The GUNNY'S SACK

August 2004 I just returned from Grants Pass, Oregon where we had our Confederations of Clubs (C.O.C.) meeting in July.
We rode south from Portland in a pack of about fifty bikes, for a 265-mile ride. In attendance we had approximately 150 people. Folks came from all over Oregon and Northern California. People who I'd never met, they seemed to know who I am. I have poor retention when it comes to names. However, I can probably tell you what you ride and the clothing you wear. We all ride motorcycles and wear black leather.  
Our meeting in Grants Pass was really successful, with the largest attendance I've seen. We plan to do the same thing in central Oregon in Bend at our next meeting. I am hopeful we will have at least as good a turnout as the one in GP. Plus, it will give those of us who live away from these places a chance to go for a nice ride, and THAT is what we're all about, or we wouldn't have scooters.
CONFEDERATIONS OF CLUBS:
I've mentioned the Confederations in past articles, so I figured you should know a little more about it: The Confederations of Clubs are sponsored by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). By the way, I've heard people for years refer to it as "noncom," but that is incorrect, sir!.
The idea is for Clubs and Associations of motorcycle riders, whatever you ride, to be able to assemble and discuss hassles and grievances against riders, usually by certain police agencies. Sometimes, a COC will pursue grievances judicially; but always without losing individual Clubs or Associations' rights or identities. 
In the event Big Brother tries to play games with us, we always have a lawyer present; the AIM lawyer for that state, usually. Having an officer of the court available helps ensure that ONLY Confederation business occurs during meetings. And if you don't think "big brother" thinks this way, just read the papers.
Case in point: The recent clubhouse incident in Portland. Our AIM Attorney, Sam Hochberg, has been in the loop on that – seems the Portland Police used a tank-like battering ram on the Gypsy Joker clubhouse's door. Sam says the neighborhood has been "yupping-up" lately, so maybe they just don't want to scare off yet another Starbucks, who knows. The police press release referred to finding "guns." Yeah, AND?? Everything there was legal. They found no fleeing fugitives, no drugs. This was really just an ATTACK on a clubhouse. If it can happen to them, it can happen to YOU.
Our COC will, I'm sure, be looking into this one. COC's are the fastest growing motorcycle alliance in the world today. Since, about 1992 or 1993 they have increased from one Confederation to more than 66 in 38 or 39 States and 2 or 3 Canadian Provinces. INTERNATIONAL: During the annual NCOM conference, every other year, there is an International meeting. If you've never attended an NCOM conference you need to get busy, plan and attend. You will attend workshops where you will learn about the judicial system and how our legislative system works. Bills that are pending in the Federal and State houses that affect your rights and freedoms. How to deal with almost any facet of our lives, including Police harassment. The conferences themselves are mind-blowing and the International Confederations meeting will amaze you. The annual NCOM conference is always scheduled to end on Mother's Day eve. The money and effort you put into getting there will pay dividends you can't imagine.
The whole thing is sponsored by the AIM/NCOM network of attorneys all across this country who set aside a portion of their hard earned bike-wreck fees to pay the costs involved to run the whole mess. Virtually all of these lawyers are BIKERS, by the way, so they know what our world is all about. There's all the pro-bono (free) work they do for us. When we have an accident they are in the forefront, saving our bacon.
Membership in the AIM program is FREE to individuals and NCOM is FREE to Clubs and Associations. Get a hold of these groups at 1-800-On-A-Bike, at the home offices at the offices of Richard M. Lester. Don't forget online – <http://www.on-a-bike.com/>www.On-A-Bike.com is where it's at.
TEAM OREGON : Curriculum Approved; MSF Alleges Infringement
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has learned that our Oregon Traffic Safety Committee met on Tuesday, July 13, 2004, and approved all components of the motorcycle rider training curriculum developed by TEAM OREGON, with the exception of their experienced rider course. As of January 1, 2005 the TEAM OREGON program is the only curriculum approved for use in Oregon for endorsements. This is GOOD news. 
The TEAM OREGON MOTORCYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM (TOMS), includes novice, intermediate and advanced courses. Hopefully, the TEAM OREGON experienced course will be added by year's end.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) wrote a letter alleging Team Oregon used some of their information. I doubt it, but who cares? We should be looking for unity, to work together for the good of all riders. MSF should be applauding the whole thing and striving to help in any way they could. Quitcher bitch'n and look at the good side.
HELENA, MONTANA: Sen. Max Baucus lost control of his motorcycle on a curve while riding to a picnic. He apparently swerved to miss a car and blew it. He's banged up a little and stayed in the hospital overnight so they could keep an eye on him. He will recover fine and hopefully we all can learn from his mistake
So what is it we say here in the Sack, about taking a Rider Safety Course?
KINGSPORT, TENN: It looks like Bad Toys, Inc, builder of custom scoots, might acquire the Gambler Motorcycle Company. They are in the business of manufacturing and selling custom V-Twin motorcycles, custom street rods and they provide brokerage service to custom, classic cars, and motorcycle owners.
MISAWA AIR BASE, JAPAN: New regs for motorcycle riders on this airbase. Riders now must wear an international orange or lime green safety vest with 90 square inches of reflective material. Here's some more of big brother protection in action. If they will do this on a military facility what is next for us?
MILWAUKEE: Harley-Davidson is introducing four new models for 2005. They effect the Sportster, Dyna-glide, and softail lines. Can't wait to take a look at'em. To add to the excitement, Buell is adding models, too.
TOKYO: Honda Motor. Co is moving into the aviation business with a new venture building engines for aircraft. The plant will be somewhere in the U.S. of A. Here come some more jobs for Americans!
GUNNY AGAIN: This past weekend I signed up several Canadian folks to the AIM program while we were at the Run 21, sponsored by the S.E. PORTLAND ABATE Chapter here in Oregon. The day they left the run they ran into trouble and called the AIM office for assistance. The fact they had the cards in their pockets got them quicker help, too.
Our AIM attorneys are here for us, folks and there is no good reason for any biker NOT to have the AIM card in their pocket. See me here in Oregon or contact the home office down in Canoga Park.
The AIM program is nationwide and in Canada. They will get information to you. This program is in place for our protection; lets use it. The number is: 1-800-On-A-Bike, and <http://www.on-a-bike.com/>www.On-A-Bike.com It just might do you some good. Meantime...