Belt Drive Betty's Blog

How you can make a difference....

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:29:21 PST

I got word late last night that KISS FM (http://www.1075kiss.com/) in Vernon hosted a poll to see if the Mayor of Vernon BC, Rob Sawatzky, should support Sturgis North - sadly I did not get the notification to rally the troops until it was too late - however, if like most riders you are tired of being tarred with a brush that is not yours to wear - there is still something you can do to show support.

You can email the mayor of Vernon to express your support for this event: mayor@vernon.ca

Ray Sasseville and Joan Hansen of Sturgis North are doing everything in their power to pay people back after the losses that were suffered at the 1st Sturgis North event in Salmon Arm - if this event is not supported or allowed to go ahead - they will never be in a position to make things right and in my humble opinion they deserve the opportunity to attempt to make things right for everyone.

The fact of the matter is that the Hells Angels seldom pose a problem at a public event - they are far smarter than the cops or politicians give them credit for being...

The poll of Kiss FM had the following results:
82% in favour of the Sturgis North event and 18% not in favour...

With bands like The Guess Who, Nick Gilder & Sweeney Todd, Edgar Winter and the Stampeders - this should prove to be a fun and well attended event - let's just hope for all concerned there are not more DEA and Anti Biker Units present than there are spectators and that we as a community will be allowed to have some fun without the scrutiny that we riders were put through last year.

Someday we riders will be able to attend an event and not be treated like second class citizens but that will only happen if this community starts getting vocal!

There are other articles of interest over at www.beltdrivebetty.com

Don't forget that entries for the 2012 Beat the PMS Blues online Show 'n' Shine are only accepted until midnight MST on January 31st - if you aren't entered you can't win!

I leave you with a few giggles that have been shared with me by friends on Facebook and through emails...

Have a fabulous Friday and weekend!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

ARE YOU SERIOUS????

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:48:41 PST

The Sturgis North Motorcycle Rally & Music Festival is front and centre of a blatant fear mongering article by the CBC.

Were there members of the Hells Angels at the Sturgis North last year? Yes - did they cause trouble? NO - in fact a really stupid woman who was fighting with her boyfriend caused more ruckus and BS than anyone there. I know because I dealt with her when she wouldn't quit attacking the man who kept trying to walk away from her.

The ridiculous article will fuel the Anti Biker Units and the RCMP to swarm the event and cost the event coordinator tons of money for enhanced policing and will put a damper on the event as every rider who attends will be put under police scrutiny - UNFAIRLY - AGAIN.

The main stream media is so often used as pawns but the police services and yet again, it appears that the CBC would rather create sensationalism as opposed to report on the real news.

I shake my head at this inane report that sees the mayor of Vernon all worked up and concerned that unlawful people might enter his town as a result of the event....

In other news:

Abbotsford BC is getting geared up for Motopsycho Mania - here is the link for your chance to win tickets: Win Tickets To Motopsycho Mania In Abbotsford

In Virginia they are getting ready for a fight to do away with motorcycle only check points - wouldn't that be wonderful if they are successful!

In South Carolina there is another fight brewing over the H-D spring rally - the dealer wants to make it 10 days and now Horry county is considering banning all vendor permits and the ABATE is not happy with the dealership...

There are many other articles in the news feeds that may be of interest to you - visit www.beltdrivebetty.com to see what might affect YOUR world!

I leave you with a few giggles shared by my friends on FB and by email...

Have a fabulous Thursday and remember - get your show n shine entries in!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

In the news...

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:24:58 PST

The news feeds are filled with all kinds of interesting articles, some that we really need to pay attention to!

The one of particular interest is the bill that is in the State Senate House in Florida - It's known as the Stiffer Penalties Bill.

If passed this law will maThe news feeds are filled with all kinds of interesting articles, some that we really need to pay attention to!

The one of particular interest is the bill that is in the State Senate House in Florida - It's known as the Stiffer Penalties Bill.

If passed, this law will make the penalties for injuring riders much more severe. If you get caught following too close the fine is $100, if you rear end a bike and injure someone, the offence becomes a misdemeanour and will result in a fine, jail time and license suspension. Causing death is a far stiffer penalty.

American Bikers Aiming Towards Education has been working towards seeing this bill get passed for over 9 years and is frustrated that it has not yet passed.

The fact that this bill is in the senate is a great thing - it will not only protect the motorcyclists but other motorists and bicycle riders as well but why has it not passed as of yet? I am unsure of what may be holding it up, this is one story we will be doing our best to follow as it could all be the framework for a similar law to be introduced here in Canada.

It is my fondest hope that more Canadian riders start lobbying for our rights to be protected by the law instead of us always being subjected to preferential treatment in an unconstitutional way...

In other news:

In BC - Sturgis North is awaiting the finalizing of their contract with MotoPlex Speedway and Event Park for their event to be held July 18-22.

The Speedway is located on the old Kamloops Highway between Vernon and Falkland.

In Ontario - the Heroes' Highway Ride has HUGE news to share with everyone...

Also in Ontario, the 4th shooting suspect in the case of a Hells Angels member and a woman who were shot in London has been caught.

In Orlando Florida - BACA raised over $8,000 for their fight against child abuse.

There are many motorcycle reviews and other articles that may be of interest to you in the news feeds over at www.beltdrivebetty.com

You have one week to get your entries into our Beat the PMS Blues Online Show 'n' Shine. We have incredible prizes up for grabs including a Leather Jacket from Underground Heads, a $100 Keg GC from Dalton Timmis - Home for Chrome Insurance, Gift Certificates from Ernie O's, a Drift Camera and a weekend camp out for 12 at the Bunkhouse Resort in Haida Gwaii BC.

There are many other prizes up for grabs as well folks - it's free to enter and a great way to have some fun while we are daydreaming about riding.

I will leave you with a couple of jokes shared with me by friends on Facebook and by email...

Have a fabulous Wednesday!

Belt Drive Betty

Editor & Rider

Apologies....

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:55:02 PST

I need to apologize for how erratic my posting has been - I enjoy talking to you all everyday and the feedback and discussion that are generated by many of my posts.

January is a tough time for me to be consistent - things started out well this time, but slowly the hours put in at the shows, the driving and other duties I have, take hold of me and makes my time is so limited if I want to sleep at all.

This past week was made even harder by Mother Nature's severe reminder that our comfort is at her pleasure! I left the Edmonton Motorcycle Show to head to Two Hills to speak to a group that is very interested in a touring map for our community phone book and in seeing a permanent Fallen Rider's Memorial be built. This community and it's surrounding region is very rider friendly and really wants to attract the rider. In the area there are a number of great motorcycle events to attend - one of them...the Run to the Hills Memorial Rally is one that the CMTA and I both sponsor. After the meeting I then headed back to Edmonton on Tuesday morning to pick up my driving companion, Charlotte, and get an oil change on the old car and head for Vancouver. We made it as far as Clearwater before I had to call it a night. Wednesday morning we got up and headed the rest of the way to the coast - the roads were treacherous and the wind made it far worse.

This morning I made lunch for all of my volunteers, answered all of the emails that I have not been able to get to and attempt to get organized and ready for the opening of the show this afternoon. I am about as ready for this afternoon as I know how to be!

My arms are open and waiting for New Year's hugs and to see how Vancouver will stack up to Edmonton and Calgary!

I am asking all of you who read this to share the news with your friends that we have some great prizes up for grabs in our on line show n shine - we want your photos...it's free and it's a great way to soothe the PMS.... www.beltdrivebtty.com is the place to be...

