'Layaway Santas' bringing unexpected holiday joy

Travis Meriwether has been waiting around layaway counters for three years in a row to surprise people with cash, paying off balances of strangers during the holidays.

The owner of a custom motorcycle business, Meriwether has spent about $16,500 paying off layaway orders for people buying toys and games. He is a "layaway Santa" or as some prefer, a "layaway angel."

For years, others like him have also been stopping by layaway departments, shocking customers at stores like Walmart, Kmart and Toys R Us. This year, the trend is continuing with scenes of unexpected joy popping up across the nation.

"I like to go to the layaway area and stay two or three hours," said Meriwether, 29, of Burnet, Texas. "I know those people don't have the money right away. Everybody who goes back to that layaway line needs some type of help. This way, they get to get their stuff today and it frees up their money."

Meriwether started buying strangers gifts when in 2011 the credit card of a woman ahead of him in line at Walmart was declined. He stepped in and paid for everything in her cart. Since then, he has visited layaway departments at Target and Walmart in Texas and Oklahoma, where he grew up.

The owner of "Enzo Custom Cycles" said he usually sticks to buying people food and toys during the holidays. Most other layaway donors do the same.

Since September, Walmart has seen more than 1,000 instances of strangers paying off people's layaway accounts.

"We just think it's amazing and a real representative of the spirit of America during this time of year," said Deisha Barnett, a Walmart spokeswoman.

In 2012, people anonymously paid off 794 layaways orders in Toys R Us stores. The company matched each of those gestures with $200 donations to Toys for Tots, giving the program $158,800 to help less fortunate children get toys on Christmas Day. It's doing the same this year.

At Kmarts across the country, more than $1.5 million worth of items have been paid off by strangers over the years. The company also created an online map in 2012 where people can track the Good Samaritans and see what people are saying about the deeds on Twitter.

While such layaway Santas might get the same results, their methods vary. In Florida, a man and his wife overheard a woman talking about her money problems and decided to pay for her items, according to a Walmart spokeswoman. In California, a man planned to use $1,000 to randomly pay off layaway lists of people he hadn't met. Some, like 30-year-old Lee Karchawer, take their giving to the Web.

Karchawer, of New York City, works for a mobile marketing company and created payawaythelayaway.org in October 2011.

"I thought I would be able to round up donations for people who wanted to become layaway angels but didn't have the time to go to the store or have the money power to pay off the whole layaway," he said.

Through the site, Karchawer collects donations of any amount, with the average person giving $25. The first year, he raised $2,000 from 75 donors and bought gifts for people in the New York City area.

This year, some 350 people have donated about $15,000. That money will go to help others in New York, Tennessee, Texas, Massachusetts and California.

Once the money arrives, Karchawer and others go to stores like Kmart, Toys R Us, and Babies R Us and store workers pick out random accounts that include children's toys. The stores then usually contact customers with paid off accounts and tell them of their good luck.

"Growing up, my parents were able to provide me with presents and I know how great that made me feel," Karchawer said. "I can't imagine a child not having that. This is an incredible movement to show how much compassion people have toward others."

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Source: Hattiesburg American (AP, 12/19)

402nd Field Artillery Brigade holds their first joint motorcycle ride to New Mexico

By Sgt. 1st Class Ernesto Camacho, 2nd Battalion, 362nd Field Artillery Regiment Division West Public Affairs

FORT BLISS, Texas – The 402nd Field Artillery Brigade, Division West, held its first joint motorcycle ride Oct. 24, which included riders from the 5th Armored Brigade, and 166th Aviation Brigade, out of Fort Hood.

The ride teamed experienced with inexperienced riders, but it gave all the motorcyclists an opportunity to gain group experience on their ride to Cloudcroft, N.M.

“Rides like this give weak riders an idea of what needs to be done to get better,” said DJ Dryer, Mission Training Center safety manager. “Experienced can learn new skills as well, but sharpen their old skills.”

The joint ride coordinated by Command Sgt. Maj. Ernest Bowen Jr., 402nd Field Artillery Brigade command sergeant major, and Sgt. 1st Class Jae Haney, 402nd Field Artillery Brigade medic, included Division West soldiers traveling from Fort Hood, Texas.

Command Sgt. Maj. Glen Vela, Division West motorcycle mentor, and Master Sgt. Ruben Samarripa, of the 166th Aviation Brigade, were among those that made the trek to Fort Bliss to join their comrades in the joint ride.

The day began with a thorough route and safety briefing conducted by Bowen.

“Anybody have a bike that doesn’t reach 70 miles an hour,” said Bowen. “The speed limit is there for a reason.”

Upon completion of the briefing, all riders were issued a first aid pack along with emergency contacts and locations of medical facilities in case an emergency were to arise or they needed assistance during an accident.

The soldiers conducted their final equipment and motorcycle checks and lined up in three groups of six riders per team, with the most experience riders of each team as their lead, and began their ride to Cloudcroft followed by the 402nd's Recovery Team.

Enroute to Cloudcroft, the riders stopped at their designated rest areas along the way in Alamogordo and Oro Grande. Riders arrived at Big Daddy’s Diner where they ate barbecue and then continued on their way through the mountain side.

Passing through Mayhill, one of the riders experienced some minor difficulties and pulled off to the side of the rode into the gravel path to clear his eyes, where he laid his motorcycle down. He endured minor injuries along with minor damage to his motorcycle as well.

“At the point of the incident, patient assessment, scene management and patient transport was performed flawlessly by all motorcycle riders and the scene was managed by numerous trained accident scene management trained personnel,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jae Haney, 402nd Field Artillery Brigade medic.

Haney provided medical aid until the emergency medical service technicians arrived on the scene. The rider was transported from the accident scene to Alamogordo Medical Facility where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

“Everyone reacted in exact accordance to what was briefed,” said Col. Raul Gonzalez, brigade commander of 5th Armored Brigade. “He was treated and taken care of before the first responders arrived. We just passed off all of the medical notes to the responders.”

Upon completion of the accident response and the sheriff’s accident report, the riders recovered the soldier’s motorcycle accordingly and continued along with their motorcycle ride around the mountainside back through Cloudcroft, where the teams conducted their after action review, and returned to Fort Bliss.

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source: Dvids (AP, 12/11)

Insurance Tips for Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists regularly encounter dangerous road situations.

A 2009 Highway Loss Data Institute report found more than half of motorcyclist deaths involved at least one other vehicle. Forty-two percent of two-vehicle fatal motorcycle crashes involved a vehicle turning left while the motorcycle was going straight, passing or overtaking.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data from 2008 showed 47% of all motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with another type of motor vehicle.

Recent research by a Texas Tech University psychologist suggests that the regularity of this problem isn't necessarily a case of poor driving or carelessness, but may be related to a basic human miscalculation.

Pat DeLucia, the coordinator of the Human Factors Psychology Program at Texas Tech, says her research shows that small, near objects can appear farther away than larger, more distant objects. The study is published in "Current Directions in Psychological Science."

Through computer simulation, DeLucia had study participants view two objects simultaneously, one large and one small, coming at them. The viewer must decide which one will reach them first.

The study explores how the human brain perceives objects, their size and motion and time to impact. Her findings indicate that an object's size affects distance perception, causing drivers to miscalculate motorcyclists' distance and speed.

