Du Quoin,” said Brandon Robinson. “After a couple of good showings on the mile tracks this year, I can’t wait to get back out there and contend for a win.”
As part of its outreach initiative, VETMotorsports will embed Sgt. Edward S., of Columbus, Ohio, with the Bonneville Performance team. Through Castrol’s VETMotorsports Performance Match Fund, the on-track performance of Triumph teams in both Flat Track and MotoAmerica competition has earned VETMotorsports $4,650 in bonuses thus far this season.
Well done Keith and team, truly one of the great and inspiring stories of our industry the whole Jacobs family has become under Scott’s leadership. I am proud to call them friends and look forward to watching the future unfold for them all. Great Story!
–Brian Klock
Klock@kustomcycles.com
Mitchell, SD
Thanks much Brian, I’ll try to do as well with my SmokeOut story. I will also mention that the Klocks are currently one of the most progressive companies in the industry. There’s no dust settling around your family and team.–Bandit
California
Supported Senate Bill 218 which would prevent the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority from operating bogus stop sign cameras on the lands it manages. The bill is currently in the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee.
Opposed Assembly Bill 1287 which would allow increased photo enforcement capabilities on transit vehicles. The bill passed the full Assembly in is now in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee.
National
As a supporting member of the Alliance for Toll-Free Interstates, the NMA worked with the alliance to oppose the expansion of interstate tolling under consideration by the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Interstate Highway System.
New York
Opposed Senate Bill 5688 which would allow the city of White Plains to operate red-light cameras. The bill passed the Legislature and now awaits Gov. Cuomo’s signature.
Ohio
Supported House Bill 159 which would make it legal to display only one license plate on the rear of a vehicle. The bill has been referred to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
Pennsylvania
Opposed House Bill 950 as currently written, which would eliminate the sunset clause for Pennsylvania’s red-light camera program, allowing them to operate in perpetuity. The bill is currently in the House Rules Committee.
Opposed House Bill 1300 which would permit local police agencies to use radar and laser for speed enforcement. The bill has been referred to the House Transportation Committee.
Opposed Senate Bill 840 which would create a pilot program to use speed cameras in highway work zones—a pilot program that could eventually lead to the use of speed cameras throughout the state. The bill has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee.
Tennessee
Opposed Senate Bill 1128 which was portrayed as restricting ticket camera use, but in reality allowed the use of red-light cameras, as well as manned photo radar vans and speed cameras in school zones. The bill in its original form was essentially a complete ban on all camera-based enforcement throughout the state. The bill was signed by Gov. Haslam.
Thanks to the many NMA members who volunteered their time to send emails, write letters, make phone calls, and work with policymakers and media outlets on these important issues. If you’re not signed up to receive legislative alerts but would like to, use the “Choose Your NMA E-Subscriptions” link in the sidebar of this email.
BIKERNET EDITOR IS ALWAYS WHERE THE GIRLS ARE— The H.I.N. Car Show, July 4th.
–Art Hall
Bikernet International Editor and Emperor
THE CANTINA TOMBSTONE INVESTIGATION– A truly Happy Person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour. And, one who can enjoy browsing old cemeteries …
Harry Edsel Smith of Albany, New York :
Born 1903–Died 1942
Looked up the elevator shaft to see if the
car was on the way down. It was.
=============================
In a Thurmont, Maryland , cemetery:
Here lies an Atheist, all dressed up
and no place to go.
=============================
On the grave of Ezekial Aikle in
East Dalhousie Cemetery, Nova Scotia:
Here lies Ezekial Aikle, Age 102.
Only the good die young.
=============================
In a London , England cemetery:
Here lies Ann Mann, who lived an old maid
but died an old Mann. Dec. 8, 1767
=============================
In a Ribbesford, England , cemetery:
Anna Wallace
The children of Israel wanted bread,
And the Lord sent them manna.
Clark Wallace wanted a wife,
And the Devil sent him Anna.
===============================
In a Ruidoso, New Mexico, cemetery:
Here lies Johnny Yeast.
Pardon him for not rising.
===============================
In a Uniontown, Pennsylvania, cemetery:
Here lies the body of Jonathan Blake,
Stepped on the gas instead of the brake.
==============================
In a Silver City, Nevada, cemetery:
Here lays The Kid,
We planted him raw.
He was quick on the trigger,
But slow on the draw.
================================
A lawyer’s epitaph in England :
Sir John Strange.
Here lies an honest lawyer,
and that is Strange.
=================================
John Penny’s epitaph in the Wimborne,
England, cemetery:
Reader, if cash thou art in want of any,
Dig 6 feet deep and thou wilt find a Penny.
==================================
In a cemetery in Hartscombe, England:
On the 22nd of June, Jonathan Fiddle went out of tune.
==================================
Anna Hopewell’s grave in Enosburg Falls,
Vermont:
Here lies the body of our Anna,
Done to death by a banana.
It wasn’t the fruit that laid her low,
But the skin of the thing that made her go.
==================================
On a grave from the 1880s in Nantucket,
Massachusetts:
Under the sod and under the trees,
Lies the body of Jonathan Pease.
He is not here, there’s only the pod,
Pease shelled out and went to God.
==================================
THIS ONE IS EXTREMELY WELL WRITTEN:-
In a cemetery in England:
Remember man, as you walk by,
As you are now, so once was I.
As I am now, so shall you be,
Remember this and follow me.
To which someone replied by writing on the tombstone:
To follow you I’ll not consent,
Until I know which way you went.
Tombstone Arizona on Boot Hill
Here lies Lester Moore
Four slugs from a 44
No Les, no Moore
–Dr. Willie
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LATEST VINTAGE SCORE— It’s a 1905 Nelk, overhead cam, overhead valve, water-cooled, foot clutch rider with dual flywheels. Only known example and made in California with wooden rims.
For sale for big Candy…
–Don Whalen
626-358-9696
LET’S PEEL OUT— I had one more item I would put on the election platform for 2016, unless someone had the balls to address it before then. We’ve been discussing a national service program, which would be mandatory. So every kid would be required to give up a year or two for America, after High School.
This program has been discussed and even voted on a couple of times. It would mean kids could join the service, they could join the peace corps, they could help build infrastructure, and they would learn how to work and how to devote something to community.
Let me know what you think. In the meantime I promise to wrap up the Twevo article, my SmokeOut Saga, and a Girl of Bikernet is coming right up from Paul Aiken of Aeromach, who has helped me out emensely with my 2014 Indian Project, from American Biker in Charleston, SC.
And the Devil and our team need to hustle on the Salt Torpedo. We’re burnin’ daylight. Keepin’ dreams alive can be tough. But you can’t ever give up or let anything get in the way.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