There have been a number of rather controversial subjects in th news of late and I promise that towards the end of next week we will tackle some of them, for the next few days though it's all about the Vancouver Motorcycle show and the wonderful people I will be sharing time with!

I leave you with some funnies from my friends on Facebook and from emails, cause laughing is good for the soul!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

What a weekend!

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:02:29 PST

Edmonton was a fabulous show for our newspaper and I have so many people to thank for making it the success it was. Laurie and her show team - they work so hard and under some of the toughest of circumstances to bring to life a sense of what the riding community is really all about and they do it with such grace and dignity.

The Alberta Lone Wolves - what can I say about this fabulous bunch of guys who pitched in and helped out! Jocelyn from the Fort McMurray HOG Chapter, Ron Clifford, who had to leave when he got the call that his 99 year old mother suffered a stroke (You are on our minds and in our Prayers my friend) and last but not least Charlotte, my friend not only helped out at the show but opened her home to me as base camp.

Without these incredible community minded human beings and wonderful friends I could not do what I do - so from the bottom of my heart - thank you.

I am keeping this post short and sweet as I have to get ready for a meeting here in Two Hills and then after a fast sleep I will be on my way to Vancouver and the last in this round of motorcycle shows - I am looking so forward to seeing more of the riding community - my friends and extended family members!

In the mean time, please keep those show n shine entries coming folks, we have some fabulous prizes that we will be giving away, a Drift Camera, camping for 12 in Haida Gwaii at the Bunkhouse, leather jackets, detailing kits, books and more... www.beltdrivebetty.com is where the action is at!

I leave you with a few funnies shared with me by friends on Facebook and through emails...Laughter truly is good medicine!

Have a fabulous day, talk to you all again very soon!

Belt Drive Betty,
Editor & Rider

Bikers really are the best people...

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:05:00 PST

In the last week of being on the road I have been surrounded by members of the riding community and I have had an "ahah" moment - you see I work alone in my office 12-18 hours a day 7 days a week and that kind of isolation and lack of socialization can be debilitating. I spend maybe two hours a day with my husband around me (he can work some pretty long hours too) and other than for the odd meeting out of the house, I am pretty much alone.

The 'ahah" moment came for me yesterday - when it dawned on me just how peaceful I feel - it's a feeling that sneaks up on you. Sitting at my desk at home, my mind wanders off to old hurts and angers, it wanders to negative thinking - that incessant chatter is your head that never seems to ease up unless I am on my bike.

The hugs at the bike show, the sharing of feelings, hopes and dreams of other members of this community is the music that soothes the savage beast in me. I realized just how much I need people, good people around me.
If I haven't told you people how much you mean to me, how much I draw my strength, my inspiration from you - well, I want to tell you right now - thank you for always being there - we may not always agree or see eye to eye but I love the fact that we can agree to disagree and respect each other. Bikers - it seems to me, have that ability more than most other communities and I am honored to be a part of this eclectic and wonderful community and I felt the need to tell you all how much you mean to me.

There are some interesting developments in the news feeds today surrounding Sturgis North - it appears that the event will be moving to Armstrong!

For those heading to Port Dover Ontario this Friday to celebrate Friday the 13th - it might be cold but the town is ready and waiting for you!!!!

In London Ontario, the police have called the OPP's anti biker unit in due to a rash of fires that they feel are connected to rival outlaw motorcycle clubs and a potential turf war.

In the US - charges against the international president of the Vagos Club have been dropped. Pastor Palafox, 47, had been charged with vehicle theft involving a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, possession of the stolen motorcycle and street terrorism.

For those who like Blues, Horsethief Hideout is planning a big weekend....

There are other articles in the feeds that may be of interest to you...check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com

I leave you with a few giggles from my friends on Facebook and by email...

Have a good one!
Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

A little kindness goes a long way...

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:02:34 PST

I had the most enjoyable time at the Calgary Motorcycle Show and I want to give a big shout out to the wonderful human beings who helped me in my booth - the Calgary Chapter of the Northern Stars, Peter, Linda, Doug - you guys and dolls were utterly fantastic to work with and I enjoyed myself more than words can say! THANK YOU!!!!! I collected over 400 hugs, met fabulous people and got a fix of motorcycles that eased and yet made, the PMS I suffer from worse.

I was green with envy over the fact that so many were able to ride to and from the show and here was me in my cage...oh well - I am happy for them even if I am pouting slightly.

I spent yesterday nursing sore feet and editing videos - I got some wonderful walk arounds of new models and some great interviews too - you can see the ones I have already had a chance to complete in BDB TV.

I am now looking ahead to the Edmonton show and seeing what that show has to offer - it is amazing how different these two shows - Calgary & Edmonton can be....

In the news today there is a heartwarming story about a young man with Leukemia - The Ride for Kyle was the brain child of Kyle's mom's boss - he organized it 5 days prior to when it took place and over 175 riders answered the call gifting Kyle with items like the Coin of Courage and art work...the kindness of all of these riders made one young man's day - one he will NEVER forget!

Yesterday there was a sad report out of Calgary about a rider who was killed on the weekend.

In California there is a report about riders riding to their capitol to support two bills - one that would abolish motorcycle only checkpoints and the other would see riders over 18 who have completed a safety course not have to wear helmets - right now riders have to wear helmets that have been approved by the California Highway Patrol.

In New Zealand riders are being asked to provide input on a new safe riding guide.

In Ontario, Crime Stoppers is asking for help over the theft of three fully restored vintage motorcycles.

And also in Ontario, a rider who has been riding against brain cancer is planning a national ride to bring awareness to the disease and the needs of research.

There is a ton of other news in the feeds that may be of interest to you, so come on over to www.beltdrivebetty.com and check the news feeds out and while you are there check out the entries in our Beat the PMS Blues Online Show 'n' Shine.

I leave you with a few giggles from my friends on Facebook and from emails...

Have a fabulous day.

Belt Drive Betty,
Editor & Rider

The Calgary Motorcycle Show

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:37:42 PST

Our booth is all set up and I am looking forward to having a great show!

We have Pat Savage CD's available - so far we are the only distributor in Canada so if you want to save the postage - drop by my booth. We also have our new clothing line from Ross Screen Print in Nova Scotia - Ross is also the Cabot Trail Biker and he has done a great job with our clothing!

If tourism information is what you are looking for not only do we have our Canadian Community Directory filled with Rider Friendly Businesses & Canadian Rider Support Network Members & Touring Maps but we also have guides from both Yukon Tourism and Grande Prairie Regional Tourism.

Patches and ICE cards - subscriptions for the newspaper - yup - we have lots of reasons for you to stop by our booth - but one of the BIGGEST reasons you need to stop by is the HUG Challenge - which city give the best and the most hugs - Calgary - Edmonton or Vancouver? We'll find out after Vancouver!

OH and by the way - anyone willing to take this PMS inflicted old broad for a boot today - I have a helmet with me and you have to know that if I am willing to ride pillion that I have PMS REALLY BAD! So...if you are game - I AM!

There are a number of articles you might find interesting in the news feeds today so come on over to www.beltdrivebetty.com to check them out....

I leave you with a few funnies - shared by my friends on Facebook and by email...hope they put a smile on your face....

Have a fabulous Friday!!!!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Calgary HERE I COME....

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 07:01:32 PST

Ready or not, here I come - Calgary Motorcycle Show 2012 Edition!