Visual cues go wrong

It seems the brain uses two visual information cues for judging time to impact. In the first, a moving object is reflected on the eye's retina. It expands as it approaches, providing the brain accurate information about when the object will hit. This is called an optical invariant.

"It's basically determined by how big that object is on your retina and how fast it is growing on your retina; those two things actually give you the right amount of information about how long it will take the object to hit you, and that's accurate information," explains DeLucia.

However, the brain also uses what you can think of as an artist's depth cue, as if one were sketching two trees, one close up and one in the distance. This cue is a shortcut, or a human "rule of thumb."

"Those depth cues are also available when an object approaches you but they don't guarantee the correct information," says DeLucia.

The study pitted the two different cues against each other by putting the artist's depth cue of which object is closer against the retina's way of viewing the object.

"People generally picked that simpler heuristic: Larger is closer," says DeLucia.

If something is big in your visual field you assume it's closer, but that's not always accurate. What seems to be happening is that when you have small vehicles that are far away and coming closer, they don't look as close as they really are, so you think you have more time before they reach you -- as opposed to a big truck where you think you have less time.

Optical illusion or human miscalculation?

Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, the brain may use this shortcut to decide that a smaller motorcycle is farther away than it actually is. This size-arrival effect can lead drivers to misjudge when a motorcycle will arrive at an intersection and could be considered a contributing factor in motorcycle/vehicle accidents.

"In 75% of crashes with other vehicles, motorcyclists hit a vehicle that was in front of them [according to NHTSA], so they should try to anticipate what other drivers may do and remain visible with lights and bright gear," says Hannah Kim, an analyst and insurance expert at NerdWallet, a personal finance site. Kim says motorcyclists should also avoid risky maneuvers, including lane splitting, weaving in and out of lanes, passing vehicles and trying to overtake other vehicles. Most of the time, drivers in other cars never see a motorcycle before it is too late.

Kim explains that despite the fact that over half of motorcyclists who died in 2011 were 40 years old and older, insurance rates are highest for those who are younger than 25 because they're considered the riskiest age group.

"It is important for motorcycle riders to act as if no one sees them and to use their horn whenever there is a chance that a vehicle will not see them," says Thomas J. Simeone, a personal injury attorney in Washington, D.C. "It is not uncommon to see accidents where a vehicle cuts off a motorcycle while turning left or enters the lane of a motorcycle."

Insurance claims for motorcycle accidents occur at a disproportionally higher rate during the initial months after the rider first purchases a motorcycle insurance policy.

Some studies from the Highway Loss Data Institute and elsewhere put the first-year motorcycle rider risk at almost four times the risk of the second-year rider. Good motorcycle insurance is especially crucial for protecting against loss.

DeLucia hopes her research will ultimately help reduce motorcycle accidents.

A tag line such as "motorcycles may be closer than they appear" could be a place to start.

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Source: Fox Business (Nelson, 12/03)

Motorcycle thefts: The most stolen models and hot areas for crime

Producers with clients who ride motorcycles designed by Honda, Yamaha or Suzuki may want to be on their guard. So may those representing bikers living in Florida or Texas. And the time to be especially wary for all these groups? July.

That’s what a look at 2012 motorcycle thefts has taught the National Insurance Crime Bureau. In a recent report, the NICB analyzed data from bike thefts across the country, including model, make, and year, as well as when and where the bikes were stolen.

Based on this information, insurance rates—as well as the importance of having an appropriate insurance policy—may fluctuate for people in certain areas with certain bikes.

The most stolen motorcycle makes

2007 Suzukis are sporting the biggest proverbial target for thieves, with 1,179 of the bikes stolen last year. Not far behind are 2006 Suzukis, and 2006 and 2007 Hondas.

Yamaha makes an appearance in the number five slot, with 885 2009 Yamahas stolen in 2012.

The three models—Suzuki, Honda and Yamaha—comprise the top 10 motorcycle thefts, with years ranging from 2005 to 2009. Altogether, they account for nearly 20% of total thefts. Kawasakis, Harleys and Vespas fell further down the list in the top 15.

The biggest hotbeds for theft

Of the 46,601 motorcycle thefts in the US in 2012, 13% took place in California. Florida made second place, representing 9% of all thefts, while 7% took place in Texas. North Carolina and Indiana round out the top five, with 6% and 5% of thefts, respectively.

By contrast, motorcycle owners in Vermont, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming and Alaska are relatively safe for bikers. All five states represented less than 1% of motorcycle thefts in 2012.

The data did not change markedly from 2011 to 2012, the NICB noted.

When to expect peaks in crime

Unsurprisingly, most motorcycle thefts occur in warmer months when biking is a more palatable mode of transportation. July saw the most reported motorcycle thefts, with 5,529, followed by August with 5,290 and June with 4,765.

Thieves were least active in February, when only 2,089 motorcycles were stolen. December and January also saw fewer theft reports.

The good news?

Since 2010, motorcycle thefts have been on the decline. While 2011 to 2012 represented just a 1% decrease in thefts, 2010 to 2011 saw a 7.5% decline.

Additionally, certain policies are designed to protect a biker against motorcycle theft. Often sold by auto insurance companies, comprehensive coverage pays out when a bike is stolen. Rates can vary considerably, but are affordable for most bikers.

According to Olvier Shami of Motorcyle USA, choosing the right policy is vital for producers working with bikers. That’s a decision those who specialize in bike insurance are best equipped to make.

“The ideal insurance agent is one who has witnessed first-hand the mess that the wrong insurance creates when it’s truly needed,” Shami said.

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Source: IbagMag (Lane, 11/26)

Exploring America’s Main Streets on a motorcycle

Brothers Brant and Dylan Ozanich and Wyatt McCall were at a motorcycle shop in Hamilton, Montana, ordering a part for Dylan’s bike when they met two old bikers from Texas and talked with them about their trip across the country.

Although they had no treasurer, Brant pointed to McCall to answer the question. “You guys are going to need this, trust me,” said one of the older men, handing him $200 in cash.

The three friends, all in their early 20s, admit they looked a little raggedy at the time. “It was straight kindness,” said McCall, and typical of the generosity of the bikers they met across the country. And it turns out, “we did need it the next day for more bike repairs.”

The generosity of strangers repeated itself during the two-month summer journey of three young men on the cusp of adulthood to find and document Main Street culture and people across the United States. And making the trip on motorcycles connected them not just to the towns and people they visited, but also to the country’s biker community.

An exploration of biker culture

Contributing their own money and raising funds from family, friends and Kickstarter, the trio started a blog, raised over $10,000 to fund the trip and pay for the pre- and post-production costs of documenting their journey. They documented the journey on their blog and the reddit online community, and they hope to have a documentary and book out sometime next year.

Traveling on motorcycles turned out to be key. Dylan rode a 1982 Yamaha XJ 750 Seca ($500 cost); Brant rode a 1980 Yamaha XJ 650 Maxim ($500); and McCall rode a 1985 Honda V65 Magna ($1500 cost). “On Maxim, On Magna, On Seca” was a mantra they picked up for the trip.

“We didn’t know motorcycles were going to be that much of a connection between people, but they were,” said McCall. “Every time you get to a new place, you’re part of this new community.”

“With motorcycles you feel the scenery and the microclimate change and smell the fields you drive through,” said Brant. “Besides, it’s just plain badass.”

