From rwilesNoSpam@NoSpammail1.com (Roger Wiles) Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 11:50:59 -0700 Subject: BMW: RA Rally Complaints/Addresses, etc Following are addresses and telephone numbers, FAX numbers and E-mail address of various parties that may be interested in your comments about the reception we received at the BMW RA in Fontana! rally last weekend. Robinsville NC Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3790 robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com The Graham STAR Kate Henry, Editor PO Box 69 Robinsville NC 28771 704 479 3383 Ray Williams, County Commissioner Chairman, Graham County Commission PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 7960 Jerry Crisp, Sheriff Graham County PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3352 The Honorable James Hunt, Governor State of North Carolina 116 W. Jones Street Raleigh NC 27603-8001 (704) 733 4240 Mr. David L. Kerr, General Manager Fontana Village Resort Highway 28 PO Box 68 Fontana Dam NC 28733 (704) 498 2211 FAX (704) 498 2209 Colonel W. W. Horton Commander, NC Highway Patrol 512 N. Salisbury Street Raleigh NC 27626 (919) 733 7952 col.e.w.hortonNoSpam@NoSpamsmtpgw.aoc.state.nc.us Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) 4437 Georgia Road Franklin NC 28734 (800) 432 4678 The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES (regional newspaper) PO Box 2090 Ashville NC 28802 (800) 800 4204 FAX (704) 251 0585 editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com I was personally very offended by the treatment received by myself, my party, the rally officials and rally-atttendees in general by the local and state law enforcement personnel. It was DISGRACEFUL! (IMHO) The Graham County officials' capricious, last-minute decision to cancel our beer-service license caused the rally to undoubtedly lose money; had rally-organizers known about this in advance (a local merchant told me that decision had been made, and was local knowledge, at least 3 months before the rally) it is possible - even LIKELY- that a new rally location would have ben chosen. Graham County NC wants our tourist money, but seems to enjoy the opportunity to intimidate motorcyclists, play with cop-toys and exemplify southern "bubba" law enforcement and political power at it's sterotypical worst. At least, that's what I think. Prezz Roger RWilesNoSpam@NoSpamMail1.com Unsubbed, reply direct- thanx! From daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 13:34:29 -0400 (EDT) Subject: BMW: Police Tactics at Fontana Hi Gately, When the police violate your rights, you have two choices. Sue or shut up. Unfortunately, the police were sued last year after staging the same type of illegal traffic stop on hundreds of bikes. The court decision was: Police were found guilty. Penalty nothing. Court found there had been no damage to the bikers. I lied about the second option. Do not shut up. Tell the NC tourism commission, tell the governor, tell the Fontana, Asheville and NC Chamber of Commerce, and tell other beemer rider ... go to NC but do not spend any money there. Stay in SC, Tenn, Ga., get gas before you go into NC, pack a lunch and then go into NC. Tell them you are canceling reservations for a company seminar in NC and will be holding it in Va or XXX instead. Vote with your dollars. RA and MOA are you listening. We would like for you to let NC know they are off the list for conventions and meetings. For the clincher, tell them Dali Meeow and the Royal Fur Ball Production Company has designated NC as a litter burial site. Stephen, of cousel. From BEEMERHILL Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 15:10:16 -0500 Subject: BMW: RE: Addresses for Fontana & the LAW Gately Bartlett wrote: I spoke wih Terry at AMA this morning, and he was able to give me the following addresses. I sincerely hope that many folks write to complain about this aberrant treatment. It will be another black mark for the Carolinas, and the best way to make our point will be to withdraw our "tourist dollars" from their communities. And what a shame. Hats off to the folks at Fonatana Village, and to the local citizens who made us feel so welcome. It is too bad their hard-earned tax dollars were squandered so recklessly by some nimrod who has been sitting through his/her 20th viewing of The Wild Bunch & Easy Rider. By sending out letters, we can be assured that whoever ordered this Police Campaign - - and it was ordered by somebody - will catch some flack. Thank goodness it wasn't MY tax $$$ - or I would be really pissed... OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR JAMES B. HUNT, JR 116 W. Jones Street Raleigh, NC 27603 send copies to: Attorney General State of N. Carolina P. O. Box 629 Raleigh, NC 27602 ----- ----- ----- Crime Control & Public Safety Department Hwy Patrol Division Col. E. W. Horton c/o Richard H. Moore, Secretary P. O. Box 27687 Raleigh, NC 27611 ----- ----- ----- Travel and Tourism Department Director Gordon Clapp 430 N Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Sorry - I don't have n address for Graham County yet, nor addresses of the local newspapes for letters to the editors. Can anybody help me out with these? Thanks! I realize that most of us tend to be pretty apathetic, generally speaking. I hope the BMW community doesn't just sit back and let the police continue to assault our rights as outlined in the Constitution. It may be time for me to join ABATE again. Sue Rihn-Manke From rwilesNoSpam@NoSpammail1.com (Roger Wiles) Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 16:42:34 -0700 Subject: BMW: Complaints/Addresses, Revised Following are addresses and telephone numbers, FAX numbers and E-mail address of various parties that may be interested in your comments about the reception we received at the BMW RA in Fontana! rally last weekend. Robinsville NC Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3790 robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com The Graham STAR Kate Henry, Editor PO Box 69 Robinsville NC 28771 704 479 3383 Ray Williams, County Commissioner Chairman, Graham County Commission PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 7960 Jerry Crisp, Sheriff Graham County PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3352 The Honorable James Hunt, Governor State of North Carolina 116 W. Jones Street Raleigh NC 27603-8001 (704) 733 4240 Mr. David L. Kerr, General Manager Fontana Village Resort Highway 28 PO Box 68 Fontana Dam NC 28733 (704) 498 2211 FAX (704) 498 2209 Colonel E. W. Horton Commander, NC Highway Patrol 512 N. Salisbury Street Raleigh NC 27626 (919) 733 7952 col.e.w.hortonNoSpam@NoSpamsmtpgw.aoc.state.nc.us Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) 4437 Georgia Road Franklin NC 28734 (800) 432 4678 The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES (regional newspaper) PO Box 2090 Ashville NC 28802 (800) 800 4204 FAX (704) 251 0585 editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com American Motorcyclist Association, (AMA) 33 Collegeview Road Westerville, OH, 43081-1484 Tel.(614) 891-2425 FAX (614) 891-5012 e-mil: AMANoSpam@NoSpamCISCOMPUSERVE.COM I was personally very offended by the treatment received by myself, my party, the rally officials and rally-atttendees in general by the local and state law enforcement personnel. It was DISGRACEFUL! (IMHO) The Graham County officials' capricious, last-minute decision to cancel our beer-service license caused the rally to undoubtedly lose money; had rally-organizers known about this in advance (a local merchant told me that decision had been made, and was local knowledge, at least 3 months before the rally) it is possible - even LIKELY- that a new rally location would have ben chosen. Graham County NC wants our tourist money, but seems to enjoy the opportunity to intimidate motorcyclists, play with cop-toys and exemplify southern "bubba" law enforcement and political power at it's sterotypical worst. At least, that's what I think. Prezz Roger RWilesNoSpam@NoSpamMail1.com Unsubbed, reply direct- thanx! From: Dan Arnold Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 16:43:11 -0700 Subject: BMW: Law Enforcement at BMW Motorcycle Rally To: > Robinsville NC Chamber of Commerce > Rob Mason, Director > PO Box 1206 > Robinsville NC 28771 > (704) 479 3790 > robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com > Colonel W. W. Horton > Commander, NC Highway Patrol > 512 N. Salisbury Street > Raleigh NC 27626 > (919) 733 7952 > col.e.w.hortonNoSpam@NoSpamsmtpgw.aoc.state.nc.us > > Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) > 4437 Georgia Road > Franklin NC 28734 > (800) 432 4678 > > The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES > (regional newspaper) > PO Box 2090 > Ashville NC 28802 > (800) 800 4204 > FAX (704) 251 0585 > editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com Gentlepersons: I understand an alcohol permit was cancelled and law enforcement made it's presence heavily felt at a recent conclave of BMW motorcycle riders. This was unfortunate. The result will likely be that rallys in your area (if they happen at all) will have far fewer participants in the future. This is no small matter because these BMW riders seem to be willing to travel thousands of miles to attend their functions. For reasons I do not fully understand, BMWs seem to attract a rather dull group of middle aged, frequently professional men and women whose idea of a wild time consists chiefly of riding curving mountain roads approxmately twice as fast as their counterparts on Harley-Davidsons. When these tired old folks finally take a break from their 500 mile (and up) per day rides, they sit together quietly, smoke cigars, drink beer, tell lies and go to sleep. Though I personally do not fit this stereotype and have been known to cut loose with a dirty joke now and then or even on occasion to exceed the speed limit, I have attended a number of these convocations. I have never witnessed nor heard of a law violation more serious than a speeding ticket or anything more disturbing than loud snoring. Sure, once and a while some geezer has a heart attack, but I attribute that to nothing more outrageous than age and diet. Perhaps your area's law enforcement policies (or rumor detection apparatus) should be reviewed. Sincerely, Daniel M. Arnold Attorney at Law Washington State Bar Association #10575 =========================================== DAN ARNOLD 425 N COLUMBIA CENTER BLVD N-207 KENNEWICK, WA 99336 509-783-9740 509-734-8708 ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 01:14:55 -0400 From: joutlanNoSpam@NoSpamiag.net (John H. Outlan) Subject: Re: BMW: Back From Fontana (Buford T. Justice) On Mon, 22 Sep 1997 13:44:00 -0700 (MST), "Malcolm A. Meyn" wrote: |:< |: Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 09:33:16 -0400 Subject: BMW: Fontana & Police The actions by the local police & state troopers, if preplanned, which they seemed to be (they had to mobilize that kind of force in advance) were a likely violation of our constitutional liberty interests, specifically our right of association. If any of the prezs intend to write anyone in response, it's important to write the right folks. This was action by political persons & by bureaucrats. They don't answer to anyone but bigger political fish and, hopefully, the local constituents. The only way to get the attention of such types is to go over their heads to the larger political powers in the state. For that reason, I recommend letters to Senators Helms & Faircloth, with copies to the local Robbinsville, Bryson City etc. press & copies to the local sheriff and the State Superintendent of Police. The letters I sent the Senators are requests that they investigate the use of federal funds to violate our constitutional rights. If any prezs want a copy, please email me. It is especially important that North Carolina residents write their Senators and Congressmen. The addresses for the two Senators are set out below. If a number of people write, something may happen. Honorable Jesse Helms Honorable Lauch Faircloth 403 Dirksen Office Building 317 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510-3301 Washinton, DC 20510 jesse_helmsNoSpam@NoSpamhelms.senate.gov senatorNoSpam@NoSpamfaircloth.senate.gov On a happier note, the rally was terrific and the roads as good as I remembered them, particularly when out of Graham County, away from Checkpoint Charlie. Mark Flynn Winchester, VA From Mark Rooney Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 08:28:40 -0500 (CDT) Subject: BMW: Re: Law Enforcement at BMW Motorcycle Rally Just what happened in NC that prompted the overseeing by law enforcement officials of the RA Rally? I was there in Morganton last year for the MOA Rally and saw hardly a badge, either at the rally site or on the BRP. Was I being blind or were they just more stealthy a year ago? There was that occurence at the Red Cross rally in South Carolina a couple of years ago, I figured that after the AMA filed suit against various SC law enforcement agencies that it would settle this happening again (obviously not :-(. Mark Rooney k75ryderNoSpam@NoSpamballistic.com Tyler, TX '94 K75 "Mick" MOA, RA, ET BMW+, IBMWR From Frank Glamser Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 09:53:06 -0500 (CDT) Subject: Re: BMW: Back From Fontana (Buford T. Justice) On Thursday afternoon I was stopped by a roadblock on the Cherohala Skyway by N. C. county deputies. I was approaching from the west. They had what I assume was a drug dog. The cursory way my license was read led me to believe it was a ruse to allow the dog to sniff my bike. Frank Glamser "There are old motorcyclists, and there are Hattiesburg, Mississippi bold motorcyclists, but there very few old, '92 K75RT BMW RoM bold ones." From tevansmdNoSpam@NoSpamjuno.com Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 13:56:27 -0400 Subject: Re: BMW: 1998Chattanooga1998 Lunch.. The GRAND GAP EXTRAVAGANZA!! Timing *Is* Everything, huh? FIRSTLY, I think Tom Keen's idea (reposted below) is GREAT!!! I'm all for it and am IN. BUT This past weekend's experience in Graham County, N.C. has left a bad taste in my mouth from only a few Bad Apples, IOW, The Law Enforcement. Number one, I feel that The People of the County, State of N.C. and surrounding area as well as The South *may* be getting a bad rap here. It was ONLY the Cops of Graham Cty, the nearby State Police (who 'bought' the rumor that the Graham Cty Police were spewing about us) - in addition, the nearby TN police who were at Deal's Gap and Cherubical Pkway are to blame. The People were superb, IMO. They appreciated our presence and $$$/per day/person that we spent. UNFORTUNATELY, because of the Law Enforcement - talk about Long Arm Of The Law - I cannot, in good faith subject myself nor my wife of ANY potential possibility (redundant?) that would land me, my big Yankee mouth riding with NY plates in Jail. Sorry, I have Zero Tolerance for that. I say this: Tom, see what happens with the letter-writing. See what happens with the potential law suits. See what happens come October 24th, where TWO of my personal friends HAVE to go back up there to see if they'll get any change from their $200 and have no criminal record. I'm optimistic. But on the other hand I'm a realist - despite all the letter writing, suits, AMA involvement etc. - I haven't seen a change in Spartanburg. Funny, I have a ton of maternal family there but because of the treatment they exhibited a few years ago at a BMW event - they, haven't seen my smiling face or my dollars either. It's not about N.C. - Morganton's MOA National was nearby to the RA's Fontana. The yearly Maggie Valley Hot Springs Rally is yet closer as are several more that makes one do a Deal's Gap and The Cherohala Parkway. I haven't heard of this type of harassment. Like I said: Let's play 'Wait and See' - see what becomes of this - your idea for next year's Chattanooga Gathering is a fine one, however, I in good conscience, cannot take my dollars up there (Graham County) again and have to worry about the possibility of posting bail. Timing is everything. TERRY-Miami On Mon, 22 Sep 97 13:59:09 +0000 tom_keenNoSpam@NoSpamcoax.net (Tom Keen) writes: > >The First IBMWR Lunch did not happen this year for a number of >reasons.. the prime one being, the conflict with the RA rally in >Fontana. > >But.. for 1998 (yes.. it's early but you will soon understand why) >Walker Powell and I have a great plan. To pull this off we need you >to look at your calenders and make a commitment... > >Two miles from the top of Deal's Gap is a wonderful Inn.. The Tapaco >Lodge. > >Several presidents stayed there last weekend and can attest that it >is a really nice place, run by really great people. There are 25 >double rooms. About half of them are in little cottages on the >hillside, overlooking the river. > >Well.. I reserved the whole place for the weekend of September 19th >1998 for IBMWR. The plan is to take all the rooms on Friday the 18th >and Saturday the 19th. And then have dinner at the Inn. The Inn is >willing to provide cots if you want to crowd in yourroom, they have >no problem with mattress pads on the floors and the owner is looking >at indoor and outdoor camping. > >NOW TO KEEP THE RESERVATION AND TO HAVE THE ENTIRE PLACE TO >OURSELVES.. > >I need to get tentative commitments for all the rooms. > >So this week please let me know if you would like to plan on >attending. > >Cost should be around $70 per double occupancy per night, which >includes a full breakfast. Dinner will be extra.. They are working >up the final costs and I will make them available as soon as I get >them... > >All I need now is a "yes.. I will be there" > >Name: >email address: >how many in your room >etc etc.. > >Let me know.. this will be the best IBMWR Gathering ever...!!! >a Gather worth planning ahead for. > >Tom Keen > ******************************** > Tom Keen - Dayton,Ohio USA > tom_keenNoSpam@NoSpamcoax.net > IBMWR, BMWMOA > ******************************** > > ------------------------------ From Don Eilenberger Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 14:08:40 -0400 Subject: BMW: Fontana over-reaction by police Dear Mr. Mason, As head of the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, you must realize the financial impact that the BMW-Riders Association had on the local area. This impact, conservatively guessing must have exceeded $500,000, and was probably a great deal more. When I first rode into Robbinsville, I believed that we were welcome guests in Graham County - the large banner welcoming us to Graham County gave that impression. The lead article in the local paper describing our event and the participants also gave the impression that we were welcome in Graham County. Any local people I spoke with were friendly and appeared happy to have us as their guests. Unfortunately - one group apparently did not welcome us in Graham County. The police - who I believe were local and county officers (the ones I saw). From the actions they took in making us unwelcome, it appears there was a lack of communications between your police forces and the general populace. I won't review any of the actions I heard about second-hand but one first-hand observation is worth noting: I passed some of the command posts the police had set up. It was impressive to see that Graham County is rich enough to afford police cars sitting idle while the officers were eating at a nearby picnic table, and rich enough to afford the full time use of a helicopter. I know that my local community couldn't afford the expensive waste of public resources that I saw in Graham County. Has anyone calculated what the cost to the taxpayers for this extravaganza was? Overtime? Helicopter hours and cost? If it was the intent of the police to make motorcyclists feel unwelcome in Graham County - they ably succeeded. I'm sure by this time, the police officials are claiming publically that they prevented a disaster or riot or the word I heard "rumble". Given the record of BMW motorcycle events (and I'd suggest checking with the police in the Morgenton area) the probability of any of these events does not even exist. All I can see that the police accomplished is making 2,200 tourists who were spending money in your area feel unwelcome. I for one, and everyone I've spoken with who attended the rally intend to give Graham County a wide berth in the future - by motorcycle or by automobile. It may not seem that 2,200 less return visitors to the area is significant, but each of these 2,200 people will probably tell several other people who were not in attendance, plus many of the 2,200 people are very active on the Internet (where the story is receiving wide circulation), so I would predict that the impact on tourism in Graham County may be much greater than initially perceived. I predict that these actions by your police will also have an impact on other events planned by motorcycle organizations for the North Carolina area. Since this area had been a popular venue for events such as the 5,000 people BMW-Motorcycle Owners of America rally 2 years ago in Morgenton the long-term implications will be significant. In my own case - my family asked me to take photos of the Graham County area since they wanted to take a vacation in your area next year. We will be going to a friendlier environment instead. Yours truly, Don Eilenberger Spring Lake Heights, NJ ================================== Don Eilenberger, Spring Lk Hts, NJ deilenbergerNoSpam@NoSpammonmouth.com ================================== "Ultimately most problems can be solved by applying a Large Brick to the Correct Skull. Difficulties arise when you don't have a brick or can't find the the right skull. The Devil is always in the details." ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 14:09:09 -0400 (EDT) From: LegalRNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana & Police In a message dated 97-09-23 09:36:41 EDT, you write: > The actions by the local police & state troopers, if preplanned, which > they seemed to be (they had to mobilize that kind of force in advance) Hi Mark~ I didn't attend, but have read with interest all the posts regarding the rally. It seems to me, as you have expressed, that the "actions by local & state police" was preplanned, and therefore "approved" by some rather highranking police officials and probably others in the food chain of government. I also suspect that "others" have known and approved, [perhaps tacitly, perhaps overtly] because it does not seem logical that anyone in authority would risk such a thing on his own without the benefit of knowing that the necessary "cover" would protect him. It appears quite obvious to me that anyone would know that there would be a rather vocal protest resulting from such absurd police conduct. I think the intended message is "We don't want you!", "Take your motorcycles somewhere else!" Certainly not everyone in N.C. shares that opinion, especially those who benefit from the commerce, but who would dare permit such police conduct if not preapproved by higherups able to provide sufficient cover? Unless there is someone's head rolling on the floor shortly, I believe that we may be missing the message. Just my thoughts. Larry Miller Wallingford, VT - --- John Outlan replying to Tony Meyn wrote: > On Mon, 22 Sep 1997 13:44:00 -0700 (MST), "Malcolm A. Meyn" wrote: > > |:< > |: |: really > |: |:< > |: |: > Tony, > > Normally I would _tend_ to agree with you, but in this case I don't. > The cops up there _reacted_ to nothing. Everything they did to harass > us was pre-planned. Some of the cops were just following orders, > while some were just plain ignorant. More than one President was > arrested on bogus charges (in the campground, on foot!), and they > still have to deal with it _now_ after the rest of us have gone home > to move on and plan the next rally. I agree totally with the > sentiments of Roger Wiles. > > =46or the edification of those that did not attend, below are just the > incidents that *I* know about. Please correct me if some facts are > misconstrued: > > Notifying RA of pulling the beer permit at the last minute when the > locals knew up to 3 months in advance. > Raiding of tents on Wednesday night by the police without provocation. > A President taken to jail while walking through the campground for > 'impeding the flow of traffic'. Didn't move out of the way of the cop > car fast enough. Argued on the way over to Robinsville about the > bogus charges, so the cop added a 'drunk and disorderly' charge. > Six (maybe more?) riders written up on Friday night by cops for > relieving themselves behind trees on the campground. > Sting operation at front entrance of campground. Outbound riders were > checked for drinking and drug use. > Police scanners indicated the cops were 'itching' to raid the > campground, lay everyone on the ground and bring in the drug sniffing > dogs. > Police road blocks whereby weary arriving riders were ordered to dump > their camping gear and be searched. > Deals gap roadblock. > Other Roadblocks I can't even recall where..?. > Ed Jorgenson told myself and a group of others the RA intended to > pursue some type of legal action. > > Can anyone add to or correct any of this? > > I expected a Morganton style open arms treatment that 2000 plus people > will be coming into this small community, many with their families, > and spending money. But, it wasn't that way, AT ALL........ > > Nonetheless Fontana was a blast for me, primarily because of being in > the company of some Presidents and Idiots, Broccoli Riders, Poverty > Riders and Coonbottomers, but a certain aspect of the whole thing was > very ugly, and we (the riders) didn't make it that way. The staff at > =46ontana Village issued a letter of apology to the rally attendees, for > the way in which the rally attendees were treated by the local police, > which was read to us Saturday night in the "Broccoli Cabin". This > third party letter of apology lends credence to this harassment > 'theory' that I now and some others have stated as being the case. > > Point taken, BUT given the type of hostile environment we were > experiencing there, those riders that successfully evaded the cops > were nothing short of heroes IMO. Ever watch any of the Billy Jack > movies ;-). > > I would encourage those that attended to look over the contact > information supplied by Roger and others, and do some letter writing, > especially to the AMA, Chamber of Commerce and local Papers. > > That particular part of NC is never going to see another cent of my > money unless the RA gets some satisfaction, at a minimum an official > letter of apology from the law enforcement hierarchy. > > John O. > > |:< > |: |:< > |:<> I also witnessed an unknown rider on an R1100RS (red) who was = > fleeing > |:<> "Buford T. Justice", sirens and lights going, the whole nine yards. > |:<> This rider was about 5 seconds ahead of Buford, came around a sharp > |:<> turn and pulled in behind a motorhome at the Texaco station next to > |:<> the campground. Buford fled past the rider in hot persuit, then the > |:<> rider rode out and ducked into the vendor area, wiping off his brow = > as > |:<> a gesture. Buford returned in five minutes with sirens and lights = > off > |:<> looking for his elusive prey. > |:<>=20 > |:<> Any rider out there want to stand up and take a bow? > |:<>=20 > |:<> Nice going. > |:<>=20 > |:<> John O. , report to follow entitled "What a long strange trip it's > |:<> been", or maybe "The Battle of Fontana", or ??......:) > > =20 > =BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB= > =BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB=BB > > John Outlan - Lake Mary, FL (Orlando) > joutlanNoSpam@NoSpamiag.net Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 17:23:54 -0400 From: Don Eilenberger Subject: BMW: Fontana Rally Repercussions I've taken the liberty of forwarding an email (with permission) I received from Roland Slabon of the Vintage BMW Motorcycle Owners: >X-Lotus-FromDomain: HOUGHTONMIFFLIN >From: "Roland Slabon" >To: deilenbergerNoSpam@NoSpammonmouth.com >Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 16:46:36 -0400 >Subject: Fontana Rally Repercussions > > >Dear Mr. Eilenberger, > >A friend just copied me on your letter to Rob Mason of the Graham County, >NC Chamber of Commerce. > >Having been made privy to the sordid police activity by others who attended >the RA Rally, I echo your sentiments. Although I did not personally attend, >I know that a sizable number of the 5,600 plus members of Vintage BMW >Motorcycle Owners, Ltd. participated, and I know I can speak on their >behalf. > >For the past 25 years, our Vintage Club has always been a major player at >the annual rallies hosted by both the BMW Riders Association and BMW >Motorcycle Owners of America. We are the third largest BMW motorcycle club >in the world, with members in the US, Canada and 18 other countries. In my >26 years of riding, I have never been witness to such heinous police >behavior as happened at Fontana. Even during the worst years of the Laconia >Riots in the early 1970s, the New Hampshire State Police and National Guard >chose to ignore the innocent motorcyclists, and properly concentrated their >effort at curbing the antics of the few drunken outlaws. > >News of the treatment you and other attendees received at the hands of >hooligans in police uniforms was appalling, both to me and to Robert >Hellman, who will undoubtedly take up his pen (or his keyboard) and >editorialize at length about it in "On The Level". I plan to do likewise in >the pages of the "Vintage BMW Bulletin". Such aberrant behavior by those in >authority, if left unanswered, will soon become the norm, as I fear it may >already have become in certain parts of North Carolina. > >I wonder what sort of reception BMW motorcycle riders would have received >had the rally been held in neighboring Spartanburg, SC. I'm certain had the >BMW advance team received such a welcome as did the hapless Fontana Rally >participants, BMW would have sited its new factory elsewhere. > >Feel free to pass this letter on to those in North Carolina who are still >of a mind to listen, as well as to anyone else on the Internet. > >Sincerely, > > >Roland Slabon >Editor >Vintage BMW Bulletin >P.O. Box 67 >Exeter, New Hampshire 03833 USA > > > > Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 12:39:45 -0400 From: joutlanNoSpam@NoSpamiag.net (John H. Outlan) Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana, letters, send NOW On Wed, 24 Sep 1997 11:37:30 -0400, James Allmond wrote: snip report from the front lines... |:< |: Subject: Re: BMW: FWD>RE>BMW- Fontana, harass Roozbeh, This is a dangerous attitude, Rooz. What I am picking up from your post is that intimidation tactics such as you experienced in N.C. might be justified for other motorcycle groups, but not for BMW riders. Sorry, that just doesn't fly. Why are you "sure" BMW riders are better behaved? Perhaps the county fathers around Fontana should talk to the good people of Paonia, CO. They host multiple rallies a year including a BMW rally and a Harley rally and welcome all. In fact, to me this is a model of how a rally and town can exist for the benefit of each other. Best, Tony Meyn On Wed, 24 Sep 1997, Roozbeh Chubak wrote: > I am sure BMW riders as a whole are so much better behaved than many other > motorcycle groups coming to town en mass that many local authorities are > pleasantly surprised at how little trouble was caused during the > visit/rally etc. BMW people who set up these rallies and deal with the > locals should bring closure to any just-completed rally through a series of > correspondence on "We loved visiting you" and receiving such responses as > "it was great having you." Such letters can be shown to future rally hosts > to alleviate their concerns. > > > Regards, > Roozbeh > Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 11:56:46 CST-6CDT From: "Bob Oelschlager" Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana - blame? 'pears to me that the folks who put the rally together (sorry, don't know 'em from Adam) ASS-U-MEd that the locals would just love to have the rally crowd and their bux for a few days. Well now, isn't it interesting that the general populace, specifically including John Law, has negative opinion of motorcyclists that they carry with them while going about their daily business. As any semi hip 16 year old could attest: "DUH!" Why should "they" dismiss their prejudices just because the rally was attended primarily by BMW riders? The typical good ole boy gun totin' badge flashin' lawman ('er -person) down south very likely needs to be ordered to "be nice" to furriners by the HMFWIC. It is ASS-U- MEable to think that the rallymeister(s) had a "public relations" job to do that didn't get done or didn't get done effectively. Perhaps in a different locale, the PR job wouldn't be needed. I'd like to think that people are basically good, but time and time again, I am reminded of how false an ASS-U-M(e)tion that can be and all the Fontana stories I've read seem to bear this out. What a damn shame. Future Rally-meisters live and learn and don't ever EVER forget to "sell" yourself/club/group/project/rally in the most positive of ways 'cuz sometimes people turn out to be no damn good anyway. Plan, plan, PLAN!!! Lest I forget, all cops don't suck, just the ones with Baditude and malice in their hearts. I have a couple of good buds who just happen to be both professional law enforcement officers and good as gold. But they have some bretheren who are, um, shall I say "less than professional". Gee, I feel better now. Thanx for puttin' up with me. BobbyO ********************************************************** Robert Oehlschlager Internet: BOBBYONoSpam@NoSpamABN.UNT.EDU Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 13:04:37 -0400 From: Mark Flynn Subject: BMW: RE: RA Contacting Local Yokels in Advance I'm not an RA officer, no position other than as a member, so no dog in the fight. At the rally, one of the RA officers told me that they did, indeed, have a meeting w/the police agencies involved, to let them know what to expect. As told to me, the police agencies were hostile then, and didn't want to have the facts (our demographics, etc.) get in the way of ignorant prejudice, the father of their pea-brained, mean spirited actions. BTW, I still encourage letters by NC residents to Governor Hunt, Senators Helm & Faircloth & the local Congressman. I suppose we could use the old one: "Fuck you. Strong letter to follow." I hope not. - -- Mark Flynn Winchester, VA Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 10:55:35 EST From: bkeaheyNoSpam@NoSpamuswest.com Subject: Re: BMW: RE: RA Contacting Local Yokels in Advance Addressed to: Mark Flynn BMW Listserv ** Reply to note from Mark Flynn Wed, 24 Sep 1997 13:04:37 -0400 > At the rally, one of the RA officers told me that they did, indeed, have > a meeting w/the police agencies involved, to let them know what to > expect. As told to me, the police agencies were hostile then, and didn't > want to have the facts (our demographics, etc.) get in the way of > ignorant prejudice, the father of their pea-brained, mean spirited > actions. If this is true, the RA goofed in not changing the location for the rally at the time as soon as police hostility became known. Bruce G. Keahey, U S WEST Advanced Technologies, Boulder, CO "Never annoy anything that you can't outrun!" ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 10:51:14 -0800 From: roozbehNoSpam@NoSpamwco.com (Roozbeh Chubak) Subject: Re: BMW: FWD>RE>BMW- Fontana, harass Tony Meyn sed: >Roozbeh, > >This is a dangerous attitude, Rooz. What I am picking up from your >post is that intimidation tactics such as you experienced in N.C. might be >justified for other motorcycle groups, but not for BMW riders. Sorry, >that just doesn't fly. Why are you "sure" BMW riders are better behaved? > >Perhaps the county fathers around Fontana should talk to the good people >of Paonia, CO. They host multiple rallies a year including a BMW rally >and a Harley rally and welcome all. In fact, to me this is a model of how >a rally and town can exist for the benefit of each other. > >Best, >Tony Meyn > > >On Wed, 24 Sep 1997, Roozbeh Chubak wrote: > >> I am sure BMW riders as a whole are so much better behaved than many other >> motorcycle groups coming to town en mass that many local authorities are >> pleasantly surprised at how little trouble was caused during the >> visit/rally etc. BMW people who set up these rallies and deal with the >> locals should bring closure to any just-completed rally through a series of >> correspondence on "We loved visiting you" and receiving such responses as >> "it was great having you." Such letters can be shown to future rally hosts >> to alleviate their concerns. >> >> >> Regards, >> Roozbeh >> >> _______________________________________________________________________ >> >> Roozbeh Chubak AMA #552002 BOOF #1 >> BMWOA #38643 Village Idiot Idiologue >> Berkeley, CA BMWRA #21280 97 K1100LT-SE >> DoD #6666 96 R1100GS >> ======================================================================= >> >> Dear Tony: This is not a matter of attitude but facts. I remember hearing an account a number of years ago of the reluctance on the part of the local authorities to agree hosting the BMWOA annual rally at their locality. The MOA people who were discussing this with them then produced a letter from the authorities at the prior year's BMWOA rally who had basically said they were so pleased to discover BMW riders had been so much better behaved than other motorcycle groups with which they had had past experience. I understand this letter did the job and was responsible for removing the final hurdle to agrreing to host the rally at the following year's site. (Perhaps one of the MOA oldtimers can confirm this account.) Tony, what on earth gave you the idea from my that I had any thoughts about the behavior of Harley riding groups one way or another? If you picked up from my post that "that intimidation tactics such as you experienced in N.C. might be justified for other motorcycle groups" you are dead wrong. Talk about a reach! I would not want to see intimidation tactics used against *anyone*, not even against low life groups such as white supremacists. The purpose of my post was to simply suggest we have ways of demonstrating BMW riders are better behaved than the populance at certain localities might have expected. Regards, Roozbeh _______________________________________________________________________ Roozbeh Chubak AMA #552002 BOOF #1 BMWOA #38643 Village Idiot Idiologue Berkeley, CA BMWRA #21280 '97 K1100LT-SE DoD #6666 '96 R1100GS ======================================================================= Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 10:58:59 EST From: bkeaheyNoSpam@NoSpamuswest.com Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana - blame? Addressed to: "Bob Oelschlager" bmwmcNoSpam@NoSpamworld.std.com ** Reply to note from "Bob Oelschlager" Wed, 24 Sep 1997 11:56:46 CST-6CDT > Future Rally-meisters live and learn and don't ever EVER forget to "sell" > yourself/club/group/project/rally in the most positive of ways 'cuz > sometimes people turn out to be no damn good anyway. And if you can't, or don't, close the "sell", take the rally elsewhere Bruce G. Keahey, U S WEST Advanced Technologies, Boulder, CO "I don't know just how long I'll be gone, But I'll be back when I run out of road." - John Brannen ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 11:03:01 -0800 From: roozbehNoSpam@NoSpamwco.com (Roozbeh Chubak) Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana Whiners (NO BMW) At 8:23 AM 9/24/97, Tom Nash wrote: > > >Duner, > >I am going to make an assumption here, and you correct me if I am wrong: >My assumption is that you are a person of color. > >>White people moved < > ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ > >Ummmm, excuse, me, but didn't you just identify yourself as a racist? > >It works two ways, Duner. Who's going to stop first, you or me? Maybe we >could both stop at the same time? Now there's an idea... :) > >Don't apply for a job at my company - as a racist, you would not meet the >"Zero Tolerance" standards for racist and sexual harassment. > >Tom Nash >'94 K1100RS >San Francisco >---------- >I am neither Athenian nor Greek. I am a citizen of the world. > - Socrates >---------- No, Duner is white. I read Duner's post and it did not at all struck me as racist. What I read the post to say was that how we were treated in NC is the way blacks are treated everyday everywhere. (I did not quite understand his reference to whites moving there 15 years ago.) I know Duner; I have spent time with him and I have never detected any traces of bigotry in him. Regards, Roozbeh Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 14:03:17 -0400 (EDT) From: WARUSZEWSKNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com Subject: BMW: Re:Tell em were commin/hide the womin In a message dated 97-09-24 10:13:08 EDT, you write: << I agree with Jim Coburn and feel that planners for our large-scale rallies owe it to the attendees to make preliminary contacts with the local authorities to smooth the way,>> As large as some of these events have become, I am amazed that this has not come up sooner. It really should be a courtesy to any community to let them know that the terror in our hearts is not directed at them. As part of a peace keeping network I am sure that a few hundred, let along a few thousand persons, bikers or not, would cause anyone to say "What the f***!" << to let them know the character of the rally-goers, >> Now your going to get in trouble again. Or, they may simply hide their women, alcohol and sheep. But, what the hay, Pinnocle and O'duals izn't all bad. VIC WARUSZEWSKI, SoD # 21, VI #1 MOA 85 K100RS BMW Touring Club of Detroit MOA#1, Motor City Beemers Team K-Basa # 3 http://pages.prodigy.com/bmwtcd We'll have some high times, and live them low. Get some fast food and eat it slow. I'm hungry when I get up, and sleepy when I eat. Only time I feel right, I got the road beneith my feet. - The Fabulous Thunderbirds ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 14:04:49 -0400 (EDT) From: WARUSZEWSKNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com Subject: BMW: Fontana VS Morganton Iz anyone aware of any mis-haps that occured in Morganton? I seem to recall "Welcome BMW Riders" signs just about everywhere. This extreem change in attitude makes me wonder if there are other factors here that we not be aware of. I do not want to play Devil's advocate, but it has frequently suggested that I go visit. VIC WARUSZEWSKI, SoD # 21, VI #1 MOA 85 K100RS BMW Touring Club of Detroit MOA#1, Motor City Beemers Team K-Basa # 3 http://pages.prodigy.com/bmwtcd We'll have some high times, and live them low. Get some fast food and eat it slow. I'm hungry when I get up, and sleepy when I eat. Only time I feel right, I got the road beneith my feet. - The Fabulous Thunderbirds Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 15:46:25 -0400 From: "aaronNoSpam@NoSpamrocketship.com" Subject: BMW: suggestions on fontana letters just an off the cuff suggestions for people who might be sending letters of complaint about their treatment at the fontana rally. - -no expletatives or name calling - -specific details of each and every incident that you personally observed or or were subject to. - -do not cast dispersions on local cops, focus on their leaders. - -briefly state your experience at previous rallys particularly in terms of criminality particularly fights and violence. - -your background. age profesion, lack of criminal record if applicable just a thought. - -what you will tell others about visiting the area. and remember I wasnt there but you fight for us all. A Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 17:19:42 -0400 From: "Ted Hall" Subject: BMW: Fw: police harrassment Rob Mason is open game, load and fire - ---------- > From: Ted Hall > To: robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com > Subject: police harrassment > Date: Wednesday, September 24, 1997 5:05 PM > > Dear Mr. Mason > I attended the 25th Riders Association Rally on the 18 through 21 of > September. While I was there, I had seen a fairly large contingency of > police in and around the Fontana Villiage area. As I was appointed Chief of > Security within the ranks of BMW motorcycle community I felt a little > overwhelmed by the number of professional police surrounding the area. As > in all the Rallies that I have attended in the last ten years, I have never > seen so much police activity. We have always had a few local cops around, > and I think that is a benefit, but never an Army. Helicopters, mobile > police command center, squad cars a plenty, drug dogs, come on, what the > hell is going on? > I was stopped in a road block on top of Deals Gap, along with many other > motorcyclist. The cars were stopped also, but were not asked to produce any > paper work. I, and several other motorcyclists were asked to see their > drivers license. My bike has legal registration, visible, legal state > inspection, visible and I wear over a thousand dollars worth of protective > clothing and helmet, also ,visible. Why was I singled out? I have no clue. > It seems to me a little excessive to have a force as large as that out in > the field for such an event. Who gets to pay their overtime, the county. I > know for a fact that the tax payers in my state would go ballistic if that > were to happen in Vermont, not to mention the tourist bureau. > This incident has forever been stored in my experiences that I will never > return to Graham County for any reason. I can and will spend my vacations > in another part of the country where I am welcomed. And I shall tell of > this experince to anyone that is contemplating a visit in your area and I > will be sure to discourage anyone from going there. > Ted Hall > hfrmystrNoSpam@NoSpamvermontel.com > AMA MOA RA (VT,STATE DIRECTOR) AIRHEAD > BMW MOV BMW GS BMW SE ME OSBMW YANKEE BEEMER > 75 90/6 TABS-TRANS ATLANTIC BIKESHARE > 83 R80 ST TOURSHARE MEMBER Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 17:53:55 -0400 From: "Gary Brown" Subject: BMW: Fontana Area Policing Practices This message is in reponse to a request for specific policing incidents that BMW Riders Association Fontana Rally participants were involved in, or personally witnessed. The incident involved being stopped on the North Carolina side of Deals Gap for no apparent probable cause other than the fact that I and the group that I was with were riding motorcycles. It happened on Friday, September 19, 1998, about 1:30 pm. The checkpoint was staffed by both North Carolina Highway Patrol and Graham County Sheriff's deputies. No badge numbers. We were required to stop in the middle of the road and produce our driver's license. It did not appear that the automobile or truck traffic was receiving the same requirement. My group was camped at the Fontana Swim Club area. While we were riding Friday morning (see prior paragraph), other campers in our area reported harrassment from sheriff's deputies who threatened to search tents, but left without taking any action. I can report their significant irritation. It appeared to me that we as a group were not welcome. I would have expected that kind of roadblock if I were touring in Mexico, but not Graham County, North Carolina, United States of America. I live in a north Atlanta suburb, and ride north Georgia mountain roads regularly for recreation. I have never been subjected to that kind of treatment. I had looked forward to bringing my family back to the Fontana area for a vacation to visit that truly beautiful area. Too many other recreational opportunities exist, however, where I will not have to worry about the biases of the local law enforcement. I will not likely return to your area. Yours truly, Gary A. Brown Acworth, Georgia Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 10:00:29 +1200 From: "KLEIN, DEAN" Subject: BMW: Re: Another Fontana Letter Fellow biker scum, The following is a letter I sent to Mountain Express, the primary source of information and news in Western North Carolina. Tourist season is coming to WNC for "leaf season". Many, many visitors will see this. Dear Editor, Every year, motorcyclist from around the US and the world arrive in Asheville during the summer months. Honda holds an annual event where thousands of riders come to WNC. They have a good time, enjoy the beautiful area, spend millions of dollars in the local economy, and then go home. It is a win-win situation for the motorcyclist and the people of the Asheville Area. The BMW Motorcycle Riders of America decided to hold their International Rally at Fontana Village Sept. 19-23 this year. It seemed like an excellent choice, based on the fact that other large motorcycle rallies have taken place in WNC. Unfortunately, the event did not go as planned. Riders where welcomed to Fontana and Graham county by a large police presence. For 2,200 motorcyclist, an expected nice weekend in the mountains turned into one of roadblocks, helicopters overhead, and more. At the last minute a beer license for the event was canceled by the local constables. Needless to say, it was not a happy situation. Tales are flying fast and furious over the internet about the event. Riders are reporting being stopped up to 4 times over the course of the weekend. At most roadblocks, only motorcycles where stopped, not cars. One vender was arrested for drinking a beer in front of his vender tent. A criminal court judge from Virginia that attended the event noted "...their entire presence (police) was one of intimidation rather than assistance". The question has been raised: how much did Graham county spend to have so many police officers on duty? How much did the helicopter cost to maintain and keep in the air? And the most important question: Why? Since when does a group of predominately middle aged upper class motorcyclist represent a threat? Letters have been sent to the Governor and both Senators complaining about the treatment of motorcyclist in Graham County. Some riders are calling for a boycott of NC and others are vowing never to return. The information about the weekend and how motorcyclist are treated in Graham County, NC is being heard around the US and the world. Riding a motorcycle is not a crime, but apperently in Graham County, NC it's reason enough to be stopped, searched, and treated with suspecion. Sometimes I'm embarrased to call North Carolina home. Sincerely, Dean Klein McMurdo Staion, Antarctica Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 18:18:40 -0400 From: austin01NoSpam@NoSpamjuno.com (mark austin) Subject: BMW: comparison of Fontana and Paonia I had the pleasure of attending the rally at Paonia, CO this past summer and I saw a very positive example of how a local community (including the police) and rally goers can both benefit from the rally. The local volunteer fire dept played a group of riders in softball, the intercom on a local police cruiser was used for the closing ceremonies, money was donated from the rally to several local organizations (including the police), etc. I have attended several rallies and I have never fealt more welcome than I was in Paonia. The police in Fontana should look to Paonia for guidance. And, by the way, if you have not attended the rally in Paonia, I suggest you try to make it next year. Mark Austin austin01NoSpam@NoSpamjuno.com dmaust01NoSpam@NoSpamulkyvm.louisville.edu Louisville, KY ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 17:22:14 -0500 From: BEEMERHILL Subject: BMW: North Carolina - Reciprocity ?? Hello all, Just had a good friend ask if I could seek out information from you all about his citation (Thank you Graham County.) 1) If he does not pay it, what states have reciprocity with NC? 2) It was mentioned over the campfire (another rally lie, perhaps?) that there are federal guidelines for setting court costs as they relate to the citation. The terms mentioned were that court costs should not exceed 40% of the fine. If the citation was for $10.00, doesn't $80 in additional court costs seem steep? Has anyone heard of these guidelines? And if you have, where can I access them? TIA - Sue Rihn-Manke Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 18:29:57 -0400 (EDT) From: "James M. Dodmead" Subject: Re: BMW: The Blitz and Fontana Once I got Gately's synopsis of the rally I began thinking about how the whole thing would piss me off. When I was a young Navy Man (circa 1972) I rode from my school in CA to my next station, a Frigate in Charleston, SC in December. Quite the adventure. In Mississippi I was pulled over for no apparent reason. They then asked to inspect my bags; I had nothing to hide so I let them. They field stripped my bags, looked the bike (Kawasaki Mach 3) over real good. I asked the officer if there was a problem, "He said buoy, we see a motorsickle with CaliforniA plates, we check it out. My advice to you is to get out of this state." I concurred and did. I've always had a warm spot in my heart for Mississippi ever since then;-), the registration/DL checks reminded me of that experience. My kids said it was probably a good thing that I didn't go. I say a little hell needs to be raised here (and I was only a spiritual, slug attendee). Best, Jim At 02:25 PM 9/21/97 +0000, Don Lescoulie wrote: > >Mike wrote: > >>Fontana was more like a police state than anything. > >Never been there but it sounds like the south we know from the >movies. I'll try not to complain about the CHP so much. > >Don Lescoulie >Coarsegold, CA > > James M. Dodmead (Jim) Network Engineering and dodmeadNoSpam@NoSpamnetsww.com Technical Services (NETS), Inc. V 301.854.4945 14825 Burntwoods Road F 410.489.7508 Glenwood, MD 21738 USA Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 17:40:48 +0000 From: Joseph Luther Subject: BMW: Re: bmw Fontana vs Ruidoso I just spent three days and nearly a thousand miles riding home in cold HEAVY rain and wind, thinking I should have gone to Fontana instead of Ruidoso. Then I caught up on my IBMWR digest reading. The only aggressive police action I witnessed in Ruidoso was the officers stopping highway traffic so that motorcyclists could get out of the parking lot at the rally. The Golden Aspen Rally was a good time. The weather (El Nino again) was the only downside and it got bad only as the rally ended. Joe Luther Nebraska K1100LT - "EXIT" To: bmwmcNoSpam@NoSpamworld.std.com Cc: BMW_RANoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com Subject: Trial day in Fontana - Learn from Ghandi? Would any of the fellow prezzes be interested in an all effort to get every possible motorcycle group we could contact for a return to Graham County for the date of our fellow Prezes trials for those who were unfortunate enough to get caught? I would also like to thank the Fellow Prezz from Cincinatti, whose name I did not get who was riding a K12, red I think in Jonesville, Virginia who suggested that I ride Rt. 70. I didn't get as far as Rt. 33, but took a secondary road that eventually brought me back to Rt. 58. Those valley roads are truly made or riding. Higher speed limits and no police road blocks. Thanks again Best Ralph Robertson Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 18:36:20 -0400 From: "Jeffrey Harth" Subject: BMW: Treatment of my riding friends at Fontana Mr. Mason, I have been reading with increasing dismay the accounts of overzealous police tactics at our national rally in Fontana. You should know that I was not at the rally though I wanted to be. Its probably a good thing I didn't go because I would have been one of those hauled off in handcuffs as I would have opened my mouth and let them know exactly how I felt about what they were doing. Don't assume that I am a criminal because I ride a motorcycle. Funny thing, considering I'm an Eagle Scout, Navy pilot and officer, and all-around law-abiding nice guy. I think it is a shame for you folks who are now going to bear the brunt of you police department's tactics. I have never been in your area but I keep hearing about the great roads and scenery your part of the state has to offer. I go south to Alabama once a year to visit my relatives and have considered detouring to visit your locale. Not any more. I think I will just make it my business not to come anywhere close. If even for solidarity to my friends who were harassed. It is really a shame. Please feel free to pass this along to whomever you think should know of the impact of the overreaction of Graham County's Finest. Jeff Harth Philadelphia Date: Wed, 24 Sep 97 15:53:22 PST8 From: jfbrownNoSpam@NoSpamCCGATE.HAC.COM Subject: BMW: Small Town Cops Neil Jones posts: //SNIP// >Nice letter, and I agree that it was one of the best rallies I've ever >attended. But I do have to take you to task for the reaction to the Graham >County Sheriff. Re-read your letter as if you were some bonehead sheriff. > He would be gloating! "Ha! Another one of them motorsickle troublemaker >varmints is staying out of my county. I guess I showed them!" > >The sheriff doesn't care about local jobs or sales volumes of local >businesses. All he is in charge of is law enforcement. The more people he >can keep out of his county, the easier his job will be. > >This jerk is too dumb and narrow minded to see the financial disaster he is >creating. ============= Neil, It doesn't sound as if you have much small town experience. Let me enlighten all you "big city" folks. (Note: I was born and raised in a small Midwestern town that is, demographically, attitudinally, and socially, a close clone of Graham County, NC. I speak from first-hand experience.) Everywhere I know, the office of county sheriff is elective. You gotta get the votes to get the job. In small towns, the "power elite" primarily consists of local businessmen/women. Any elected official who crosses swords with this group will probably be out of office come the next election. To get along, elected officials better go along. You can argue about the unfairness of this in a so-called democracy, but that's the way it is in small towns. And in small towns, *everything* is up close and personal because everybody knows everybody else, and it's everybody's personal lives that are affected. No mercy... And if the small town power elite conclude that a local official's actions are "bad for business", that official will very quickly be toast at the polls. If you think that "The sheriff doesn't care about local jobs or sales volumes of local businesses", you are sadly mistaken. He can be made to care, and in short order... or else. Now, from several posts, it appears that the Graham County Chamber of Commerce is seriously investigating harassment incidents at the RAlly. They are, no doubt about it, gravely concerned. The Fontana area gets a major share of its revenue from tourism, and getting a bad rep for treating law-abiding tourists (with lotsa cash and credit cards) badly sets off alarm bells. THEREFORE, SENDING DETAILED INFO ABOUT HARASSMENT INCIDENTS TO THE LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IS EXACTLY THE CORRECT -- AND MOST EFFECTIVE -- RESPONSE. Small town LEOs can blow off the opinions of "furriners", but not powerful, connected locals who are screaming bloody hell because their wallets -- and civic reputations -- are being trashed due to LEO stupidity. The unblinking, harsh glare of bad PR can work wonders. I believe it already has, as far as the RAlly is concerned. So, all you harassees, keep those letters, e-mails, and faxes rolling in to the Graham County, NC, Chamber of Commerce! J.F. Brown 1983 R80ST "NO PIKL" 1997 R11RT "NOIR RAD" IBMWR, AMA, MOA, RA, BOOF, DoD, VI +----------------------------------------------+ | jfbrownNoSpam@NoSpampower.net (J.F. Brown) | Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 20:30:57 From: George Wright Subject: BMW: NC Police/Fontana I was at Fontana and was appalled at the goings on of the police presence as most everyone was. For the past fifteen years we have vacationed in NC on the Outer Banks and have never had any problems with the NC police being overbearing, or selective, in their enforcement. I feel that NC, as a result of Fontana and Graham County, is taking a bad rap for the shabby treatment we were subjected to by the law enforcement community at the far end (read mountain boys) of their state. I heard many of our guys saying they couldn't find the fastest way out of the State. Unfortunately, the Graham boys have managed to put a pall over the whole state unfairly! Just my personal reaction. George Wright Somewhere in Chester County, PA 1975 R90/6 (Munched but not forgotton) 1981 R100RS (Gray Ghost) BMWMOA, IBMWR, BMWBMW, Blue Flame Beemers, Chesapeake BMW Riders Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 20:33:43 -0400 From: Angelo Gravagna Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana ( I wasn't there, but....) >I agree with Jim Coburn and feel that planners for our large-scale >rallies >owe it to the attendees to make preliminary contacts with the local >authorities to smooth the way, to let them know the character of the >rally-goers, and to provide references from communities where previous >rallies have been held. A few such contacts might have prevented the >absurd >over-reaction we saw from the Graham County, NC authorities. > > Neil Jones > Dayton, Ohio > '97 R1100RT "Pretty Boy" > > < > Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 20:17:24 -0500 > From: James Colburn > Subject: BMW: Fontana (I Wasn't There Butt...) > > Since we regularly give the MOA powers-that-be a raft of shit when > something goes wrong I think it only fair that we start strapping >those > balsa logs together and complain about the RA Board's lack of >foresight in > determining if the much-touted Fontana site would, in fact, be >motorcycle > friendly. No beer tent? Lots 'o cops? What gives? Who's to blame? > Enquirering minds want to know! > > Jim Colburn>> > Are you guys talking with facts or just talking to make noise and sound intelligent??? I WAS there at Fontana and talked to Ed Jorgensen, RA Prez. He and his team have been working on this rally for over a year. They had talked to the local police, politicos, etc. and all was settled with a beer license in hand months earlier. The day before the rally was to begin, he was called to a meeting by the local authorities along with David Kerr, Manager of Fontana. They were immediately told that the beer license was being cancelled and if they tried to sell any beer they were threatened with arrests, tax audits, etc.. After 3 hours of trying to convince these jerks that they were wrong, Ed gave up. They intended to set up road blocks and stop motorcycles only. When told this, Ed threatened them with law suits if they did not stop ALL vehicles. I believe that what I have said here is correct. I'm sure there are a lot more facts that we don't know and may never. Why don't we wait to hear what RA has to say before running away at the mouth? However, I realize some can't help it since they have diarrhea of the mouth. *********************************************************** Anglo Gravagna Glenwood, MD Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 19:27:00 -0500 From: "Filak, John F" Subject: BMW: Fontana Local Opinion FWIW, while filling up another tank of gas on Rally Saturday in the town of Robbinsville, the guy at the gas station made a huge point of making me aware that all the law enforcement going on was neither asked for nor condoned by the local residents. In fact, he said that they, as a whole, were rather embarrassed by the county sheriff's office as well as the state police. This man must have apologized to me personally at least 10 times during our 20 minute conversation. He expressed concern that a report of this rally would appear in print somewhere, and said "What will people around the country think of us?" The attendant/manager asked me to spread the word to as many people as possible to let them know that the authorities acted on their own and that next election the locals were hoping to show their displeasure. What does one do in a situation such as this? I actually was touched by his show of empathy. I thanked him for saying what he did and agreed to "spread the word". IMO, not all the locals were on the attack. John Filak Lafayette New Jersey USA Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 20:50:22 -0400 (EDT) From: EsquireTedNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com Subject: BMW: Fontana Incidents Wanted TO: Allen Garver Robinsville & Graham County (NC) Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robinsville NC 28771 800 470 3790 (704) 479 3790 FAX (704) 479 9130 Dear Sirs, Friday evening as I and another rider passed through Tellico Plains, TN a police officer saw us approaching and literally ran to his (blue/black?) squad car, started it up and pulled out directly behind us. He followed us quite closely, closer then 4 feet at times, in an attempt I believe to harrass and intimidate us. After a mile of this I saw he had suddenly stopped following us, but then noticed he had merely switched off all of his lights and hung back a bit. We maintained a speed below the proper speed limit and when we stopped at the entrance of the Cherohala Skyway he was no longer behind us. During our ride over the Cherohala I saw three more police cars at the Tennessee/North Carolina border, three more at the NC base of the Cherohala, passed two more on the way to Robbinsville, and saw yet another sitting in front of the video game arcade. Further, I was detained during a blockade set up by I believe the Graham County Sherriff's department (yellow blazed cars) at the very entrance to Fontana Village. I asked the officer why I was being detained and was told it was a safety check. I mentioned that it was my belief that the detention, however brief, was an illegal detention. In a rather mocking tone he suggested that I could discuss this in the back of his squad car if I wanted. Fearing a developing situation where I would ultimately be the loser I merely remarked "never mind" and after receiving my driver's license back I entered the village. On the good side? While my riding partner and I were fueling up to ride the Cherohala on Saturday afternoon at the Shell? station in Robinsville a young man stopped and apologized to my friend and I for the treatment we were receiving at the hands of the local police. Later that evening, after counting yet another 11 police cruisers on the simple route from Robbinsville to the TN/NC border on the Cherohala and back, we began talking with two older women at the Hardees who also expressed dismay at the actions of the local police. They were workers at the local Stanley furniture (?) plant and had remarked that they had grown up in Robbinsville and had never seen the police act as they were this particular weekend. I believe the constant police presence and tactics used by the police were unwarranted, illegal, and served more to intentionally frighten and intimidate then to serve and protect. Unlike others I will return to western North Carolina for it has some of the most beautiful riding on the east coast, and some of the frendliest and considerate people I have met in my tens of thousands of miles of motorcycle travels. The incidents of the last weekend with the local police however will certainly go far in helping me choose alternatives when they do exist. Edward Verrill, J.D. Washington DC Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 19:07:52 -0600 From: Steve Aikens Subject: Re: BMW: Small Town Cops jfbrownNoSpam@NoSpamCCGATE.HAC.COM wrote: > > Neil Jones posts: > > //SNIP// > >The sheriff doesn't care about local jobs or sales volumes of local > >businesses. >................... > Neil, > > It doesn't sound as if you have much small town experience. Let me enlighten > all you "big city" folks. >.................... > Everywhere I know, the office of county sheriff is elective. You gotta get the > votes to get the job. In small towns, the "power elite" primarily consists of > local businessmen/women. Any elected official who crosses swords with this > group will probably be out of office come the next election. Or earlier. > If you think that "The sheriff doesn't care about local jobs or sales volumes of > local businesses", you are sadly mistaken. He can be made to care, and in short > order... or else. FWIW, Clovis is a small town. We had a Sheriff, Good friend of mine - then and now - lives 6 houses away from me. Well, Ol' Mikey didn't like some of the kids goings on around here and started a crack-down on some of the local bigwigs kids. Tossed 'em in the slammer for violateing curfew (yes, we have one for the kids) and made Mommy and Daddy come haul 'em home for $50. Caught 'em smoking and tossed 'em in the slammer - - another $50, caught 'em with their stereos too loud in the cars, tossed 'em in the slammer - another $50. Next thing you know, Ol' Mikey's sitting in court for having an affair with one of the local female Sheriffs. Elections almost two years away, Mikey's looking for a job and everyone saves 'em $50 fines. Small town justice is a little different than city justice. Anyone that thinks local "sheriff(s) doesn't (don't) care about local jobs or sales volumes" is making a big mistake. Local, small town governing is controlled through the local businesspeople. Here in Clovis, we have what we call "The Shifty Fifty". It's made up of (actually 62) invited "power elite" of our community that actually lobby Congress on behalf of our community to keep our local Air Force Base open, get major highway funding, etc. Any of you that can't see the power being manipulated here is not being realistic. And all being done for the "Good of the community". Small town Sheriff's that abuse/misuse their authority to an extent it touches the businesspeoples' wallet will, like Mikey, be unemployed or worse yet, brought up on some kind of charge that will ruin their reputation, career, and possibly their lives. > Now, from several posts, it appears that the Graham County Chamber of Commerce > is seriously investigating harassment incidents at the RAlly. >..................... > THEREFORE, SENDING DETAILED INFO ABOUT HARASSMENT INCIDENTS TO THE LOCAL CHAMBER > OF COMMERCE IS EXACTLY THE CORRECT -- AND MOST EFFECTIVE -- RESPONSE. > > Small town LEOs can blow off the opinions of "furriners", but not powerful, > connected locals who are screaming bloody hell because their wallets -- and > civic reputations -- are being trashed due to LEO stupidity. The unblinking, > harsh glare of bad PR can work wonders. I believe it already has, as far as the > RAlly is concerned. > > So, all you harassees, keep those letters, e-mails, and faxes rolling in to the > Graham County, NC, Chamber of Commerce! > > J.F. Brown Nope, didn't make the RA. Never intended to. There are two reasons why. One is the conflicting date with the Golden Aspen Rally. And the second and most important is in an excerpt from a reply I wrote to Tom Buttars re: his comment about not writing off North Carolina because of one bad experience. I'm sure Tom has no objections to my sharing a private reply of this nature, so with his indulgence: - -------My Reply To Tom----------------- As to not writing off North Carolonia, too late. I have, for a number of runs to the east, made it a point to do "The Gap Thing" several times. Needless to say, with so many other good riding roads in that area, I've done my share of traveling in NC, over several years. I'm sorry to say, I've **never** been through NC that I didn't get stopped and harrassed. I have been stopped for "Safety equipment inspections", "Insurance inspections", and other bogus shit excuses to stop the bike. The final crowning glory of achievement of the NC State Police was a stop for "erratic riding behaviour" for swerveing out of the path of a pickup truck that blew a stop sign and nearly ended my riding days. That was on my ride home from Morganton and the last time NC will see my smiling face or open wallet. I filed a complaint and never even got the courtesy of a response. FWIW, I have never been cited in NC and have never been stopped for speeding or breaking a law that could be cited. The arrogance of the State Police there is noted time after time. I think it's time for us to sit up and take notice where our presence isn't wanted. Nope. Don't think I need that in my life. Past experience is one reason I did not/will not go to Fontana or anywhere else in NC. Looks like history has repeated itself for some. - ------------End Of Reply------------------ I'm sorry to say, North Carolina's problem is much larger than the local Sheriff. - -- I don't suffer from insanity.....I enjoy every minute of it! Steve Aikens, Clovis, New Mexico steve.aikensNoSpam@NoSpam3lefties.com My BMW URL is http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/4323/ Don't drop by very often, it never changes. Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 21:33:54 -0500 From: "Mike Lukachek" Subject: BMW: Letter to Fontana area This will be sent to all NC contacts. Dear Sir: I write this letter to inform you of my displeasure in my recent visit to your area during the BMW Riders Association Rally held at Fontana Village 9/19 - 9/21. In my past visits through the state of North Carolina and Graham County, I have always been welcomed by local residents and businesses. Due to these fine people, it was assumed that this trip would be like any other. In fact, the sign in Robbinsville welcoming our group, brought a smile to my face. Only later did I find that it was not we riders that were welcomed, but only the revenue generated. Including, sales taxes, gasoline taxes and fines imposed for minor infractions written to fellow riders by various policing agencies. If your decision to heavy handedly police the area was based on grade "B" biker movies from the 1960s, maybe it would have been better to speak with some of the clubs officers and organizers beforehand. You would have found that BMW riders in general, are a pretty docile group. Also I could assume that in your opinion, the road blocks and check points, (as on Rt129 near Deals Gap), were designed as a safety measure. Seems to me all that was accomplished was making a possibly hazardous road even more so. You could even state that the constant patroling of Fontana Village with police crusiers driving through crowds of people created a very dangerous situation. In closing, I must say that future vacation plans will probably not include visits to your area. This saddens me because of the beautiful country and wonderful people that are within your borders. Sincerly, Mike Lukachek Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 15:05:11 +1200 From: "KLEIN, DEAN" Subject: BMW: I'm from NC... Biker scum, I'm appalled by the Fontana Fiasco. Those of you that are tossing stones at RA for "poor planning" ought to shut up and plan a large rally yourself. I was on the selection committee for the Morganton MOA Rally. It took 18 months to find a site, secure the place, and get everything set up. Had it not been for a key player who was local to Morganton, it would have been much, much tougher. Some of you may know, but Parkway Motorcycle Rentals of Asheville, NC was my baby. It's history now due to the insurance weasels, but that's another tale. What I can tell you is that motorcyclist being hassled by police in NC is, sadly, not that unusual. Before deploying for Antarctica, I rode a Vespa 150 miles to Galax, VA to meet a gentleman and buy an R80G/S from him. He, in turn, took the Vespa. On the way back to Asheville, I was stopped in Boone, NC. At the time I was doing 20mph (the posted limit was 25) and looking over Appalachian State University (my old school). While paroozing the scenary, a cruiser did a 180 in the middle of the street and was on my ass. At a red light I pulled aside a pickup with two 90's hipsters in the cab. "The man's gonna hassle me" I said. They looked over and said "uh huh...yup". 