I am soooo looking forward to all the hugs, the bikes, the laughter, the bikes, the entertainment, the bikes, the bling, the bikes...YES - I do have PMS and for those of you who think I am being too out there - or are men not familiar with that term outside of the female realm...

I DO MEAN - PARKED MOTORCYCLE SYNDROME.

Every year about this time my feet get itchy to travel, my palms sweat, my heart races, my stomach feels anxious. I become short tempered, over sensitive and just plain old nasty.

When I went to see the saw bones a few years back, Dr. Roadmeister told me that there was only one way to give myself and those around me any sort of temporary relief until riding season came around - go see motorcycles, hence the bike shows are a great stress reliever, but what about at night...or early morning when that's not possible? He then suggested pictures and videos along with books on motorcycles to assist in the pain reduction.

He warned that since the medication wears off quickly and that since I have such a bad case of PMS, that I needed to be put on a high dosage prescription.

So we started the Beat the PMS Blues Online Show 'n' ShineTM to guarantee a high dose of photographic medication for me - we made sure there were great prizes and the contest was free to ensure a high volume of medication came in.

Dr. Roadmeister also suggested great motorcycle videos - he recommended I spend some time watching BDB TV and VRide TV. Reruns of SOA or watching the DVD's and old bad B movies on bikers could also work in a pinch.

He said he doubted I had much time to read but that if I did any of the motorcycle fictions by Adelle Laudan could be beneficial. The Cross-Eyed Airbrushing book was also suggested.

This weekend I am going to be on massive doses of medication - until then though I need to see more photos in that Show 'n' Shine or I may have another attack and that would not be good for anyone!

The best thing about the drugs that Dr. Roadmeister has ordered for me - in a life long prescription no less - is I can share my drugs!

You will know if I am getting appropriate amounts of medication or not by simply looking at me this weekend - if I am smiling, walking with a bit of a spring in my step - then the dosage is just right - if not I will be wearing a frown, kicking at things as I walk by and you will generally want to avoid me...something tells me though, this is going to be a GREAT weekend.

There is quite a bit of news in the feeds today - a few international stories that caught my eye - the kinds of stories that let you know no matter your skin colour, your language, your background, your education, your location - real bikers are the same no matter where you go....

In Swaziland a group of bikers there delivered food and sweets to disadvantaged children in Seteki.

Some riders from the UK are undertaking a journey in 2012 that will see them traverse over 10,000 miles to raise funds for a fire services charity.

For other news, like the standings in the Dakar Rally visit our news feeds at www.beldrivebtty.com

I leave you with some funnies for the day - thank you to my friends who share on Facebook and by email.
Laughter, like motorcycles makes things better too!

And of course their spouses who have to live with them and if both spouses ride - well - HIDE THE GUNS!
OR Crack out the air guns and go share some time in the garage...AFTER you enter our show 'n' shine!

Yah - cause we generally don't ride in the winter - you see our car or truck there then though!
But in the spring, summer and fall our bikes are the only therapy we need!

I'm sharing mine: http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/home/2012-show-n-shine

I have to run, gotta finish packing, then a 8-9 hour drive to Airdrie depending on the roads....

Talk to you all tomorrow!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

American Liberty and Freedom under attack from within?

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 07:01:51 PST

Iron Bolt Bruce (AKA the Long Distance Rider) has some distinct thoughts on Barack Obama's signing of the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act) - he is blunt and to the point - no pussy footing with this gent.

So what is happening in the US? It appears that the land of the Free is becoming less and less free all the time and that fear and corruption have taken over. We here in Canada need to be concerned and to watch our politicians - they are bed fellows whether we'd like to admit that or not.

The most concerning part of the NDAA is that of detaining American CITIZENS for an indefinite period of time - with no trial and no right to council... (I hope I have read and absorbed everything about this situation properly)

I hope you will read Bruce's statement and the NDAA - I believe it is a harbinger of things to come, here in Canada as well in the US.

The man I once held high hopes for for the US has turned into a nightmare in my humble opinion, worse the George W Bush if that is possible - he has done more to erode the freedoms and rights of the American people than any politician in history. He may very well be the biggest enemy of freedom...

And that brings me to this ...Why should what is happening in the US be of concern to you? Because we are neighbours to a country that is heading, I believe, in a very scary direction and where the US leads, Canada as a general rule seems to follow. After all of the reading, the news watching that I have been doing, I have to ask - Is 2012 the year that will see the beginning of a civil war in the US? Is another Boston Tea Party on it's way? Or are Americans going to simply allow their Government to take away all that they have held dear?

Only time will tell...hopefully not all of Thomas's observations will come true.

Thomas Jefferson: Author of the Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States April 13, 1743 – July 4, 1826

Thomas was a wise man, he seemed to understand the difference in the hearts of the men who sought power and the people that power can be exerted on. Why is it that we never appear to learn from our past? That we always seem to make the same mistakes over and over? Look what his thoughts were - way back in the late 1700's and early 1800's. It's scary really....

From the Thomas Jefferson Page of the Independent American Party Web Site: http://www.usiap.org/Legacy/Quotes/ThomasJefferson.html

"In matters of Power, let no more be heard of confidence in men, but bind him down from mischief by the chains of the Constitution."

"The beauty of the second amendment is that it will not be needed until they try to take it."

"The course of history shows that as a government grows, liberty decreases."

"Experience hath shewn, that even under the best forms [of government] those entrusted with power have, in time, and by slow operations, perverted it into tyranny."

"The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as they are injurious to others."

"To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical."

"The true foundation of republican government is the equal right of every citizen in his person and property and in their management."

"Does the government fear us? Or do we fear the government? When the people fear the government, tyranny has found victory. The federal government is our servant, not our master!"

"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."

"If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their money, first by inflation and then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around [the banks], will deprive the people of their property until their children will wake up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered."

"Laws that forbid the carrying of arms ... disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes. Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants, they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man."

Everything that has and is happening in the US was exactly what the Declaration of Independence was meant to protect. Sadly - it appears that he was right to attempt to protect the people from their government.

It appears to me that all of this wonderful communication technology has deadened the nerves and sensibilities in people - we are so inundated with propaganda that we hardly even lift our heads anymore to look at the broader picture, to get upset or enraged or engaged. Apathy seems to abound and one day people will wake up to what the government/s are doing and by then, it may be too late.

There are many articles that may be of interest to you in the news feeds today and our blogger - William Perry has an interesting perspective on Real Estate...

I want to balance this editorial out with some laughter, I believe that laughter helps to clear the soul and the mind allowing us a balanced perspective on life, and with the world situation the way it is, balance would be a really good thing.

So, thanks to all of my friends on Facebook and my email buddies who share with me some of the funniest and thought provoking items....

Have a great day...

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Laws in other Countries...some make sense....others not so much

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 07:20:27 PST

Today there were two articles in the news feeds that caught my attention.

One from the Phillipines -

In this article they discuss the fact that it is now illegal for kids 10 and under to be a passenger on a motorcycle without a helmet and spells out clear parameters as to when a child is old enough to ride as a passenger:

Begin Quote: Under House Bill (HB) No. 5626 or the Motorcycle Safety for Children Act of 2011, it seeks to ensure the safety of children aboard motorcycles by regulating the operation of motorcyclesalong highways and roads.

The protective helmet must comply under Republic Act (RA) No. 10054 otherwise known as “The Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.”