Finding their first Main Street

They packed up their bikes and left around noon on July 6. They planned to head north, turn east to get to New York, south to Mississippi and then through Texas and the Southwest to return home to California, But they decided not to keep to a strict schedule, allowing for fellow travelers to guide them on their way.

It didn’t take long to hit pay dirt. A few hours after they hit the road, they found their first Main Street in Point Arena, a small town north of San Francisco.

As they hopped off their bikes, the locals they met convinced them to come back the next day for a parade marking Independence Day. “The whole community came out and let us be a part of it and accepted us into the community,” Dylan said.

That serendipity set the tone for the rest of the trip.

The best sandwich in Idaho, or anywhere

The travelers only had a guarantee of places to stay (and eat) in New York and Los Angeles. Everything else would be an exploration, local recommendations and possibly, information from their not-guaranteed Internet connections.

The road led them to a Mennonite deli in Clark Fork, Idaho, that “made the best sandwiches we’ve ever tasted,” said McCall. They bought sandwiches and drove a mile down the road into Montana near a bridge to picnic and more. “We jumped off the bridge to swim,” Dylan said. And the drive through the Bitterroot Mountain range that cuts Idaho and Montana wasn’t too shabby either.

They also explored the source of their food, working for five days at Echo Valley Farm in Wisconsin in exchange for room and board. “It was some of the most gorgeous, breathtaking American looking farmland I’ve ever seen, with rolling green hills and grain mills,” Brant said. “It felt like what we were looking for the whole time — true America heartland.”

The farm’s kindness was typical of the people who gave them shelter on their journey. “We pulled up, three dirty bikers, to this nice sustainable farm,” he said. They “showed us a nice place to park the bikes, took us on a tractor up around the whole property and told us about everything they were doing.”

A willingness of strangers to share their stories was also typical. Shortly after they crossed the Mason Dixon Line into Maryland and found a good campsite at Catoctin Mountain Park, they heard music coming through the woods. “Was it a violin or cello?” said McCall, so they went to explore it.

They discovered two older Korean men playing songs about Korea on their saxophones. “We found the coolest guys on the whole trip.”

Busted shocks and other struggles

The trip wasn’t without its troubles. San Francisco street cleaners knocked over Brant’s bike the day before they left on their trip, pulling off the entire front end. Brant thought he had repaired the damage that day, until the shocks stopped working somewhere in Montana.

“For a few days I didn’t know if my bike would be able to make it,” said Brant. But they were able to fix it. “He pulled it all apart in the forest, drained it and put in new fluid,” said Dylan.

Brant also had the smallest gas tank, holding a gallon less than the other two bikes. He also had the worst gas mileage. And so he ran out of gas at least five times on the trip, and coasted into gas stations on fumes at least three times. “I learned toward the end of the trip to carry a water bottle or two of gas.”

By the time they arrived home in San Francisco on August 28, everyone was glad to sleep in their own beds again.

“For the first six days back, McCall was at his girlfriend’s house, and Dylan and I sat on the couch watching movies,” said Brant.

‘An adult within my society’

Giving up the benefits of home for a couple months was worth the journey. Dylan left San Francisco thinking it would be a way to transition from his youth to adulthood. Along the way, he hoped to learn “what it means to be a man in my society.” While he doesn’t have any specific answers, “seeing my country and understanding what my country is about … helped me understand that more.”

While Brant has always liked to travel and experience new things, he thought he would graduate college, get a job and save for his next planned trip. Not anymore. “Being out there in America on the road, and roughing it, inspired me to book a plane ticket to South America with my last $400,” he said. “I thought, ‘If you did this, you can do pretty much anything without a lot of resources.’ “

McCall, who had graduated in May not knowing what he wanted to do, thinks travel and video may be his calling.(And he learned how to ride a motorcycle along the way.)

The three friends credit each other with making it an amazing experience. “We did get in fights and have problems, but we wouldn’t have been able to do it without each other,” said Dylan.

“Every different leg of the trip, there was one pushing, one dragging and one on a stretcher,” he said. “It would change every single day.”

“We wouldn’t have made it across the country and back without the others.”

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Source: KPLR (AP, 11/06)

Harleys roar through Houston: This fashionable motorcycle gang is on a mission to fight AIDS

Chris Salgardo has ridden his Harley up and down the west and east coasts to raise money to find a cure for AIDS. Now the president of Kiehl's Since 1851 is roaring across Texas.

Salgardo, accompanied by amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research) CEO Kevin Robert Frost, British artist Conrad Leach and rock 'n' roll celebrity photographer Travis Shinn, recently made a Houston stop at the Kiehl's Highland Village store as part of their five-day "Texas Ride for amfAR." The foursome traveled from Austin to Dallas for the Two X Two for AIDS and Art fundraiser, with stops in Sugar Land (at the Kiehl's counter at Dillard's in First Colony Mall), Houston and Longview.

"I've never come across so much rush-hour traffic where car drivers are so considerate to motorcyclists."

"I think that Texas gets a bad rap for not being supportive and emphatic to HIV/AIDS causes and I just don't think that's true," Salgardo said. "There's something about Texas, every time I come, the Southern hospitality is amazing.

"To be able to be on a bike, you see the country and you see the small towns like you can't in a car, so it's really a thrill for me."

Leach, who hails from London, said he found Texas drivers courteous to motorcycle riders, which might surprise some locals. "It's a really motorcycle-friendly place to ride. I've never come across so much rush-hour traffic where car drivers are so considerate to motorcyclists. Here I've never felt so welcomed on a motorcycle. First time in Texas, first time on a motorcycle in Texas. I'll definitely be coming back," he said.

The nice thing about a long motorcycle ride in Texas, Leach added, is the amount of miles you can cover in a day. "You can really stretch out and relax and start to enjoy the scenery," he said. "In Europe, by the time you've warmed up, you've arrived at your destination. Whereas here, the journey is everything — and it's wonderful."

The idea to launch charity motorcycle rides came naturally, said Salgardo, who has been riding motorcycles for more than 30 years. The skin care company, which has been in business since before Lincoln was president (1851), has long featured vintage motorcycles in its stores around the world.

In Houston, the band Dovetail greeted the riders and guests, who were treated to scull-themed nail art manicures and photos at the Smilebooth, along with skin care consultations. All proceeds from sales of Kiehl's Limited Edition Ultimate Strength Hand Salve benefit AIDS research, Salgardo noted. (A tube retails for $28.50.)

"Texas is a huge market for Kiehl's," Salgardo said, noting two stores in Dallas (at Highland Park and NorthPark) and one in Houston, with a new store planned to open in The Woodlands at the beginning of 2014. "We're not done with Houston yet. I will be back."

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Source: CultureMap (Pugh, 10/31)

Family Fun With North Tx. Firefighters Benefit

Everyone in North Central Texas is invited to the 4th Annual North TX Firefighters Fundraiser - Chili Cook-off & Motorcycle Run, October 26, 2013, American Legion's Park, Whitewright, Texas.

Helping North Texas Volunteer Fire Departments buy what they need to save lives, then go home.

Attention chili cooks, motorcycle riders, volunteer fire departments and Halloween costume contestants! Compete for over $3,000 in prizes and 16 awards at the North TX Firefighters Fundraiser on October 26, in Whitewright, Texas. Anyone can enter. Proceeds will be divided among the volunteer fire departments that participate.