200 yards later, I was getting a blue light. I had my license and sale papers out and the helmet off before the cop ever got out of his car. When he got within earshot I simply said "what" and the fellow jumped two feet backwards. Scared 'em I guess. He mumbled that my headlight was too dim. It was broad daylight. I explained to him that G/S electrical systems are weak in the first place and don't come in until about 3,000 RPM. I then asked him what constituted a headlight being too dim and how did he know. He mumbled something, got into his cruiser and I left. The next tag was in Old Fort, NC. I exited town to go on the interstate...oh, I guess 5-10mph hot. The officer was on my like stink. After saying "hi" and showing him the sales paperwork, he started complimenting the bike and telling bike tales. In all honesty, I think he stopped me to just check the thing out. 3 miles later I ran out of gas...but that was just par for the day. To wind this all up: Yes, the police in Western North Carolina do need education that bikers are not outlaws and fiends. There's a lot of education needed....now. - Dean aka BMWloco Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 23:06:30 -0400 From: Karl Rosenbaum Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana Incidents Wanted At 08:50 PM 09/24/1997 -0400, you wrote: >Friday evening as I and another rider passed through Tellico Plains, TN a >police officer saw us approaching and literally ran to his (blue/black?) >squad car, started it up and pulled out directly behind us. He followed us >quite closely, closer then 4 feet at times, in an attempt I believe to >harrass and intimidate us. After a mile of this I saw he had suddenly >stopped following us, but then noticed he had merely switched off all of his >lights and hung back a bit. We maintained a speed below the proper speed >limit and when we stopped at the entrance of the Cherohala Skyway he was no >longer behind us. During our ride over the Cherohala I saw three more police >cars at the Tennessee/North Carolina border, three more at the NC base of the >Cherohala, passed two more on the way to Robbinsville, and saw yet another >sitting in front of the video game arcade. Wonder who that was?;) You can add my name to the letter if you would like. I am still trying to form some thoughts as to how to word it all and then I will ship it off. Other than the above I had only one more incident. It was when I left; I was stopped right before the Robbinson exit on Rt 29. Not a roadblock, but pulled over. I was going 45 in a 55. He said that I was driving too fast for the conditions (yeah right) and wanted the reg and license. Took awhile for the registration since it was under the seat, which was under the gym bag that I had strapped to the seat. It took him about 15 minutes to get the report back on my license. I also had to explain why I had a CT license with VA tags. Then he wanted to have my military ID. Then he asked why I had the beard; I said that I was on leave. After that he wanted me to produce my leave form. At that point I was getting really pissed! I had it, but what the hell did he need to see it for? If I was AWOL (we actually called unauthorized absence - UA for short) I would have been a hit on the NCIC computer that he ran me through. Well after all this (and I STILL did not have my first cup of java) I was on my way. No ticket, no warning. He handed me my reg and license back and said "that is all". And that was that! Regards, Karl Rosenbaum Woodbridge, Va 88 K100LT "grandpa" BMWRA # 22184 BMWMOA #77012 AMA #567210 and BMWBMW #1650 krosenbaNoSpam@NoSpamerols.com http://www.erols.com/krosenba Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 14:34:37 -0700 From: "Lloyd F. Rauschkolb" Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana (I Wasn't There Butt...) James Colburn wrote: > > >Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 15:22:13 > >From: Craig Vechorik > > >....that same weekend, in Mississippi, 480+ Harleys, Hondas, > >BMW's, Triumphs, and 3 Cushmans were in Sturgis, MS (a town of > >200 people) for a sorta rally, and the cops stopped CARS in the > >highway, all day, for the bikers to make left turns safely in the > >oncoming traffic. > > > >And as bad an image as most people have of Mississippi, we did not > >get hassled ONE bit. The South? I dunno about that... > > That's because they knew that the only people able to afford Harleys are > lawyers...... :-) > > Jim Colburn > (aka james.colburnNoSpam@NoSpampressroom.com) > > "You can't eat prestige, so take the money" Jim: You don't have any prestige so you can't eat it. As far as taking the money, it's obvious that you have no scruples. We all know you would take the money. From your postings you are obviously an unscrupulous kind of guy. From my perspective I know it will catch up to you one day. It always does. (((Sorry Frank-I know I should practice what I preach, but this guy just begs for it)))). Lloyd Rauschkolb (Editor of the BMW Riders of Mississippi News and one of those low life Mississipians you like to talk about). rauschkolbNoSpam@NoSpamgcip.net Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 15:56:43 -0400 (EDT) From: SecababsNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com Subject: Re:BMW: Carolina BMW/Honda As mentioned by someone else, the Honda Hoot is held in Asheville, NC. It has been held here for the last five years, grown every year and is welcomed by the City, County and all Public Officials. I am not only impressed by the level of positive publicity and the reception that the Hoot receives by the community, but have never seen the level of police prescense that I witnessed at Fontana even though the Honda Hoot brings over 10,000 motorcyclists to Asheville. I have lived and ridden a motorcycle here for the last two years and have had no encounters with the police, nor have any of my friends. On behalf of those of us that live in Western North Carolina, I apologize for what happened in Graham Country. While I understand that no one wants to be treated that way, I hope that you don't write off the entire western part of the state, or the state as a whole because of how one county treated you. We have friendly people and great riding in the Asheville area. Please consider coming back and giving the friendly part of Western North Carolina a try. Barbara F 650 Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 21:42:41 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: Fontanna Letter to Smoky Mountain Host of North Carolina September 24, 1997 Smoky Mountain Host of North Carolina 4437 Georgia Rd. Franklin NC 28734 Dear Smoky Mountain Host, I am writing you to let you know that in one weekend, the Graham County government actions spoke far more forcefully, than your Vacation Guide and Map. I, and others that travel like me, are not welcome in the area. We will heed the Graham County government actions and not return. Fortunately, for me, there are other states with attractions similar to North Carolina's. I will minimize my travel, and money spent, in North Carolina, and recommend to everyone I know, they do the same. In no case will I travel through, or spend money in Graham County. The BMW Riders Association (BMW RA) held their International Rally September 18 21 1997 at Fontana Village in Graham County. This was the largest BMW RA National Rally ever, with over 2000 people attending. The local sheriff, with support from the North Carolina State police, had two command posts complete with a helicopter set up to monitor the attendees activities. The County Government canceled a beer sale permit at two days before the start of the rally for no stated reason. This is totally unprofessional and an insult to me and the others attending. It does not have to be that way. The BMW Motorcycle Owners of America International Rally at Morganton North Carolina last year. There was no police presence like there was in Graham County. While the Graham County businesses and people were very friendly and happy to see us, their actions are not sufficient to overcome the County government actions. The government can take away my liberty, and the residents cannot restore it. While I am an individual writing, other participants are discussing this, in other venues, with those who did not attend. I am sure how we were treated will be at least mentioned in the Rally reports. This type of action affects where we, and those we know, travel. With an average age of around 50, we travel. We travel where we are appreciated, and not threatened by the local government. While Graham County has delightful roads, people, and attractions, the threat to my liberty is too high, and my travel in North Carolina will be minimized. My presence in the "Police State" of Graham County was not wanted by County Government. I heed the message. I do not travel through or patronize Police States, life is too short, to risk my liberty in such areas. It pains me to see government deeds, destroy businesses actions to improve an area's economy. As a local organization, perhaps you can prevent further damage to the area's reputation in the future. The only way I might change my mind, is if the Graham County Government sends a letter admitting their error, and apologizing to Mr. Ed Jorgensen, BMW RA President and 1997 Rally Chairman. Sincerely, [Signed] Brian Curry RD 2 Blackhorse Rd Chester Springs, PA 19425 Fc: Governor James B. Hunt Jr Clay County Chamber of Commerce Ec: Internet BMW Riders Mr. Ed Jorgensen Ms Juli Tucker Cherokee Visitors Center Andrews County Chamber of Commerce Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Cherokee KOA Jackson County Robinsville Chamber of Commerce +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | "We cannot tolerate the proliferation of this paperwork any longer. | | We must kill the people producing it." | | - Vladimir Kabaidze 1936 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 21:42:49 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: Graham STAR Letter to the Editor September 24, 1997 The Graham Star P.O. Box 69 Robbinsville NC 28771 Dear Graham County residents and business, I feel sorry for you as Graham County taxpayers and business owners. While attending the BMW Riders Association International Rally September 18-21, 1997 at Fontana Village I witnessed the greatest waste of taxpayer, and advertising money I have ever seen. The Graham STAR publishes a very nice area and attraction guide. There were two banners over the road welcoming us to Graham County. However, the County Commissioners and Sheriff's actions, clearly demonstrated that I and any others that travel like me, are not welcome. We will heed their actions and travel, and spend elsewhere. There is no need for us to visit a Police State. In attending twelve BMW International Rallies, and many more local rallies over 20 years, I have never seen any, let alone two, police command posts, nor any police helicopter overflights. Considerable taxpayer funds must have been spent to station police there for several days and fly the helicopter. And for what reason, or effect? None that I could tell. Canceling the beer sales permit two days prior to the opening of the rally is totally unprofessional. If I was a Graham County resident, or particularly a business owner desiring increased economic activity, I would be upset. The Commissioners and Sheriff's actions showed over 2000 people, who I am sure will tell others, how they were regarded. We were not wanted. And those 2000 people, and some they talk to, will not be returning to, nor traveling to Graham County. If you, like I, are upset, I suggest that you contact the County Commissioners and let them know what you think of their actions. Personally, I think the Commissioners owe Mr. Ed Jorgensen, the BMW Riders Association President and Rally Chairman a letter of apology. To the business owners and local people I met thank you very much for your hospitality, while I would like to come back and visit the area, I and others will not as long as we feel that our liberty may be taken by the capricious actions of a local sheriff. Sincerely, Brian Curry RD 2 Blackhorse Rd Chester Springs PA 19425. Ec: Internet BMW Riders Mr. Ed Jorgensen Ms. Juli Tucker Robinsville Chamber of Comme +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | "We cannot tolerate the proliferation of this paperwork any longer. | | We must kill the people producing it." | | - Vladimir Kabaidze 1936 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 21:42:49 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: ASHEVILLE CITIZEN_TIMES Letters to the Editor The ASHEVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES PO Box 2090 ASHEVILLE NC 28802 Dear North Carolina residents and businesses, While attending the BMW Riders Association International Rally September 18-21, 1997 at Fontana Village, Graham County I witnessed the greatest waste of taxpayer, and advertising money I have ever seen. North Carolina state and counties publish several visitor's guides encouraging North Carolina tourism. However, the Graham County Commissioners and Sheriff's actions, clearly demonstrated that I and any others that travel like me, are not welcome. We will heed their actions and travel, and spend elsewhere. There is no need for us to visit a Police State. In attending twelve BMW National Rallies in over 20 years, I have never seen one, let alone two, police command posts, and never experienced a police helicopter overflight. Considerable taxpayer funds must have been spent to station police there for several days and fly the helicopter. And for what reason, or effect? None that I could tell. Further, canceling the beer sales permit two days prior to the opening of the rally is totally unprofessional. If I was a resident, or particularly a business owner desiring increased economic activity in North Carolina, I would be upset. The Commissioners and Sheriff's actions showed over 2000 people, who I am sure will tell others, how they were regarded. We were not wanted. And those 2000 people, and some they talk to, will not be coming back. If you as a resident, like I a non-resident, are upset, I ask you to contact the Graham County Commissioners and let them know what you think of their actions. Personally, I think the Graham County Commissioners owe Mr. Ed Jorgensen, the BMW Riders Association President and Rally Chairman a letter of apology. To the Graham County and North Carolina business owners and local people I met thank you very much for your hospitality, while I would like to come back and visit the area, I and others will not as long as we feel that our liberty may be taken by the capricious actions of a local sheriff. Sincerely, Brian Curry RD 2 Blackhorse Rd Chester Springs PA 19425. Ec: Internet BMW Riders Mr. Ed Jorgensen Ms. Juli Tucker Robinsville Chamber of Commerce +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | "We cannot tolerate the proliferation of this paperwork any longer. | | We must kill the people producing it." | | - Vladimir Kabaidze 1936 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 21:42:55 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: Fontanna Letter to NC Travel and Tourism September 24, 1997 North Carolina Travel and Tourism Division 301 N. Wilmington St. Raleigh, NC 27601-2625 Dear Travel and Tourism Division, While you are producing beautiful booklets describing the beauty and attractions of North Carolina to draw visitors, the Graham County government is demonstrating that those visitors are not welcome. I have never been subjected to such an odious, repugnant, obnoxious demonstration of police power in my entire life. Fortunately, for me, there are other states with attractions similar to North Carolina's. I will minimize my travel, and money spent, in North Carolina, and recommend to everyone I know, that they do the same. In no case will I travel through, or spend money in Graham County. The BMW Riders Association (BMW RA) held their International Rally September 18 21 1997 at Fontana Village in Graham County. This was the largest BMW RA International Rally ever, with more than 2000 people attending. The local sheriff, with support from the North Carolina State police, had two command posts complete with a helicopter set up to monitor the attendees' activities. The monitoring included "safety checks" which were much more intrusive to motorcyclists, than car or truck drivers. There were slow flights over Fontana Village by the helicopter. There was extensive patrolling of the Fontana Village property with arrests for petty offenses, which might even be considered "trumped up charges." The County Government canceled a beer sale permit at two days before the start of the rally for no stated reason. This is totally unprofessional. I know it does not have to be that way. I was at the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America International Rally at Morganton, North Carolina last year. While the Graham County people and businesses were very friendly and happy to see us, their actions are not sufficient to overcome the County government actions bad taste. The county government can take away my liberty, and the local people cannot restore it. While I am an individual writing, the 2000 other participants are discussing this with those that did not attend. I am sure how we were treated will be at least mentioned in the Rally reports. This type of action affects where we and those we know travel. With an average age around 50, we do travel. We travel where we are appreciated, and not threatened by the local government. Graham County certainly does not meet those criteria, and travel in North Carolina will also be minimized. I felt my presence in the Graham County "Police State" was objected to by the County Government. I do not travel through, or patronize Police States, life is too short, to risk my liberty in such areas. The only way I might change my mind, is if the Graham County Government sends a letter admitting their error, and apologizing to Mr. Ed Jorgensen, BMW RA President and 1997 Rally Chairman. Sincerely, [Signed] Brian Curry RD 2 Blackhorse Rd Chester Springs, PA 19425 Fc: Governor James B. Hunt Jr Clay County Chamber of Commerce Ec: Internet BMW Riders Mr. Ed Jorgensen Ms Juli Tucker Cherokee Visitors Center Andrews County Chamber of Commerce Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Cherokee KOA Jackson County Robinsville Chamber of Commerce +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | "We cannot tolerate the proliferation of this paperwork any longer. | | We must kill the people producing it." | | - Vladimir Kabaidze 1936 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 21:45:15 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: Re: BMW: Revised NC Addresses There is an error here. I have deleted what I did not check and show the changes in [] brackets At 08:56 AM 9/24/97 -0700, Roger Wiles wrote: > >Following are addresses and telephone numbers, FAX numbers and E-mail address >of various parties that may be interested in your comments about the reception >we received at the BMW RA in Fontana! rally last weekend. >The Honorable James Hunt, Governor >State of North Carolina >116 W. Jones Street >Raleigh NC 27603-8001 Voice [919] 733 4240 FAX [919-715-3175] Also, the North Carolina Travel and Tourism Division can be reached via e-mail to Paul Cook in that office. His e-mail address is: pcookNoSpam@NoSpamtravel.commerce.state.nc.us Have fun people but keep it polite, and I think keep it to economic issues. Pocket books drive lots of issues in politics. Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 23:44:42 -0400 (EDT) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: NC Info Wanted / This is BS -- Dali Meeow The information is so available that the folks in Robbinsville are tripping over it. If they would just turn on the lights they would see why they're stubbing their toes. If this request is not bull shit then Dali Meeow is a transvestite sports broadcaster who just pleaded insanity for biting a tasteless woman. =20 First, THE REQUEST.=20 > Allen Garver, an official with the Graham County > Chamber of Commerce asked me for any SPECIFIC information about any > incidents of harrassment, and I responded. He and his organization are > actively looking for all the SPECIFIC information they can gather ... Second, THE STORAGE Tell Mr. Garver it's all available right there in Graham County. The sheriff has a blotter or list of people arrested with the name, date, time. If you want police information, such as who was arrested, for what, by whom, etc. ask for it. Actually, you can demand it. Here in Miami I use a demand letter that cites both U.S. and Florida law. In North Carolina, don't cite Florida law. Find an applicable North Carolina law (duh). =20 There is a newspaper in Graham County. I don't know how good it is, but I'll bet at least some of the editors or reporters are members of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ). The reporter could have joined when he was a college student, certainly while a working journalist. This month's issue of the Society's official publication just happens to cover "Freedom of Information 1997 Special Report". =20 Third, ASK FOR INFORMATION. Ask for the names, addresses and charges of all arrests from midnight September 16 to midnight September 22, or whatever date you want. Offer to send a secretary to help transcribe the information. Most papers have a police beat reporter who just automatically gets this information every day. If you don't have a police beat reporter, and if there is a special time period or person you want information on, use a standard form. Fourth, CITE THE LAW. Here's a standard form that I have just thrown together. Look at the information below for even better ones. "This is a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act , United States Code Section 552, and is pursuant to North Carolina Open Records Law: G.S. =A7132-1, for legible and complete copies of information which you have in all or any of your files or indices which contains relevant or material information specified above. If there is a valid reason for not releasing the information I have requested, please state the grounds for such refusal in the form of an affidavit." Yes, I took a whole five minutes to find the North Carolina law. No big= deal.=20 =20 Fifth, WHAT ARE ATTORNEYS FOR ? If the police will not release the information, the newspaper's attorney can request the information. Yes, I know this doesn't answer the "What are attorneys for ?" question, but I'll let you have the fun with this one. Sixth, THE WEB SITES. There is a light in Graham County that will illuminate all of the arrest records. They just have to find the switch and turn it on.=20 If you pull up this web site http://spj.org =20 you will find one of the most complete sources of information about the FOIA on the Web. Information from all 50 states, contacts for all departments of the federal government, and how-to help on filing FOIA requests. The latest FOIA news, plus regular Alerts from SPJ's Freedom of Information chair. For North Carolina information, also look at= http://spj.org/foia/stateind.htm or at http://spj.org/foia/states.htm#North Carolina Open Records Law: G.S. =A7132-1 Exempt: Confidential legal communications; government settlement documents; criminal investigations; and intelligence information. Appears that traffic arrests/citations are not exempt form their Open Records Law. If anyone has any questions about this, here are the people to contact: State Sunshine Chair Chip Wilson Charlotte Observer (704) 868-7743 Attorney General of North Carolina (919) 733-3377 AG Web Site North Carolina Press Association Raleigh (919) 787-7443 North Carolina First Amendment Foundation Raleigh (919) 755-0025 North Carolina State Bar Association (919) 828-4620 Graham County can get their own records and contact anyone they want to contact who was charged, whether the accused has an internet connection or not. =20 Even the newspaper folks in Graham County should know that On March 21, 1996, the National Freedom of Information Coalition, a First Amendment Coalition, took its place on the World Wide Web. The site's address is www.reporters.net/nfoic. E-Mail can be sent to nfoicNoSpam@NoSpamreporters.net. If they need help, here it is. This is like the beemer tech page. Once you have a beemer and use the tech page you will remember that the information is there. Once you're a reporter and fo though an FOI request, you can find the way again. Like I said, here's the light in case these folks are so full of bull they can't find the switch.=20 A big enchilada (how to get the information from the bubba Sheriff in North Carolina is found at http://www.reporters.net/nfoic/web/resource/northcar/northcar.htm On the other hand, let's hear it for the media, those folks who do strive to make it government in the sunshine and are working to keep public records open to the public. =20 Stephen & Miami's Dali Meeow, sharing space with The Royal Feline Fur Ball Production Company PS If you want to see the flags of all the states, look at http://www.reporters.net/nfoic/web/index.htm where they are used as links to information about the states. NOTE: Dali Meeow has NOT sent this to the Chamber of Commerce. Will someone else please do it. Hate to call them lazy and shiftless and then eMail them information that they could and should already have. =20 The Chamber of Commerce also may not take kindly to me after I wanted to know when their next elections for Sheriff are taking place. I want to make this local Sheriff's race one of national interest; could make an interesting news story with people from around the country watching the election results in Graham County. Anybody want to contribute ten cents or, heavens, up to $1.00 to the Sheriff's opponent ? Yep, could have fun with this one. Meeeeeeeeeeooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww From Brian Curry Date: Fri, 26 Sep 1997 00:48:19 -0400 Subject: BMW: Plagerize, what you were not supposed to do in school, DO IT NOW!!! Readers of this list have seen a number of letters directed to the governmental bodys of Graham County and its surroundings. Maybe you were hanging back, since you are "not a good writer" and didn't want to embarass yourself. Well, PLAGERIZE. Use the machine you have, Copy and Paste. Combine them. Rewrite them a bit. Keep the phrases, you wish you had said. Write them out in longhand. Make them YOURS!! And then send those suckers. Roger and Sue provided the address's, use them. Flood those governmental offices. Even better, if you picked up one of those North Carolina Travel Guides. Send a copy to a few of the business's in the area. Make them know that their governmental officers have driven off tourists. Tourists they paid to advertise to bring in. But never to come back again. That they will be feeling economic pain. It will stir up some reactions. And, I think much more positive than parading through town at 10 MPH. (Yes it does the soul and head good, but it provides them another opputunity to pick us off, and for them to say "I told you so.") Think of being in that region all winter, when the tourists are real few and far between. Wondering if you have enough funds to make it to next summer. Do you have enough funds to pay the taxes? And what did those Commisioners spend the tax money on? IMO, more fun than a legal battle. Not in sterile courtroom. Right out there in the streets where people are struggling to survive. Remember. Money doesn't talk, IT SCREAMS!!! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | "We cannot tolerate the proliferation of this paperwork any longer. | | We must kill the people producing it." | | - Vladimir Kabaidze 1936 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 25 Sep 1997 19:35:31 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: Re: BMW: When are Graham County Elections ? -- Dali Meeow At 11:27 AM 9/25/97 -0400, Dali Meeow wrote: > > September 25, 1997 >Mr. Rob Mason, Director >Robinsville NC Chamber of Commerce >PO Box 1206 >Robinsville NC 28771 > >Sir: > >When is Graham County holding its next general election for commissioners >and sheriff ? >From I "love" Graham County produced by the Graham Star, the Commissioners serve 4 year terms, Raymond Williams, and Dale Wiggins share the responsibilities of county manager, with Williams holding the title. The current board members begin the fourth year of their terms December 1997. So, it looks like 1998 is the year. They meet the first and third Monday of each month at 1 PM in the county manager's office. The county manager's office number is: 704-479-7961 The manager's apparent home numbers are: Raymond Williams 704-479-3963 Lynn Cody 704-479-6320 Dale Wiggins 704-479-2195 Date: Fri, 26 Sep 1997 11:02:27 -0400 From: "Terence R. Evans, M.D." Subject: BMW: Need pic I.D. Please.. Fontana group shot enlargement: http://www.ibmwr.org/pastevnt/reports/photos/97RAGroupPic.gif Best I can come up with is: Back Row from Lt > Rt: Jim Shaw, Steve Andersen?, Viper, Red cap?, Roozbeh , Curve?, Larry Fears, ?, ?, Traversa, Tom Keen. 2nd Row: John Baxter, Brian Curry, Red RA shirt, EsqTed whom I never saw again after Thurs afternoon!, Toodles, Somebody who went to Branson, ?who's she?, ?Bob Smith? Front Row: Greg Hutchinsen, floppy hat?, who wouldn't know Voni , Joe Senner, Tee Shirt Toadie. So, how can I get this expensive albeit, out- dated Sony 15 incher to give me sharper web pics? :-/ Was this the Sattidy NoSpam@NoSpam 5pmish shooting that ahem, *I* planned? :-))) Blame Eilenberger on my no-show here and his welcome and cold domestic! beer. And NON Boiled Yankee-type peanuts. OR Blame Hawk Horthorne and Rock Shannon for the Sam Adams!!! and Royal Crown T-Mia Date: Fri, 26 Sep 1997 13:50:13 -0400 From: "Terence R. Evans, M.D." Subject: BMW: Re: No BMW Arrested First of all, Ted Hall, I understand that you were the last minute Chief of Security at Fontana? 1) I'm sure you did everything possible that you could have after it became apparent that the police were attempting to ruin the rally. IMO, you nor no one THERE as a rep of The RA could have don't nothing to foresee, ward off or stiffle the acts of the officials as they were hellbent in their attitudes. Just the single act of the police? pulling the Beeer Permit, the day before the rally where it was heard they'd decided to do this up to three months prior is egregious enough. It was painfully obvious TO THOSE THAT ATTENDED that this was a well planned operation - a covert one which no one had any idea what was to come until we were in the misdts of it. 2) I have all confidence that rally organizers did above and beyond, up to a year plus prior to make sure all the bases were covered especially with the police and public officials. I am an RA member and have read about the planning activities for this event in the OTL magazine for over a year now. Sorry, I get really pissed with the ignorant innuendos that the RA officials went into this area blindly or with _any_ doubt. The police and public officials had one thing in mind: Have them come, collect their tourist dollars AND as a Double Dip, collect their revenues as well. Period. Oh, the other thing was make sure they lose money buy pulling the beer permit - makes for more riders out on the roads to buy beer, thus have (I mean fabricate) MORE traffic violations. An excellent SETUP if you ask me. These guys weren't stupid. At 08:40 AM 9/26/97 -0400, "Ted Hall" wrote: >Do we actually have any victims here? >I HEARD that: >" at least six were arrested for pissing behind a tree in the >campgrounds-indescent exposure One of my friends for years in this BMW Rally scene who cabined directly across the street from me at the Peppertree entrance where on Friday night several police cruisers were holding what could be best described as a 'Sting Operation' with their blue and red lights flashing and basically DARING you to leave the Village onto RT 28. As my wife and I were heading back, many of those from the two cabins there were yelling for riders to TURN AROUND! RUN FOR YOUR LIVES! DROP (and leave) YOUR BIKE! This was said to us as we were considering leaving the area to get something to eat - this was about 10:30pm - Friday night - which we went hungry becuase WE didn't feel like being possibly detained for ANY reason. So, we joined in the activities of warning other bikers while sipping our beers (feasting on raw Broccoli and granola bars ;-) on either the porches/decks or off the road* inside the bounderies of the cabins. Ed Jorgenson and Fred Tucker (via their police scanners) warned us that our effective warnings to other bikers leaving were really pissing off the police at the entrance . As we effectively blew the Sting Operation. We were told the next morning that via the scanners that our cabins would be "spotlight searched" the next night (Saturday) as a reprisal. We were also told by Ed and Fred that we'd better be as quiet as a Chuch Social Tea as the word was we were going to be singled out and made an example of. Since TLE and I had better things to do with $200 we stayed as far away from OUR OWN cabin as late as possible that night. During this Friday night event, the friend that I got side tracked mentioning above - decided, perhaps stupidly so, to do a Recon of the police by merely walking through the bush (really forrest) to check out what they were doing with those several cars with lights ablaze at the entrance, oh so quietly. He was spotted, told to FREEZE and was accosted. The police pointed to some wet leaves, *told him* that he urinated on them and was arrested for: indecent exposure, public urination, blah blah. $200 to get him out and his date is either 10/22 or 10/24. >one guy crossed the road with a beer and was arrested for open >container(dry county) This was another one of my friends. I don't know the details exactly other than: open container (Had no idea that the capground/resort was considered public roads - a warning would have sufficed) - maybe public drunkenness, disorderly conduct and whatever else they FELT like trumping up at the time. Again, $200 to get him out and they both have the same date to appear for trial. Both have been IMBWR Presidents at one time or another by virtue of their subscribing to the list - couldn't take the volume and/or off topic banter and are not currently subscribed. The latter one has and IBMWR decal on his Darr Bags of his R100CS as well as an IBMWR plate frame ;-) I'm so glad someone gave me the Head's Up as I awoke Friday morning and was about to travese the, to me, Campsite - helmetless. I would probably have gotten lethal injection if they'd have tried to arrest me for that! >one guy walking down the road , in the road, arrested for impeding traffic >flow Oh, yeah, that was another charge the latter friend got, to my understanding. Pure BS! >one guy sucked into passing over a double yellow with slow moving car in >front of him, actually being waved on by driver( A COP) and stung. Gil >Wozniak sprung him from the pokey, a cool $1000 bail" Geez! T'waz better to publicly walk with an open beer can or "pee" in the forrest!!! >Were their any weapons violations No doubt - but hopefully not. I'm waiting to hear about someone was busted for their unregistered Leatherman(tm). >Were their any drug violations It was a rally - 50's, 60's, 70's generationers attended. Damn, I hope no one was caught doing THAT! >Were their any speeding or other road violations >Were their any victims of physical abuse >Hello VICTIMS , are you out there???????????????? Ted, tell me your intentions with this info? Better yet, I'll Bcc the above two persons this and ask that they contacy you. >Ted > >hfrmystrNoSpam@NoSpamvermontel.com >AMA MOA RA (VT,STATE DIRECTOR) AIRHEAD >BMW MOV BMW GS BMW SE ME OSBMW YANKEE BEEMER >75 90/6 TABS-TRANS ATLANTIC BIKESHARE >83 R80 ST TOURSHARE MEMBER TERRY-Miami Bcc/PS - Hey, Billy Jack! Please forward this to Road Dog, I lost his e-mail address. How was Keith Code? ;-) From George Wright Subject: Pic-ID wanted I guess I can help with at leat two unidentifiables... 1st Row - Floppy Hat is George Wright (yours truly!) 