RA 10054 provides that a child can be transported if his or her feet can comfortably reach thefootrests of the motorcycle and the arms of the child can reach around and grasp the waist of the motorcycle driver. End Quote

This law seems pretty straight forward, late in coming perhaps, but clear and simple to understand.

The one below - not so much...

In Nigeria, Okada Riders - (Motorcycle Riders) are being banned from riding from 6am to 6pm on January 1st. The article goes off on this wild tangent about the police not having enough technology but what I was able to glean after reading and re reading was - that there had been an attack on a Church just before Christmas - by someone on motorcycles - (this is an assumption on my part), and this attack caused the ban.

Now, from my understanding, in Nigeria - a good number of people who ride motorcycles operate like taxi's and there are some gangs in that mix. Hence, everyone who rides a motorcycle there, tends to be treated like a criminal - and if I am also interpreting/reading this article right, the police feel they must act in this way as they have no technologies to assist them and they are over worked.

Glad I don't ride there!

So - reading about the different approaches to the laws and enforcement of different jurisdictions of the world over the past few days, I got to wondering....

How come it is not mandatory to wear proper foot wear and clothing on a bike?

I mean if safety and reducing health care costs are really as important as government officials would lead you to believe - then why is that aspect of safety gear always overlooked by law makers?

Anyone have any ideas or suggestions as to why that might be?

I would love to hear your thoughts and I would love links to articles on really strange laws regarding motorcycles - I love seeing how truly bent politicians can be...

And that, my friends is a perfect segue to present you this link....http://www.squidoo.com/strangelaws

on Strange and Dumb Laws from some US states - I thought that they might give you a few giggles but more importantly drive that age old lesson home: BE AFRAID OF LARGE NUMBERS OF STUPID PEOPLE!!!! (Congress, Parliament Hill - no country it appears, is immune from them)

There are many other articles in the news feeds that may be of interest to you today - check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com

I leave you with a few funnies that have been shared by friends on Facebook and through email - laughter lights up the world...

Happy New Year everyone, please don't drink and drive....see you all in 2012!

Belt Drive Betty

Editor & Rider

2012...

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 06:07:36 PST

2012 is coming faster than I would like...I still have so many things to do to get ready for the motorcycle shows - so many things that I am waiting on others to do before I can do my thing...it get's discouraging and frustrating some times - but, it's life right.

I have a couple of questions for you all...

What is the MUST DO event on your riding season list?

What is the MUST DO road on your riding season list?

What is your one gear acquisition you are determined to make in 2012?

My must do event this year is the Great Canadian Bike Rally in Merritt BC, My must do road is the Top of the World Highway in the Yukon/Alaska..

My gear acquisition is a new set of Froggs Toggs....I lent my old ones to someone and haven't gotten them back so...

There are a few items in the news feeds today that may be of interest or value to you - it's of course been pretty quiet but that will all change in a bout a week's time as everyone starts going back to work so I am taking advantage of the reprieve by getting as much of my stuff done before I leave home next Wednesday morning when it will be destination CALGARY and lots of HUGS!!!!

I leave you with a few giggles, shared with me by friends either through email or Facebook...hope they put a smile on your face...

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

A Motorcycle Safety Campaign that appears to really WORK!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:51:00 PST

Around The Corner - an award winning motorcycle safety campaign that appears to really work!

I am not sure when exactly it was that Scotland and it's police services became so wise - but I am here to tell you that I personally feel this is THE SMARTEST POLICING Campaign to promote safe riding that I have ever seen!

The Around the Corner Campaign combines tourism, riding skills advancement and policing in a way I have dreamed of for years but never knew the right people to implement it here and in my humble opinion I think every country in the world should be adopting this strategy.

I can truly see why this campaign has won not one but two prestigious awards.

Police officers, armed with special gifts (Not necessarily tickets either), patrolling the highways and rider haunts - sharing ROAD TIPS, BIKER FRIENDLY ESTABLISHMENT TIPS - SAFETY TIPS & other valuable information like road maps, construction reports etc all combined into a campaign that includes a tidy web site with one clear message - come, ride, enjoy and be safe while doing it.

This police supported project encourages tourism and riding in a way that can and should be embraced everywhere - instead of the police being heavy handed and suspecting everyone of being asses or bad guys, they treat you like a fellow rider and encourage you to explore - help you to enjoy your riding - THIS IS WHAT COMMUNITY POLICING IS ALL ABOUT!

I am SUPER IMPRESSED!!!! Congratulations Scotland - land of my Great Grandfather's birth...you deserve the accolades - you deserve the flattery that imitation bestows because truly - every country in the world should be imitating/mirroring you in your efforts..

Bet you never thought you'd hear me applauding the police - did you!!!!

Make sure you check this site out (http://www.aroundthecorner.org.uk/index.asp) and then encourage your local police department to consider getting involved in something like this - it may be the answer to the sand box fight we always find ourselves in - riders VS police....it just might be that attitude changing development that we need so badly!

There are lots of interesting articles in the news feeds today and I hope you will take some time to explore the latest news over at www.beltdrivebetty.com to see if anything there might affect your day/life.

I leave you with a few funnies shared with me by my friends on Facebook and through emails...
Laughter - IS the medicine our souls really need!

Have a fabulous Hump Day!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

A wonderful holiday...

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:43:18 PST

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas holiday and that you enjoyed the true meaning of Christmas, the sharing of love...

I was fortunate enough this year to have my daughter prepare Christmas dinner - her first big "Family" meal - she cooked for 9 of us! Yes mom helped out, but what a treat to have someone else worry about the menu and all of the details! I was so proud to watch her, the love and care she put into everything she did made my heart swell.

As I watched her I couldn't help but remember myself at her age, and it was heartwarming to remember all of the time I spent in the kitchen teaching her and to see that the lessons really were learned, it was surreal watching her and remembering myself doing the exact same things...it was a wonderful dinner - the menu was perfect and there was enough food left over to feed a small army! I love left overs!

I finally got to meet my daughter's finance's family. It was a great experience, one I am glad to have had!

It was so warm here, I really wanted to take my bike out, but with all of the heavy grit and ice, I decided it wasn't worth the risk, but oh my heart needs a ride so bad! Good thing the bike shows start soon, at least, for a little while, I will be able to take care of the PMS (Parked Motorcycle Syndrome) and I will get in some great hugs as the Hug O Meter fills up in each city to see who gives the MOST hugs - not the best hugs - because seriously - there is no such thing as a bad hug!

We are hosting our 5th Annual Beat the PMS Blues Online Show 'n' Shine - entries begin on January 1st so I hope you have dug up your favourite photo of your bike. We will be giving away, among other things a Drift Camera, a group camp out in Haida Gwaii BC for 12, Shuzi Bracelets, Detailing kits and more - so if like me - you suffer from PMS, join us for our FREE Show 'n' Shine - not only do you have a shot at some great prizes but you also have the chance to put the PMS to rest for a few minutes at a time - but take note: you will probably need something handy to wipe the spittle off you chin from drooling over everyone's photos - just sayin!

Over the last few days of the holidays the news feeds have been pretty quiet, however there are some very interesting stories from other countries, including the US on various laws dealing with riders...

From the feeds today:

In New Hampshire, since the courts decided a municipality can not set a lower Db rate than the state's, people there are being urged to support a new state law to reduce the Db limit on motorcycles. Read about their lobbying efforts - I wonder what the riders next move is?

In Massachusetts a cop there is touting stats as a reason why helmet laws need to stay...