The first 15 chili contestants who register early will be entered into a drawing for a $75 gift card from Academy Sports & Outdoors donated by Plano and McKinney. Must be present to win. Cook-off is CASI-sanctioned. CASI rules for fairness and safety must be followed.

The first 25 motorcycle riders who register early will be entered into a drawing for $100 dining card donated by Rick's Chophouse, McKinney. Must be present to win.

The Best-Decorated Firefighter Boot Contest winner takes home a prize for their volunteer fire department. You can vote for your favorite boot by dropping donations into the boot(s) you like best. The boot with the most money wins, and the VFDs take home the collections in their respective boots.

Kids! Costume contest prizes. Halloween tattoos. Loads of trick or treat candy will be handed out by the American Legion. Meet real volunteer firefighters and learn how boys and girls can be firefighters when you grow up.

Spectators! Come early and watch all kinds of motorcycles as they depart from Whitewright from 8:15am-10:00am.

Have breakfast and lunch in the park with the Friday Women's Club Bake Sale and 4th Monday food vendors, including breakfast tacos, hot breakfast plates with biscuits, cappuccino, cocoa, cider, snow cones, homemade desserts, hamburgers, BBQ sandwiches, funnel cakes.

Negotiate bargains with the 4th Monday Trade Days merchandise vendors and the Friday Women's Club of Whitewright rummage sale.

www.FunSaturday.com email texasVFD@gmail.com or call 903.818.9023.

Contact: Ella Fitzbag Vendor Contact: Andrew 972.480.3389

VFDs get one complimentary entry fee that can be used for the cook-off or motorcycle run.

Each VFD gets one equal share of the proceeds. You can enter as many additional chili teams and motorcycles as you want at the $20 entry fee.

All contestants who register early are entered into door prize drawings. Pay at the event or online. Credit cards accepted online.

Drawing for chili contestants who register early:

$75 gift card from Academy Sports & Outdoors, donated by the McKinney store. Must be present and checked-in at the event.

Drawing for motorcycle riders who register early:

$100 dining card from Rick's Chophouse, McKinney.

Must be present and check-in at the event.

Enter the VFD Best-Decorated Boot Contest. The public votes for their favorite boots by dropping donations into the boots they like best. The 4 VFD boots with the most money win trophies, and each VFD takes home the donations in their respective boots.


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Source: KTen (Anderson, 10/24)

Come Celebrate 10 Years of Record Breaking Speed at the Texas Mile’s 10th Anniversary Event

What started as a grassroots motorsports event a decade ago is now one of the nation’s premier speed events for those on four or two wheels. The Texas Mile, now in its third season at Chase Field after being at a Goliad facility the previous seven years, is held twice a year, March and October.

The Texas Mile is open to drivers of sports cars, motorcycles, trucks, and concept race cars. It features professional racers, novices and amateurs alike who all have a need for speed. The competitors and spectators come from over twenty-five different states and all areas of Texas to enjoy this festival of motor sports. The cities of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Corpus Christi, Rockport, Victoria and Beeville are represented by record holders in various classes, loyal fans and supportive sponsors. An international presence is also represented with some participants and media coming from The U.K., Taiwan, Dubai, Chile, Mexico and Canada.

THE CONCEPT IS SIMPLE: DRIVERS LINE UP and GO AS FAST AS THEY CAN TO OBTAIN a TOP SPEED in ONE MILE.

THE GOAL? Try to top the Mile’s record of 263.3 mph or at least be the fastest car, truck or motorcycle in their vehicle’s class or just to achieve their personal best.

A Ford GT topped the record with a mph of 267 in March and he is back to ensure this potential new record remains standing. He has other competitors back to battle for Texas Mile supremacy.

Motorcycle fans can see some of the fastest people on two-wheels. 5-Time motorcycle land speed record holder, Valerie Thompson (A woman on a mission with the need for SPEED) returns to The Texas Mile on her BMW SS 1000 R. And you can expect speeds of around 250 mph from Hussain Alsowaigh on his Suzuki Hayabusa.

Spectators can witness racers going full throttle and get up close to the vehicles and many of the drivers as they prepare to take down the Texas Mile’s speed records.

Speed fans come to see Porsches, Corvettes, Cadillac’s (a strong contingency of 18), Audis, BMWs, Dodge Vipers, Dodge Challengers, Ford Mustangs, Ford GT’s, Lamborghinis, Harley Davidsons, Kawazakis, Saabs and even Mini Coopers and Volkswagen Beetles speed down the mile-long track.

Already featured in motorsports media including Speed Channel and Hot Rod Magazine, a new TV Series: GEAR HEADS, will be producing an episode at The Texas Mile 10th Anniversary Event.

This year’s Mile is also taking on the task of inspiring the next generation of motor racing enthusiasts. Students from the Coastal Bend College’s automotive department will shadow the Texas Mile’s Tech and Staging inspection crews to learn more about motor sport safety. Texas Mile co-founder Jay Matus got into auto sports because of the inspiration he received while taking auto tech classes at Texas City High School in the 1980s. The ability to pass along the same passion to a new generation of auto enthusiasts is a way for the J&S Matus Motorsports to pay it forward.

For more media related information on the Texas Mile contact Shannon Matus, 281-802-9863, js(at)jsmatus(dot)com. For more information regarding being a participant or spectator, contact Jessica Reyna, 281-303-1844 or email info(at)texasmile(dot)net.

WHAT: Texas Mile 10th Anniversary Festival

WHERE: Chase Field Industrial Complex, 2745 Byrd Street in Beeville, TX

WHEN: October 25-27, 2013:

Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. to dusk, Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ADMISSION: $20 for 3-day spectator pass, children under 12 admitted free

EXTRAS: Spectators can bring their own chairs, umbrellas and coolers. There are spectator viewing areas and concessions as well.

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Source: Digital Journal (AP, 10/18)

Big Ed's next jump: Texas showman aims to soar in the footsteps of Evel Knievel

BRIDGEPORT, TEXAS — In 1973, Big Ed Beckley made his first motorcycle jump, soaring over five cars in the small town of Dighton, Kan.

Then 23, Beckley earned $350 for the feat during the heyday of famed motorcycle jumper Evel Knievel.

Beckley was hooked.

"The coolest thing was I got paid more in that one night than I did in a week at the truck stop," said Beckley, who lived in Scott City, Kan., at the time. "I was like, 'Whoa, no wonder Evel is doing this.' His lifestyle looked really cool, and that's what I wanted to do."

The next year, Beckley watched with fascination as Knievel tried to fly over Idaho's Snake River Canyon in a steam-powered rocket. That attempt, which drew worldwide attention, failed when the parachute opened prematurely, sending Knievel down into the canyon, where he landed near the river's edge. He had only minor injuries.

Beckley never forgot the stunt.

With the 40th anniversary arriving next September, Beckley, now 63, plans to star in the sequel to Knievel's jump.

On Sept. 27, he bid a whopping $943,000 in an Idaho state auction to lease the landing site on one side of the canyon.

"I've never done anything like this before," Beckley said with a laugh. "I've got a lot to learn how to fly this thing so I don't smash into the north rim of that canyon wall."

The first order of business for Beckley - who calls himself the "world's largest motorcycle jumper" - is to lose weight. He's already dropped about 100 pounds, down from a peak of 389.

Then, riding a rocket-assisted motorcycle that has yet to be built, he plans to soar across the canyon on Sept. 7, 2014, the day before the 40th anniversary of Knievel's jump.