2nd Row - Red RA shirt is Andrew Salisbury. Date: Fri, 26 Sep 1997 13:45:57 -0500 From: Keith Carr Subject: RE: BMW: Re: Fontana and the law Frank, You probably don't remember me, but I was one of a group of guys that = were looking at your bike at the Vicksburg rally this year. Anyway, not to be picky but an officer does not have to have probable = cause to make a traffic stop. Only "reasonable suspicion" needs to be = established. THis is a lower lever of proof than probable cause. The other way that a stop can legally be made is through an impartial = checkpoint. In order to run a checkpoint correctly, though, there must = be some sort of criteria for what vehicles get stopped. THis could be = something like "every third vehicle", but not "every motorcycle" or even = "every vehicle with out-of-state-plates". Once you are legally stopped, officers can check the area around your = bike, but no closed areas, with a dog. If the dog alerts on an odor, = then probable cause has been established. The trouble with FOntana, as I understand it, is that the roadblocks = were not operated in an impartial manner. This means anything that = followed was illegal. But then, I wasn't there. Keith Carr Chief of Police Chaffee, MO. 1988 K100LT 1972 R75/5=20 Date: Sat, 27 Sep 1997 19:47:52 -0400 (EDT) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: Conversation with N.C. Editor -- Dali Meeow Hi all, I reached Kate Henry, Editor of the Graham Star, on Saturday afternoon and here's some of the information from that meeting and some of my personal observations. I will not directly quote her; she has enough trouble just trying to produce a newspaper in a city run by Buford T. and Huckleberry. #1 Ron Williams, who is Chairman of the Graham County Commission, Head of the Rescue Squad and a really big poop in Graham County, was running the show last week-end. He invited the TVA, the US Forest Service, the neighboring county, the NC Highway Patrol and anyone with a badge, gun and half a brain to help him control Hell's Angels. Ron Williams rode out to Fontana and, as he told it (yes, this is hearsay), someone insulted him. In Graham County, if someone insults you, you call the cops and the cops will arrest the insultor (coined phrase denoting a North Carolina felon) for assault. Anyhow, this is the guy who started the ball rolling. #2 Jerry Crisp is NOT the Sheriff. This soggy excuse for law enforcement is really the Chief Deputy, and he does all the talking because the Sheriff doesn't like to deal with the public. The Sheriff is Melvin Howell, and he went along with Ron Williams' idea to crack down on the foreigners. Melvin is so elusive that it has been impossible to even get a photograph of him accepting money. Okay Melvin, back to obscurity. #3 Graham County is a dry country. Fontana Village reportedly has some type of approval to allow folks to bring booze in brown bags and consume it there (license, custom, who knows ?). Fontana Village was threatened by the local cops (Williams, Crisp, et.al.) with problems with their brown bag use and then the cops questioned if the license or permit issued by the state was valid in a dry country. This is being checked out by newspaper reporters. #4 The next Sheriff's race (November '98) will probably be between Republican Ron Williams (big poop) and Democrat Jerry Crisp (little stink), with big poop the overwhelming favorite. Remember Melvin Howell ? He's not going to run; obscurity was too much for him to handle. Will someone now describe a classic lose-lose situation ? #5 Ron Williams, who claims he is not functionally illiterate(*) and wouldn't follow the law even if he could read and understand it, runs Graham County. Jerry Crisp is the same zebra but with vertical stripes. In other words, ya'all better not be rude in Graham County because it's against the law there. Neither of these yokels understands the importance of the tourist dollar or why it might be nice to improve Robbinsville's image. So if you're wondering how this could happen, remember that a cow started the Chicago fire. (*)Functional illiteracy is not a hot topic in Graham County; the breakfast menu is. Remember, using big words like this could be considered rude. #6 The quest for dimes for a political slush fund continues. We can't possibly screw up the Sheriff's race because it doesn't matter if frick or frack wins. Nobidy will care if outsiders gave money. If we are successful with the tourist boycott, they'll welcome outside dollars for any purpose. It's impossible to negatively influence the elections; reminds me of national elections. (Excuse the brain fart.) #7 The story that I want to see in the press and on TV next November is that people from Washington State, California, Utah, Maine, Massachusetts, Florida, Canada and the Big Apple are tuned in to the election results of a small town Sheriff's race in western North Carolina because they want to know if it'll be safe for tourists. When the voting is finished, a verdict will issue from Miami -- safe for tourist - or - tourists beware. #8 Robbinsville is really a small southern town. They have government meetings without public scrutiny and they don't listen to their own county lawyer, who frequently does not attend the county meetings that are called. Do not think there was some conspiracy; this was just a bunch of federally and county funded employees playing with their toys and collecting overtime. #9 There was only one arrest of a BMW biker that the local newspaper could find. This information came from the Robbinsville Sheriff's office who says that one biker was drunk and urinated in front of a Sheriff's deputy. The local newspaper has been unable to find other arrest records. These are the same people who brought you "Where you gonna hide..." blasted from the speaker on the helicopter. Now, did everyone hide so damn well there was only one arrest, or are the Sheriff's records somehow flawed ? In light of the one arrest, I would like to know how much this arrest cost the tax payers of Graham County and the federal government (TVA and US Forest Service). #10 There were some traffic citations issued, but the local newspaper has not gotten copies of these and the Sheriff's office is saying that the citations involved cars and trucks and not motorcycles. The list of other law enforcement personnel involved is given in the first paragraph, but getting information from them will be difficult. Hell-o out there. Who is collecting names, eMail addresses and first-hand incident information from the beemer folks ? I would like that information, but do not have the time to collect it. #11 In all seriousness, boycott Robbinsville for your own safety. There is no limit on what the Sheriff can or will do. If they lose arrest or other police records, or make them unavailable to the public, they could lose your body in their jail for a while. This is a warning. Stay out. Off limits. No trespassing. Big, nasty dog. #11 The helicopter that buzzed the camp grounds is privately owned and maintained and then run under the Sheriff's authority using grants, etc. According to their records, it was only in the air for three hours last week end. (May I have a raise of hands ? Who believes their records ? ) #12 There was a letter posted from the list from Sheriff Crisp. Do I think the letter from Sheriff Crisp was real ? There is clear and convincing evidence that he is not nearly intelligent enough to have written it. Besides, he would not have signed it "Sheriff" because he isn't and he knows it. Whoever wrote it did not have that fact. My congratulations to the #$%^ who came up with this one. It was funny. #13 Aside from political donations (max. of $2.00 regardless of how strongly you feel about buying good elected officials), how about other ideas to deep-six Robbinsville ? ******* IDEAS TO DEEP-SIX ROBBINSVILLE ********* I liked the letter writing campaign and Roger Wiles list of officials. I posted nine letters last week. If you have not done this, and if you need the addresses again, ask and I will post them to the list. There is no air or train traffic to the area. The only way to reach Robbinsville is by car. I am not suggesting that we blockade any roads, however ... We need a succinct statement about the police and their tactics that contains at least a few facts and is persuasive. Is there a volunteer for the "official statement" we will use. Will someone volunteer to contact auto groups ? There are travel groups on the net, in fact there are some listed news groups. Will someone volunteer o contact the travel groups ? How do we get an advisory to AAA ? We should post to rec.motorcycles, the Harley list, HSTA, and ____ (help me fill in the blank) and then repost it once a week for the next year. Your ideas are welcome. Please post any replies to the list and to me personally at daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net Date: Mon, 22 Sep 97 17:36:15 UT From: "Wayne Reiss" Subject: BMW: RE: RA Rally Complaints/Addresses, etc - ---------- From: ibmwrNoSpam@NoSpamworld.std.com on behalf of Roger Wiles Sent: Monday, September 22, 1997 2:51 PM To: adamsesqNoSpam@NoSpamgwis.com; 74461.410NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com; bmwNoSpam@NoSpamcomet.net; T.R.Evans-M.D.NoSpam@NoSpamworldnet.att.net; 75262.520NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com; bmwmcNoSpam@NoSpamworld.std.com; xals79cNoSpam@NoSpamprodigy.com; 72040.2156NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com; 103602.300NoSpam@NoSpamCompuServe.COM; powellNoSpam@NoSpamadmin.ibmwr.org; frstevensNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com; BMW_RANoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com; EsquireTedNoSpam@NoSpamaol.com Subject: BMW: RA Rally Complaints/Addresses, etc Following are addresses and telephone numbers, FAX numbers and E-mail address of various parties that may be interested in your comments about the reception we received at the BMW RA in Fontana! rally last weekend. Robinsville NC Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3790 robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com The Graham STAR Kate Henry, Editor PO Box 69 Robinsville NC 28771 704 479 3383 Ray Williams, County Commissioner Chairman, Graham County Commission PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 7960 Jerry Crisp, Sheriff Graham County PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3352 The Honorable James Hunt, Governor State of North Carolina 116 W. Jones Street Raleigh NC 27603-8001 (704) 733 4240 Mr. David L. Kerr, General Manager Fontana Village Resort Highway 28 PO Box 68 Fontana Dam NC 28733 (704) 498 2211 FAX (704) 498 2209 Colonel W. W. Horton Commander, NC Highway Patrol 512 N. Salisbury Street Raleigh NC 27626 (919) 733 7952 col.e.w.hortonNoSpam@NoSpamsmtpgw.aoc.state.nc.us Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) 4437 Georgia Road Franklin NC 28734 (800) 432 4678 The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES (regional newspaper) PO Box 2090 Ashville NC 28802 (800) 800 4204 FAX (704) 251 0585 editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com I was personally very offended by the treatment received by myself, my party, the rally officials and rally-atttendees in general by the local and state law enforcement personnel. It was DISGRACEFUL! (IMHO) The Graham County officials' capricious, last-minute decision to cancel our beer-service license caused the rally to undoubtedly lose money; had rally-organizers known about this in advance (a local merchant told me that decision had been made, and was local knowledge, at least 3 months before the rally) it is possible - even LIKELY- that a new rally location would have ben chosen. Graham County NC wants our tourist money, but seems to enjoy the opportunity to intimidate motorcyclists, play with cop-toys and exemplify southern "bubba" law enforcement and political power at it's sterotypical worst. At least, that's what I think. Prezz Roger RWilesNoSpam@NoSpamMail1.com Unsubbed, reply direct- thanx! Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 08:37:47 +0700 (ICT) From: "Graham K. Rogers" Subject: Re: BMW: Fontana Dear Sirs: As you may be aware, a number of BMW riders were in your area last week and have expressed dissatisfaction at the treatment meted out by local police officers. I have been able, like scores of other BMW riders round the world, to read about these events through the medium of the Internet. As, thus far, you are the only area officials whom I know have Internet addresses, I feel compelled to write to you to register my small protest from the other side of the world. The events at Fontana last week give not only Graham County and North Carolina bad names, but also taint the human rights record of the United States. The opinions expressed above are my own. Sincerely yours, Graham K Rogers Visiting Professor Faculty of Engineering Mahidol University Bangkok, THAILAND Date: Sat, 27 Sep 1997 23:19:12 -0400 From: "Earle Bare" Subject: BMW: Graham County Web Site FWIW: Graham County has a Web Site: http://www.main.nc.us/graham/index.html Info on local gov't, media etc. Date: Sat, 27 Sep 1997 23:46:01 -0400 (EDT) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: Address Correction for RA Rally Complaints There is a correction to Sheriff of Graham County ... Melvin Howell, Sheriff Jerry Crisp, Chief Deputy (spokesman) Graham County PO Box 575 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3352 Date: Sat, 27 Sep 1997 23:51:46 -0400 From: James Allmond Subject: BMW: Billboards for Robbinsville! I AM SCARED, a post from Dali Meeow gave me the damndest brain storm I have had in years. You know, a few well placed billboards with stern but polite warnings about a certain area would do wonders for an areas tourism. Since it seems that there is no way to fix the problem, cause financial ruin instead. Really hate doing it to the nice folks in Robbinsville and Graham County that actually treated us well, but that's what needs to be done. You know if this group just pools a small amount of resources individually, we could rent one hell of a lot of bill boards in the surrounding counties that would benefit from our little campaign and welcome us to the area. Whatcha all think? I like it, but I am a little sick... James Allmond Macon, Ga 87 R80RT and when 2 wheels are not enough, 88 FLHS/Watsonian 51 Servicar and yes sometimes you need 4 wheels 69 Dodge Dart Swinger 340 (4 wheels does not need to be boring) Date: Sat, 27 Sep 1997 21:01:34 -0700 (PDT) From: Shibumi Subject: BMW: Graham Commissioners(RA Rally Complaints/Addresses, etc) >>Ray Williams, County Commissioner >>Chairman, Graham County Commission >>PO Box 575 >>Robinsville NC 28771 >>(704) 479 7960 >> >>Jerry Crisp, Sheriff >>Graham County >>PO Box 575 >>Robinsville NC 28771 >>(704) 479 3352 > >.... > >Hey Wayne, I appreciate this repost but Dali Meeow (see his recent >"Conversation with N.C. Editor") says the Williams' first name is "Ron" and >that Jerry Crisp ain't actually the Sheriff. (Crisp is apparently the Chief >Deputy, albeit the guy functionally in charge. Melvin Howell is actually >the Sheriff, according to Dali, even though he's apparently something of a >phantom and not a player in the next election.) > >Let's get the stuff here straight as I don't wanna get stuff wrong any more >than I normally do. I just checked out the URL just posted by Earle Bare for the Graham Co. website. Here's an excerpt from a section re commissioners after clicking Government: Commissioners Raymond Williams Sr., 479-3936 Lynn Cody, 479-6320 Dale Wiggins, 479-2195 The county manager's office number is 479-7961. Commissionsers Raymond Williams Sr. and Dale Wiggins share the responsibilities of the county manager, with Williams holding the title. Commissioners serve four-year terms. The chairman is Raymond Williams Sr. and is determined by the majority of votes received at the time of election. The current board members begin the fourth year of their terms in December, 1997. I guess the name's Ray, not "Ron". - -John __________________________________________________ John Arnold Village Idiot 83 R65 Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 04:58:00 -0400 From: Don Denny Subject: BMW: Fontana gene pool Stephen D. Erf writes: "Then again, it could merely have been a desperate attempt to protect their gene pool from your contributions". What the Graham county gene pool needs is a dash of chlorine. Don MOA & RA 899 Champaign Il Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) 4437 Georgia Road Franklin NC 28734 (800) 432 4678 The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES (regional newspaper) PO Box 2090 Ashville NC 28802 (800) 800 4204 FAX (704) 251 0585 editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com Graham County Web-Site http://www.main.nc.us/graham/index.html Web-Master thomaslNoSpam@NoSpamgraham.main.nc.us CMA Cablevision, also known as Telemedia Cable Phone (704) 479-3600. WBAV is a local cable television station. (704) 479-3065. WCVP 95.9/101.3FM (704) 479-2296. Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 09:37:31 -0400 From: "Eric M. Simon" Subject: BMW: A recent visit to your area Dear Mr. Mason: I was one of the 2,200 attendees at a recent BMW Motorcycle Riders' Association gathering at Fontana Village. I am an attorney at law, and vice-president of the BMW Motorcycle Owners of Cleveland. I am not accustomed to, and, I must say, do not enjoy, being under close police surveillance, and being stopped and interrogated without any reasonable suspicion of violating any law. Needless to say, based upon the official reaction to our presence in your region, neither I, nor anyone I know (or hopefully ever speak to), will EVER return to spend any money or time in your area. Our weekend campout was overshadowed by the constant harassment and attempted intimidation by numerous local law enforcement agencies. The gathering of a bunch of middle-aged working men and women with an affinity for riding motorcycles could not justify the presence of so many power-tripping and overzealous cops. You cannot claim the prevention of accidents as a legitimate reason for the gestapo-like tactics; most of the BMW riders last weekend have been riding for longer than most people in Graham County have had indoor plumbing. I hope the local residents consider their tax money well-spent, as I'm certain they will have to pay dearly for the overtime employment of all these fine law enforcement officials. Please sure I will do my best to convince anyone I come in contact with not to visit your county. I'm sure you realize by now that no BMW organization will ever return. I hope your constituents and local merchants are proud of the "public service" that you have provided. You may contact me at the address below if you wish to discuss this matter. Eric M. Simon emsimonNoSpam@NoSpammultiverse.com (in town) Conman5512NoSpam@NoSpamaol.com (on the road) 1981 R100 "s" AMA, BMWMOA, BMW RA, BMWMOCleveland NHLA, CBA, etc. Insert brilliant, insightful witticism here Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 09:31:05 -0400 From: Lee Freedman Subject: Re: BMW: Conversation with N.C. Editor -- Dali Meeow At 2:09 AM -0000 28/9/97, RWILES wrote: >Dali Meeow wrote: > >> >> ******* IDEAS TO DEEP-SIX ROBBINSVILLE ********* >> >> I liked the letter writing campaign and Roger Wiles list of officials. > >How 'bout taking up a collection and buyig a B I G display ad in the >local mullet-wrapper?... ie, "Dear Merchants of Graham County- We >won't terorize your tener little town with out VISAs & AmEx cards any >longer.... etc" /s/ Your greatest BMW nightmare No, but I think that buying an ad in the local newspaper and having an open letter published would be an excellent strategy. I would be happy to contribute to this if the letter is factual, non-confrontational and reasonable. Let these people know that we are not just some miscellaneous thrill-seekers, hanging out for a weekend in Nazi Carolina, playing "Smokey and the Bandit" with the local law enforcement organs and then, slimking off with our tails between our legs because we got caught in the trap. Stephen (Dali Meeow), you seem to have some rapport with the newspaper editor---can you check on the price of a half or full page ad? Would this have to be from an individual, from the IBMWR as a whole, or from the RA? Would the RA be willing to do this. Would our list-brothers support an action of this type? Opinions solicited, as long as they don't drag on for an excessive period of time. Best regards Lee Freedman Buffalo Bozo Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 11:34:42 -0400 (EDT) From: Hugh Stilley Subject: Re: BMW: Conversation with N.C. Editor -- Dali Meeow I don't see why we'd want to PAY to infiltrate behind enemy lines with OUR CASH when we can fire bazookas from all over the country. I think a simple letter to the editor saying that we had thought to purchase an ad, but that such a purchase was beyond our principle of living by the rule of the boycott; indeed, we'll be spending our time informing others of the benighted state of freedom and/or justice in their fair town. After all, they needn't worry much about what a bunch of workers, lawyers, teachers, doctors, and pr guys can do when they put their heads together to inform others not to spend money and are communicating over the web. My *farrest out idea* is to get someone to hack into their web pages, like malcontent students at Detroit's Mercy College did and tell people not to come there, the food and rats in the dorm sucked, the administration was out of touch with humanity in general and students in particular, etc., etc. BUT -- there might be other, much more direct ways,and the beauty of a campaign like this is that while our solidarity can be fueled by thinking up *the* single proper response, our strength in numbers and ingenuity can be leveraged by individual acts of all sorts, about which there's more below. I don't see how doing business with the newspaper and adding one damn dime to the county revenue can be in line with the general principle of seeing that less dimes get spent there by bmw riders and anyone we know or can influence. Call NPR ... they'd love a story about the people and will do it for free. Call my daughter; she just sold NPR a radio interview with a guy who attended the promise keepers rally in Oakland. He was a gay theology student. With that kind of program on the air and jesse helms bitching about npr, probably an interview with some articulate folks who were there would be right up npr's alley **for balance** and put some dimes in the pocket of a bmw-rider's daughter (also the wife of a bmw-rider) rather than in Nazi Carolina. There's more 'n one way to skin these idjuts, and we're just beginning to get into the tactical discussion. How much are glossy triple foldout brochures, gately? Address for daughter is above. I'd say call her, but it's only 7:30 AM in SF and ............. but I will check with her & see if she thinks it's do-able ... phonable, etc., etc. Maybe someone from SF (Nash???) was there and could be a principle interviewee??? Anyone got much in the way of video footage, hopefully with the whirr of them whirlypigs in the night air and you can't hide good and clear on the sound track................ Ken Kesey got the sherrifs of kansas to "play" in his movie. All we wanna do is to direct the Robbinsville movie a little while and get the overzealous cops in deeep, deeeep s..t. Write the National Chamber of Commerce. Write the Forest / Parks Dept. Write a couple of counties close by; they'll suffer our boycott,too. Write the governor. Tell him your kids were going to go to UNC, but won't be doing that; you're gonna keep your college monies out of NC. ETC. Call some of the rightwing radio broadcasters GEE Gordon Liddy comes to mind Secondary people may get more pissed than the primary players in podunk. Just some thoughts. Hugh Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 11:41:02 -0400 From: "Tara Ribas" Subject: BMW: Re: ad. in local paper/helicopter Mark Ausitn writes: > I like the suggestion by a pres. that we place a conspicuous ad. in the > local paper to bring attention to our disgust over the police situation > in Fontana. Also, if I remember correctly from my flying days (many years > ago) it is illegal to fly over a public gathering without FAA approval. > I did not see the helicopter flying over the campgrounds, but I > understand that others did. Does anyone know if my recall about FAA > rules is correct? It is illegal to fly under 500', unless there is prior apprval. Also whoever owns the aircraft or rotorcraft has to document the flight hours. This is something that cannot be changed or lied about. Espically with helicopters, since every piece on the machine has time critical parts. One can always report the users of the helicopter to the nearest FAA district office and they will check into any violations of the FAR's. Tara **************************************************************************** ** Tara Ribas N4XCW '81 R65 "Demon" '80 Honda Twinstar CM 200T "Herbie" '66 Suzuki MK-11 (In pieces) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach Fl Riddle Riders RA IBMWR Daytona BMW Club Village Idiot Date: Sun, 28 Sep 97 11:20:07 From: jeff.jenkinsNoSpam@NoSpamnashville.com Subject: BMW: Fontana "un"welcome - --- Original message follows --- Return-Path: From: jeff.jenkinsNoSpam@NoSpamnashville.com The following message is what I sent to the people listed in Fontana and the area: - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- To the residents of Fontana and Graham County, NC, I am a native of Nashville, TN and a career employee of the United States Postal Service. I also ride motorcycle and am member of the Airheads Beemer Club (ABC), the BMW Motorcycle Owners Association, and the Internet BMW Motorcycle Riders Association. I write a newsletter for mid-TN members of the ABC that is distributed world-wide and actively travel cross country by motorcycle with friends. Several months ago I had the pleasure of attending an ABC BMW rally near Lenoir, North Carolina. I spent several days riding through the area, not to mention several hundred dollars on food, lodging, souveniers, etc.... It was a wonderful experience and one that made me yearn to go back again soon. Now I am reading stories about and talking to friends who attended the recent BMW-Riders Association rally in Fontana, NC. I hear stories of police road blocks, harassment, false arrest, questionable searches, and basic ghestappo style tactics of the police who were in charge there. The rally brought several -THOUSAND- BMW motorcyclists to your area and was planned months ago with, so we believed, was full cooperation and encouragement by the community and it's governing fathers. Touring motorcyclists, especially BMW riders, are traditionally a quiet and mature group of professional people and NOT in any way shape or form "hells angels" style bikers. Ask the residents of Morgantown, NC or Fredricksburg, TX about BMW rallies and you will hear stories of kind, quiet, and peacefull Americans who simply want to ride through scenic areas and spend large amounts of money. I don't know what happened to cause the powers that be in Graham county to do the things they did but I do know the end result: I will -NEVER- visit your area again, and if at possible, not even the state. There are many fine places in this country a person can go to and spend his money and not be treated like a criminal. It is obvious that outsiders are not welcome in Graham county.... so be it. We shall not return. I and many like me are doing you a favor and passing the story along to others around the world, explaining that the people of Fontana and Graham county North Carolina don't want visitors or tourists coming through and spending our money there. If we had been told from the beginning we weren't welcome we'd not have visited and inconvenienced your citizens. Rest assured we will let the world know your wish to be left alone. Jeff Jenkins 6440 Jocelyn Hollow Rd Nashville, TN 37205-3522 The Normalizer - B.A.N./King Rat #43 BMW-MOA Member #75866 - Airheads Beemer Club #1983 HTTP://WWW.NASHVILLE.COM/~JEFF.JENKINS/TNLBBS.HTM Sysop of The Northern Lights BBS: Modem NoSpam@NoSpam 615-353-9325 ISDN NoSpam@NoSpam 615-353-9367 Don't blame me.... I voted for Harry Browne! Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 12:49:33 -0400 From: RWILES Subject: BMW: Even MORE Fontana Contacts Following are MORE addresses and telephone numbers, FAX numbers and E-mail address of various parties that may be interested in your comments about the reception we received at the BMW RA in Fontana! rally. AIR SAFETY COMPLAINTS: Southern Region Headquarters 1701 Columbia Ave College Park, GA 30337-5475 405-305-6000 Flight Standards Division Mangager: W. Michael Sacrey Nashville Flight Standards District Office International Plaza Drive Suite 700 Nashville, TN 37217 615-781-5437 Manager: Richard Martz Charlotte Flight Standards District Office 5318 Morris FLD Drive Charlotte, NC 28208 704-344-6488 704-684-0421 Manager: Marty Ingram Robbinsville & Graham County (NC) Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robbinsville NC 28771 800 470 3790 (704) 479 3790 FAX (704) 479 9130 NOTE: You must call ahead before FAXing robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com The Graham STAR Kate Henry, Editor PO Box 69 Robbinsville NC 28771 704 479 3383 Ray Williams, County Commissioner Chairman, Graham County Commission PO Box 575 Robbinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 7960 Commissioners Raymond Williams Sr., 479-3936 Lynn Cody, 479-6320 Dale Wiggins, 479-2195 The county manager's office number is 479-7961. Melvin Howell, Sheriff Jerry Crisp, Chief Deputy (spokesman) Graham County PO Box 575 Robbinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3352 The Honorable James Hunt, Governor State of North Carolina 116 W. Jones Street Raleigh NC 27603-8001 (704) 733 4240 Mr. David L. Kerr, General Manager Fontana Village Resort Highway 28 PO Box 68 Fontana Dam NC 28733 (704) 498 2211 FAX (704) 498 2209 Colonel W. W. Horton Commander, NC Highway Patrol 512 N. Salisbury Street Raleigh NC 27626 (919) 733 7952 col.e.w.hortonNoSpam@NoSpamsmtpgw.aoc.state.nc.us Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) 4437 Georgia Road Franklin NC 28734 (800) 432 4678 The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES (regional newspaper) PO Box 2090 Ashville NC 28802 (800) 800 4204 FAX (704) 251 0585 editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com Graham County Web-Site http://www.main.nc.us/graham/index.html Web-Master thomaslNoSpam@NoSpamgraham.main.nc.us CMA Cablevision, also known as Telemedia Cable Phone (704) 479-3600. WBAV is a local cable television station. (704) 479-3065. WCVP 95.9/101.3FM (704) 479-2296. - -- Roger Wiles CLU, ChFC Agency Manager, Modern Woodmen of America rwilesNoSpam@NoSpamprodigy.net 1355 E Main Street, PO Box 3888 Lakeland FL 33802 941.688.9424 - FAX 941.680.2513 Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 17:18:48 -0400 From: Charles Sturtevant Subject: Re: BMW: Re: ad. in local paper/helicopter >It is illegal to fly under 500', unless there is prior apprval. Also >whoever owns the aircraft or rotorcraft has to document the flight hours. >This is something that cannot be changed or lied about. Espically with Tara, I have been flying helicopters for thirty-four years. I am a certificated flight instructor. I am a police helicopter pilot. I have been through this in court. It is not illegal to fly a helicopter below five hundred feet. Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 00:09:10 -0400 From: Lee Freedman Subject: BMW: Yes, Another Fontana Letter! Yes, I said I wouldn't do this (sorry, Don) but since Tom is hand carrying this stuff to DC, and I put forward the idea of a newspaper ad, and would volunteer to write same, just had to post the letter I am sending. Dear Sir: I would like to add my comments to those you have doubtlessly already received from members of BMW Riders Association and their guests, who attended the 25th Anniversary BMWRA International Rally, at Fontana Village Resort, Robbinsville, Graham County, North Carolina, on the weekend of September 18 to 21, 1997. Since I had never before visited your area of North Carolina, I looked forward to making the trip and to the opportunity to experience riding on roads that are legendary in the motorcycling community. However, after a journey of approximately 1000 miles to reach Fontana Village Resort, this experience was not to be realized. Due to the over-zealous activities of your local sheriff's department, in consort with officers of the State Police and security personnel attached to the Tennessee Valley Authority, I found it reasonable and prudent not to subject myself to blatant intimidation tactics, discriminatory credential and so-called "safety checks", baiting of motorcycle riders into violations, and arrest for manufactured violations. Unfortunately, many who came to this rally with the reasonable intention of enjoying the scenic beauty and roads of western North Carolina were unable or unwilling to do so because of fear of untoward actions by local authorities. Others who chose to run the gantlet were harrassed and threatened in ways well documented in other testimony directed to your attention. I will only mention that discriminatory vehicle stops by a police officer who refuses to answer a reasonable request for the reason for that stop and threatens the driver with further punitive action if he persists in seeking an answer smacks of totalitarianism at its worst. Perhaps in times past, incidents such as this would have been filed and forgotten, but such will not be so in this case. As you are probably already aware, the rally participants come from diverse walks of life and many areas of the country. They have one common bond--the sport of motorcycling. For us, a rally is not a license to get drunk, loot and pillage. It is more akin to a family reunion where we can re-establish ties with old friends and meet the newest members of the family. It is a social event of a large magnitude. Events of this magnitude require huge amounts of pre-planning and every effort is made to hold the event in a scenic and congenial area. The organizers of the BMWRA International Rally had every reason to expect that your area would fit those parameters. Obviously, it did not. I don't think I need point out that we are living in an age of almost instantaneous communication and that communication reaches out to a vast network that previously would have been unobtainable. We are not only motorcycle enthusiasts but also participants in that network, which reaches out to all corners of the globe. We will not suffer this indignity in silence! The message will be spread far and wide that our family and our fellow motorcycle enthusiasts are unwelcome in your area of North Carolina. These documented actions on the part of the police did not happen spontaneously--they were orchestrated and directed by someone in authority. How all this will impact your area, I have no idea. Perhaps the person or persons responsible should have given more thought to possible consequences or repercussions before he or she unleashed their dogs. Sincerely yours Lee Freedman 3616 Seneca Street West Seneca, NY 14224 Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 08:26:13 -0400 From: "Eric M. Simon" Subject: BMW: Response from Fontana (Graham County, actually) Webmaster FYI: I just got a response to my email to the Graham Cty Web site. Mr. Livingston (I presume), the webmaster, indicated that he was a new resident of the area, and volunteer webmaster. He offered his apologies for the conduct of the law enforcement officials, and indicated he would forward my letter to the newspaper, the cty commissioners, and the Sheriff. We'll see. - -------------------------------------------------------------------- Eric M. Simon emsimonNoSpam@NoSpammultiverse.com (at home) Conman5512NoSpam@NoSpamaol.com (ON THE ROAD) http://multiverse.com/~emsimon (home page) 1981 R100"s" BMWMOA, BMW RA, AMA, BMW MoCleveland Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 12:38:03 -0500 (CDT) From: Frank Glamser Subject: Re: BMW: 9/25/97 Graham Star (Fontana area newspaper) Thanks for the news, Tom. Sounds like we have some friends in Graham County. IMHO it is time for us to "make nice." Frank Glamser "There are old motorcyclists, and there are Hattiesburg, Mississippi bold motorcyclists, but there very few old, '92 K75RT BMW RoM bold ones." On Tue, 30 Sep 1997, Tom Keen wrote: > > I recieved a copy of the Graham Star (The weekly newspaper > for the Fontana area) yesterday from the wonderfull folks at the > Tapico Inn (who really want us to come back btw). > > I would say there is a full page of coverage regarding the rally if > you include the letters to the editor. > > Summary: > > Front page article is essentially the differing opinions by the > management at Fontana and Jerry Crisp, chief deputy, about the police > pressence at the rally.. Crisp is quoted as saying the police were > onsite to ward of a possible rumble between two factions of bmw > riders. > > He also states that his impression was that folks appreciated all the > safety personel in the area and that the helicopter flybys were > percieved by rally goers as entertainment "It was just for fun" > > David Kerr, the general manager of Fontana was not amused and stated > he is very concerned about future business. He has two other planned > motorcycle gathering were now in jeopardy. > > The article in general points out the good behavior of the rally > goers and the inappropriateness of the police actions. > > Letters to the editor: > > Dan Arnold's letter made it.. and there are three other long letters > from local folks blasting the police action. > > and the lead editorial: > > last half: > > " the actions of our local law enforcement this weekend ranged from > impolite and childish to nasty. Some, to be sure, were simply > following orders and trying to do a good job. But, by local we have > to include the actions of officers the State Highway Patrol, Swain > County, Tennessee, the US Forest Service and the Tennessee Valley > Authority --- because we invited them. > > The people with the BMW rally did nothing to deserve this treatment. > Only one of the 2,155 was arrested and of the citations handed out, > few went to BMW riders. > > One person at Fontana said he couldnt hear anything at night from the > group of bikers camped across the street from his home. When the > group left, he could not see a scrap of litter on Fontan's streets or > lawns. > > If we are to become a county able to maintain its rich mountain > heritage through tourism, we need to learn to treat our guests with > more honor and respect. > > And we need to start by apologizing for the unnecessary rudeness that > took place last weekend. " > > > Enjoy, > Tom > ******************************** > Tom Keen - Dayton,Ohio USA > tom_keenNoSpam@NoSpamcoax.net > IBMWR, BMWMOA > ******************************** > Date: Tue, 30 Sep 97 19:43:10 UT From: "FH Gaylor" Subject: BMW: From Motorcycle Online Daily News 9/30/97 By Motorcycle Online Staff BMW Rally Turns Into Police Action Approximately 2,000 motorcyclists attending the 25th Annual BMW Riders Association International Rally Sept. 18-21 in Fontana Village, North Carolina, were subjected to a massive police presence apparently brought on by unjustified warnings about illegal activity. Officers from several North Carolina agencies took part in the operation that lasted throughout the four-day rally. Those attending the event were subject to constant observation from police patrols and overflights from official helicopters. The roads surrounding the rally site were heavily patrolled, and road blocks were established for license and registration checks. Local sheriff Melvin Howell reportedly told event organizers he had initiated the action after receiving a tip that 14,000 outlaw bikers intended to descend upon the rally site. Despite assurances from rally organizers that the event has a long peaceful history and benefits the local economy, police went ahead with the operation. "We are looking into this matter to determine just what the reason was for such a massive show of force," said Robert Rasor, vice president of AMA government relations. "On the face of it, this action seems ludicrous." for what it's worth Frank Gaylor fhg54nmNoSpam@NoSpammsn.com Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 07:46:00 -0400 From: Ed Jorgensen <72040.2156NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com> Subject: BMW: [Fwd: Re: Fontana Village & BMW RA] This is a MIME-encapsulated message - --0311dd55-3a4b-11d1-9cbd-00805feacc26 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Content-Disposition: inline Thanks Roger. I talked to Kate Henry last night. She told me that we are creating quite a stir in Robbinsville. Even so, we need to get more lette= rs to the Governor. She said that he'd only received three complaints so far= (?). Did you know that we have an RA member in Robbinsville? His name is Bill Hicks. He told me that he is actually afraid to ride his BMW in Robbinsville now! = I'm attaching my letter and the very latest and most accurate listing of recipients. Regards - Ed J. = - --0311dd55-3a4b-11d1-9cbd-00805feacc26 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; name="C:\TEMP\Gov_Hunt.txt" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Content-Disposition: attachment; filename="C:\TEMP\Gov_Hunt.txt" The Honorable James Hunt, Governor=0D State of North Carolina=0D 116 W. Jones Street =0D Raleigh NC 27603-8001=0D =0D Dear Governor Hunt:=0D =0D I represent a group of citizens from around this nation who =0D seek redress for being ill-treated by police authorities in and =0D around Fontana Village, North Carolina on a weekend in September =0D 1997.=0D =0D By way of background: Last December, I traveled to Fontana =0D Village in order to meet with several members of our rally staff. I =0D had been to the resort three times previously, but this time I had a =0D signed contract in hand. The BMW Riders Association's (BMW RA) 25TH =0D International Rally was set for September 18-21, 1997. On our agenda =0D was a quiet weekend of camping and exploring a scenic region. =0D Fontana's aim was to provide us that, while giving itself and its =0D corner of western North Carolina a much-needed financial shot in the =0D arm. =0D =0D As Rally Director for the Fontana event, it was my =0D responsibility to contact local community officials to let the =0D locals know who we are and how many of us are coming. I visited the =0D Graham County Chamber of Commerce and the Tennessee Valley Authority =0D Police. I also called the Swain County (NC) and Monroe (TN) County =0D Chambers. With all past BMW events this had proven the thing to do: =0D in this case alone, our courtesy was to be repaid with =0D unprofessional police harassment.