In Nigeria, Okada riders are put under what they call - EXTREME restrictions and the Lagos Okada (Motorcycle) Riders are expressing their frustrations. These motorcyclists operate taxi like services and are frustrated that they are only supposed to carry one passenger at a time and that passengers MUST wear head gear...it's a different world there for sure!

And in India - riders prove once again that there are certain things that just go hand in hand with motorcycling, NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE - a good coffee (in this case tea shop) and lots of great conversation. What they describe in this article is appears to be not unlike what you will find at any Timmy's here in Canada - not even the time of day seems to be different for ride nights- 5 - 10 pm

In other news:

A 105 year old Indian from the DuPont collection is taken out of hiding.

A rare bike is up for sale in Michigan Thumb - 1976 Bicentennial Edition Electra Glide motorcycle - to benefit the Caseville Community Christmas Fund

I am going to have the new Pat Savage Wind & Fire CD available for sale at my booth - Pat and I teamed up to reduce the costs that shipping adds to ordering a CD on line - come visit my booth in Calgary - #832, in Edmonton - #546 and in Vancouver - #809 to get your copy!

http://www.savageroads.com/

There are other articles that may be of interest to you over at www.beltdrivebetty.com hope to see you there!

I leave you today with a few funnies and thoughts from that crazy zany bunch I call friends and family - they share some of the craziest, funniest and most inspirational of stuff with me...

I love my friends and thank them for the joy and good health they spread by the stuff they share, cause laughter really is GOOD Medicine!

Have a fabulous Tuesday everyone!

Belt Drive betty
Editor & Rider

So this is Christmas....

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:39:25 PST

As we get ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, it is my fondest hope for all, that the true spirit of the season fills your heart and that somehow you manage to hold on to that feeling for more than a day or a few hours.

No matter your religious views or lack there of, I wish for you to experience, love, joy, acceptance and peace - not from the world around you, but from the world INSIDE YOU.

Love yourself, accept yourself, find joy in being you, find peace by destroying the old tapes of negativity that run through your brain and discover the real YOU.

I wish you the health to enjoy the journey, the wealth to do the things you are meant to do and the spiritual love and balance that will make you appreciate this beautiful gift called life.

I look forward to talking to you all on Monday, hearing about your presents, your time with friends and family until then, have a Merry Christmas and remember, you are the best gift you can share with anyone.

There are a number of articles in the news feeds today that may be of interest to you.

Please check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com

I leave you with a few funnies shared with me by my friends on Facebook, Twitter and by email...Laughter is another great gift you can give yourself and others...

Have a Fabulous Friday and a Joyous Christmas

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

I wonder what it would take?

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 06:53:07 PST

I have just spent the last hour and a half or so on FB, on my own web site, responding to comments, e-mails, wishing people Happy Birthday, Merry Christmas and connecting with my Cyber Family and I wonder...

Almost everyone is posting the most positive, joyful and caring things from videos on random acts of kindness and the meaning of Toys for Tots to inspirations about God, the Universe, and Christmas.

I wonder what it would take for this spirit of love, tenderness and kindness to continue on, all year long...

I am feeling rather emotional today and these things that people are posting mean so much on days like this. They lift you up...

Why am I emotional? Christmas, this time of year that is supposed to be about hope, joy, potential, love -is also a time of sadness, longing...there are so many people who have gone to meet their make that I miss at this time of year and while I know that they are out of pain and in a better place, in a place of abundance and love, I can't help feeling a wee bit blue, because I miss their love, the arguments, the laughter, the hugs, the kisses, the giggles and whispers, the encouragement and even the chastisements...yes they live on in my heart, but man, a hug would sure feel good too - yah know what I mean?

I know that many, many of you share this same experience, the bitter sweet mixture of joy and sadness.

There have been so many tragedies around the world, both man made and Mother Nature driven. Thousands of lives lost, millions of lives altered.

It is my fondest wish that the sharing and caring I am seeing amongst my friends on Facebook, Twitter, in emails and other places on the web and in neighbourhoods everywhere, would continue all year long and that everyone who feels strangely alone even in a crowd of people can feel connected to something beautiful and special - themselves.

I wish you all the gifts of connectivity, peacefulness and wholeness - and that you always know that when you are in that emotional place of love and light, and I am in that place - we are together.

I wish you love and with much gratitude, say THANK YOU, for caring and sharing and being who you are. Though we may be miles apart, lives apart, you are in my heart - always.

There are a few items in the news feeds today that you might find of interest...check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com

I leave you on this glorious Thursday with a few giggles to help it stay a Glorious Thursday...(Thank you to all my friends whose funnies I am sharing...you know who you are!)

Happy Thursday

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

I AM SOOOO In love! (And I think any true gear head will be too!)

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:19:29 PST

An odd title for a blog post done by a crusty, rough around the edges old broad who loves motorcycles?
NOT AT ALL!

In another lifetime, many, many years ago, I wanted to be a jet engine tech. I had completed my medical, my physical and my exams for entrance to the Canadian Armed Forces when I was 19 and I waited.
In the meantime - between working as a waitress, modelling and working in a service station (I was working on my gas engine apprenticeship), I could be found down at the Old Edmonton International (Northern Lights) Race Track in the west end - powder puff racing. That's where I met my ex husband, Doug Rose of the Green Mamba Jet Car fame. The day I was boarding a plane to a new life in California to apprentice on jet engines, I got my call for boot camp.

I chose California...

At 21 years old, I got the opportunity to attend Bonneville and like many a gear head I fell in love with the pure raw speed and power of it all, the smells, the excitement, the fear, the disappointments and frustrations and laughter - I LOVED IT ALL.

Over the 5 years that I travelled the Jet Car Circuit first as a crew member and then as a crew chief, I had the opportunity to meet men like Ky Michaelson - the Rocket Man and Craig Breedlove of Spirit of America fame and men like Slam'n Sammy Miller.

While I enjoyed learning on internal combustion gas engines, I loved JET POWER and Rocket Power. PROPULSION-THRUST - the stuff fascinated me, still does.

Working with exotic metals like titanium and inconel... the plumbing of lines to feed hydraulics, fuel and air, the blending and balancing of stator blades and the tuning of ignitor boxes, the hammering and bashing to create afterburners and bishop's cones...yes, many of these are probably antiquated terms by today's standards, but in my day - this was the way to my heart....this was the talk of speed.

I remember being fascinated by the propulsion and the volatility of rocket fuel and weighing the pros and cons of jet cars over rocket cars and the wild discussions that took place in the Propulsion Enterprises Race Car Shop in Tarzana CA over things like frame designs and down force.

Watching, learning, doing - taking in every little bit of knowledge that I could glean from others.

I remember the hours, night after day after night - working side by side in the race car shop with men like Jerry Segal, George Hedebeck - the names Arfons, Sibley, Motz, Shockley, Sample, Eierdam, Hendricks, Knuth, Ivo - some of the greatest of the greats in Jet Car Racing - these names, names I idolized, these became the names of friends & rivals.

Yes - I am in love this morning with a motorcycle that captivated my imagination and brought forth things, memories - experiences that I had not thought of in years. I can't describe how fast all of these old well loved memories came to the surface for me the minute I laid eyes on this beautiful beast.

Jet Reaction - a helicopter powered motorcycle built and designed specifically for the Bonneville Salt Flats. Richard Brown hopes to set the Land Speed record at 720 KPH.