Beckley insists that he will have a better outcome than Knievel.

"He got himself a big bottle rocket," Beckley said. "He actually made it to the north rim, but the parachute opened early and blew back into the canyon. My deal is completely different."

Weight loss isn't the only challenge facing Beckley.

He will have to reach speeds above 300 mph, then fly his rocket-powered motorcycle 1,600 feet across the canyon, then slow down enough to land safely on the other side with the help of parachutes. While he has made numerous jumps, his longest has been 156 feet, a fraction of the canyon's span.

"The only problem is you've got to be doing over 300-something mph through the top of this deal and about 400-something feet in the air," Beckley said. "This canyon is not some other motorcycle jump. This canyon is 460 feet deep and about 1,600 feet across."

While he plans, Beckley has one more event scheduled locally. On Oct. 19, he will jump over 10 cars at a festival in Boyd, Texas.

But the Snake River jump is taking up most of his time.

At his office behind his home in Bridgeport, Texas, which is filled with photographs and posters of previous jumps, as well as several motorcycles, Beckley has been swamped with calls from around the country since he won the auction.

A promoter best known for his monster truck and motocross shows, he relishes the possible financial windfall from jumping the canyon.

With two other main investors, Beckley believes he can sell the television rights for a multimillion-dollar sum.

"There's only three principal investors, including Ed Beckley," he said. "And I'm the one that stands to reap the most benefits."

If this one succeeds, Beckley - in true Evel Knievel fashion - boasts that he will do jumps across the Mississippi River in St. Louis and the Nile River in Egypt.

Beckley moved to Texas in 1974 and regularly did motorcycle jumps at a track in Odessa. He was badly injured that year when the handlebar of his motorcycle impaled his leg in a crash.

He wouldn't jump for four years as he recovered.

When he returned in 1978, motorcycle jumps were at the height of their popularity, and he crisscrossed the country appearing at drag strips and raceways.

At one point, he came up with the idea of trying to jump from one World Trade Center tower to another. In his office, Beckley has a framed photo of himself standing in front of the towers. He says the stunt was called off when New York Mayor Ed Koch was voted out of office and replaced by David Dinkins.

During the 1980s, Beckley jumped at places like Reunion Arena, Madison Square Garden and the Silverdome outside Detroit. In the Madison Square Garden jump, he said, he propped his bike up against a security guard's toilet so he would have enough takeoff distance.

In 1994, he stopped jumping and became more focused on his son's motorcycle racing career.

He would start jumping again in 2012 but was injured in a test jump at an event in Salt Lake City. He spent days in intensive care, then recovered from his injuries and jumped 10 cars in Billings, Mont., in June 2012.

His website, bigedbeckley.net, details his recent jumps and the plans for his Snake River adventure.

"I just kind of got off into his life, and now I'm getting back into mine and I'm having a lot more fun," Beckley said.

Even though Beckley has committed nearly $1 million to the Snake River jump, it isn't guaranteed to take place. He still must win over a number of officials in the Twin Falls area.

"We'll certainly be looking forward to the opportunity to capitalize on the anniversary of the Evel Knievel jump," said Shawn Barigar, president and chief executive officer of the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce. "But I'll be honest: There are a lot of unknowns right now."

Other state and local agencies must also sign off, Barigar said.

"The process that happened with the state only dealt with the landing side of this jump," said Barigar, who also serves on the Twin Falls City Council. "There will still be an application and permitting process for our side of the canyon."

The hesitancy stems not only from ensuring the safety of the jump but also from making sure that Twin Falls doesn't take a financial hit.

During the Evel Knievel jump, some vendors were left with unpaid bills.

"Some of it is fact and some of it is folklore," Barigar said. "It's hard to know what happened 40 years later."

But Barigar said there is support for the jump if it is done correctly. Forty years later, the jump site is still a tourist attraction.

"I think there is cautious optimism," Barigar said. "... People back then didn't understand the scope and impact, but this time people are certainly thinking about the possibilities."

Beckley began wooing Twin Falls officials more than a year ago. He understands the doubts, but he believes he can address those concerns and bring a lot of attention to the city.

"I want to be elected mayor, not burned at the stake when I'm done," Beckley said.

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Source: Fresnobe (Hanna, 10/16)

Texas Car Armor Company's Viral Response To The Motorcycle/SUV Incident That Involves a Pistol, a Crow Bar and Some Bullet Proof Glass

You have probably seen the story about the violent confrontation between a group of bikers chasing an SUV around New York City. The video and various edited versions of it, have been seen millions of times in less than a week.

Now, one Texas company that retro-fits vehicles with protective armor has created a video response using the incident to attract business.

Texas Armoring Corporation (TAC) is the company. They are in the business of securing vehicles against just about any kind of attack you can imagine.

On a recent episode of the TV show “Incredible Acts of Science,” the company’s president, Trent Kimball described what TAC does to cars, “We’ll take a common, everyday vehicle, take out the entire interior and put in our armored materials in the doors, the windows, the roof, the floor, the fuel tanks…and basically make it a cocoon of armor for the occupants inside the vehicle.” TAC’s clients include politicians, businessmen, celebrities and the Pope.

TAC is offering to armor the SUV of the man at the center of the biker, Alexian Lien…but there’s a catch. TAC will give Lien’s SUV the “cocoon of armor” treatment if their demonstration video hits viral status and collects five million hits on YouTube. TAC posted the offer on their blog page.

In the 55 second clip, TAC shows a man beating on the car window with a helmet – mirroring the incident in the video. However, unlike the window on Lien’s SUV that smashed after a couple of strikes, the TAC-treated window doesn’t break – but the helmet does.

After the helmet attack, a man with a metal bar takes a few swings. They bounce off the glass as well.

In the video, you can see that the iron bar cracks the window slightly, but does not break through the glass. So the TAC crew sent in a guy with a pistol to fire on the car at very close range.

The view from a camera inside the car shows how the armored windows managed to absorb the impact of the bullets.

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source: The Blaze (Opelka, Oct. 4)

Galveston Texas Prepares for the 2013 Lone Star Rally

Organizers of the 2013 Lone Star Rally, Texas, are promising the most exciting rally to date. In preparation, they have recently overhauled the look of their website which features early details of this year’s event.

Known as the largest four-day motorcycle rally in the country, the Lone Star Motorcycle Rally will hold its 12th annual extravaganza this year from October 31-November 3. The Galveston, Texas event is free to attend and registration is not required. A $10/day fee is charged for bike parking; however, riders are allowed to move their bike within the area at no extra charge.

Hundreds of vendors will be there showcasing everything from bike enhancements and the hottest new accessories to jewelry and leather wear, and the days and nights will be full of free concerts and entertainment.

Celebrity appearances will include autograph signings by the stars of FX Network’s hit show, Sons of Anarchy. Mark ‘Bobby’ Boone, Tommy ‘Chibs’ Flanagan and Kim ‘Tig’ Coates will be greeting fans and rally-goers at scheduled meet and greet events at Celebrity Square. This year, the “All Access Pass” gets you into Celebrity Square to mix and mingle with your favorite industry, TV and film stars, with photo and autograph opportunities.