=0D =0D On September 15, I returned to the US from Munich, where I had =0D attended a meeting of the International Council of BMW Clubs at BMW =0D Corporate headquarters. Our 25th International Rally at Fontana had =0D received promotional support from the Council and it's members. Many =0D from outside the U.S. would attend. Driving directly from Atlanta's =0D Hartsfield International, I arrived at Fontana Village just before =0D midnight. I was immediately informed that I was to attend a meeting =0D with various law enforcement agencies on Tuesday. I naively thought =0D it was a courtesy call.=0D =0D The next day, Fontana General Manager David Kerr and I got a =0D glimpse of what was really coming. Abruptly our beer license was =0D withdrawn--but this proved a minor annoyance compared to what was is =0D store for us. =0D =0D "These roads are dangerous," they said. "Lots of bikers get =0D killed up here."=0D =0D I said that I understood their concerns, but stated that BMW =0D riders as a whole are statistically one of safest groups. "We're the =0D ones you see wearing the protective gear and reflective safety =0D vests," I said. I also mentioned the safety articles we published, =0D the cautionary statement in the rally packet and the signs we would =0D place along the roadway. Finally I provided some demographics--a =0D snapshot of the typical BMW rider.=0D =0D The police were uninterested, but seeing that we were equally =0D zealous on the safety issue, they changed tacks from the cautionary =0D to the alarmist.=0D =0D An officer cited vague S.B.I. (State Bureau of Intelligence) =0D reports that a group of outlaw bikers was going to try to crash our =0D event. Another policeman claimed that "some" local red-neck (their =0D words) bikers were going to cause some trouble (with our 2000 plus =0D attendees? Need I add: neither a single outlaw or red-neck biker =0D group would ever be intercepted).=0D =0D These same unprovable "rumors" were used to try to mollify the =0D harrassed organizers of the now famous ill-fated motorcycle charity =0D ride that took place in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Interestingly, =0D a vice-president of BMW of North America was stopped and searched =0D during that incident. You may want to review what occurred on that =0D day in 1994, and the litigation that followed; for several BMW NA =0D executives were in attendance at Fontana. =0D =0D "Do you know of any groups that are openly hostile to your =0D organization?" they asked. =0D =0D "No sir," I answered. =0D =0D "We're concerned about knives, drugs and guns."=0D =0D I thought for a moment. "Gentleman, you're talking about the =0D wrong group here. We bring no knives, guns or drugs to Graham =0D County. The BMW RA has no adversaries out there waiting to ambush us =0D at their first opportunity. There has never been any sort of =0D incident in the past twenty-four years to indicate that we require =0D this kind of "protection." All of you are welcome to contact the =0D local government and business leaders of any community that has =0D previously hosted a BMW RA event." =0D =0D My words fell on deaf ears. Their mantra continued: Knives, =0D guns and drugs. Dangerous roads. Outlaw bikers. Red neck bikers. =0D Check points (law enforcement for roadblock), etc. =0D =0D I refused to believe that they were serious. At the end of the =0D meeting, I thanked them for expressing their concerns and assumed =0D they had listened to reason. How hard could it be to distinguish =0D between this group and the Hell's Angels?=0D =0D Rally registration opened at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday morning. =0D The weather was perfect. The staff at Fontana Village resort and the =0D local merchants in the surrounding communities (Robbinsville, Bryson =0D City, Franklin, etc.) welcomed us with open arms.=0D =0D There were no outlaw bikers. We saw no local redneck bikers. =0D There was no carnage on the highways, imagined or otherwise. There =0D were zero incidents involving knives, guns or drugs.=0D =0D What there was, however, was a prime display of police =0D harassment and a huge waste of taxpayer dollars. The amount of law =0D enforcement assets assigned to patrol inside Fontana Village and the =0D surrounding area was ridiculous. Many of their actions were =0D inappropriate, capricious and unprofessional. Helicopter flying =0D overhead with speakers blaring the theme to the television show =0D "Cops." Numerous roadblocks ("checkpoints") and command posts. On =0D Friday night a roadblock was positioned directly in front of =0D Fontana's main gate!=0D =0D Law enforcement personnel from all surrounding agencies =0D constantly patrolled back and forth inside the resort--around the =0D clock. The village, with its many inhabitants, vendors, and =0D activities was not unlike a large outdoor art show. The streets were =0D crowded with pedestrians. Many were rudely ordered out of the way.=0D =0D There's more. Officers driving 15 mph below the posted speed =0D limit, impeding normal traffic flow and encouraging riders to pass =0D on the double yellow. Others following dangerously close, a =0D ticketable offense under normal circumstances. Many motorcyclists =0D were pulled over for absolutely no reason whatsoever. Often, cars =0D were waved through roadblocks while riders where instructed to =0D dismantle their luggage. Clearly an example of unequal enforcement =0D of the law.=0D =0D David Kerr and I met daily with TVA police and pleaded for =0D some relief. We argued that Fontana's own security force, along with =0D our rally staff could easily manage our own affairs. No relief was =0D granted. Nor was any explanation offered for the heavy presence of =0D TVA, Graham County, and NC State Patrol personnel inside the private =0D resort. =0D =0D As early as Friday morning we called your office but were =0D informed that you were out of the country and that, in any case, we =0D should take our complaint to Raymond D. Williams, Chairman of the =0D Graham County Commissioners. When we finally reached Mr. Williams =0D (on Monday) he was no help whatever. His reply to our queries was =0D unsatisfactory and to some degree disturbing.=0D =0D This was in marked contrast to the residents and merchants in =0D Robbinsville and surrounding towns who expressed sympathy (but no =0D surprise) about the way our group was treated. We were left with the =0D unsettling impression that these good people fear their own police =0D force. At the very least, something is not right in Graham County.=0D =0D In sum, a large group of innocent people have been wronged, =0D and the image of a beautiful region of your state has been =0D tarnished--but where do we go from here? =0D =0D A plausible explanation and an apology from the authorities =0D would be a significant step. More importantly, steps must be taken =0D to preclude this from happening again. Finally, an invitation to =0D return someday may help to diminish any further negative fallout =0D resulting from this misadventure. Failing any of these three =0D measures, word will be passed quickly from within the BMW motorcycle =0D and car club community to other enthusiasts of other touring drivers =0D and riders.=0D =0D Any response from your office should to be directed to the BMW =0D Riders Association, the rally attendees, BMW of North America, =0D Fontana Village Resort and the merchants (and residents) of western =0D North Carolina.=0D =0D Sincerely=0D Ed Jorgensen=0D President, BMW RA=0D =0D DISTRIBUTION:=0D =0D Robbinsville/Graham County Chamber of Commerce=0D The Graham STAR=0D Raymond D. Williams, Chairman Graham County Commission=0D Lynn Cody, Commissioner Graham County=0D Dale Wiggins, Commissioner Graham County=0D Melvin Howell, Sheriff Graham County=0D Smoky Mountain Host=0D The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES=0D Travel & Tourism Division (NC)=0D Division of State Highway Patrol=0D North Carolina Department of Crime Control & Public Safety=0D Rep. Charles Hart Taylor=0D Rep. Charles M. Beall=0D Rep. Liston B. Ramsey=0D Senator Robert C. Carpenter=0D Norman Zigrossi, Chief Admin. Officer TVA=0D Robert Thompson, Director TVA Police=0D Vickie Mitchell, Media Relations TVA=0D Office of the Inspector General, TVA=0D American Motorcyclist Association=0D BMW of North America=0D International Council of BMW Clubs=0D =0D Date: Tue, 30 Sep 97 20:03:00 UT From: "FH Gaylor" Subject: BMW: From the AMA September 30, 1997 BMW Rally Turns Into Police Action WESTERVILLE, Ohio -- Approximately 2,000 motorcyclists attending the 25th Annual BMW Riders Association International Rally Sept. 18-21 in Fontana Village, North Carolina, were subjected to a massive police presence apparently brought on by unjustified warnings about illegal activity, reports the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA). Officers from the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and Graham and Swain counties all took part in the operation that lasted throughout the four-day rally. Those attending the event were subject to constant scrutiny from police patrols and overflights from official helicopters. The roads surrounding the rally site were heavily patrolled, and road blocks were established for license and registration checks. Graham County Sheriff Melvin Howell reportedly told event organizers that he had initiated the action after receiving a tip that 14,000 outlaw bikers intended to descend upon the rally site. Despite assurances from rally organizers that the organization has a long history of peaceful rally events benefiting the localities in which they're held, police authorities went ahead with the operation. "We are looking into this matter to determine just what the reason was for such a massive show of force at an event that has absolutely no history of trouble," said Robert Rasor, vice president of AMA government relations. "What would prompt police officials to treat law-abiding citizens in this fashion? On the face of it, this action seems ludicrous." for what it's worth Frank Gaylor fhg54nmNoSpam@NoSpammsn.com From: Ed Jorgensen <72040.2156NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com> To: INTERNET:RWILESNoSpam@NoSpamprodigy.net; [unknown] ; [unknown] <72040.2156NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com> Subject: BMW: [Fwd: Re: Fontana Village & BMW RA] Date: Wednesday, October 01, 1997 7:46 AM Thanks Roger. I talked to Kate Henry last night. She told me that we are creating quite a stir in Robbinsville. Even so, we need to get more letters to the Governor. She said that he'd only received three complaints so far (?). Did you know that we have an RA member in Robbinsville? His name is Bill Hicks. He told me that he is actually afraid to ride his BMW in Robbinsville now! I'm attaching my letter and the very latest and most accurate listing of recipients. Regards - Ed J. Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 11:40:45 -0400 From: "Jenkins, Robert" Subject: BMW: Fontana- REDUX Came across this as I was deleting old mail: Hello: I got this message on a list I am on. FYI. I hope that they ease up on this by September. John - ---------- From: owner-hstaNoSpam@NoSpamlistproc.bgsu.edu on behalf of John Swatzell Sent: Friday, July 11, 1997 11:28 PM To: Honda Sport Touring Association Subject: Skyway Robbery If you get multiple posts on this msg I'm posting it to 3 lists. Sorry for any duplications. Just wanted to post what's happening on the Cherohala Skyway. This is the new highway from Robbinsville, NC to Tellico Plains, TN. Last Sunday afternoon 3 of us were riding casually along near the top of the mountain. We came upon a cage doing about 35 mph. He slowed to about 20-25 obviously for us to pass which we did. About a mile or two down the road a county sheriff had a roadblock set for us. We stopped and another car came roaring up behind us and a helicopter suddenly appeared overhead. Seems we had passed on a double yellow line. You would've thunk we were escaped serial killers or something with all the troops chasing us. Anyhow, we all got a 75 dollar ticket to the policeman's ball. No matter about the guy slowing down, we should have waited for a passing zone. I'm not just bitchin' about a ticket. Guess I've deserved one a lot of times and got away with it. I just wanted to let everyone know the rest of the story. They said they were making sure that the skyway doesn't become another Deal's Gap. He said they don't have radar but don't take that to mean they won't get you for speeding. I got the definite message that they are targeting motorcyclists to discourage them from enjoying the skyway. One deputy said it's even on the internet about the new 50+ miles of virgin pavement. Imagine that. :-) Then he really hurt my feelings. He said we weren't the type of riders they were really after. They are after the "fast guys". (I ride an ST1100 and my partner rides a ZX11). Said they don't have any trouble with the Harley guys or the Goldwing riders. I was afraid to ask which one he thought we were. I suppose I'm helping them by relaying this to anyone coming this way but I hope maybe this will help you to know what to look for. Don't let it keep you from the new road. Just watch yer p's and q's a little closer. This applies to anywhere you ride in Graham County NC. They like yer money but not yer go fast motorcycles. John Swatzell Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 12:01:06 -0400 From: Mark Flynn Subject: BMW: RE: Fontana & Police ALSO Asheville Paper Roger Wiles received basically the same email from the guy who does the Graham County Pages as I did after I emailed him. My message was that we liked the area, the folks but thought the police actions were really wrong. A reporter from the Asheville Paper called me yesterday. He's doing a story on the police actions. He seemed really interested in the situation. If anyone feels he is an eyewitness to or victim of harassment, please let me know. THat is what the reporter needs. I don't want to hear from people who passed on a double yellow & got a stiff ticket. Yes, I heard about & sympathize w/the guy who had to post a $1,000 cash bond, but that doesn't make the case for us. The most significant thing I saw was the roadblock at the front gate on Saturday night. This could not be justified as normal practices to slow down bikes. 1. Not at the right time of day. Riders aren't out going fast at 11pm. 2. Right in front of Fontana isn't the place. That action was aimed directly at BMW riders. - -- Mark Flynn Winchester, VA Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 17:56:33 -0400 From: "gene" Subject: BMW: re: bmw-fontana nonsense On the list???? NON BMW(you can ignore this - I do) --MC stuff further down Didn't realize that two wheels could fly! I can not believe that here we're arguing FAA regs!!!! First putting helicopters and FAA regs in one sentence is like calling your MC a Bimmer!! Try rotorcraft. A TCA(terminal control area) now that's a real give away - they haven't existed for 4 years. Unlike the ad's there is no NEW Friendlier FAA -- It's truly a police state!!!! Check your monthly NTSB -- MEDEVAC (rotorcraft) pilot [license] was suspended for 30 days for improper landing - even though the site was marked and designated by SHP for such(doesn't matter that it was an injured person!) You do not bust the regs and fly long!!!! Sometimes you don't even have to do anything to be in trouble -- in Class "B" airspace all it takes is the Call to the tower on landing to ruin the day!!! FAA is judge and jury and the pilots are their source of income! Enough of this bull beside it's a motorcycle list NOW MC Stuff-- I keep glancing over the Fontana Stuff - I guess I look at things differently -- California used to be tough on MC's -have been escorted out of town by local law enforcement (my mother was riding a CB175 x-country at the time) but the local ordinances prohibited more than two motorcycles riding together! Stopped riding in CA for a while just to avoid the hassles. Spent the day in a local Jail in NH just to be shown that they wouldn't put up with any nonsense in their town! (on my way home in Maine from NJ). The Central Midwest for years was the worst place for motels - Would routinely be refused a room - found out that they would then notify local PD - kicked out of another rest stop -- (All those little towns had/have some of the prettiest rest stops- quiet - comfortable picnic benches!). Weekends through Alabama, Louisiana (sorry Guzzi Dave), and Mississippi were another problem traveling the back roads (weekends) the local drunks at night seemed to find lone MC's a lot like spotlighting deer. The bad part was they always threw empty beer bottles ( at least full ones would of been polite) And yes refused by camp grounds in Texas. There was also a time when certain State and National Parks refused entrance to MC's To this day while I like all the neat lights and tape for the back of the bike I can't bring myself to install any - old habits die hard - I still always check to see if the back of my bike is dark enough and any thing reflective is easily hidden!! (switch to turn lights off imperative as well as tuning the brake light off) I remember when Honda started their campaign to sell bikes "You Meet The Nicest People on a Honda"( about the time they were trying to sell the Super 90[90cc]!) We all laughed about the disarming pictures on the bill-boards and the bike (I had a Matchless Pathfinder) but it did work some in changing the image. The problems at the rally were just another in a long line of similar problems Let's not get too wrapped up in it Letter writing is fine and it's nice to fight back, but let's not make it more than it really is AS FOR ME I'm pleased as punch at the local official turnout!!! They wasted all the money and don't even know THE JOKE WAS ON THEM! ****************************************** Gene Ribas 1985 K100RT Albemarle, NC ARS:N4UMI BMWRA IBMWR BMWMOA n4umiNoSpam@NoSpamconcordnc.com "At 200mph you have no friends" ****************************************** Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 10:37:30 -0700 (PDT) From: Bob Shilling Subject: Re: BMW: (Fwd) More on NC BMW biker harassment On Thu, 2 Oct 1997, Jim Bessette wrote: > > > Forwarded from the NJ-cycles maillist. Today's date is on the article. > > --- Forwarded mail from nj-cyclesNoSpam@NoSpamdnrc.bell-labs.com > Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 14:34:12 -0400 (EDT) > Reply-To: nj-cyclesNoSpam@NoSpamdnrc.bell-labs.com > From: "R." "T." Wurth > To: Multiple recipients of list > Subject: More on NC BMW biker harassment > > The AP wire has the sheriff's statement at: > http://www.journalnow.com/news/statewire/ak548902.htm > Went there and had to look around some, the actual URL is: http://www.journalnow.com/news/statewire/ak559003.htm So the helicopter was just ''done in fun,''. Yeah, right. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................... Bob Shilling, SE Berkeley, CA shillingNoSpam@NoSpamemf.net KK6QQ MSA S-10 '91 R100, "Sleipnir" ABC#2063 DoD# 1195 "Give me my cycle, and a star filled sky above..." 'The Wild One' Johnny Horton(1925-1960) "This alligator walks into a bar and ..." Horizon Kent Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 01:01:26 -0400 From: Lee Freedman Subject: BMW: Fontana Story in ON (Long) Beemerfolks-- I'm posting to the list, with permission, the article I wrote which will be appearing probably in the next issue of BMWON. By way of background, I had promised to do an article to be sent to the online MC mags and was in the process of gathering information. I received a post from Michael Cohen asking if I could/would also write an article for the ON. The deadline was very short--got the request on Thursday and it had to be submitted the next day. The job got done and the story was written and submitted. This is the full story as written--it's quite possible that due to space constraints, it will not appear in the same form but I thought it would be of interest to the list. I thank Michael and Don Douglass for allowing me to share this with the list. As Michael said, "As an important news story, we don't want to restrict the movement of the facts to other forums". Lee Freedman Police blockades? Helicopter flyovers blaring the theme music from "Cops"? Confrontational patrols and stakeouts of a rally site? Drug-sniffing dogs? Massive law enforcement presence by a wide spectrum of police authorities? Discriminatory traffic stops for license, registration and "safety" checks? Do these sound like the scenes from a television series? Does life imitate Art? Unfortunately, for 2,200 rally attendees, it did. Rally-goers and rally organizers at the BMW Riders Association 25th Anniversary International Rally, held September 19-21, at Fontana Village Resort, Robbinsille, Graham County, North Carolina were witness to the above scenarios unfolding during their rally weekend. These rally-goers traveled to North Carolina from every corner of the United States and Canada, most with the reasonable expectation of enjoying the legendary motorcycling roads and the hospitality of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Background Information The rally organization committee, lead by RA President and Rally Director Ed Jorgensen had worked for a year, starting with a search for a suitable rally site that would do credit to the 25th Anniversary celebration and offer an attractive venue for the occasion. Following the decision to site the rally at Fontana Village Resort, President Jorgensen contacted the various local community officials to make them aware of the rally and to resolve any concerns that may have arisen. Personal visits were made to the Graham County Chamber of Commerce and the Tennessee Valley Authority Police. Calls were also made to the Swain County (NC) and Monroe (TN) County Chambers of Commerce. Returning from a meeting of the International Council of BMW Clubs at Munich, Germany, Ed proceeded directly to Fontana Village, where he was informed of a meeting with various law enforcement agencies for the following day. Accompanied by David Kerr, General Manager of the Fontana Village Resort, Ed attended the meeting where they were abruptly notified that the license to sell beer at the rally site, previously approved, had been revoked. Law enforcement personnel cited safety concerns as the reason for the license withdrawal, despite arguments that, statistically, BMW riders are very safety-aware and have a better record in this area than most. The arguments fell on deaf ears. Equally disturbing to the Rally representatives was the statement by the law enforcement representatives that cited vague sources reporting that a group of "outlaw bikers" were going to crash the event. Another claim made was "some local redneck" bikers" were going to cause some trouble. This patently ludicrous statement was refuted by the fact that there was not one incident of any "outlaw bikers" or "local rednecks" being intercepted or detained. These "justifications" were similar to the reasons cited by authorities for their actions at the ill-fated and well-publicized charity ride that took place at Spartanburg, South Carolina, last year. Further concerns were expressed regarding knives, guns and drugs and despite reasoned and logical arguments, the authorities persisted in their single-minded attitude and this was to be their continuing mantra; "outlaws, rednecks, guns, knives and drugs, dangerous roads!" All discussion to the contrary fell on deaf ears. Perhaps naively, at the end of the meeting, Ed Jorgensen was not willing to believe the authorities were serious, and returned to the rally site with the belief that reason had prevailed. However, this was not the case. The Police Action Begins The rally opened as scheduled and was treated to a prime example of police harassment and unnecessary expenditures of taxpayers' moneys, compounded by unprofessional behavior and attempts at entrapment, some successful. . Law enforcement personnel, above and beyond what was deemed necessary by knowledgeable observers at the rally, constantly patrolled the rally site. Numerous vehicles were observed parked at night with lights out, staking out various areas of the Fontana Resort. Outside the rally site, a command post had been established. On the roads, police blockades were set up and a helicopter was put into use for aerial surveillance. On the roads themselves, there were ample demonstrations of police unprofessionalism at its worst. There were many reports of entrapment by police officers. One typical example; a police officer in a car deliberately slows to 15 mph under the posted limit in a non-passing solid yellow line area and then beckons the following motorcyclist to pass. After the rider has followed his instruction to pass, he is pulled over and ticketed for violating the law. Motorcycle riders were subjected to discriminatory searches and checks at police roadblocks, while those in automobiles and trucks were simply waved through without delay. One rider reported that he drove through a checkpoint in a car without stopping but while riding a BMW, he was stopped twice. The license and registration checks were summarily done with no explanation as to reasonable cause and in many cases, were deliberately time-consuming. These checks seemed to be the most common complaint of most riders, some of whom had to suffer multiple checks on a single ride. In addition to the road blocks, riders on the highway, observing the law and driving legal, were pulled over to the side of road and "checked". In the instance of some riders' reports, when the officer was asked in a reasonable manner as to the cause of the stop, the rider was refused a plausible answer and, when the rider persisted in his questioning, was threatened with retaliatory action. While law enforcement authorities, in the pre-rally meeting, expressed safety concerns, there was no attempt on the part of those same authorities to implement their concerns. At a number of points on the roads, such as sharp curves, there were unmarked road hazards. There were places where gravel had washed onto the road surface creating an extremely hazardous situation for unwary motorcycle riders. None of these were marked by any sort of caution indicator nor were any of the more than ample law enforcement personnel strategically placed to warn on-coming riders of the hazard ahead. On Friday evening, as a further provocation, a police roadblock was established directly in front of the entrance to the Fontana Village Resort, and many riders were subjected to unwarranted stops while entering and leaving the rally site. This action prompted loud vocal warnings by rally attendees camped adjacent to the entrance to riders preparing to exit the rally grounds and there were unverified reports that the police were planning a retaliatory strike against those giving the warnings. While all this was going on, Ed Jorgensen and his rally committee, with David Kerr pleaded with the Tennessee Valley authorities for relief from the overpowering police presence, but to no avail. Additionally, no explanation was offered for the police presence inside the rally grounds. Calls to the Governor's office and to the chairman of the Graham County Commissioners, Raymond D. Williams were unsuccessful. In William"s case, his replies were evasive and unsatisfactory. Local Attitudes and Rider Reactions In marked contrast to the actions of the law enforcement personnel, the local people expressed dismay and regrets for the untoward events. reportedly well beyond anything previously witnessed. One local resident, when questioned, expressed her sympathies and volunteered that she had also suffered harassment by local authorities. In general, local residents and merchants alike, while sympathetic, were not surprised by the actions of the police. Reaction on the part of the RA rally-goers has been swift and wide-spread. Rather than simply turning their eyes away from this transparent abuse of power, utilization of the power of the Internet has already spread this story to motorcyclists around the world. Additionally, the weekend's events prompted a barrage of letters to North Carolina authorities, the Governor's Office and North Carolina state and federal representatives, protesting the treatment afforded not only to BMW riders but other motorcyclists as well. Lee Freedman BMWMOA Member 49669 Some portions excerpted from Ed Jorgensen's letter to the Governor of North Carolina, published on the Internet. All incidents reported in this story are from factual eyewitness accounts furnished to me by the participants or witnessed by myself. Date: Fri, 3 Oct 97 11:28:18 -0400 From: Harris_Gary/ny_technologyNoSpam@NoSpamexplorer.siny.com Subject: BMW: [R. T. Wurth: More on NC BMW biker harassment] >The AP wire has the sheriff's statement at: >http://www.journalnow.com/news/statewire/ak548902.htm That filename does not exist. Try this one: http://www.journalnow.com/news/statewire/ak559003.htm Gary - NYC Date: Wed, 15 Oct 1997 15:47:08 -0600 From: Michael Clark Subject: RE: BMW: suggestions>> R1100 & Mounting Radar detectors RCU is distributed by BMW of Salt Lake 1-888-BMWOFSLC. I velcro my GPS III to my RCU shelf. It's a handy little thing to have. - -- Mike > -----Original Message----- > From: Gary Nelson [SMTP:gnNoSpam@NoSpamcray.com] > Sent: Wednesday, October 15, 1997 12:39 PM > To: bmwmcNoSpam@NoSpamworld.std.com > Subject: Re: BMW: suggestions>> R1100 & Mounting Radar > detectors > > > Bob Edmiston wrote: > > > > Hello All, > > > > Looking for some advice on mounting a radar detector on a R1100RTL. > > > > 1) What do you use?? > > > > 2) Brand and model of detector?? > > > > Your suggestions/experience will be greatly appreciated! > > > I purchased a shelf from RCU Designs that attaches above the > instrument cluster, and I mount my battery-powered Solo 5 on > the shelf with that super velcro stuff from Radio Shack (Super > Lock or some such name). The radar detector then peeks over > the top of the fairing. > > I run a cord from the radar detector to my helmet speakers. > For me, the key is hearing the first warning beep. When > the signal is full on, it's too late. If I'm riding without > jacking in, I seldom notice the Solo 5 display light up. > > I saw the shelf advertised in ON or OTL. I don't have either > with me, but can check for contact info if you're interested. > The shelf was 50 USD (whew!), but on more than a few occassions > this summer I've been aware of the presence of radar before > being surveilled, so it's been well worth it. > > ------------ > Gary Nelson > St. Paul, MN > USA > 1996 R1100RTA > gnNoSpam@NoSpamcray.com > BMW RA 17682 > BMW MOA 59674 > ------------- ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 15 Oct 1997 17:21:00 -0500 From: "Filak, John F" Subject: FW: BMW: 77' RS seat cowling? Andrew Corl, My '80 RS has the full seat to accomodate a passenger. (Needs a Maier treatment ... coming this winter in the form of Xmas gift to me.) Also, I'm not knowing of any BMW that came with clip-on handlebars. Mine just has the flat bars mounted above the triple clamp with standard risers. Am I missing out on BMW clip-ons !!!! Fess up ! =8-0 John Filak ~ Lafayette New Jersey USA On Tue, 14 Oct 1997, Andrew wrote: > slash > "clipon bars replaced w/ ape hangers, > slash > and I'm wondering what was the stock seat & cowling > on my bike. Most pictures I have seen show it with the 1&1/2 seat w/ a > square cowling, but I have seen several RS's w/ full passenger seat and a > rounded cowling like the 'S' bikes had. > Could someone clear-up my confusion here? were these all available as > differnet options? > I would really like to know whats 'suppose' to be on my bike. ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 16 Oct 1997 23:40:51 -0400 (EDT) From: Andrew Subject: BMW: graham county sheriff Well good news to all !!!!!! It appears (word here in the area) That the illustrious (that was sarcastic) Graham County Sheriff WILL NOT be running for re-election. He has decided to retire at the end of his term fall of 98!!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!! I wonder... could the Fontana Blitzkrieg have anything to do with it... Guess I'll have to investigate. Hope One and all will see fit to return to our area again soon, just don't do it in LARGE groups ;) Andrew Corl 77 R100RS BMW Riders Of Knoxville 78 R80/7 Airhead #2229 Fukengruven Rider Date: Fri, 24 Oct 1997 07:21:55 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: Fontana in "Cycle News" Just got this from Ed Jorgensen. Yes, he said it was OK to distribute: You can add "CYCLE NEWS" to the list. The following was in their October 8TH issue (page 1): Approximately 2000 motorcyclists attending the 25th annual BMW Riders Association International Rally in Fontana Village, North Carolina, September 18-21, were subjected to a massive police presence apparently brought on by unjustified warnings about illegal activity, according to the AMA. Officers from the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and Graham and Swain Counties all took part in the operation that lasted throughout the four-day rally. Those attending the event were subject to constant scrutiny from police patrols and overflights from official helicopters. The roads surrounding the rally site were heavily patrolled, and roadblocks were established for license and registration checks. Graham County Sheriff Melvin Howell reportedly told event organizers that he had initiated the action after receiving a tip that 14,000 outlaw bikers intended to descend upon the rally site. Despite assurances from rally organizers that the organization had a long history of peaceful rally events benefitting the localities in which they are held, police authorities went ahead with operation. The question is: "Will the Graham County Government ever do anything positive to mitigate or stop the negative impact?" Date: Fri, 24 Oct 1997 07:22:04 -0400 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: AMA letter to NC Attorney General on Fontana More info from Ed Jorgensen, and OK'd to distribute. ===================================================================== AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST ASSOCIATION 33 Collegeview Road Westerville, Ohio 43081-1484 Telephone (614) 891-2425 Fax: (614) 891-501 2 October 6, 1997 Mr. Michael F. Easley Office of the Attorney General P.O. Box 629 Raleigh, NC 27602 Dear Attorney General Easley: The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to pursue, protect and promote the interests of motorcycling. Established in 1924, the AMA represents over 220,000 enthusiasts nationwide. We write regarding the conduct of law enforcement officials and activities targeting motorcyclists during the BMW Riders Association's (BMW RA) International Rally, held September 18 through September 21 at Fontana Village Resort, North Carolina. The AMA has received numerous reports about police harassment of motorcyclists during the Fontana rally. Examples include the establishment of checkpoints on N.C. 28, U.S. 129 and the Cherohala Skyway, at which all motorcyclists, and only motorcyclists, were stopped for license and registration checks; overflights of Fontana Village by a police helicopter playing the theme song to the television show "Cops"; law enforcement officers baiting motorcyclists to pass on double yellow marked highways by driving unmarked vehicles 15 mph below the posted speed limit and waving the riders to pass; and round-the-clock patrols within Fontana Village, the host facility for the BMW RA rally. It is the AMA's understanding that this police action was initiated and orchestrated by Graham County Sheriff Melvin Howell based on questionable and unsubstantiated information he received from the internet and the North Carolina Bureau of Investigation indicating that outlaw bikers, 14,000 strong, with guns, knives and drugs, were planning to overtake the BMW RA rally at Fontana Village. Ignoring appeals from the event organizers that this was bad information and that no such invasion was going to take place, various law enforcement agencies, under the direction of Sheriff Howell, launched this abusive assault on the BMW RA rally participants and other motorcyclists in the area. Participating law enforcement agencies included Graham County Sheriffs Dept., N.C. Highway Patrol, T.V.A. Police, Swain County Sheriffs Dept., and the U.S. Forest Service. It has also been reported that the Tennessee Highway Patrol and Blount Co. Sheriffs Dept. (TN) established a road block the morning of September 20 on U.S. 129. It has not been determined if this was coordinated by Sheriff Howell. The callous disregard for personal rights, malicious targeting and entrapment of motorcyclists displayed by these law enforcement agencies is reprehensible. Clearly this police action was excessive and lacked appropriate oversight. The weak justification, scale, discriminatory nature and non-questioning acceptance by law enforcement agencies of this police action demands the attention of the Attorney General in the form of a formal investigation. We await your timely response to this serious matter. Sincerely, Sean M. Maher Legislative Affairs Specialist Government Relations Department cc: The Honorable James B. Hunt, Jr. Date: Fri, 24 Oct 1997 09:56:20 -0700 From: Greg Hutchinson Subject: Re: BMW: AMA letter to NC Attorney General on Fontana Brian Curry wrote: > > AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST ASSOCIATION > Dear Attorney General Easley: [AMA letter snipped] As I grew up in NC and still know a few folks, I also sent a copy to an old friend of mine who came in second for the AG spot in NC. He and another couple old friends are attorneys and judges who just happen to be riders. Greg Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 12:04:17 -0500 From: walsizNoSpam@NoSpamns2.caro.NET (Maureen O'Farrell) Subject: BMW: unbelievable Fontana repercussions I havent' kept up with all the emails on the Fontana state-of-siege, but some maddening developments have occured to us. My S.O., Walt Sizemore, and I arrived at Fontana Friday the 19th and heard all the horror stories about traffic stops, police overpresence and the beer debacle. That night the two of us with a friend, Pat Faulkner, were walking up the hill from the BMW truck to the main hall. We saw the cops pull over a rider about 50 feet in front of us, and walked over to see what was happening. As we approached the scene from the curb, the nice police officer (actually I believe he was a sheriff's deputy) screamed at us that we were going to jail for obstruction of justice! We were stunned, we had said and done NOTHING! Walt works for the Sheriff in Mecklenburg Co, NC, so although shocked by this threat, he urged us to step back. A crowd began to gather, I saw someone on the hill videotaping the event. Comments were being made by some onlookers, but Walt and I said nothing. Two additional back up cruisers arrived, one from the Police and one from the Tennessee Valley Authority. At this point Walt attempted to help diffuse the growing tension. The cops, deputies, etc. looked like they were about ready to pounce on whomever looked at them funny. He pulled out his Sheriff's office business card and slowly walked over to the TVA officer who was off to the side. They talked for 5 minutes or so, and Walt and he were smiling and seemed to be having a congenial conversation. When Walt came back over to us he said he had told the officer that they really didn't need to worry about this group that we were a peaceable bunch. Walt even joked that it wasn't like we were a bunch of rowdy Harley guys, to which the officer joked back that it was actually the Gold Wing crowd that was more trouble! After the ticket was issued, a bunch of us talked to the rider from Canada who had gotten the ticket for not wearing his "bonnet". Everyone slowly disbursed and we all went on with our evening. About two weeks ago I got a call from a dismayed Walt, that he had just been called in by Internal Affairs (he assumed it was about one of his employees that was in some trouble) Apparently he was being charged by the Graham County Sheriff, the local polce and the TVA with some mysterious charge. They reported that he had said all sorts of outrageous things, and the only reason they didn't arrest him then was because they feared a riot would break out!!! I won't bore you all with the ridiculous details, but the charges are so completely off base, they didn't even have the date right (they said this took place Sat. the 20th), but all three officers got together and made up this story. Everything that was said by Pat and others in the crowd was attributed to Walt, who would have to be the biggest idiot to give his card to these guys if any of this were true!! IA was not interested in talking to any witnesses that could verify the truth, and Walt, who has spent 25 years working to do good in rehabilitating and treating inmates, has been suspended for obstructing justice. I guess all the bad press the Graham County law enfarcement has gotten left them looking for a goat. I personally, have spent two weeks being sick to my stomach about this. I find unfair accusations to be hard to deal with. Walt seems to be sucking up his anger over the matter, as he says "No good deed goes unpunished!" If anyone witnessed this event or knows the whereabouts of the Canadian guy who was pulled over, or the person videotaping the proceedings please email me/us. I don't think Walt can take any legal action without losing the job that we just moved down here for. I personally would like to see some form of justice- whether a class action complaint, or individuals like me filing some complaint. Does anyone have any ideas??? Maureen O'Farrell Walt Sizemore - -------------------------------------------------------- >Pearl 1994 R1100RSA >Black 1995 R1100RSLA >White 1988 R100GS - -------------------------------------------------------- Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 16:30:26 -0500 From: "Ted Hall" Subject: BMW: Re: unbelievable Fontana repercussions Mecklenburg Sheriffs Department , NC you say. Well Walt, old boy, give me an address to send to your uniformed boss/bosses and let me unload a whole folder of real newsy shit for your superiors to read. I think if the List of boys and girls really want to enlighten some one we can! I think you might want a written apology from them when we get done presenting( or is that ranting) about what really happened in Fontana. Lets see what kind of grit your boss is made of. Let's see, is this another county in NC to avoid. Send me an address Ted Hall Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 20:33:19 EST From: davidebsmithNoSpam@NoSpamjuno.com Subject: Re: BMW: unbelievable Fontana repercussions On Wed, 29 Oct 1997 12:04:17 -0500 walsizNoSpam@NoSpamns2.caro.NET (Maureen O'Farrell) writes: > >I havent' kept up with all the emails on the Fontana >state-of-siege, but some maddening developments >have occured to us. > > snip > >I personally would like to see some >form of justice- whether a class action complaint, >or individuals like me filing >some complaint. Does anyone have any ideas??? > Several things come to mind: 1) Walt needs to talk to a lawyer who handles police employment cases, because he has rights that will only be protected if he has someone who knows that area of law on his side. Do not expect the Mecklenburg Cty. Sheriff's Dept. to treat him fairly or give him any break. (I say this as someone who works on the government side). Check with a local police fraternal organization or union. 