Jet Reaction a helicopter engine powered motorcycle

Man 2013 is going to be a year to be at the Salt Flats - history is no doubt going to be made one way or the other...seriously, this is THE YEAR to go to Bonneville and take it all in, as on top of this magnificent jet motorcycle going for a record so too will Craig Breedlove go for yet another streamliner world record as well in 2013!

2013 - Bonneville - I may just have to be there!

There are lots of interesting articles in the news feeds this morning - check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com where we sift through the news so you don't have to!

We are offering, for the next two weeks, the opportunity to get a 2012 Calendar - the Kidz, the Ladies or the Man's - we have had comments from some who wanted calendars but missed the first deadline and have been hoping we'd bring them back so we have.

This is slated to be another very busy day so I had best bust a move and quit daydreaming about Bonneville!

I leave you with a few funnies shared with me by friends either in emails or on Facebook...laughter is the music of the soul!

Have a fabulous, incredible HUMP DAY...

Belt Drive Betty

Editor & Rider

Life a constant learning of Lessons

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:50:04 PST

The Busted Knuckle Chronicles started out as a hobby. It was something I started to keep me feeling like a productive citizen after a car/canoe crash altered my world.

When I started it, I had a dream and vision of helping my community have a place to celebrate it's triumphs, discuss and share important issues and information. For me, the newspaper has never really been about me - even though it is my baby...I have always wanted it to belong to the motorcycle community here in Canada - to be about the motorcycle community here in Canada.

Well, I have realized that dream and along the way I have had a lot of life lessons thrown at me.
Some I got, some I have had to repeat, some are new - I have come to view life as a perpetual classroom.

Not only am I learning how to become a bona fide business person, but I am learning how to teach people what I know, what I do, as I build a team. I am learning how to use new technologies, to become a better and more effective communicator. I am learning on so many fronts, tripping and falling, dusting myself off and trying again. I did not know one could trip and fall and get back up that many times!

I feel like I am in Hyper drive...learning to find some sense of balance - being able to shut the business off, the chatter off in my head - that is my single biggest challenge and the life lesson I feel I need to learn the most. Every time the business grows it is the same challenge, finding that balance - learning how to manage things.

When I get out of balance, I become over sensitive, sharp and insensitive, I forget important things and struggle with things that should come naturally. A lot of it comes from the constant dialogue that runs through my head - I have been learning meditation as a way to shut that constant chatter off, and it seems to be helping.

For me, riding my bike has always been a way for me to get my priorities straight and during the winter when I am deprived of being on my bike, I tend to struggle with balance worse than in the spring, summer and fall.

It is my fondest hope that others who ride that are in business will share some of their techniques for staying balanced, focused and calm. When you can't be on your bike, when you can't get that therapy session in, how do you cope?

Other things I want to learn more on are time management, prioritizing, effective leadership, communications - there are so many things I need and want to learn and so many courses out there by so many teachers.
Finding the one whose method of teaching hits home for me has proven very tedious and expensive. Buying books, CD's, spending time only to find - I didn't come away with the things I needed to learn.

I appreciate and value your ideas, experiences and suggestions - so please, feel free to help a girl out and share the tools you have used to take charge of your life and to be the best person you are capable of being.

In the news today:

There was a false story leaked out on a blog that Jon Bon Jovi was dead - rest assured that it was a hoax.

There are some workers at Harley-Davidson that have tough choices ahead

A company in India reached an out of court settlement with Harley-Davidson over a trademark infringement.

In Ontario a judge overturned an acquittal of a cop. Const. Dean Rudge is to be retried for leaking police documents to the Hells Angels

There are other articles in the news feeds that may be of interest to you, check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com

I will leave you with some funnies that have been shared with me by email and on Facebook...hope they brighten your day!

Have a FABULOUS Tuesday!
Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

A Moving week...

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:42:13 PST

In Alberta and PEI there are many people saying prayers and shedding tears. One young lady is having surgery today and three of her friends are going to be buried soon. The tragic shootings on an Alberta highway by a jealous former boyfriend have devastated so many people just before Christmas. My own family has been affected as my niece Casey went to school with two of the three young people from PEI who were killed.

As we get ready to celebrate Christmas my prayers go out to those who are hurting, lonely, sad and scared. I hope that they find the strength and love they need to get through the days and weeks ahead.

It has been an interesting time around www.beltdrivebetty.com

While the rest of the world is winding down for Christmas Holidays, Ali and I are busier than ever.

We moved web hosts last week and while we are far from done with the revamping of the web site into it's new template, things are coming together nicely. With every new module and component that Ali is installing to get all of our content displaying right she is testing and tweaking and testing some more. It's an arduous task moving some 500K pages of content but she's doing a fabulous job!

Being on a web host that offers cloud servers is fantastic too - the speed of the site makes me SOOOO happy. Yes it will be a little inconvenient for another week or two - some of the navigation isn't in, some of our tools aren't loaded yet, but when it's all done I think we will have one of the best sites around...at least that's the goal!

I decided to make the 2012 Calendars - the Ladies, the Kidz and the Men's available for one more week.
I just got the reprint of the Kidz calendars in and am so happy with it - I will be sending them out to all who ordered - free of charge - later today. I am also sending out a reprint of the Men's and the Ladies calendar free of charge - they should be here today. I - along with everyone who got them first time around was disappointed - it is my hope that the new calendars will make everyone happy.

They are costing me more but, you got to do what's right - RIGHT? I want people happy!

So - if you wanted a calendar but didn't get one - now's your chance - http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/home/buy-2012-calendars-limited-time-offer

The Biker's United in Remembrance Patches are selling well, I can't wait to tally up the donations we are going to be making to the Military Families Fund and Camp Maple Leaf...I think it is absolutely impressive that the Canadian Veteran Freedom Riders has already ordered another 100 patches - they will be making a nice tidy donation too!

Speaking of patches - we finally have a new logo for the newspaper, and yes we are getting patches made! I hope you like it..

I will know the cost and delivery times later today - we will have them in time for the Bike Shows I hope!!!!

Speaking of bike shows - I want to thank everyone who has volunteered to help us in our booths in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver - we are fully staffed!!!!

It's been an incredibly busy week and I don't see that slowing down any time soon!

In other news:

In Mumbai - Blue Tooth head sets for motorcyclists are giving the cops a head ache...

In Quebec they are trying to make a case for higher motorcycle insurance - AGAIN!

In Ontario there are two petitions that really need your signatures!
The first is on handle bars and the second is on HOV Lane use

I leave you with a few funnies from around the internet, from my emails and my Facebook friends...Laugh - it's good for the soul....it's necessary to your sanity to laugh!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Europe is one step closer to anti tampering laws

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 04:53:26 PST

How would you feel if you were told that you are not allow to beef up your cam or put large bore pistons in? What if you were told you couldn't change sprockets to change your torque range or how about increasing airflow by having your heads ported and polished...

If the European Parliamentary committee on anti tampering laws has anything to say about the situation that is exactly what will happen in Europe.

The Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee wants to ensure that if you do modify your bike for power improvements that you have to submit your bike for testing before being allowed to use it.

Other measures they are calling for are stricter emissions control and mandatory ABS.

The British Motorcyclists Federation says there will be a battle royal over these tough new restrictions.

MCN Magazine interviewed Malcolm Harbour Malcolm Harbour, Chair of European Parliament’s lead committee on anti-tampering proposals not only could the man not say who or what the new anti tampering laws would apply to but he tried to side step his lack of knowledge by saying he had lots of dossiers to follow, one of which is tractors.