Also new for this year, the Lone Star Rally is proud to announce its partnership with the International Master Bike Builders Association (IMBBA). Well-known custom bike builder, Jeff Starke, founded the IMBBA in 2005. The IMBBA will take the Lone Star Rally to a whole new level as it produces the 2013 Lone Star Rally Bike Show. All IMBBA judges will adhere to a strict set of published guidelines as they award points in several different categories for the bike show on Saturday, November 2. A unique feature of IMBBA judges is that they will remain after the competition to meet with builders and owners, offering tips to help them hone their skills.

Because of its scenic routes, riding is one of the biggest attractions at the Galveston Rally. You can ride along the coast, cruise through the middle of the rally on Strand Street, or ride over the Causeway to Galveston Island. Galveston is a beautiful beach city that has many outdoor pubs and bars, so if you want to take a break from riding, you can enjoy food and beer while watching the other bikes ride by.

The city of Galveston, Texas, is busy preparing for this one-of-a-kind rally. Don’t be left behind as thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts will flock to historic downtown Galveston beginning October 31, for the biggest four-day party in the country.

If you are considering a trip down to Galveston this fall for the 2013 Lone Star Motorcycle Rally, stop by our booth and say “Hi’! We’ll be there during the rally to introduce more riders to BAM, our free roadside and legal assistance program. After all, the Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys are the official legal sponsor of the Lone Star Rally. We Ride—We Care—We Win!

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Source: BAM (Nesbitt, 9/30)

Longhorn Harley-Davidson - Grand Prairie, Texas announces Demo Day. Come test ride the all new 2014 Bike Lineup.

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas,- Longhorn Harley-Davidson is excited to announce the arrival of the new 2014 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Developed under the name Project Rushmore, Harley-Davidson's 2014 touring and trike motorcycles have liquid-cooled engines and touch-screen electronics bringing a luxury feel to the Harley-Davidson experience.

Eight models were enhanced under Project Rushmore, making it the largest new model launch in Harley's history. The bikes were unveiled to celebrate its 110th anniversary in Milwaukee over Labor Day weekend.

There will be 8 new models with the Project Rushmore features: the Road King, Street Glide, Street Glide Special, Electra Glide Ultra Classic, Ultra Limited, Tri Glide Ultra, CVO Ultra Limited and CVO Road King.

Longhorn Harley-Davidson will be holding its first Demo Day on Saturday, Sept 21st from 10:00 to 4:00. All motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to test ride the new 2014. Then stay and celebrate with us. Live music starts at 12:30 and Mixed Up Burgers will be in the house!

Longhorn Harley-Davidson is located in a 50,000 sq. ft. building at 2830 West I-20, Grand Prairie, TX. 75052. They are a family owned business with one of the largest selection of new and previously enjoyed motorcycles in DFW.

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Source: The Sacramento Bee (AP, 09/20)

Killeen native revamps, renames biker bar and grill

From horsepower to hamburgers, Texas Proud Bar & Grill serves the hungry adrenaline seekers of Central Texas.

Located at 704 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd. in downtown Killeen, the bar has fed and entertained the motor heads of Killeen since opening Aug. 15.

“Our goal is to make everyone feel welcomed here,” said Wayne “Wiz” Whisenhunt, owner of Texas Proud Custom Cycles and Texas Proud Bar & Grill. “This is not just a biker bar. Texas Proud is a place where anyone can come in and feel accepted. We’ve got good food, a family-style atmosphere and good live music.”

Whisenhunt, a Killeen native, has had gasoline running through his veins from the time he was born. His father, a soldier stationed at Fort Hood and an avid drag racer, got the young Whisenhunt interested in mechanics and motorcycles from a very early age.

“I got my first bike when I was 15, a 3½ horsepower Rupp mini bike,” Whisenhunt said. “I ended up wrapping it around a tree and had to start working at the Harley-Davidson dealership my father managed to pay for the repairs, and I’m still working on Harleys 35 years later.”

Whisenhunt’s first business, Texas Proud Custom Cycles, began small in 2001. Over the years, it has grown into an almost unrecognizable mecca for Central Texas bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts.

With a full garage offering powder coat, painting, fabrication and distribution of parts, Texas Custom Cycles produces two-wheeled art for clients in and around Central Texas.

At Texas Proud Bar & Grill and a tattoo shop now on the premises, customers can get inked up and grab a beer and some food while waiting on their motorcycles to be worked on in the garage.

“I love this place,” said Matt Numm, a painter by day and bassist by night. “I’ve been coming since the beginning, back when it was called Joker’s. I’ve played a few shows in here back in the day, and this is one of my all-time favorite bars in Texas. The acoustics in here are amazing and are perfect for a show.”

Texas Proud Bar & Grill started out as Joker’s Ice House in 2009. Whisenhunt and the owner of Joker's parted ways this year and Joker's moved to Stan Schluter Boulevard. Whisenhunt reopened his restaurant as Texas Proud Bar & Grill, offering hungry customers a variety of interesting menu options.

“My favorite thing here is the fried armadillo eggs,” Numm said. “They are a jalapeño stuffed with chopped beef and cream cheese, then fried … they are the best.”

Sees bright future

With the early success of his newest venture, Whisenhunt looks ahead and sees a bright future for his business.

“I want to start franchises ... if Hooters can do it, then why can’t I?” Whisenhunt said. “If Texas Proud continues to grow in popularity like it was when we first opened up (as Joker’s) in 2009, then I think I could definitely see another franchise popping up in the next two years.”

Whisenhunt gives credit to the military for making his businesses, and others in the Killeen area, successful.

“Without the military, none of this would be possible,” he said. “I thank God every day that he has gotten me through so much and allowed me to stay in business for close to 13 years. But I’m not doing this for the money; I am doing it because it makes me rich in heart serving the soldiers and the city of Killeen.”

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Source: KDH News (Papke, 09/20)

Vehicle/Motorcycle Accident Regularity Possibly Linked to Brain Miscalculating Time of Impact of Smaller Objects

Newswise — Check the local news, and stories of cars pulling out in front of motorcyclists run regularly in the headlines. Recent research by a Texas Tech University psychologist suggests that the regularity of this problem isn’t necessarily a case of poor driving or carelessness, but may be related to a basic human judgment error.

Pat DeLucia, the coordinator of the Human Factors Psychology Program, said her results show that small, near objects can appear farther away than larger, farther objects. The study is published in Current Directions in Psychological Science.

"Small, near objects can appear to be farther away than large, far objects, and so it is thought that that could contribute to motorcycle car accidents." DeLucia said.

Her finding that an object’s size affects distance perception may be the basis of car drivers miscalculating motorcyclists’ distance and speed.

"You can think about the research in terms of if you had a really big ball like a basketball or a softball and you compared that to a marble and both were approaching you, you would see that bigger one is closer even if it was farther away," she said.

The brain uses two visual information cues for judging time to impact, she said. In the first, a moving object is reflected on the eye’s retina. It expands as it approaches the eye, providing the brain accurate information about when the object will hit. This is called an optical invariant.

However, the brain also uses “rules of thumb” as well, such as various “artist” depth cues as a shortcut, she said. Many times, the brain interprets objects with a larger retinal image as closer. Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, the brain may use this shortcut to judge a smaller motorcycle farther away than it actually is, DeLucia said.

“With computer simulations, we had a big, far object and small, near object approaching the viewer, where the small object would hit first,” she said. “We wondered if people would choose the big one, based on the artist depth cue of relative size or choose the smaller one based on the more accurate optical invariant. Unexpectedly, people picked the bigger object again and again. We found people relied on rules of thumb.”