2) That same lawyer should be happy to take Walt's case because Walt should have a nice state lawsuit for libel and intentional infliction of emotional distress and a Federal lawsuit for violation of civil rights under color of law (section 1983). 3) Moreover, somebody who is more familiar with the North Carolina government structure than I am should know the appropriate inspector general's office or internal affairs department to contact (state attorney general, state police, TVA, or county) to start an investigation of these guys for official misconduct and conspiracy. In Illinois, what those guys did is a felony. 4) Some enterprising investigative reporter might want to look into this story, too, as a followup to the earlier Fontana stories. Harassment is one thing. Conspiring to file false police reports and charges to endanger someone's job is unconscionable. Do North Carolina a favor and get these assholes kicked off the street. (Note that none of the above is legal advice, because I am not allowed to give legal advice to anyone other than my client governmental body.) - ------------------------------------------------- David E.B. Smith, Chicago, Illinois davidebsmithNoSpam@NoSpamjuno.com or 74017.3363NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com 1997 R1100RT Sine(us) Blue "No name" 1992 Subaru Legacy Wagon "But it's also a Boxer" Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 19:50:07 -0600 From: Bob Taylor Subject: BMW: Re: unbelievable Fontana repercussions At 05:38 PM 10/29/97 -0500, you wrote: > I think you might want a written apology from them when we get done presenting( or is > that ranting) about what really happened in Fontana. Lets see what kind of > grit your boss is made of. Let's see, is this another county in NC to > avoid. Don't know whether that protest will ultimately be taken that seriously! ;-( All Sheriff Howell or Commissioner Ray Williams has to do is point to the Internet BMW Riders web site and look up our own future 'Happenings': reservations already being solicited for next September's "Chattanooga Gap Extravaganza". At the Tapoco Lodge. Know where the Tapoco Lodge sits? Graham County, North Carolina. Even the good sheriff and commissioner are smart enough to know that Tapoco is on their own stomping grounds. Not in Tennessee. Makes it real hard to convince the Governor and the NC Tourist Commission that we're serious about taking our $$ elsewhere until the Fontana problem receives a just response, when, shoot, we're already putting up free advertising for the Graham County tourist business and we're already planning "The Return to Graham County". Just calling the cards the way they look to me... Bob ******************************************************************* Bob Taylor Director, Academic Technologies Northwestern University, Evanston, IL bob-taylorNoSpam@NoSpamnwu.edu *** 1988 K75S *** BMWMOA, BMW RA, IBMWR, etc ******************************************************************* Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 19:11:57 -0800 (PST) From: Shibumi Subject: Re: BMW: Re: unbelievable Fontana repercussions At 04:30 PM 10/29/97 -0500, Ted Hall wrote: > >Mecklenburg Sheriffs Department , NC you say. Well Walt, old boy, give me >an address to send to your uniformed boss/bosses and let me unload a whole >folder of real newsy shit for your superiors to read. I think if the List >of boys and girls really want to enlighten some one we can! I think you >might want a written apology from them when we get done presenting( or is >that ranting) about what really happened in Fontana. Lets see what kind of >grit your boss is made of. Let's see, is this another county in NC to >avoid. Send me an address >Ted Hall While were at it, Internal Affairs seems to be in possession of an inadequate amount of information; information that is bonafide and much of which is reasonably verifiable by many articulate and credible sources regarding the practices of certain law enforcement agencies in Graham Co, NC. I don't recall them ever being on the list of addresses for Fontana responses. They got a physical & email address? - -John Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 21:07:07 -0800 From: Roozbeh Chubak Subject: BMW: Tapoco Lodge At 5:50 PM -0800 10/29/97, Bob Taylor wrote: > >All Sheriff Howell or Commissioner Ray Williams has to do is point to the >Internet BMW Riders web site and look up our own future 'Happenings': >reservations already being solicited for next September's "Chattanooga Gap >Extravaganza". At the Tapoco Lodge. Know where the Tapoco Lodge sits? >Graham County, North Carolina. > >Even the good sheriff and commissioner are smart enough to know that Tapoco >is on their own stomping grounds. Not in Tennessee. Makes it real hard to >convince the Governor and the NC Tourist Commission that we're serious >about taking our $$ elsewhere until the Fontana problem receives a just >response, when, shoot, we're already putting up free advertising for the >Graham County tourist business and we're already planning "The Return to >Graham County" When I attended the RA Rally held at Fontana last month, I stayed at the Tapoco Lodge (so did Dr. Curve and a whole bunch of other Presidents). I found the owners/operators of Topeca Lodge to be real nice people; they worked very hard to make our stay enjoyable and they seemed embarassed/uncomfortable with the way bikers were being treated by the Graham County Sheriffs. If reservations have been made at the Lodge and are then canceled due to past (and current) hooliganism on the part of local law enforcement, I believe we would be punishing the wrong people. Regards, Roozbeh _______________________________________________________________________ Roozbeh Chubak AMA #552002 BOOF #1 BMWOA #38643 Village Idiot Idiologue Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 17:44:09 -0500 (EST) From: **SLEDDOG** Subject: Re: BMW: unbelievable Fontana repercussions Greetings Maureen ........ That Canadian guy is a friend of mine Steve Daniels . A fellow Broccoli,downtowner,and is 10 minutes from me. Just the other day he mentioned that dumb-ass ticket. I will speak to him this evening. Best , Donn Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 16:57:47 From: Dave Thompson Subject: BMW: Fontana Fiasco Random thoughts from a Prez who didn't get to (but didn't miss) the Fontana circus: 1. BMWRA is (I believe) trying to deal with the people in Graham County who made an otherwise excellent rally less than enjoyable. I'm sure the RA Club officials would prefer to have the BMW community all reading from the same page. 2. The Tapoco gathering is still ten months away. Cancelling now wouldn't pose a large problem for the Topico Lodge, in my opinion. Cancelling may even give the good citizens some leverage to help correct a situation there, if one exists. 3. A significant number of letters and emails were sent to various officials in Graham County after the RA Rally...Has anyone had theirs acknowledged? Not necessarily answered, just acknowledged. This may indicate the level of interest among Graham County officialdom in having the BMW community return. 4. The recent email from Maureen O'Farrell concerning the charges against Walt Sizemore seems to indicate that the LEO's in the area are acting a bit like trapped animals...biting back with little regard as to whether their target is friend or foe. The term "lashing out blindly" comes to mind. 5. I speak only for me, but I think I would be damned uncomfortable, and extremely shortsighted, if I found myself in Graham County on a BMW motorcycle in the forseeable future. 6. There is little doubt in my mind that this list is being monitored by the Graham County LEO's, one way or another. 7. My thoughts, my opinions. If I stepped on your toes, I'm sorry. It wasn't intentional. YMMV. Cheers, Dave T. Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 16:29:23 -0500 From: "Traversa, Roger (COLUMBIA)" Subject: BMW: RE: Tapoco Lodge Either you're boycotting the place (Graham County) or you're not. You can't boycott selectively. A boycott, to be effective will necessarily affect tertiary parties. You morons must either NOT transact ANY business in Graham County or give up. The point can't be made while you're still spending money in that locale. Of course the owners will be "HURT" that's the point. To get the residents of that County off their asses and to reign in the police department. I will now don my asbestos undies. Flame on. >>When I attended the RA Rally held at Fontana last month, I stayed at the >>Tapoco Lodge (so did Dr. Curve and a whole bunch of other Presidents). >>I found the owners/operators of Topeca Lodge to be real nice people; they >>worked very hard to make our stay enjoyable and they seemed >>embarassed/uncomfortable with the way bikers were being treated by the >>Graham County Sheriffs. Not uncomfortable enough to organize an effort to reign in THEIR police. >>If reservations have been made at the Lodge and are then canceled due to >>past (and current) hooliganism on the part of local law enforcement, I >>believe we would be punishing the wrong people. No shit sherlock. How the hell you gonna get people off their asses to do something unless yu give them a reason. >The sad thing here is that sometimes the innocent get hurt with the guilty. >(Think of wars....) Hopefully, this will have settled by then. Define settled. >But, lets get some creative juices running here. How can the point be made, >even with staying there? IT CAN'T. >Quick thought might be to get from the CofC a list of all the business's in >Graham County. Use Databases, Word Processors, Merge and Purge. Get >a letter ready to be posted from Robbinsville that "Sorry, while we were here >we did not patronize you. Due to the actions of the government we minimize >our economic activities in Graham County...." (Dress it up of course.) >Now, is Tapoco Lodge I before or after the elections? And have the >organizers work out lots of routes that run into Tennessee rather than NC. Either boycott or don't, this boycott of convenience is a bunch of crap. Roger Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 16:42:41 -0500 From: Charles Sturtevant Subject: Re: BMW: unbelievable Fontana repercussions At 12:04 PM 10/29/97 -0500, Maureen O'Farrell wrote: > >I havent' kept up with all the emails on the Fontana state-of-siege, but >some maddening developments have occured to us. > >My S.O., Walt Sizemore, and I arrived at Fontana Friday the 19th and heard >all the horror stories about traffic stops, police overpresence and the >beer debacle. That night the two of us with a friend, Pat Faulkner, were >walking up the hill from the BMW truck to the main hall. We saw the cops >pull over a rider about 50 feet in front of us, and walked over to see what >was happening. > >As we approached the scene from the curb, the nice police officer (actually >I believe he was a sheriff's deputy) screamed at us that we were going to >jail for obstruction of justice! .............................................................. ..........Any properly trained law enforcement officer, in any jurisdiction, will, in his loudest, most authoritative voice, and in no uncertain language, order bystanders not to approach him while he is making a traffic stop. >We were stunned, we had said and done NOTHING! ........................................................ ..........wrong...you approached his traffic stop. >Walt works for the Sheriff in Mecklenburg Co, NC, so although >shocked by this threat, he urged us to step back. .......................................................... ...........I am getting a clear picture of this clown now. "Stand back folks...I'll handle this situation." You say he works for the Sheriff's office....doing what?.... washing cars.....A trained LEO would know to stay back. > A crowd began to gather, ............................................................ ............now that's going to sit well with any cop. >I saw someone on the hill videotaping the event. Comments were being made >by some onlookers, but Walt and I said nothing. >Two additional back up cruisers arrived, one from the Police and one from >the Tennessee Valley Authority. ............................................................. .........no shit...I think he had cause to call for back-up. >At this point Walt attempted to help diffuse the growing tension. ............................................................... ............yea this idiot is going to solve the problems of the world. The cops, deputies, etc. looked like they were >about ready to pounce on whomever looked at them funny. ............................................................ ............yep.....sounds about right when a crowd is gathering >He pulled out his >Sheriff's office business card ......................................................... ...........I'll bet they were really impressed. >and slowly walked over to the TVA officer >who was off to the side. They talked for 5 minutes or so, and Walt and he >were smiling and seemed to be having a congenial conversation. .......................................................... ...........let's humor this asshole and maybe he'll go away >When Walt came back over to us he said he had told the officer that they >really didn't need to worry about this group that we were a peaceable >bunch. Walt even joked that it wasn't like we were a bunch of rowdy Harley >guys, to which the officer joked back that it was actually the Gold Wing >crowd that was more trouble! After the ticket was issued, ............................................................. ...........what? Walt wasn't able to prevent this injustice? >a bunch of us >talked to the rider from Canada who had gotten the ticket for not wearing >his "bonnet". Everyone slowly disbursed and we all went on with our >evening. > >About two weeks ago I got a call from a dismayed Walt, that he had just >been called in by Internal Affairs (he assumed it was about one of his >employees that was in some trouble) Apparently he was being charged by the >Graham County Sheriff, the local polce and the TVA with some mysterious >charge. They reported that he had said all sorts of outrageous things, and >the only reason they didn't arrest him then was because they feared a riot >would break out!!! > >I won't bore you all with the ridiculous details, but the charges are so >completely off base, they didn't even have the date right (they said this >took place Sat. the 20th), but all three officers got together and made up >this story. Everything that was said by Pat and others in the crowd was >attributed to Walt, who would have to be the biggest idiot to give his card >to these guys if any of this were true!! > >IA was not interested in talking to any witnesses that could verify the >truth, and Walt, who has spent 25 years working to do good in >rehabilitating and treating inmates, has been suspended for obstructing >justice. .............................................................. .......sounds like an appropriate charge and an appropriate administrative action. >I guess all the bad press the Graham County law enfarcement has >gotten left them looking for a goat. > >I personally, have spent two weeks being sick to my stomach about this. I >find unfair accusations to be hard to deal with. Walt seems to be sucking >up his anger over the matter, as he says "No good deed goes unpunished!" > >If anyone witnessed this event or knows the whereabouts of the Canadian guy >who was pulled over, or the person videotaping the proceedings please email >me/us. I don't think Walt can take any legal action without losing the job >that we just moved down here for. I personally would like to see some form >of justice- whether a class action complaint, or individuals like me filing >some complaint. Does anyone have any ideas??? .................................................................. ...............yea...tell Walt to mind his own business next time. ************************************** Charles Sturtevant 82R100CS BMW MOA IBMWR CFI Rotorcraft Springfield, Virginia Date: Thu, 30 Oct 1997 19:12:32 -0500 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: The Ripples keep spreading / Fontana The November issue of "The Beemer Beat", News of the BMW Riders of Oregon reprinted Ed Jorgensen's letter to the governor of1 North Carolina It was captioned with: "Planning a trip to North Carolina anytime soon? You might want to reconsider after reading this letter, which is considerably shortened from its original verion. It concerns the BMWRA National Rally held in North Carolina last September." ===================================================== The question is: "Will the Graham County Government ever do anything positive to mitigate, or stop the negative impact on the establishments and residents of Graham County?" Date: Fri, 31 Oct 97 09:16:54 UT From: "LARRY WILBERS" Subject: BMW: RE: The Ripples keep spreading / Fontana What negative impact? A couple of thousand motorcyclists are a drop in the bucket compared to annual total visitors to the area. The Smoky Mountains National Park has more visitors than any other national park in the country. In fact, keeping motorcyclists out is probably seen as a way of encouraging other people to visit. Why would someone in a car want to visit an area where they may be faced with oncoming motorcycles in their lane as they round a mountain bend. I have personally witnessed a fellow on a Honda Valkyrie passing on a two lane highway with oncoming traffic. The oncoming traffic had to move over to make a third lane down the middle of the road for this idiot. I have also had a pickup truck intentionally turn in front of me in the area. Let's get real. We have gotten no response because we a not a significant customer of the region. At least not alone. If you start talking about removing the Honda Hoot and any other rally from the state, you might have some influence. The Hoot drops about 10 mil in the Asheville area in less than one week. Larry in Columbus Date: Fri, 31 Oct 97 10:17:41 UT From: "LARRY WILBERS" Subject: BMW: RE: The Ripples keep spreading / Fontana PS Do we really know what the economic base is for Graham county? My impression is that most of the residents are retirees or weekenders. Neither of these groups would especially want a large number of motorcyclists in the area. Larry in Columbus Date: Fri, 31 Oct 1997 12:45:56 -0500 (EST) From: jrocheNoSpam@NoSpammailer.fsu.edu (jim roche) Subject: BMW: Tapoco Lodge Supports Bikers - Period. Rooz wrote concerning the "Upcoming Prez Meet" in Sept 98 At Tapoco Lodge - 9 miles from the gap and 21 miles from the Cherolaha...... ======================================================================= >The debate is about what to do to >reduce/eliminate this kind of police tactics. There are valid points being >made by proponents of the various approaches proposed. I happen to be more >interested in steps that correct the situation rather inflict punishment. >Attempts to correct the situation include (but are not limited to) wrtiting >letters to publications, Chamber of Commerce, local and state >representatives, etc. > >I am also in favor of county-wide and state-wide economic penalties. But I >have no interest in "punishing" anyone (except for the Sheriff, perhaps), >especially not in singling out a business that has been sympathetic to our >cause, and for all I know may have already voted with their feet against >the those in power. > > >Regards, >Roozbeh > >______________________________________________________________________ Alexa and I were at the Tapoco Lodge ten days ago as part of the many who are there at this time of the year and refered to by the locals as "Leafers" -- all big eyed tourist enjoying the burst of color now in full swing upon the rolling mountains. The first thing one sees upon getting near the lodge is a large sign that says "Bikers Welcome" and I like that. We stayed three days and the owner talked to me a number of times. She made mention in no uncertain term of her (and others she knew) displeasure with the aggressive actions during the recent Fontana rallay and kept saying how the community would much rather them put their energys and time in other areas of the county like school crossings, school bus routes, drunk enforcement and the like. Her, her son, his wife, and most all the staff reiterated these feelings often. While I was there a Harley group showed up. Profilers one and all with open pipe bikes, fringie things hanging off the bike levers, and loud voices that used inapproiate language in the dining room to get each others attention. I could not help but notice that the owner and all there treated them as well as anyone else. I like that. Just because I thought they were collective "dip-a-fringe-fucks" did not mean that they should be singled out by the owner and they were not. The owners of the Tapoco Lodge are fair, tolerant, aware of inequalitys, receptive to all bikers, offer first class service and food, have made their feelings known to the Lawmen of the area and continue to do everything they can to show all two wheel drivers (road burners, profilers, tourmasters, and one off'ers) the best side of their community and hospitality. As far as the Law in the county being on the "lookout for BMW types" I am not so sure. When we ran the Blue Ridge 500 just 3 1/2 weeks ago we "burned" through Graham County roads in a safe quite "blur" that had riders like myself and Ian Schmeisser catching (overtaking suddenly) patrol cars in the snake areas. If they had wanted us they could have had us. We were FF rolling. They just turned off and let us keep enjoying the road. Just like many of you I've ridden in all 48 states. I've always been on sport bikes and have never toured, as such, prefering instead to run hard, safe, and long, in a sort of extended renagade road race of free American pavement. The triangle area formed between Maryville, Tenn., Dehlonega, Ga., and Hendersonville, N.C., offers some of the finest motorcycle roads in America, no matter what you plan to do with them. Be you a burner, profiler, tourer, or just-passing-thruer, there is a road for you in this triangle. At my age and point in my motorcycle life I simply can not let the negative actions of one Sheriff, in one county, during one gathering, stop me from going right back and enjoying the roads even more. Join us if you will -- low in the corners, tall in the straights. Best, Jim(Dr.Curve)Roche jrocheNoSpam@NoSpammailer.fsu.edu high performance old twins http://garnet.acns.fsu.edu/~jroche/index.html Date: Fri, 31 Oct 1997 13:55:12 -0500 From: Kevin Green Subject: BMW: Opinion on Fontana Hello All, I live in Atlanta and have a close friend whose parents live within spitting distance of the Tapico Lodge. I have been there to visit innumerable times and happened to drop by during that sordid weekend. After one search and registration check plus discussion with people who had been there for a few days, I called it quits and headed back to Atlanta. I was lucky enough to have this optio, as illogical people irk me and I would probably have spent an evening in the local jail. Seen it=85done that=85 I k= now my limits. I wrote the requisite letters and sent them to the appropriate people as mentioned in this forum. As of yet no responses or= acknowledgements. My friends' parents were appalled at what occurred, but not surprised. They agree that the only way that any impact could be made is through financial deterrence. They own a local grocery store, which would be negatively impacted, but, having lived there all their lives, they feel that nothing will be accomplished through letters, threats, etc. Actions speak louder than words. They think a monthly reminder of where a rally was held and how much income injected into the area, should be sent to the local Robbinsville newspaper. I think this should be done, as well as a webpage detailing this information. Other than visiting my friends' parents, I have no intention of entering Graham county in the foreseeable future. I definitely will not be leaving any dollars in that area.=20 My question is directed to the person(s) trying to organize another weekend at the Tapico Lodge. What the F$%& is the matter with you? Were you there during the hostilities, but still feel everything was OK? What part of the weekend events did you not understand? Sorry for the anger, but I feel y'all don't get the complete picture. If you insist with your endeavor, please ensure that you disassociate yourselves from other BMW riders. Try not to solicit participants via this forum, cause I too believe that this forum is being monitored.=20 I am kind of surprised that this note is even necessary. Do you realize how many beautiful roads are within 250 miles of Fontana, outside of Graham County? You will be harassed when you return. Anyway, that's my two cents=85=85=85=85=85=85=85 Kevin Green Date: Fri, 31 Oct 1997 23:01:45 -0500 From: Don Denny Subject: BMW: Fontana Though I was not at the Fontana rally I wrote a letter to The Graham Star voicing my displeasure on the treatment of my fellow BMW riders. I sent copies to: Rob Mason, Ray Williams, Jerry Crisp (who was thought to be Sheriff), James Hunt, David Kerr, E.W. Horton, Smokey Mountain Host and The Ashville Citizen Times. The letter was mailed 9/26. Today, 10/31 I received a letter from E.W. Horton, Colonel, Commanding of the N.C. Highway Patrol. "I regret your association may have experienced unpleasant encounters with law enforcement officials during this rally. The N.C. Highway Patrol currently has three Troopers stationed in Graham County. The anticipated influx of an additional 2,000 plus vehicles prompted Patrol officials to temporarily assign three additional troopers to assist with the safe, convenient and efficient travel of motorists throughout Graham County. This is the same action we would take in an situation where we have a large number of vehicles coming to an event. During this period, the highways Patrol's traffic methodology was to conduct high visibility patrols to encougage voluntary compliance with motor laws. The N.C. Highway Patrol chose not to participate in traffic checkpoints during this time. I have received numerous letters such as yours regarding law enforcement activities during this event. It would be unethical and unprofessional for me to address the action of any other agency for which I have no control. If you can provide me with any instance which a member of the N.C. Highway Patrol acted in an unprofessional manner, was in violation of nay state law or policy of th Highway Patrol, that action will be investigated and if substantiated, approriate action will be taken. The N.C. Highway Patrol strives to serve the people that travel our highways through reasonable and prudent law enforcement and quality service based upon high ethical, professional and legal standards. Please be assured this office does not tolerate personnel actions that are inconsistent with this. Thank you for taking the time to write and express your concerns." ANY TYPOS ARE MINE. I should note that I received my November BMWON Oct 30. Don E. Denny BMWMOA & RA 899 Champaign Il Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 09:54:09 -0400 From: pro_merNoSpam@NoSpammagi.com (PRO PRINTERS) Subject: BMW: Witness to Fontana Helmet Incident I just received an email forwarded to me by my buddy who was at Fontana with me. I witnessed the helmet ticketing incident and the hapless rider who got ticketed is a friend of mine, Steve from Toronto. I was in the area and saw police lights go on so I went over to see what the latest police incident was about. I approached and discovered Steve standing by the side of the road as the cop wrote him up in his cruiser. As related, we were just talking and laughing on the roadside with about a half dozen people when the cop came flying out of his car and threatened to arrest us all with obstruction of justice. Everyone backed off except for me - I laughed. As if we were obstructing justice and as is there was any justice there to obstruct. (In retrospect laughing was definitely the wrong thing to do. I'm lucky the cop didn't throw me in jail. But it really was quite funny at the time.) There was no way I was going to abondon my friend to the capricious judgement of these "officers". We were aware of a police officer trying to help but as far as I know Steve was not aware of what was said. There did not appear to be any heated discussion going on at any rate. We were under the impression that Walt was trying to get Steve out from under a ticket. There was in my judgement no incident to diffuse as the crowd that was there was not threatening in any way and was just observing and talking and joking amongst themselves. I heard no abuse directed to any of the cops there. (Actually, I counted five police cars there at one time but I could not say where they were all from.) At no time except for the time related above did any officer say anything to Steve, myself or anyone else in the crowd. So how "threatened" could they have been ? We noticed two people videotaping the incident independently of each other and at different times but I do not know who they were. I confirm that this incident took place on the Friday night NOT Saturday as the cops claim. At any rate, Walt's dismissal is one more piece of evidence that points to a paranoid and out of control Sheriff's department in Graham County, NC. I, for one, am not surprised. Steve is not on the Internet and I will not give you his telephone number now. I believe he is away on business for a couple of weeks at this time. I spoke to him last week (circa Oct. 21) and he was half considering fighting the ticket as it would only be a little out of his way to go to NC. If you wish, give me your phone number and I will forward it to Steve along with a copy of your email. I'm sure he will help you in any way he can. My home phone is 613-526-0212. Kevin Kerr at Pro Printers Tel. 613-727-9444 Fax 613-727-1945 Kevin Kerr at Pro Printers Tel. 613-727-9444 Fax 613-727-1945 Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 14:11:44 -0500 From: Lee Freedman Subject: BMW: FONTANA FOLLOWUP ! Prezzes As a result of posting our Fontana story on the Net, I have been getting feedback from a number of clubs and organizations. In case you thought that our letter-writing was the only action that would be taken, I refer you to the posts below, reposted here with the permission of the writer. As hoped, this issue is going beyond our so-far non-productive efforts and is being carried to the people who count. It also shows that disparate groups can band together for a common good. Lee, My name is Tony Burson and I am the State Information Director for the Concerned Bikers Association/ABATE of N. Carolina. I just pulled off the article that you planned to publish in BMWON related to the rally in Fontana. I am asking for your permission to publish this article in our upcoming issue so that all motorcyclists visiting and living in N. Carolina who receive our newsletter will be informed of this incident. Please let us know as soon as possible as we are currently preparing the newsletter for publication. If we can get this information out to as many motorcyclists as possible, maybe we will be able to collectively resolve this situation for our betterment as a whole, regarding motorcycling enthusiasts. Tony Burson State Information Director CBA/ABATE of NC Lee Freedman wrote: > Tony > May I have permission to repost our correspondence to my newslist. I > think > others would be very interested in knowing about this. > best regards > Lee Freedman By all means...yes. This incident demands we as motorcyclists pool our efforts together for the purpose of protecting our right of transportation without descrimination. I was told yesterday (Sunday) by the president of the Concerned Bikers Association of North Carolina he is preparing a positional statement of the organization to be released across the nation. He also informed me he has contacted legislators who will be looking into this situation. The newsletter will be going to the printer this morning, and should be ready for distribution around Wednesday. I'll make sure you get a stack of'em. We'll keep you informed of any findings. Tony " A goal is a dream that has an ending"..........Duke Ellington Lee "VIPER" Freedman 1988 R100GS (The BadAss Bumblebee ) West Seneca, New York Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 16:25:17 -0800 From: Tom Nash Subject: BMW: Fontana and the DOJ Dear BMW Presidents, I hear that some have been asking about me, and what's going on with the Department of Justice and the Fontana BMW Rally. I am presently unsubbed from the list, and sending this "in the blind." My mother recently passed away after a long battle with cancer, and my immediate family and I just got home from the memorial service yesterday. My father is doing very well, and we kids now want to make sure that after 48 years of marriage to his high-school sweetheart, he can adjust to being single again. I'm sure that we kids are more worried about it than he is - he's a tough old bird. While I was back in Virginia, I talked with my sister-in-law the DOJ attorney regarding Fontana and any news. She works in the International Division of the DOJ, and your Fontana letters, as well as a complete snapshot copy of everything Tom Hundt put up on his web site (all 77 printed pages), have been forwarded to two places: the domestic division of the Department of Justice in Washington D.C., and the U. S. Attorney's office in North Carolina. My sister-in-law essentially pointed me in the right direction, and she is out of the loop now, except for the occasional inquiry to her acquaintence in the domestic division of the DOJ. Like any Federal agency, if this moves at all, it will move at the speed of government paperwork, which means that nothing may come of it for some time, if at all. Also like any Federal agency, inquiries into the status of any alleged effort to investigate will be met with the standard "no comment about possible on-going processes." That's fed-speak for "don't