Pretty hard for the lay person to understand what's going on when the head of the committee doesn't appear to know. And this man headed up the voting!

I hear it time after time - I don't get harassed for my pipes or being on a motorcycle, so I feel no need to get involved in protecting my rights - I don't feel violated or restricted.

But what if these proposed anti tampering laws come to North America?

Would that be enough to get you involved? Nah, I didn't think so. I am not sure there is anything that government could do to us to make motorcyclists unite in this country. ( And if there is a topic that could convince people to unite and work together I WOULD DEARLY love to know)

In the US there are gated communities that ban the use of motorcycles, they won't even let you ride your motorcycle to your home, you must park outside of the community, now, imagine, entire cities that restrict the use of motorcycles and in fact ban them on many highways in their areas.

From Wikitravel: For example, motorcycles are banned from downtown Guangzhou, Dongguan, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and Hangzhou, and there are restrictions in Beijing and Shanghai. Riding a motorcycle into these prohibited areas can lead to fines and possible confiscation of the bike. There can also be licensing complications; for example in some cities (such as Beijing,) only cities registered within the metropolitan area can be legally ridden." End Quote

China has an estimated 200 cities and regions that ban/restrict motorcycle use with the rationale that motorcycles are prone to accidents and motorcycles are used largely for robberies.

In China there is a call for the government there to loosen the restrictions in municipalities regarding motorcycle use on highways and inside cities.

Li Bin, secretary general for the The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers - Motorcycle Division, at a recent industry summit quoted European studies which showed that if 10 percent of automobile drivers in any given city rode motorcycles, said city's traffic congestion could decrease by 40 percent.

Begin Quote: "China is the only country in the world to restrict motorcycles," he said, adding that it was municipal authorities, not the central or provincial governments, who have authorized the restrictions. End Quote

Mr. Li discussed the fact that safety is about the operator not the type of vehicle, and he points to Taiwan where almost every person owns a motorcycle save for the very young and the elderly and that that you would be hard pressed to find a rider who does not wear a helmet. He says education is the key.

He also denounces the whole motorcycles are used largely for conducting robberies rationale as ludicrous.

Begin Quote: According to Mr. Li, the CAAM is currently in discussion with several government bodies regarding the topic. The CAAM is providing the authorities with foreign research on motorcycle usage with the aim of loosening restrictions on the Chinese motorcycle market. "We hope to see the market for motorcycles open up [and develop], allowing motorcycles and automobiles to share the road equally." End Quote

I am positive that every motorcycle manufacturer in the world has their eyes trained on this topic because the demand for motorcycles in China could go up in dramatic fashion if these restrictions get lifted.

But I again wonder - what would it take in this country to become PRO ACTIVE and work towards never seeing these types of restrictions come to Canada or the US?

There are a lot of other items of interest in the news feeds today like the article on the member of the Relic Riders in Newfoundland that was killed when he feel from a float

Visit www.beltdrivebetty.com to read more about what's happening in motorcycling across the country and around the world...we sift through the news so you don't have to!

Our web site move has been completed but Ali still has modules to turn on, components to check for issues when the data was moved over etc. It will be a few more days before everything returns to a state of normalcy but I know one thing I am super impressed with the speed of the site now!

I am excited about this move, not only will the new template allow us to make our site easier to navigate, but it is also state of the art for mobile use so that should improve your experience when using your smart phone to view the site.

Bare with us for a few more days as we get everything tweaked and if in your travels through the site you find anything out of whack - be sure to let Ali know (ali4evr@gmail.com) Your telling her what you encounter will help us make sure that the web site is better and easier to use than ever!

I am going to leave you with a couple of funnies from my friends on Facebook and from emails I have gotten because I truly think a good giggle makes the day go better!

Have a fabulous Tuesday everyone...

Belt Drive Betty,

Editor & Rider

It's definitely a Monday!

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 03:56:42 PST

I will have news feeds and jokes and other goodies for you later today as although everything has been moved over to the new web host, not everything is turned on.

Ali figures two hard days and she'll have most everything back up and running properly - she is asking that as you navigate the site if you come across anything that appears to not be working right to please let her know (ali4evr@gmail.com)

By mid week we should be back to our old comfortable routine - until then...what else can one say except it's MONDAY!

Have a great one - and as I said I will get the news done ASAP.

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

And Murphy strikes again....

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 09:22:17 PST

My fiasco with calendars continues...I got an email from someone who ordered a kids calendar - at first I did not understand the email - so I went and looked at my only copy of the calendar and sure enough the printer never put in the calendar pages - rendering this calendar completely - totally useless - I shake my head - I guess in the excitement to get them out I never really looked at them - I just wanted to get them in the mail - so I did the only thing I could do - I refunded $10 of the money paid by these people.

The Calendars were $20 with $10 going to charity - since the charity - The Little Warriors had been paid already - I refunded the calendar cost - so in all - I would have been farther ahead to have just donated to the charity without all of the work it took do the calendars and have to fix someone else's mistake - live and learn right...somedays you are the windshield - some the bug!

I am keeping today short and sweet since I am already three hours behind on the day - check out the news feeds at www.beltdrivebetty.com to see what might affect your world...

I leave with with a few giggles from around Facebook etc...cause I NEED TO LAUGH RIGHT NOW!

Have a fabulous Friday and a great weekend...

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

The erosion of our freedoms - "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." (Edmund Burke)

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 11:59:18 PST

Apathy is, in my humble opinion, the single most destructive force of the human race these days.

It is not a small town issue, or a big city issue, nor is it a national issue. Apathy is not restricted to volunteerism or politics, to corporations or individuals - it is a global situation - it is the enemy of every living being.

According to the Mirriam-Webster Dictionary Apathy means:
1 : lack of feeling or emotion : impassiveness
2: lack of interest or concern : indifference

The syndrome, no matter the topic, no matter the community, affects everyone.

There are many famous quotes on the topic of Apathy - quotes that have been around for hundreds and thousands of years - Apathy is nothing new.

“First they came for the communists, and I did not speak out—
because I was not a communist;
Then they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—
because I was not a socialist;
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—
because I was not a trade unionist;
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
because I was not a Jew;
Then they came for me—
and there was no one left to speak out for me.”
― Martin Niemöller

"I think we risk becoming the best informed society that has ever died of ignorance.
Rubén Blades Bellido de Luna

"...So long as the people
do not care to exercise their freedom,
those who wish to tyrannize will do so;
for tyrants are active and ardent,
and will devote themselves in the name
of any number of gods, religious and otherwise,
to put shackles upon sleeping men." Voltaire - François Marie Arouet (1694-1778)

"When liberty is taken away by force it can be restored by force.
When it is relinquished voluntarily by default it can never be recovered."

Dorothy Thompson(1894-1961)

There is, in my humble opinion a root cause to Apathy and that is the lack of Empathy which is defined by the Mirriam-Webster Disctionary as:

1 : the imaginative projection of a subjective state into an object so that the object appears to be infused with it
2: the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another of either the past or present without having the feelings, thoughts, and experience fully communicated in an objectively explicitmanner; also : the capacity for this

It appears to me that because so many seem incapable of putting themselves in someone else's shoes, they have no way to identify with the fears, concerns or situations of others.

Until we are directly impacted ourselves we simply do not get involved.

We all lead busy lives, we all have concerns of our own, but when we forget our fellow man, when we turn a blind eye or expect someone else to deal with the problem or situation at hand, we become an advocate for the enemy not the suppressed or the oppressed.