This effect of size on collision perception violates theories of perception that believe people evolved to rely on the most accurate information, such as optical invariants. Instead, DeLucia’s findings suggest that perception is based on multiple information sources.

This size-arrival effect can lead drivers to misjudge when a vehicle would arrive at an intersection and could be considered a contributing factor in motorcycle/vehicle accidents.

DeLucia hopes to find funding from the Department of Transportation to create an education program to inform drivers of her findings to reduce the incidents of these types of accidents.

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Source: Newswise (AP, 9/09)

Trail users to benefit from federal funding of Recreational Trails Program

PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- Off-highway motorcycle riders and other trail users stand to benefit from up to $82.4 million in federal funding to be apportioned to 49 states in 2014 through the Recreational Trails Program, the American Motorcyclist Association reports. Only Florida opted out of the program for fiscal 2014.

"As a federal grant program that provides funds to develop and maintain recreational trails, RTP is vitally needed to continue expanding and maintaining off-highway opportunities for riders," said AMA Vice President of Government Relations Wayne Allard. "In fact, RTP funds come from excise taxes generated by fuel purchased for off-highway vehicle recreation -- off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles and off-highway light trucks -- so this is money that rightfully belongs to trail users."

RTP was created by Congress in 1991 with bipartisan support. The Federal Highway Administration administers the program.

Since its inception, the RTP has leveraged more than $787 million of federal grants into more than $1.3 billion in monies to fund recreational trails. Without this vital program, many trails would not have been built and without its continuation, many will face reduced maintenance and possible closure.

Authorized funds are allocated annually by the federal government to those states that choose not to opt-out for that fiscal year. Every year the governor of each state has the option to opt-out of the RTP and deploy the funds to other non-recreational projects.

Each state then manages its funds in consultation with an RTP board that represents both motorized and non-motorized recreationists. RTP funds support motorized, non-motorized and mixed-use trails projects. The only stipulation is that 30 percent of obligated funds must go to motorized trails, 30 percent to non-motorized trails and 40 percent to mixed-use trails.

Over the last year, the AMA and the OHV community have successfully fought against the elimination of the RTP by Congress, stressing the economic and social benefits of responsible recreation. The current federal highway authorization -- known as MAP-21 -- provides $85 million dollars annually for distribution to the states. However, OHV users contribute significantly more to the federal highway trust fund.

"With next year's RTP authorization now set, it's time for off-highway vehicle recreationists across the nation to contact their grant administering agencies and work to secure grants to fund trails projects." said Sean Hutson, AMA legislative assistant. "After all, it's the fuel taxes paid by the OHV community in particular that fund the entirety of this important program."

This marks the second consecutive year that Florida has opted-out of the annual RTP allocation, giving up $5.2 million in funding already paid for by that state's off-highway vehicle recreation community. As a result, Florida has fewer funds to create and maintain safe recreational trails for responsible users.

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Source: AMA (AP, 9/03)

Beaufort woman's motorcycle -- stolen in Texas -- found

A motorcycle and trailer stolen from a Beaufort woman on a cross-country charity fundraiser ride have been found, according to a news release from the Amarillo Police Department.

Police found Gail Ankney's trailer July 31 in a fenced-in lot about five miles southwest of where it was stolen. Her motorcycle was recovered three weeks later, on August 22, about six miles southwest of the Motel 6.

Officers searching the fenced-in lot found the trailer hidden under mattresses and pallets, according to the release. Police also found the motorcycle's windshield and other parts that had been removed from the bike.

Police found the motorcycle in the garage of a vacant apartment after a person reported seeing two motorcycles there, the release said. One was identified as Ankney's Harley-Davidson. Police are still searching for the owner of the other bike, a Suzuki. It was not reported as missing or stolen.

Ankney's motorcycle and trailer were stolen from outside her hotel during a stop in Amarillo July 26 during the Women's Freedom Ride, an event she created to raise money for injured veterans and raise awareness for female motorcycle riders.

Ankney said police told her they had recovered her property last week. After getting the good news, however, she ran into trouble trying to get her bike back to Beaufort.

Her insurance company would only pay to have the bike and trailer shipped back if they were both a total loss, Ankney said. Since they weren't, it meant she would have to pay for everything, including impound fees and any repair costs needed to even ship the trailer and motorcycle home.

To offset some of the costs, Ankney said several people asked about donating money. She said two donated $1,000 to pay the impound and repair fees for the trailer, and others donated about $560 of the $650 payment to get both shipped home.

Ankney said the shipping company is expected to deliver her motorcycle and trailer between Saturday and Monday.

"I'm estatic about getting it back, but I'll feel much better when it actually gets here," she said.

Police initially told her it was unlikely her bike would be recovered intact.

Despite the ordeal in Amarillo, Ankney plans to keep taking the Women's Freedom Ride. Back in Beaufort now, she's planning a ride for next year along the east coast, as well as shorter trips to New Orleans for Mardi Gras and Milwaukee.

"Bike thefts can happen anywhere, to anybody," she said. "It didn't stop me then and it's not going to stop me in the future."

The investigation into the theft of the trailer is continuing, the Amarillo release said. The owner of the lot where the trailer was found was not charged.

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Source: BeaufortGazette (AP, 8/28)

Polaris Brings Back Indian Motorcycles

The Indian Motorcycle Company fizzled out after World War Two, but now one Siouxland company is proudly resurrecting the brand and motorcycle enthusiasts are getting revved up about the launch of an American classic.

Production is just beginning on the Indian Motorcycle line at Polaris in Spirit Lake, Iowa. Polaris is rolling out three new models of Indian Motorcycles: the Chief Classic, the Chief Vintage, and the Chieftain. They were unveiled at Sturgis in South Dakota earlier this month. There were bikes available for demo rides, and they were received well.

Not only are potential customers excited, but so are workers that will be assembling the bikes.

"It's exciting to be part of the re-launch of Indian Motorcycles," Mike Hoffman said. He works on the production line and can't wait to take home his own Indian. "It's such a historic company with so much nostalgia. I mean, people are so excited about the re-launch of the brand."

Cory Knudtson, director of motorcycle operations at Polaris, said Indian Motorcycles are going to be a big hit thanks to the great memories they'll stir. "The nostalgia, the heritage, you know, the Steve McQueen riding an Indian across the desert! That's never left the American psyche."

The style of the new Indian bikes will look familiar, but the technology definitely isn't vintage. It's like 21st century technology and convenience meets 1940's style.

"They really ride phenomenally well," Hoffman said. "I mean, the handling is great, the power is great, they sound really nice."

A 33,000 square foot addition made room for the new production line, in addition to the other products and motorcycles Polaris already makes.

The Indian Motorcycles are expected to be ready as soon as September.

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Source: KcauTV (DeRoin, 8/21)

Number of motorcycle deaths should lead to more helmet laws

On a trip to Fort Worth’s main post office a couple of months ago, I noticed the traffic on Interstate 35W North moving very slowly on this “expressway,” especially for a Saturday afternoon.

Rather than get angry, I blamed myself for not remembering all the construction that’s been there for months. At least the return trip would be quicker, I thought as I dropped off my mail.

But in less than 10 minutes something happened that also had brought the southbound lanes almost to a standstill, a situation I didn’t realize until I was already on the entrance ramp with no way to avoid the massive jam.