call us, we'll call you." So, I have nothing to report, other than the fact that your letters did indeed get to places in the Federal government where if someone is inclined to look at them, they can be looked at. That is all that I promised you in the first place, and I have kept my promise to you. Whether or not anything comes of it now is far beyond my influence or control. I have been elevated to Wizop, or Head Sysop, for my company's private forum on Compuserve, so most of my on-line time will be taken administering that forum on behalf of my 90,000 fellow employees. I won't have the time to participate on the BMW list, and I remain undecided as to whether I will even have the time to subscribe and just lurk. I'd like to, but there is only so much time in the day. However, if anything of note comes about at the DOJ, I will let you know. Take care people, ride safely, and I look forward to participating on the BMW list with you after my term as Compuserve Wizop is up, most likely in June or July of 1998. If anyone wants to respond, please do so via private mail. Nobody is on the "twit filter", and quite frankly, I don't have a beef with, or hold grudges against, anyone on the list anyway. Life is too short to ruin it with silly stuff. Let me be the first to wish all of you a Happy Holidays! :) Tom Nash '94 K1100RS San Francisco Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 02:00:54 -0500 From: "Terence R. Evans, M.D." Subject: BMW: Economic sanctions or *not* returning to an area... My second major BMW Rally was Bike Week, Daytona March 1993. It was probably in the Feb or maybe March'93 OTL where they gave several points of interest, advice etc. One of the points that intriuged me was in referencing the local police and the additional restraint that they showed during Bike Week than any other time or city-wide event such as College Student's Spring Break. The article went on to say that the AVERAGE person attending Bike Week spent $89.00 per day per person in Daytona. This included if someone came two-up, camped at Bulow for $7 bux per night, stayed at the Marriott with the Harley execs, ate one meal at McDonald's per day or ate three squares at any of the 4 Star resturants, owned a Rat Bike, their old Honda 450, a BMW or tricked out Arlen-Ness-type Harley. This really blew my mind in that I never thought of it in those terms. Moreso mindblowing was the statistic of the average student during Spring Break spent $19 per day per person. A helluva contrast, $89 vs $19. That was 4 years of inflation ago. I'm sure the statistics for us is over $100 per day per person by now. There were 2,100 or so attendees in Fontana - $uppo$e no one $howed? Just an informal poll. How much were you dropping per day per preson at Fontana or any other rally. Please give a Hi-Lo where say you lodged, dined and shopped well vs. times when you go 'on the cheap' and camp, cook, and just buy the tee shirt :-) Myself? TLE and I went to Fontana with the attitude that this would be 'on-the-cheap' - therefore we camped (actually cabined on-site) and ate sparringly not because we purposely did it but merely forgot as we were having too much social fun to remember to eat. Also there was that fateful Friday night when we decided to eat, all the on-site food establishments were closed and we made the decision NOT to challenge the road block of flashing blue that was at the main entrance/exit to Fontana - that night we ate a lot of brocolli and cheetos. Thank God for the Beam and Tonic... BUT we still ended up dropping more than $100 per day... __________T_E_R_R_Y_____M_i_a_m_i____ Date: Thu, 6 Nov 1997 16:42:41 -0400 From: pro_merNoSpam@NoSpammagi.com (PRO PRINTERS) Subject: BMW: k-bike clutch splines / Fontana I'm about to tackle lubing the clutch input splines on my 87 K100RS (190,000 km!). I know I've seen a set of instructions on the net. Can anyone direct me to the right spot ? I attended the Fontana rally and was present the entire time at the helmet incident recently discussed. The hapless rider is a friend of mine and I was threatened with arrest for "obstruction of justice". I also was camped near one of the exits and was witness to events that perhaps alot of people at the rally were not aware of. We all know that the police presence was out of all proportion to the need but it seems to me that the number of Graham County cops available was way above and beyond what would seem necessary for a county of its size and population. I've been in NC three or four times previously and I can't remember seeing very many cops at all. Certainly there was no problem or large police presence at the MOA in July 96. Is there a possibility that Graham County deputized some local citizens (with little training) to beef up their presence during the RA ? This would go a long way to explaining their behavior. (Please excuse my ignorance - I'm just a Canuck.) Kevin Kerr '87 K100RS Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 23:57:09 -0500 From: Brian Curry Subject: Re: BMW: Fonatana: Another Tact.... At 10:08 AM 11/8/97 -0600, BEEMERHILL wrote: > >Next year, why not send post cards to the Graham County Chamber of >Commerce from all over the country. The message could read: > >"I am a BMW Motorcycle Rider and I am spending my $$$ HERE instead of >North Carolina this year." This is great!!!!!!!!! It is neat seeing other people coming up with innovative ideas. :):):) One thing, are you suggesting that they go to the Chamber of Commerce or the County Commisioners? I think the Chamber of Commerce as they are much less likely to be "round filed". The C of C keeps the merchants abreast of what is going on. In which case you need the C of C address: Robinsville NC Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robinsville NC 28771 (704) 479 3790 robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com With the e-mail address you could even e-mail Rob Mason from friends accounts on the road..... +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | To infuse moral concepts into a political discussion is simply to | | confuse the issue.... Morality is not involved in achieving policy. | | - William Fulbright 1959 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | Date: Sun, 9 Nov 1997 18:28:13 -0500 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: Pouring Salt in the Wound (Fontana), a suggestion of how to get their attention. First: Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou: Sue Rihn-Manke Each of us on our own may be smart, together we can be brilliant. :):) This is an additional build on Sue Rihn-Manke's thought on sending post cards. Send photographs. Photographs of the town hall and or police headquarters of each town that you pass through. Send it with a note on the back, that you passed through with no problems or check points. Maybe even include how much you spent in that town. If you stay in motels, you might ask the manager where the town hall / police headquarters is so you can get a photo in the morning. Or ask the campground manager. Yes, you might want to consolidate several in one envelope. And even better than photographs of the town hall or police headquarters, is a photo of you and any police person you can get to allow to have a photo taken. I am not too sure you want to tell them why... Maybe it is a "contest" to see how many different departments you can have your photograph taken with. And we have rallies don't we. And the local cops normally make a visit. (Most that I have been to did. A courtesy visit to see if things are going fine with the organizers.) How about a GROUP PHOTO of SMILING people with the police officers. Some people are slow and you have to provide detailed descriptions of how to act and a photo is worth a thousand words. ;);) Again, you might note how much you spent at that rally. In particular, rallies that are in Virgina, Tennesee, South Carolina, and Georgia, Rally photo's and a summary of the number of people attending should also be sent to the North Carolina Department of Tourism and maybe the Governor. Let them know how much money is being spent in surrounding states and might not be coming to North Carolina any time soon. I am Bcc'ing this to all the newsletter editors that I know of and the editor's e-mail list. Some newsletter editors don't have e-mail connections. How about getting the word out to them? This just may be a movement..... +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | To infuse moral concepts into a political discussion is simply to | | confuse the issue.... Morality is not involved in achieving policy. | | - William Fulbright 1959 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 13 Nov 1997 13:54:37 -0500 From: Charles Sturtevant Subject: BMW: Postcard foolishness Presidents, I know that some of the more nattering respondents on this list don't like to take their medicine (in the form of dissenting opinions) but it is time for a dose of reality: 1. Aside from a few motel owners, the people of Graham County don't want or need the business, money or fellowship of motorcyclists. 2. It is very probable that the people of this once- tranquil mountain area, and certainly their lawmen, are fed up with radar-detecting, open-throttle-bragging, double-yellow-passing, alien-dressing, day-glow-painted, noise-proud, EMS-bait bikers who have, over the years, abused their roads as a playground. It is a shame, but once something nice is discovered, others come in and ruin it. 3. This letter-writing, postcard-sending vendetta could turn into a two-way street, where other future rally sites are alienated. It will turn more of the citizens against motorcyclists. It has sealed the fate of any future visiting or passing motorcyclist who has a brush with the law. 4. Even if everyone banded together and put up the big bucks to pay a competent legal team to take up the cause in court, the most that can be hoped for is a couple of minor decisions. No cop is going to be fired and no attitudes are going to change. 5. Sadly, the Justice Department doesn't have time for this. It is time to get on with the fun of riding, in any of the many places that have not been ruined by others, or in some cases (by the sound of some bragging posts), by ourselves. Of course, if you just want to vent..... ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 26 Nov 1997 21:15:05 -0500 (EST) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: Canadian On-Line Mag Blasts Graham County -- Dali Take a look at how a Canadian on-line motorcycle magazine blasts the Crazed Sheriff of Graham County and their vaudeville act. http://www.simple.on.ca/cmg http://www.simple.on.ca/cmg/articles/features/bmw_fiasco/bmw_fiasco.html Happy Turkey. Dali Meeoooooooooooooooooooooow Date: Thu, 27 Nov 1997 09:53:04 -0500 (EST) From: "James M. Dodmead" Subject: BMW: Fontana Dam, NC Iffn you don't think that the word is getting out, check out Bob Higdon's article in the January 1998 Motorcyclist Magazine. Excellent job. And Dali pointed out a nice home page: http://www.simple.on.ca/cmg/articles/features/bmw_fiasco/bmw_fiasco.html I am surprised to see that my letter was considered "sarcastic";-). =20 Gonna be 53 today, so gotta go out and give a little thanks for the LT, before the turkey. Best, Jim James M. Dodmead (Jim) Network Engineering and dodmeadNoSpam@NoSpamnetsww.com Technical Services (NETS=AE), Inc. V 301.854.4945 14825 Burntwoods Road F 410.489.7508 Glenwood, MD 21738 USA =20 Date: Tue, 2 Dec 1997 02:26:49 -0500 (EST) From: Andrew Subject: BMW: Anyone see drug dogs at fontana? Sorry to bother anyone who is tired of hearing about fontana rally, but a friend and fellow rider who is helping fight the good fight for our rights that were violated at fontana is looking for ANYONE who was eyewitness to the use of drug sniffing dogs during the Fontana rally. If you saw any PLEASE drop me an e-mail! We are attempting to verify accounts of what happened for the RA and the AMA. So far the use of dogs is the only thing we havn't been able to find eyewitness to. Any help here is appreciated. Thanks in advance, Andrew Corl 77 R100RS BMW Riders of Knoxville 78 R80/7 Airhead #2229 73 Porsche 914 (who says 4 wheels HAS to suck?) Date: Wed, 03 Dec 1997 00:09:10 -0500 From: Jon Zurell Subject: BMW: Dennis Rogers Prezzes, Yeppers, there it is right in the News and Observer's web site: http://search.nando.net/plweb-cgi/fastweb?getdoc+nao-daily+nao-daily+38458+0 ++%28Motorcycles%20Fontana%20Dam%29%20AND%20%28not%20index%29%3Akeywords%20A ND%20%28%20%28%2A%29%3Akeywords%20%29%20%20%20%20AND%2019960301%3C%3Ddate%3C %3D19971203 Or, it's easier to just do a search for the article from their search page: http://www.news-observer.com/nao/search.html I entered the key words: motorcycles, Fontana Dam and good old Dennis' column popped up. Jon Date: Wed, 3 Dec 1997 01:30:19 -0500 From: Lee Freedman Subject: BMW: Newspaper Article Mr Rogers It is biased reporting such as yours that nourishes and encourages those in Graham County and its environs who perpetrate harrassment and intimidation . Had you done your job as a journalist, you would have investigated this incident thoroughly before writing your flack piece of fluff. Nowhere is there any mention by Deputy Crisp of the supposedy anonymous tip that two "biker gangs", the "Airheads" and the "Oilheads" were going to fight it out at the rally ! Nowhere was there any mention of the trumped up crap that 1500 area "outlaw bikers" were coming to the Fontana Resort to disrupt the rally ! Nowhere was there any mention of the oppressive police presence ON THE RALLY GROUNDS ! Nowhere was it mentioned that anyone who was stopped for one of the interminable "safety checks" was given a valid reason for the police activity ! Nowhere is there any rationalization for the withdrawal of the beer licence the day before the rally ! The statement by the deputy that all vehicles, motorcycles and automobiles, were equally checked is a bald-faced lie, period. The truth of this is verifiable, had you bothered to investigate properly. The statement by the helicopter pilot regarding a "Welcome broadcast" was a lie ! Not one person who attended the rally reported anything being played other than the "Cops" theme song ! These are not rumours, they are facts and were reported as such. You are right that we are stereotyped and it is articles such as yours that perpetrate that thought. I am including the article that appeared in the BMW Owners News, a monthly magazine sent out to the members of the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, an international motorcycle group. Many members of this organization hold dual memberships in this and the BMW Riders Association, the organization that sponsored the rally. As is stated at the end of the article, these are facts, investigated and verified before they were written up and not hearsay, rumour or second-hand reports. And for Crisp to attempt to justify his actions by citing "safety considerations" is disingenuous at best. He cites his personal actions in aiding an injured motorcyclist, but he makes no mention of the deliberate enticement by law enforcement of riders into illegal actions. There are two sides to every story, but unfortunately, in this case, the whole story has not been told. Like it or not, this mountain is real ! Police blockades? Helicopter flyovers blaring the theme music from "Cops"? Confrontational patrols and stakeouts of a rally site? Drug-sniffing dogs? Massive law enforcement presence by a wide spectrum of police authorities? Discriminatory traffic stops for license, registration and "safety" checks? Do these sound like the scenes from a television series? Does life imitate Art? Unfortunately, for 2,200 rally attendees, it did. Rally-goers and rally organizers at the BMW Riders Association 25th Anniversary International Rally, held September 19-21, at Fontana Village Resort, Robbinsille, Graham County, North Carolina were witness to the above scenarios unfolding during their rally weekend. These rally-goers traveled to North Carolina from every corner of the United States and Canada, most with the reasonable expectation of enjoying the legendary motorcycling roads and the hospitality of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Background Information The rally organization committee, lead by RA President and Rally Director Ed Jorgensen had worked for a year, starting with a search for a suitable rally site that would do credit to the 25th Anniversary celebration and offer an attractive venue for the occasion. Following the decision to site the rally at Fontana Village Resort, President Jorgensen contacted the various local community officials to make them aware of the rally and to resolve any concerns that may have arisen. Personal visits were made to the Graham County Chamber of Commerce and the Tennessee Valley Authority Police. Calls were also made to the Swain County (NC) and Monroe (TN) County Chambers of Commerce. Returning from a meeting of the International Council of BMW Clubs at Munich, Germany, Ed proceeded directly to Fontana Village, where he was informed of a meeting with various law enforcement agencies for the following day. Accompanied by David Kerr, General Manager of the Fontana Village Resort, Ed attended the meeting where they were abruptly notified that the license to sell beer at the rally site, previously approved, had been revoked. Law enforcement personnel cited safety concerns as the reason for the license withdrawal, despite arguments that, statistically, BMW riders are very safety-aware and have a better record in this area than most. The arguments fell on deaf ears. Equally disturbing to the Rally representatives was the statement by the law enforcement representatives that cited vague sources reporting that a group of "outlaw bikers" were going to crash the event. Another claim made was "some local redneck" bikers" were going to cause some trouble. This patently ludicrous statement was refuted by the fact that there was not one incident of any "outlaw bikers" or "local rednecks" being intercepted or detained. These "justifications" were similar to the reasons cited by authorities for their actions at the ill-fated and well-publicized charity ride that took place at Spartanburg, South Carolina, last year. Further concerns were expressed regarding knives, guns and drugs and despite reasoned and logical arguments, the authorities persisted in their single-minded attitude and this was to be their continuing mantra; "outlaws, rednecks, guns, knives and drugs, dangerous roads!" All discussion to the contrary fell on deaf ears. Perhaps naively, at the end of the meeting, Ed Jorgensen was not willing to believe the authorities were serious, and returned to the rally site with the belief that reason had prevailed. However, this was not the case. The Police Action Begins The rally opened as scheduled and was treated to a prime example of police harassment and unnecessary expenditures of taxpayers' moneys, compounded by unprofessional behavior and attempts at entrapment, some successful. . Law enforcement personnel, above and beyond what was deemed necessary by knowledgeable observers at the rally, constantly patrolled the rally site. Numerous vehicles were observed parked at night with lights out, staking out various areas of the Fontana Resort. Outside the rally site, a command post had been established. On the roads, police blockades were set up and a helicopter was put into use for aerial surveillance. On the roads themselves, there were ample demonstrations of police unprofessionalism at its worst. There were many reports of entrapment by police officers. One typical example; a police officer in a car deliberately slows to 15 mph under the posted limit in a non-passing solid yellow line area and then beckons the following motorcyclist to pass. After the rider has followed his instruction to pass, he is pulled over and ticketed for violating the law. Motorcycle riders were subjected to discriminatory searches and checks at police roadblocks, while those in automobiles and trucks were simply waved through without delay. One rider reported that he drove through a checkpoint in a car without stopping but while riding a BMW, he was stopped twice. The license and registration checks were summarily done with no explanation as to reasonable cause and in many cases, were deliberately time-consuming. These checks seemed to be the most common complaint of most riders, some of whom had to suffer multiple checks on a single ride. In addition to the road blocks, riders on the highway, observing the law and driving legal, were pulled over to the side of road and "checked". In the instance of some riders' reports, when the officer was asked in a reasonable manner as to the cause of the stop, the rider was refused a plausible answer and, when the rider persisted in his questioning, was threatened with retaliatory action. While law enforcement authorities, in the pre-rally meeting, expressed safety concerns, there was no attempt on the part of those same authorities to implement their concerns. At a number of points on the roads, such as sharp curves, there were unmarked road hazards. There were places where gravel had washed onto the road surface creating an extremely hazardous situation for unwary motorcycle riders. None of these were marked by any sort of caution indicator nor were any of the more than ample law enforcement personnel strategically placed to warn on-coming riders of the hazard ahead. On Friday evening, as a further provocation, a police roadblock was established directly in front of the entrance to the Fontana Village Resort, and many riders were subjected to unwarranted stops while entering and leaving the rally site. This action prompted loud vocal warnings by rally attendees camped adjacent to the entrance to riders preparing to exit the rally grounds and there were unverified reports that the police were planning a retaliatory strike against those giving the warnings. While all this was going on, Ed Jorgensen and his rally committee, with David Kerr pleaded with the Tennessee Valley authorities for relief from the overpowering police presence, but to no avail. Additionally, no explanation was offered for the police presence inside the rally grounds. Calls to the Governor's office and to the chairman of the Graham County Commissioners, Raymond D. Williams were unsuccessful. In William"s case, his replies were evasive and unsatisfactory. Local Attitudes and Rider Reactions In marked contrast to the actions of the law enforcement personnel, the local people expressed dismay and regrets for the untoward events. reportedly well beyond anything previously witnessed. One local resident, when questioned, expressed her sympathies and volunteered that she had also suffered harassment by local authorities. In general, local residents and merchants alike, while sympathetic, were not surprised by the actions of the police. Reaction on the part of the RA rally-goers has been swift and wide-spread. Rather than simply turning their eyes away from this transparent abuse of power, utilization of the power of the Internet has already spread this story to motorcyclists around the world. Additionally, the weekend's events prompted a barrage of letters to North Carolina authorities, the Governor's Office and North Carolina state and federal representatives, protesting the treatment afforded not only to BMW riders but other motorcyclists as well. Lee Freedman BMWMOA Member 49669 Some portions excerpted from Ed Jorgensen's letter to the Governor of North Carolina, published on the Internet. All incidents reported in this story are from factual eyewitness accounts furnished to me by the participants or witnessed by myself. Date: Wed, 03 Dec 1997 02:14:25 -0500 From: joutlanNoSpam@NoSpamiag.net (John H. Outlan) Subject: BMW: Fontana Article..(RESEND) Dennis, I'm assuming the pasted article below is of your imagination. If so, about your article: BULLSHIT! Call the Mayor of Morganton N.C. and ask him what was done to 'quell' the national rally of 1996 at HIS venue. Then report back to your paper with the true story and statistics! BMW riders are touring riders, not people who you are going to have scrap them AND their wives off the mountain walls. Looks like someone had better follow you around in your four wheeler and make sure you take care of YOURself! But to do that, they better stop your ass and search your vehicle, RIGHT? Take care unenlightened one, your haven't heard the last of this..., John Outlan :Paste article = follows..................................................................= ...................................................... by Dennis Rogers =20 The News & Observer, Raleigh, NC Monday, November 24, 1997 Some of the approximately 2,500 motorcycle riders who gathered in North Carolina's Fontana Dam resort area two months ago for their 25th annual national rally came away feeling they had ridden back in time to the days of redneck mountain sheriffs preying on innocent bikers. Angered by what they felt was an obtrusive police presence in the form of DWI and license checkpoints on area roads --including one at the main gate to the rally site --the BMW riders have fired back with a blistering article in the American Motorcycle [sic] Association's monthly magazine. The rally organizers accuse North Carolina cops of using unfounded fears of an invasion of outlaw bikers as an excuse to harass them.=20 Calling it a "massive surveillance operation," the article said, " Those attending the rally were subject to constant scrutiny from police patrols and overflights from official helicopters. The roads surrounding the rally site were blanketed with police cruisers and road blocks were established for license and registration checks." Sounds pretty bad, doesn't it? But then I talked to Chief Deputy Jerry Crisp of the Graham County Sheriff's Department, something the AMA did not bother to do. "How does a small sheriff's department defend itself against a national organization like that?" he said. "Everything we did was to keep people safe. They didn't mention how I personally helped one rider who had wrecked by keeping a pressure bandage on his bleeding leg while emergency medical technicians took care of him. "What we had was a high-visibility patrol. Motorcycle riders from all over the country come here to ride mountain roads. They call one "The Dragon," and if you ride it, you'll see crosses put there by families of those killed on it. We'd be getting a lot of new people in the area, and we didn't want to scrape them off mountain walls." =09 Checkpoints were set up at the North Carolina-Tennessee line and at =46ontana Village. Every vehicle that went through -car or bike- was checked. A total of 19 citations were written, Crisp said, with half going to four-wheelers. There was one arrest in four days. Hardly a police state, it seems.=20 But there was the ugly helicopter incident. A county chopper flew over the rally site with the theme song from "Cops" (Bad boys! Bad boys! What you gonna do when they come for you") playing on the PA system. BMW riders say it was a taunt and insult. The pilot, himself a rider and AMA member, says he played the tape once as a joke, whereas a taped welcome was played a dozen times. These ruffled feathers will not be soothed. The riders copped an attitude familiar to anyone who has dealt with large numbers of people. Rumors and gossip became facts, and minor annoyances became major problems. And yes, going through slow checkpoints is irritating, especially the fifth or sixth time. But on the other hand, insulted cops are not good at taking lip when they are trying to keep people alive. If this tempest in a mountain teacup shows anything, it is that there are inevitably at least two sides to any story. But the AMA, which represents bikers who all too often have felt the sting of stereotyping, shoddy reporting and misinformation, seems to have forgotten that in its rush to condemn honest North Carolina cops trying to do a difficult job. Dennis Rogers can be reached at 829-4750, by email at drogersNoSpam@NoSpamnando.com or at his home page at http://www.nando.net/nao/staff/drogers =20 Date: Wed, 03 Dec 1997 05:35:44 -0500 From: Jon Zurell Subject: BMW: Motorcycles at Fontana Dam As sent to good ole Mr. Rogers in his neighborhood: >Dear Mr. Rogers, >I wish before you write about motorcycles and the LEOs of Graham County you would gather more facts. Do yourself a favor and check out the 'Americade' homepage at: http://www.tourexpo.com >'Americade' is the world's largest m\c touring rally. There were over 40,000 bike there last year. Every year since it started it has broken attendance records. You see, each year this rally is held at Lake George, NY. I have attended the rally and have never experienced the heavy handed tactics of the Graham County Sheriff's department. There is never a feeling in Lake George that a large contingency of LEO must be present to protect the motorcyclists from self destruction. And, yes there are roads just across the NY/VT borders where many day tour ride which are very challenging... one being the steepest road in the eastern half of the US. Was there a check point or inspection station there? Nope, never saw an officer. There was just one volunteer from the rally telling us how best to negotiate the ride up and what a nice lunch we would have at the top of the mountain. As a matter of fact, we never had our licenses, registration, and insurance papers checked. There was a road block/check point 3 nights out of 6 in the middle of main street. The officers let most of the bike through with only a 10 or 15 second delay. The whole purpose of the check was to be sure no one changed their muffler system to allow too much noise. > >Mr. Rogers, you better get your fact straight. The fine Sheriff didn't mention all that was done under his control. First, he had the beer permit removed on the day the rally was to begin. (This was done after the permit had been issued and the rally Chairman Ed Jorgenson explained what type of people comprised the club holding the rally.) Second, he started his safety check due to the fact he had received information from the Internet and FBI that 14,000 outlaw bikers were coming to cause problems. (To my knowledge he has yet to show an ounce of this information, but then I suspect it must be secret and confidential.) Guess what, not one showed up. I suppose this was due to the fine job the Sheriff did??? Then came the chopper fly by playing the theme from 'Cops'. Do you really think this was in jest as the Sheriff would like to explain??? Doubtfull after the safety checks. And why would he have to check some riders 2 or 3 times???? Is this guy slow or what??? > >Mr. Rogers, you're wrong, very wrong in the way your column was written. You didn't mention that the group of bikers were BMW riders. Stereotypically a mixture of 35 to 80 year old people, many lawyers, teachers, doctors, and professionals in the group. Pretty much it is a rather mundane group not at all deserving of the constant surveillance to which it was subjected. One magazine, wondering what possible reason could there be to harass the riders said, "You might as well arrest the Julliard String Quartet on Easter morning for disturbing the peace." > >I could go on and on, but if you take words of a stereotypical back woods, redneck sheriff about something he defamed to be a stereotypic outlaw biker gang, I feel sorry for the people you serve. They may never know the truth about anything you report. Your information gathering techniques aren't much better that the Sheriff's. > >Jon Zurell >Medina, OH >330-723-2364 >jazurellNoSpam@NoSpamapk.net Jon Date: Wed, 3 Dec 1997 20:06:10 -0500 (EST) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: Of Molehills and Mountains I -- Dali Meeow Part One December 3, 1997 Dennis Rogers drogersNoSpam@NoSpamnando.com http://www.nando.net/nao/staff/drogers The News & Observer Raleigh, North Carolina Dear Mr. Rogers, I previously eMailed you to verify that you penned the article that I received from the internet. I found the News and Observer (N&O) search engine and confirmed that you wrote the article and that it was correctly reported to me. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your "Bikers Turn Molehill to Mountain". I also reported this incident and, after interviewing those who were stopped, those who were arrested, and those who were in attendance, I came to a much different conclusion. You were correct in stating that those who attended the three- day event were extremely upset. Many of those I talked with have attended more than a dozen national rallies and, in their opinion, the police activity was, without doubt, unwarranted and outrageous.. Most BMW riders were astounded. This was the first national BMW rally in which local law enforcement received other than a positive report. There are two national gatherings every year, one for the Motorcycle Owner's Association and one for the Rider's Association. Rally organizers meet and work with local merchants and police well in advance of any rally, and they did so for Fontana. You were right on target when you reported that, this time, we " ... came away feeling they had ridden back in time to the days of redneck mountain sheriffs ..." Last minute decisions by Graham County law enforcement too the Rider's Association by surprise. "Everything we did was to keep people safe. They didn't mention how I personally helped one rider who had wrecked by keeping a pressure bandage on his bleeding leg while emergency medical technicians took care of him," Deputy Crisp is reported as saying. He cites one action and one action only, which is not in dispute. The claim that law enforcement's focus and motivation was to keep people safe is both self-serving and beyond belief. You failed address the beer sales license which had been approved months prior to the rally but, just one day prior to the rally, the Sheriff had this license revoked. For this reason, the beer which had been purchased, was on site and could not be sold, was distributed free to rally attendees. This created an economic blow to the Rider's Association, which is our organization. On the positive side, the free beer resulted in NO alcohol-related citations or impaired riding. You were correct in mentioning that a low-flying helicopter played the "Cops" television theme on a blaring loud speaker as it hovered over the campground. Quite intimidating. I would be interested in knowing what was played in the way of the "welcome" that was mentioned in your article and when this was done. No one I interviewed heard anything that could be construed as a welcome. I have no idea where you got your information but, after reading your article, I question many of the facts. I mention this only so that you will be prepared to receive eMail from those who were at the rally, who read your article, and who may vigorously dispute your perception. There is no shortage of riders who attended the rally and who observed "bubba justice". I am associated with a group of BMW riders who communicate via the internet. After discussing the police activity on line, I wrote nine public or private officials, contacted the Robbinsville Chamber of Commerce eight times and contacted the editor of the Robbinsville weekly with Freedom of Information (FOI) details to assist in opening the Graham County Sheriff's records. BMW riders attempted to communicate with Deputy Crisp and numerous other elected or appointed officials, the Chamber of Commerce and others. All of our letters, phone calls and eMail were met with exactly one form letter from the North Carolina Highway Patrol saying that they were merely "observing" the Graham County Sheriff road blocks and would not comment on the activity of another agency. I label it a form letter because at least two dozen persons I interviewed received exactly the same letter. In fact, letters directed to the governor were answered by the North Carolina Highway Patrol using the form letter. With regard the Graham County Sheriff's claim of only one arrest, if this is true, a lot of money was spent over three days with one overwhelming result - -- harassing more than 2,000 BMW riders. The claim of making us "safer" is nonsense; a quick check with any insurance agent will reveal that BMW riders have the lowest rates in the nation because of sound riding habits, use of protective gear and adherence to the law. Police enforcement was such a debacle that it spawned a boycott with the BMW group enlisting the help of others to join us. "One arrest" is a tribute to the BMW organization and the character of individual riders. Since you disputed the idea of a "massive surveillance operation", did you ask for or receive the Graham County personnel hours and over-time records for the rally period ? I sat down with a reliable reporter who has dealt with the Sheriff's office in the past and, after hearing several horror stories about this agency, I decided that FOI responses were mandatory as a way to check information from the Sheriff's Department. Even with this I would be wary. [I have F.O.I. information available if you would like a copy.] You said that you talked with "Chief Deputy Jerry Crisp of the Graham County Sheriff's Department, something the AMA did not bother to do." Deputy Crisp was so available and verbal that many at the rally thought he was the Sheriff. However, after the rally he refused to respond to my written correspondence or phone calls. He would now blame us for his "no comment" status ? It was Deputy Crisp who did no bother to return calls or answer reporter's questions. Was Deputy Crisp seeking a sweetheart interview with no hard questions ? I agree with your statement that there were "... DWI and license checkpoints on area roads --including one at the main gate to the rally site.." Where there are more than 2,000 motorcycles going in and out of a campground, does it make sense to maintain a check point for days on end ? The Sheriff's Department created such a traffic snarl that many persons did not venture out unless absolutely necessary. This had a negative economic impact on Robbinsville by dissuading a large number of motorcyclists from riding to Robbinsville for shopping and meals. I think you were right on target with your statement that "The rally organizers accuse North Carolina cops of using unfounded fears of an invasion of outlaw bikers as an excuse to harass them." This is exactly what happened. You also said that there was a " ... rush to condemn honest North Carolina cops trying to do a difficult job." After observing them for three days, do you maintain this is a rush to judgment ? Why did you call them honest ? I have no factual information that would lead me to that conclusion. Were you trying to distinguish them from the BMW riders, who are not honest ? Perhaps you merely erred here or I am