Is there an answer? I have no idea. All I know, is that in my little corner of the world - in my little circle of influence - I will keep advocating for communication, discussion and action until I die, because for me - to do nothing would be as good as dying.

What say you? Join the discussion because I really would love to know what you think...

I leave you with a couple of funnies from friends on Facebook and via email because laughter is as important to life as breathing....

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Hatred of Motorcycle Noise - a reason for murder?

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:24:27 PST

Out of the Philippines today comes an article that could be straight out of a Stephen King book or movie.

A man with an intense hatred for the noise a motorcycle makes killed one man and critically wounded another.

Begin Quote:

Chief Inspector Rodel Marcelo, head of the Quezon City Police District’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit, said that the man who attacked the victims with a bolo—36-year-old Procopio Endriga—surrendered to policemen afterward.

“He claimed he hates [the sound made by] motorcycles and cannot stand the noise,” Marcelo told the Inquirer.

He added, “He also said he fears for his life [because] he is being followed by motorcycle drivers.”

Marcelo said he would recommend that Endriga undergo a medical checkup to determine his mental condition.

Endriga told the police that he lives on the street and that he used to be a construction worker until his contract expired.

According to Marcelo, Endriga was standing in front of the Maynilad Water office at the corner of EDSA and Monte de Piedad Street in Cubao, Quezon City, when the victims drove by him on their motorcycles, one after the other.

Witnesses said Morta had just parked his motorcycle in front of the water utility firm’s office when he was attacked by Endriga.

The latter then went after Calapiz who was still on his motorcycle. End Quote.

Now I understand the man in this article is probably unstable and has emotional challenges, but folks, there are a lot of tormented people in this world and this article is yet one other example of why we as a community need to get much better at empathy - of putting ourselves in other people's shoes and learning to be more responsible with how we share this world we have to live in with others.

I have zero idea if these riders were riding in a respectable manner or whether they had extremely loud or factory exhausts - but just like the cases where some people intentionally ram motorcycles off the road - offence or not on the part of the rider, there are those who have had bad experiences with other motorcyclists and this type of tragic situation really should serve as a wake up call to our community.

There is quite a bit in the news feeds today, an article on the season finale for SOA, but if like me you haven't yet seen the final episode - DO NOT read it today...

Tourism Ontario is giving away tickets to the Toronto Motorcycle Show

In Quebec, the Hells Angels are rebuilding

ISkin & Ducati have some neat accessories that deserve to be checked out

An interesting book on Staying Alive is released by Whitehorse Press

A trials rider spans a 384 foot arch...

And Titan is hosting a "Kickstart" conference in Phoenix.

There are other articles that may be of interest to you as well, check out www.beltdrivebetty.com for the news that may affect your day.

I leave you with a couple of funnies shared by my friends on Facebook or emailed to me to start your day off on a healthy note... because Laughter really is THE BEST Medicine.

Have a fabulous hump day.

Belt Drive Betty,
Editor & Rider

What's happening across the pond and why it should concern you

noreply@blogger.com (bdbetty) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:24:24 PST

Motor Biker had some very interesting news out of Europe in his blog today.
The first is an article about French President Sarkozy. Sarkozy and his government have successfully reduced the crash fatality rate in that country by 50%, however they are now going OVERBOARD with things...

They are going to deploy 400 4th generation radars that will have no warning that there is radar ahead, the locations will not be allowed to be stored on GPS. Although they had backed down last year because of protests, they have decided to go ahead with these units anyway.

Starting in the spring, every vehicle in France will be required to have a breathalyzer unit in them.They do not disable the vehicle - they are the balloon type - but think of the ramifications - if you get an impaired you will have ZERO defence because the government is leaving the responsibility to find out if you are impaired up to you - I am not for drinking and driving in any way - but seriously is this not a bit over the top?

Another thing they are looking to force on people will be speed limiters in cars. The Sarkosy government is looking at 2 options - one in every car or only for those who get speeding tickets.

And now come the motorcyclists - as far as Sarkozy is concerned, bikers are bad.

Begin Quote:
Motorcycle Riders All this is pretty bad and far fetched. But the worst was his statement. Freely translated, he said:

"Half of the dead were decent people who were in their car, respecting the rules of the road, and a human bomb fell upon them, and their destiny and their family was shattered".

In other words, all bikers ride like lunatics, and are a menace to decent citizens. He doesn't take into account that studies and statistics have clearly shown that 70% of the motorcycle vs car accidents were caused by the car driver, not the biker. But it's election time, and he does not like bikers, so he's showing it. End Quote

The second article of extreme interest involves the legislation on motorcycles.
In a press release from FEMA -
Begin Quote:
The European Parliament's Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) voted in Brussels today on its report on the proposal for a regulation on the approval and market surveillance of two- and three wheelers and quadricycles.

In the view of IMCO, as from 2016 motorcycles will have to become cleaner and manufacturers must apply ABS, even for light motorcycles. And as from 2014, measures to prevent powertrain modifications (which are still to be developed) must be applied and users shall present their bikes for inspection when carrying out "substantial" modifications. End Quote

FEMA agrees with many of the proposals that will be voted on in 2012, however they have grave concerns over section/article 18. Begin Quote: But if the current text of article 18 is finally adopted, it will mean that all the usual changes motorcyclists make for riding comfort, fuel efficiency, or simply to suit their riding style, will be illegal or will have to be checked and approved, even this has not been a problem so far and there is no reason why it should become a problem tomorrow. FEMA will certainly keep on working on this regulation." End Quote

It appears that Europe is doing everything it can to dissuade riders from riding.

If the anti tampering law is not changed to allow for personal comfort modifications then a lot of riders will probably quit and that seems, in my humble opinion to be the goal here.

So why should you in North America be concerned? Many of the laws we have here in North America originated in Europe and although modified for our countries - they still come here in one form or another.

The nanny state is alive and well and we should all be afraid - VERY afraid.

I have said it many times and at the risk of sounding like a broken record I am going to say it again - WE in Canada really need a watch dog - an organization that can truly go to bat for us.

The US has the AMA - Europe has FEMA - we need someone to start speaking for riders here BEFORE these laws can come in to play here.

I know one thing however - Canadians will not get involved and be proactive until there is a threat that is so severe that every rider will want to get behind and by that time it will be way too late.

In other news - I have made a decision regarding Charity Calendar Fundraisers - NEVER AGAIN - at least not the way we did it this time.

Since people have given me nothing but flack over them, I have decided that they are not worth the grief.

I made not one red cent on them - I never intended to make money on them but in fact, because of the screw up by the printer I lost money on them.

I have been belittled because I did not give participants free calendars for appearing in them - can I ask a question? What part of CHARITY FUNDRAISER did you not get?

I have been harassed by people who did not seem to read the fact that the calendars were not being printed until pre ordering was over on October 31st. I have been belittled because some people did not get orders in on time - even though we gave people 4 months to place an order.

NEVER - EVER AGAIN - it is just not worth the energy - next time I want to create awareness and raise funds for something via a calendar it will be a virtual calendar - one you can down load and print off at home - for a fee.

There are many articles that may be of interest to you in the news feeds over at www.beltdrivebetty.com - check them out to stay informed...

I am going to leave you all with some funnies for the day - cause even if you don't need a giggle I DO!

Garfield was syndicated on my birthday - and today - this is exactly how I feel

Have a great Tuesday everyone...

Belt Drive Betty

Editor & Rider