This time I was about to get angry until I saw the flashing lights of emergency vehicles ahead and realized that there had been an accident. As my car inched along and got closer to the scene, I was not prepared for what I saw.

On the side of the highway was a wrecked motorcycle, and a short distance away lay a covered body, with only a man’s shoes exposed. An ambulance was leaving with its lights flashing, causing me to believe that perhaps a motorist had been injured as well.

I learned later that afternoon that only the motorcycle had been involved in the crash that killed a 44-year-old Haltom City man and critically injured his female passenger. Neither the driver nor the passenger wore a helmet, police said.

I’ve long been concerned about the number of motorcycle fatalities in this state and nationwide each year, but the problem became more real for me after I viewed that awful sight.

In March, there were four motorcycle fatalities in Fort Worth in one week, and on Sunday a 24-year-old Cleburne man was killed when he was thrown from his motorcycle as he tried to make a turn.

While other traffic deaths have been on the decline, motorcycle fatalities have been rising in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Although down slightly last year to 460 people killed compared with 488 in 2011, annual motorcycle deaths in the state have increased 56 percent since 2004.

Nationally there were about 4,550 deaths in 2012, doubling the amount in the mid-1990s, USA Today reported.

The number of fatalities, as well as serious head injuries, began to rise significantly as states repealed or relaxed their laws requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets.

Texas had such a law but changed it in 1997 from mandating helmet use for all riders to requiring helmets for those under 21 and those who have not completed a rider education course or secured a minimum of $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. Then in 1990 Gov. Rick Perry signed a bill that removed the minimum amount of insurance coverage.

Helmet use decreased significantly after those laws were passed, placing more riders in danger of being killed or gravely injured. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that, during the first full year after the weakening of the Texas helmet law in 1997, “deaths jumped 31 percent compared to the year prior to repealing its law.”

The CDC says helmets reduce the risk of death by 37 percent and the risk of head injury by 69 percent. In 2010, the U.S. saved $3 billion because of helmet use and could have saved $1.4 billion more had all motorcyclists worn helmets.

Some people are calling for national laws to address the problem, but I won’t go that far.

I do think individual states, and particularly Texas, should pass laws requiring helmet use by all riders — drivers and passengers.

At the same time we must continue to educate the rest of the population about motorcycle safety, including reminding motorists to be on the lookout for those riding two-wheel vehicles.

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Source: Star-Telegram (Sanders, 8/07)

FEWER TEXAS MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT FATALITIES IN 2012

Texas saw a slight reduction in the number of people killed in motorcycle accidents last year.

Fewer Texas motorcycle accident fatalities in 2012

During the summer months, many Texans enjoy taking to the road on their motorcycles. When riding a motorcycle, however, it is critical that people take proper safety precautions to avoid dangerous collisions with other motor vehicles.

Recently, the Texas Department of Transportation reported that the number of people killed in motorcycle accidents in the state actually declined in 2012. The reduction was small -- 488 people were killed in such crashes in 2011, while there were 460 fatalities in 2012.

Although the six percent decline was not large, it was a rare occasion, as the number of people killed in motorcycle accidents has tended to rise steadily in recent decades. In fact, since 2004, the number of motorcycle collision fatalities in Texas has risen by a staggering 56 percent overall.

Motorcycle accidents are of particular concern in Texas and across the country due to the high rate of injuries and fatalities following such collisions -- practically 90 percent of such collisions lead to either personal injuries or death.

Consequently, experts are focusing on ways to reduce the number of motorcycle accidents that occur annually and further reduce the number of fatalities caused by such collisions.

Protect yourself from a dangerous motorcycle accident in Texas

In Texas, the Department of Transportation has taken steps to help protect motorcyclists on the road. For instance, it has initiated public awareness campaigns to encourage other motorists to be more aware of the motorcyclists on the road. The Texas Department of Transportation has encouraged drivers to "Look Twice" and "Share the Road" with motorcyclists.

In addition, the Federal Highway Administration has been researching the most common causes of motorcycle accidents for decades. It plans to release the results of the Motorcycle Crash Causation Study in 2015, after examining information from a minimum of 280 collisions.

Across the country, the number of people killed in motorcycle accidents more than doubled from 1997 to 2009. In 2009, the Federal Highway Administration reported that 4,462 people across the country were killed in such collisions.

Motorcyclists can also take proactive measures to protect themselves on the road. One of the best solutions is to always wear a helmet while riding, as they can reduce the severity of injuries and even prevent death.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the damage caused in the collision. Seek the advice of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to ensure your rights are protected.

Christian bikers enjoy "Fullmoon" rides

If there is a full moon in the sky, that is a sure sign that motorcycle engines will soon be heard.

The Fullmoon ride leaves from the First National Bank parking lot, located at the corner of State Highway 6 and Bypass 35 at 6:30 p.m. each month on the Saturday night most near the full moon. The July ride last Saturday helped Pastor Harry Stafford celebrate his 68th birthday.

Stafford, organizer of the ride, proudly admits that this ride has been in existence for 14 years.

“As far as we know, our ride is the longest running monthly motorcycle ride in the world. The ride is open to all bikes, bikers, patches, no patches, trikes, cars, trucks and all street legal vehicles. It is a very safe ride as we meander along the back roads of Brazoria County. All rides always end up some restaurant where they serve great food,” he laughed.

At one point, Stafford laid claim to his hosting the longest running monthly motorcycle ride in Texas. “I wondered if perhaps we might not be the longest ride in the world. Digger O’Dell and I have e-mails lists that include former co-workers and friends all around the world. When I would send out e-mails, I began listing our ride as the longest running monthly motorcycle ride in the world and thus far, no one has disputed my claim, so it must be accurate,” he laughed.

There were approximately 30 riders last Saturday evening. Often, there are 20 - 100 riders in the monthly event.

Stafford is a member of the Christian Motorcyclist Association and the Texas Motorcycle RoadRiders Association. He also serves as the Chaplain for the Blue Knights Chapter Seven Motorcycle Club and the Chapter 3 Red Knights.

Stafford is the Pastor for the Road of Life Community Church, 29788 Highway 6 East in Santa Fe. Bike blessings are an integral part of his motorcycle ministry. “We have a double-sided banner on display for this service which reads ‘Bike Blessing’. We have crosses which we present to the riders. These crosses represent the Cross of Cavalry and the riders normally hang them on their handle bars to remind them to place their faith in Christ, who died upon the cross for us. He can keep them safe as they ride,” Stafford explained.

The ministry also includes other church visitations, third Sunday Devotion and Ride (leaving the church with kickstands up at 11:30 a.m.), occasional rides to Lakewood Church to hear Joe Osteen, ladies only rides, hospital visits, weddings, assist with funerals. The group also has a ministry that is devoted to older residents. In 2011, they rode to Winchester Lodge in Alvin. Santa and Mrs. Claus visited with the residents while the group was there. There was also a special singing, caroling and plenty of Christmas music.

During Sunday morning worship at the Road of Life Fellowship Church, attendees join in with the special praise/worship, hear special speakers, receive salvation, miracles are performed and healings are received. There are also blessings and special prayer for all needs. Each Thursday night at 7 p.m., an Overcomers meeting is held at the church for those who are trying to overcome anything or to anyone who has overcome and is willing to share their experience with others.

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Source: Alvin (Zavalla, 7/26)