being picky, but you are creating an atmosphere with your words. You also say that police were facing a difficult job. According to your article, there was only one arrest and approximately nine motorcycle citations. What is dangerous or difficult in that ? There were no criminals, no felonies, no confrontations, no assaults, no injured police unless hang nails are counted. The BMW riders were polite and professional. I truly wish you had not used the term "... shoddy reporting and misinformation ... " I would prefer to think that we have different perceptions of the events. Unfortunately you were unaware of the willingness of hundreds of online BMW riders to discuss what we saw and experienced at Fontana. End of Part I Date: Wed, 3 Dec 1997 20:06:35 -0500 (EST) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: Of Molehills & Mountains II -- Dali Meeow Part II I am writing a second part to my correspondence to thank you and let you know why I appreciated your article. I was so heartened by its implications that I couldn't simply thank you; I wanted you to know what I learned by reading your work. While many of my companions believe that the Sheriff's Department acted maliciously and with intent, I thought that stupidity was the prevalent milieu.. Your article cleared up any ambiguity; the Sheriff's Department still does not understand the outrageous nature of their acts. There were BMW riders who thought the Sheriff's actions were merely ill-conceived and that reason would prevail, that an apology might be forthcoming. Your article effectively extinguished any hope of an apology and drew those who were looking for reapproachment back into our fold and helped solidify our community. It's fun to watch perpetrators trying to assume the mantle of victim. That's exactly how I read your quote of Deputy Crisp: "How does a small sheriff's department defend itself against a national organization like that?" The thought of this bully, this backwater bubba crying and whining does make me smile every time I think of it. The Sheriff's Department threatened us for three days by using helicopter flights, check points and searches, decoys who waved riders over the double yellow line and then arrested them, revoking a beer license and intimidating riders. Tell Deputy Crisp that he had his opportunity, that actions have consequences, and that he's burned toast. It is my intent to preclude Deputy Crisp and company from another opportunity to abuse any other tourist or group. Ours is a public service message. We will continue to protect the public by endorsing the boycott and publishing the reasons for it. Deputy Crisp victimized the BMW rally and, after reading your article, his words ring loud in support of a continued boycott. Your article has confirmed our resolve. Several times I have wondered about our efficacy; is anyone connected with police or politics in Robbinsville concerned with the image we have been portraying about their county. Thanks for confirming that we are effective. Someone reached out to you and invited this story, for it certainly isn't breaking news in any sense. Whether it was the Chamber of Commerce, the Sheriff's Department or someone else concerned with the work the BMW community has been doing, there is concern. I like knowing this and, as I will explain in another paragraph, I am particularly pleased that they found you. As you're aware, there are many forums in any market. Television, radio, print and electronic information are available for small segmented markets and for national ones. I have targeted the national market and have used television, radio and electronic media to reach out to travel agents, tourists from other states who travel by car, land cruiser owners, people who check the internet for speed traps, people who read trip reports or ask for information about a region, and motorcycle owners. These people are getting the truth and are encouraged to boycott Robbinsville. We have used print only in a dozen national motorcycle magazines published in America and Canada, and in the Robbinsville weekly. I think we have reached maximum saturation with our resources. This effort is continuing. If I were to place a story that was unfavorable to us and that would have minimum impact on our boycott, I would chose print media in a small nearby city. Few people in that area would be tourists considering a Robbinsville destination and would have negligible positive economic impact. Your story appeared on the metro page, which may be of interest to some readers in the western Carolinas. Since your circulation is limited in both numbers and geographically, your story will have little or no impact on the people I am targeting. There are no plans to counter your story or change our strategy. I particularly appreciate your writing style. This story was done with style and a certain subtly; it was a good read. It also was not done in the typical pyramid manner so that readers had to go beyond the third paragraph to find out that you think the poor Sheriff's Department has been unfairly characterized. I think your literate readers will know better. Your illiterate readers are an oxymoron and deserve a place in history with "military intelligence". [For those who have not seen Dennis Roger's home page at http://www.news-observer.com/staff/drogers, he is proud of his military intelligence background.] I have several stories ready for release in the spring of 1998, which coincides with the start of the tourist season. If Deputy Crisp can create a believable "I stopped beating my wife" statement, or can perfect the victim role with a more convincing performance, I'd be interested in seeing it. Frankly, he will have his hands full with Councilman Ray Williams, the idiot behind the idiot, as the two of them vie to become Sheriff in a frick v. frack race next November. I have heard that the Councilman is borderline literate but has a better-oiled machine than Deputy Crisp, who at least tried to put a passable face on a fiasco. Sincerely, Stephen Karlan Miami, Florida (305) 255-1010 daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 3 Dec 1997 21:58:43 -0500 (EST) From: daliNoSpam@NoSpamnetrox.net (Dali Meeow) Subject: BMW: Molehills, Mountains & Fire in the Belly -- Dali Meeow Mr. Rogers, I am forwarding the following eMail I received because it's an excellent example of what I have to deal with -- courteous, rationale BMW riders who will assist in getting the word out and are willing to contribute financially to protect our rights. Did I mention how your article stirred the fire in belly ?? Thank you again. Every time I write about Fontana, there is a positive outpouring from our membership. Your work has had the same result. Allow me to extend a personal invitation to boycott Robbinsville, for your own security in case you are mistaken for a BMW rider. Join us; this is a wonderful group of men AND women. Stephen and the Miami feline Mafia, the real intelligencia at the manse. >From: "Larry Wilbers" >To: "Dali Meeow" >Subject: Re: Of Molehills & Mountains II -- Dali Meeow >Date: Wed, 3 Dec 1997 21:12:15 -0500 >X-MSMail-Priority: Normal >X-Mimeole: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4.71.1712.3 >X-UIDL: b5bb61d1da2e67214e24c4ab4523fbe3 > >Dali/Steve, > >One important point that Dennis Rodgers brought up was that people >were stopped five or six times. > >I also do not understand how checking someone's registration, etc., >makes for safety on the road. > >Larry in Columbus > >PS > >My contribution is to be a letter of inquiry to the American >Automobile Association. > >PPS > >I also have $100 ready to donate to a civil suit. > > Date: Thu, 04 Dec 1997 08:00:15 -0500 From: Jon Zurell Subject: BMW: letter to Graham County officials Prezzes Here's a copy of the letter I sent to Graham County...I'll let you know i= f I receive a reply. Jon 2901 Hamlin Road Medina, OH 44256 December 3, 1997 Mr. Rob Mason, Director Robbinsville & Graham County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1206 Robbinsville, N.C. 28771=20 Mr. Raymond D. Williams, Sr. Chairman=20 Graham County Commission P.O. Box 575 Robbinsville, N.C. 28771 Dear Mr. Mason & Mr. Williams, By now I am sure you both have received more than enough letters to understand the frustrations of the BMWRA rally attendees at Fontana Villa= ge and Graham County. I would, however, ask your patience to view one more letter and attachment. =20 Attached is a magazine for =91Americade,' the World=92s largest motorcy= cle touring rally. This event has been held each year for the last 14 years = at Lake George, NY. This coming year, 1998, will be the 15th year for this event. I am sure, had your Sheriff, Melvin Howell, done any research at all, he would have treated the BMW group at Fontana differently. At =91Americade=92 I do not believe I saw more than 8 LEO vehicles each day = except for the one accident I observed. Certainly there was no feeling that LEO= s had to be present to maintain a group of bikers from self-destruction. N= ow mind you, this event broke a new attendance record last year, as it has nearly every year it is held. There were in excess of 40,000 people attending. Quite a few more than the measly 2200 at the BMW rally. Stereotypically there is a much wider cross section of the community than what is at a BMW rally. Your fine sheriff did not do the research he sai= d he did if he was expecting the BMW rally to be comprised or outlaw, warri= or groups. In fact, I venture to say that his research was mostly in Hollywood movies, or a figment of his imagination with precious little information gathered about BMW riders. BMW owners (air heads, oil heads and K-winers) stereotypically just do not get into confrontations. You will further see, by carefully looking at the brochure, the sheriff at La= ke George leads the parade on Saturday morning and does not try to stop it. = =20 Check points have been a hot topic. Having attended =91Americade,' wher= e we, stereotypical mundane BMW riders are a minority, there has been a che= ck point on the main street about 3 nights out of seven. There may have bee= n 3 or 4 officers standing next to two cars checking bikes as they were wav= ed past the check point. The check points sole purpose is to be sure the bikes on the street have not been modified with loud exhaust pipes. Agai= n, had your fine Sheriff researched BMW riders, he would have found very few alter the factory exhaust and those that do, nearly always replace factor= y units with other units of like quietness. Nearly all bikes are passed through with just a wave. My hotel was right in front of one of the chec= k points. I never saw any BMW stopped. There was no license, insurance, registration check. The whole check took less than an extra 15 to 30 seconds and was hardly viewed as an inconvenience by anyone as the literature we receive prior to attending notifies us of the strict enforcement of the local noise ordinances. It would have been nice had Sheriff Howell let BMWRA know prior to the event what he was going to do. We could have been informed he was going to remove the liquor license, pl= ay the theme from cops for fun, and double or triple check many riders for their license, registration, and insurance papers. We could have had a waterproof bag with the registration, etc., around our necks for quicker checking. Doing this certainly would have saved the your Sheriff some ti= me. I would ask that you carefully read the magazine from cover to cover to see what motorcycle rally with 40,000 people can do for a community. I might also suggest, since the Graham County area is a great location for such an event, that the Sheriff use the moneys from the helicopter rental last year, which are surely in this year=92s budget, to take a trip to La= ke George for some on-the-job training, or Continuing Education Credits, to gain some education as how to handle a motorcycle crowd during the event = at Lake George, June 1-6, 1998. Your community will only be enhanced by the knowledge he gains. While he is there, have him ask what group does the most damage and causes the most trouble at Lake George each year. I half in jest, asked more than one local resident about how destructive and problem generating the motorcycle rally was each year...their reply each time was the same, the antique car rally causes more rowdiness, problems and motel destruction than the motorcycle rally which has a reputation fo= r causing very few problems in their community. They are glad to have us w= as the unanimous response and we felt welcomed. The residents of the Fontan= a area did make the rally attendees feel welcome. I wish I could say the same about Sheriff Howell and his Chief Deputy, Jerry Crisp. Further, ma= ny of the side trips went into the fine state of Vermont with roads and scenery that rivals your area. One Vermont private road that was part of= a tour is billed as the steepest road east of the Mississippi. Mr. Mason and Mr. Williams, we would like to return to the Graham County area someday. The people are very friendly, the roads are great for ridi= ng and the scenery is fantastic. There are larger groups than the BMWRA tha= t have heard about this fiasco. The Sheriff's antics at the event have bee= n publicized in nearly all the national cycle magazines. It has been on radio and the AP wire service has picked up the story. I am sure you wou= ld like to see the tourism in Graham County increase. An apology directed t= o Mr. Ed Jorgensen at BMWRA would certainly seem an appropriate response as there this event has now gained international attention. If no one can find it in their heart to apologize, maybe just a letter admitting that mistakes were made, that the LEOs over reacted in a stereotypical back woods, redneck fashion, to a 1950=92s stereotypical image of outlaw biker= s and, if a return rally to the area is scheduled, you both personally will see that the problem does not happen again. I await your reply. Sincerely, Jon Zurell Date: Thu, 4 Dec 1997 08:45:07 -0500 From: "Max Monaco" Subject: BMW: Fw: Fontana article - ---------- > From: Jody Villa > To: Max Monaco > Subject: Fontana article > Date: Tuesday, December 02, 1997 10:49 PM > > Here's a reply I sent to the reporter of the Fontana article: > > Mr.. Rogers, I was there at the accident where Chief Deputy Jerry Crisp > states "They didn't mention how I personally helped on rider who had wrecked > by keeping a pressure bandage on his bleeding leg while emergency medical > technicians took care of him." > This was a72 year old friend of mine named Karl Kretchmer, who was riding in > front of me when the accident happened. In no way did Chief Deputy Jerry > Crisp personally help Karl. There were four people on the scene right after > the accident. One was another friend, Bill Jasinski who was riding in front > of Karl, a girl and her boyfriend, then myself. The girl was a paramedic and > was equipped with an emergency kit, She is the one who cut Karl's pants to > get to the wound. She is the one who held the compress on Karl's leg. Not > Chief Deputy Jerry Crisp. > Just remember the saying " there's your truth, my truth, then the real > story. Next time try to get the real story from the participants, not the > spokes people. > > *********************************************************** > Jody Villa jodyvNoSpam@NoSpamplanet.net Tewksbury, NJ > R1100RT > NT650 Hawk # 714 > KTM 360 EXC > Moto "Gootzi" 1100i Sport > Yamaha "CY50 Jog" > *********************************************************** Date: Thu, 4 Dec 1997 16:29:38 -0500 From: Brian Curry Subject: BMW: Fontana, Dennis Rogers, aiming in the right direction At this point, I believe that we have provided Mr. Rogers with sufficient material for at least one column and maybe more than one. And that column may yet gain him more readers. It will be interesting to see if he replies to any of the people here. Very interesting. I would lay odds that we generated quite a spike in his e-mail. Butt!!!, we have been aiming the wrong way! Let's aim the right way. Let's let Dennis feel some pain. Let Dennis get some letters from the Tourism Departments/Agencies asking him "Just What Are You Doing???????" "Are you for us or agin' us?" Let his editor ask what hornet's nest he stirred up. Ask that he not do it again. The letters of consternation should be going to: Letters to the Editor, and to the "McClatchy Newspaper Organization" that owns the paper. (A side bar item here, most newspapers are owned by groups that own several papers. Check you local paper. If it is owned by the McClatchy's, a local "Letter to the Editor" is in order. See the end of this. There are some list members that need to get out the pen and paper.) The letters should also be going to the North Carolina Department of Tourism, and the western NC tourism agency (Smoky Mountain Host) and maybe the Governor. (It would be interesting to see if that same tired form letter comes out yet again.) While you may feel good after an all encompassing tirade, it is not likely to see print. Especially Letters to the Editor. LtE's should be short, sweet, clear, concise, to the point, and only cover one point. So pick one, and write. If you feel the need to cover more points, write more than one letter. Don't send them all at the same time. That is what your word processor is for. Let it/them season. You have all winter to periodically drop them a letter. (In fact, as will be touched on later, you should write the Tourism departments later.) Another thing, is that while I and I am sure many here love e-mail, apparently to some it ranks just above toilet paper. So get some stamps and go postal. Send real paper, in real envelopes, using real stamps, via the postal service. (The good thing here is that the USPS does not seem to go on strike like the Canadian version does. This also keeps the rates down since they are not paying to store the undelivered mail. ;);););) ) Columns are not the same as a "reported story". The columns either reflect the paper or the local people's views. The paper cannot get to far away from the people's views and survive. Note, that this is a scarey aspect of this, but it does provide some aspects to address in a letter. One item I did not get to, is doing a search using the Nando search engine for the Morganton BMW MOA rally. The search engine goes back to the March 1, 1996, so if there are some articles in there on it, it could provide good "contrast" in your letter. This is important. Graham County is in the far western reaches of NC. The News and Observer in Raleigh on the eastern side. Being in the capital, it is the power newspaper of NC. It speaks for it. Morganton is over on the west with Graham county. Was it the exception, or has Morganton, moved on and grown up? Contrast the two events strongly. Was one the exception, and the other the rule? If so, which was which? Should all of western NC be avoided, and not just Graham County? And this is why the tourism boards should be concerned. So, for that Short, Sweet, Clear, Concise letter what topics are there? Here are some that come to my mind: * The 1996 BMW MOA rally went off without a hitch and there were similar expectations for th 1997 BMW RA rally. Maybe Morganton was an aberration, and Fontana more appropriately reflects the views and actions of Western NC. The News Observer is a major newspaper in NC and thus reflects its views. Think of that one. * Mr Rogers reports there a "little crosses" on Deals Gap where riders have auger in. Where? I have crossed Deals Gap four times, slowly (Fast I ain't.) and don't remember seeing any crosses. Are there any? This is a veracity issue. * If increased high visibility patrols were necessary, where were those patrols in 1996 when the BMW MOA rally occurred? That was the first time I crossed the Gap. I think there is a logic fault here. * Deputy Crisp reports 19 citations. Compared to what? With no frame of reference it is meaningless. Even if there is a frame of reference, he is drawing an inference that the patrols limited it to that number, and that there would have been even more if they had not been there. There may have been only that number since there were police everywhere and they had to justify their position. * Didn't someone check the police blotter? 19 citations and one arrest doesn't sound right. If the blotter and Mr. Rogers statement doesn't jive, there is a problem. He did not do the basic checks that he claims the AMA did not do. Yes, that is a problem. Even columnists need to have their facts straight. There are some teeth in the libel laws. Dali- You got the numbers? If they don't jive with Mr. Rogers statement, how about posting the actual numbers. * From where I come from, slow patrols every 15 minutes 24 hours a day through campgrounds and rally areas are not considered normal. * Did anyone hear a "Welcome"? * Where was the "Welcoming" helicopter at Morganton, where there were more people? * The roads coming off the Blue Ridge Parkway right next to Morganton were equally as challenging as Deals Gap. There were more people to "protect". Where were the patrols? * Until this column was published the actions of the Graham County government officials were considered aberrations. It seemed that Graham County residents did not admire or agree with the "Southern Attitude toward Outsiders" (Narrow mined, bigoted, mistrustful of outsiders, still left over in some areas from the War of Session, and the Carpetbaggers that followed it.) stereotype displayed by the police agencies and the government. This attitude may be more pervasive than we believed. It may not only be in Graham County or the western edge of NC, but ALL OF WESTERN NC. (This is a good issue for Smoky Mountain Host, the western NC tourism promotion agency. Do they want to be painted, and suffer with Graham County?) * Mr. Rogers says that Deputy Crisp was "just trying to keep people alive." Well, where were or are the reports of carnage during the Morganton rally when there were about twice as many people? * Mr. Rogers does not mention the revocation of the beer sale permit two days before the event. Apparently the concept of honor, keeping your word, dealing in good faith, and living with your agreements and contracts, is foreign to Graham County and maybe all of Western NC. * Mr. Rogers says it was just "honest NC cops trying to do a difficult job", yet where were those same honest NC cops during the Morganton rally. * Mr. Rogers "reporting" seems limited to reading articles and asking questions only of the Graham County side, who were willing to answer him, I am guessing because he was a "local" and thus sympathetic. (And that is born out by the column.) I note that he did not contact the AMA, or Ed Jorgensen, or any other motorcyclists it seems. Ed Jorgensen asked many more questions than Mr. Rogers, yet got evasive answers. Mr. Rogers seems to have only gotten self serving answers and not been perceptive enough to investigate the veracity of the them. * (I don't like checkpoints period. I believe there is a Constitutional problem. They are most prevalent in police states and we are not fully there yet. But here is some commentary if you don't have that problem.) Check points might be OK, if there was some valid reason for them. How does a license, registration, insurance checkpoint, improve in the least highway safety? This is are real hard correlation to draw, let alone prove that there is a causation or response in one due to the other. * Is it smart to harass the operators of vehicles made by a major employer in the neighboring state. An employer, whose management was at the event. In a region where product openings might be made. A region where the capabilities of those products might be demonstrated. A region where product advertisements might be developed and photographed? Displaying such an attitude towards outsiders that can bring large amounts of money to the area is dumb, real dumb. While it has not been done, those vehicle/product operators may ask the manufacturer to avoid the area, the same as we are doing. Is this good for western NC? Is it good for NC at all? * Mr. Rogers does not explain why the local residents and business people were apologizing for the actions of the police and government here. Is he a tool of the local government for some reason? * It may be that the people of western NC are nice and fine, but their government is oppressive. They may not be able to, or want to move away from the oppression, but we "outsider's" do not have to go there. * Mr Rogers in one article may have been able to singlehandedly increase the area to be avoided from Graham County to all of western NC, or maybe all of the state, if his attitude is typical of the area. The Tourism boards will not be happy to hear this. * For 19 citations, the area incurred the expenses of 2 command posts, 3 different police agencies (Graham County, NC State Police, and TVA), flying a helicopter (Helicopter expenses make bike tire expenses look like nothing. Helicopters are REAL EXPENSIVE, and especially so to play "welcomes".) and future lost local income from people avoiding the area. Is considered a good cost benefit ratio in western NC? * Find out if the county really operates helicopters, or if it was a state unit there. Call Mr Rogers on it. * Mr Rogers claims that Deputy Crisp's efforts resulted in them not having to "scrape [riders] off the mountain walls." This seems to show his lack of background checking. With the rally age distribution peaking in the late 40s, they are largely not those that "carve corners". They are in the age bracket where their kids are out of school. They can travel if they want to without having to worry about the kids. They have disposable income to be spent. They travel in a manner that results in a good bit of local business where they travel. And Graham Country and western NC do not want those people? Is western NC, or maybe all of NC, blind to potential amount of money that is being and continues to be lost due to the actions of Graham County, and now thanks to Mr. Rogers most of western NC, or all of NC? Do the local NC business's actually want the government to drive customers away? * This was partially covered in a post by: Jody Villa about who held the compress on, but it can run further. The local Rescue Squad EMTs were at the awards ceremony. They received several donations from both RA and individuals. They might be comfortable with providing information, as long as they do not have to slit their own throat, living and operating in the county. Contact the local EMTs. Ask what their records show for emergency callouts that weekend. Where they higher than, or lower than norma? What type of incidents did they deal with on site? Then use it to hammer Mr. Rogers. * Mr. Rogers does not seem to consider the economic effect of all those motorcyclists avoiding Graham County, and now maybe the surrounding environs of western NC, or NC of any consequence. Maybe the residents and business's do. People die from lack of money as well as crashing. This might be a real good point in a LtE. People might not be appreciating a columnist as much if it is affecting their pocket book / wallet. Now, you should have plenty of ammunition here. And you know how to operate a computer and do Cut and Paste. So pick who you want to send it too, and start a letter and use some of the "talking points" here to work up one. Remember, LtE should be Short, Sweet, Clear Concise, and above all not abusive. Stick to the facts. Don't make it a personal attack like he did. Let his own words paint him for what he is, by contrasting it with facts. Now, this winter.... (Lee Freedman, you can do it between stints of shoveling snow. You can use the time to rest your heart from physical exertion, and try to kill it from getting worked up. ;);) )You are picking and deciding on places to go. Well if you are not traveling to NC , when you are done planning, fire up the computer and drop a note to the NC Department of Tourism, or the Smoky Mountain Host tourist agency, letting them know where you are going, maybe an approximate amount that you will be spending, and some of the reasons you will not be spending it in beautiful western NC. You should have enough talking points from here and earlier posts on this topic. Again, you do not need a literary volume, or a short story, or even an essay. Just a few paragraphs is enough. Purely informative of course.... Little continuing reminders.... Ya know running water will wear away rock. Now how long will we have to flow.... Also, do you part to reduce global warming, make sure you send it via real cellulose from dead processed trees that are binding CO2. Keep those workers from going postal. Besides the tongue in cheek side of this, letter on real paper have more impact than e-mail and even more than FAXs. For those that did not keep the address's from before: Robbinsville & Graham County (NC) Chamber of Commerce Rob Mason, Director PO Box 1206 Robbinsville NC 28771 800 470 3790 (704) 479 3790 FAX (704) 479 9130 NOTE: You must call ahead before FAXing robmasonNoSpam@NoSpamrocketmail.com The Graham STAR Kate Henry, Editor PO Box 69 Robbinsville NC 28771 704 479 3383 The Honorable James Hunt, Governor State of North Carolina 116 W. Jones Street Raleigh NC 27603-8001 (919) 733 4240 Smokey Mountain Host (Regional Tourism Board) 4437 Georgia Road Franklin NC 28734 (800) 432 4678 The ASHVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES (regional newspaper) PO Box 2090 Ashville NC 28802 (800) 800 4204 FAX (704) 251 0585 editorNoSpam@NoSpamcitizen-times.com The News and Observer P.O. Box 191 215 S.McDowell St. Raleigh, N.C.27602 I did not dig it out, but the News and Observer is in the "Research Triangle" where they are trying to bring in high tech companies from outside the area. I am sure there is an agency that is working on this. They might be interested also? There is a McClatchy News in Sacramento California 95827 with a phone of 916-366-8089 Maybe someone should give them a call and see if they really are behind the News and Observer? Looks like they are. There is Kevin McClatchy, a 31-year-old Sacramento, Calif., newspaper heir, mentioned in one article. Yup, there are a number of papers in the "Empire": Anchorage Daily News Anchorage AK. e-mail point of contact: marketingNoSpam@NoSpampop.adn.com The Sacramento Bee Sacramento, CA (Close to Joe Denton) The Modesto Bee Modesto, CA The Nando Times Raleigh, NC The Tri-City Herald Pasco, WA (Next door to Dan Arnold) The News and Observer Raleigh, NC The News Tribune Tacoma, WA Quite a number of these seem to have their access out of Raleigh. Remember. Pain should not come from just one spot. You can put some analgesic on it. You are looking for a total, all enveloping pain, one that no matter where they turn there is pain. And save this for those snowy winter nights when the bike is ready for spring and you don't have anything to do. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ | To infuse moral concepts into a political discussion is simply to | | confuse the issue.... Morality is not involved in achieving policy. | | - William Fulbright 1959 | | | | Brian Curry, 1990 Blue K75RTs both coasts, Chester Springs, PA, USA | | SoD #23 | | | | KGN- Improving Lives Around The World | +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 08 Dec 1997 11:53:15 -0600 From: BEEMERHILL Subject: BMW: Sheriff Crisp in another Controversy Hello Presidents... Just received a stack of newspapers from Graham County, North Carolina, and found the following editorial VERY enlightening. Please note that although the date of the editorial was published on the 18th of September 1997, the actual incident she refers to occurred in November, 96. Sounds to me like our good-ole-boy Sheriff Jerry Crisp has a history of ignoring civil rights and referring to "Anonymous Tips." ************************************** > Page 4, Thursday, Sept. 18, 1997 - The Graham Star > = > = > = > ANOTHER SIDE OF JUSTICE > = > Dear Editor, > To the people of Graham County: For those of you that think the > = Graham County > Police Force are a wonderful part of this community, I=92d like to tell= > you the other side of > the story. > In November of '96 my husband (Carroll Gordon) and I were coming home = > from a rare > evening away from our children when we were pulled over this side of > = Almond. The > officer in charge, Jerry Crisp, first said the reason we were pulled > = over was he thought > Carroll was driving and then he told me he had an anonymous tip that > = we were carrying > drugs. He was rude and offensive, not even giving me time to put my > s= hoes on before he > threw me in the police car and took me in. By the time I was able to > = get out ($14,500 for > the both of us to a bondsman), the police had taken our truck and $900 = > in cash. ($800 of > which belonged to my father, John Gibson, to pay a hospital bill in > A= ndrews) There were > no drugs found on us or in the truck, but I still had to borrow the > m= oney to get my > husband out of jail. > There were two reports written about that night. One said there > w= as five pounds of > marijuana and the other said three and a half pounds were found, and > = I=92m telling everyone > there was none found! > For those of you who may doubt this, tell me why all charges were >= dropped against us > the day my husband died. And with all charges dropped, why did the > p= olice still auction > off my husband's truck and refuse to give me my money back? To me, if >= a person is > innocent of all charges the law has no right to take your property and = > keep it from you. > Now I=92ve called a lot of people (including Melvin Howell, whose wife = > told me to never > call there again) and I can't get any answers to my questions > Now has I am, a 27-year-old widow, with three children who are > = suffering the loss of > their father. I truly believe the worry and stress from these > unfound= ed charges contributed > to Carroll's heart attack. The autopsy report shows there were no > dru= gs found in Carroll's > system. Our name has been slandered, my children are hurting and the > = police still have my > property. Is this what to serve and protect means to you? If we live > = by laws, shouldn=92t the > police? And finally, what if you're next? > = > Becky Gordon - Robbinsville Just thought you all might find it enlightening. Sue Rihn-Manke Palmyra, Wisconsin CHEERING ON THOSE PACKERS!!!!! Look out Carolina -> you're next :-) How about some Cheddar, there, hey????? ******************************************************************* Date: Sun, 7 Dec 1997 07:35:11 -0700 From: Dan Arnold Subject: [none] Roozbeh: >Yo Judge: > >No need to further embarrass Mr. Rogers. It is clear that he was totally >taken in by the sherrif's fictitious version of the events at Fontana. > >His response to you suggests that either he is a fool for still believing >in this fairytale in spite of all the posts to him from objective observers >at the event, or, he does not have the guts to admit when he has been taken >in. Correct. And as Roozbeh and others have written, Rogers failed to take notice of the fact that this is the only rally (of hundreds) where similar complaints of police conduct have been made by BMW riders. It is pointless to attempt to reason with Rogers on this issue. With this article he strayed into an area where he is handicapped by prejudice; this limits his capacity to see events objectively as is the case with all who see the world primarily through prejudice. For example, from his home page: [http://www.news-observer.com/staff/drogers/] ======================== "...and our beloved Harley-Davidson motorcycle, which I started riding when bikers were thought of as leather-wearing outlaw scum instead of trendoid stockbrokers and lawyers. I am not sure which image was more undesirable." ======================== a) He is saying 'I am better than other riders, because I started way back when....' b) He projects his prejudices on to the entire public (as if it is a unit). c) He is saying 'if you are a professional and ride a motorcycle you do so only because it is the current fad' (to Rogers an unacceptable reason to ride). d) The image of being a motorcycle riding stockbroker or lawyer is 'undesirable.' Rogers revealed his prejudiced view of motorcyclists sometime before August of 1996 (when his page was last updated). Then along comes this group of BMW riders who he thinks fits one of his stereotypes. Then he writes his silly article. His preformed views made him helpless and he, 'was totally taken in by the sheriff's fictitious version.' To be fair, Rogers IS capable of objective writing [e.g. an un biased "Mexicans Deserve Hospitality" article]. He just can't do it when it comes to a group he apparently sees as well educated 'trendoid' riders. _ Dan Arnold, Kennewick, WA Date: Tue, 9 Dec 1997 06:54:34 -0800 From: jfbrownNoSpam@NoSpampower.net (J.F. Brown) Subject: BMW: RE: Rogers Column & Graham County Cops Hi All, Regarding Dennis Rogers, his "column", and the Graham County, NC, police, I think the Presidents are missing the point(s). o Dennis Rogers is a "columnist" for the Raleigh, NC, Observer, which is owned by the McClatchy chain. Most small-town newspapers (and chains) tend to be "conservative" to ultra-reactionary. Mr. Rogers fits right in the mold. I've surfed his web page, and he looks like Festus in "Gunsmoke". Probably has about the same intellectual acumen, too. His columns reveal him to be firmly in the Bubba camp, and he's a neo-Luddite, too. In short, Rogers is just a small town yokel "journalist" who lacks the talent to succeed elsewhere. Forget the New York Times, I bet he couldn't even get hired on by the Washington Times (the right-wing Moonie rag). Talent will out. Or not... o Politicians, including the Graham County Sheriff (an elected official), who are getting char-broiled in the tushy for their sins, errors, or omissions, typically respond by giving an interview to a "safe" and sympathetic media venue. In this case, it's Mr. Rogers and his neighborhood column. Looks like Crisp, et al, have gone this route. Consider this SNIP from Rogers' column: Sounds pretty bad, doesn't it? But then I talked to Chief Deputy Jerry Crisp of the Graham County Sheriff's Department, something the AMA did not bother to do. "How does a small sheriff's department defend itself against a national organization like that?" he said. Reading between the lines, is this a scream of pain or what? Sure sounds like it to me. :)) We should all take heart. IMHO, our campaign and the enormous widespread negative publicity is taking its toll. We shouldn't be depressed about the Rogers column. We should be elated. Our tactics are working. Our side is getting the word out. I'd bet that any future motorcycle event in Graham County, NC (if there is ever another), won't have the problems we had. J.F. Brown 1983 R80ST "NO PIKL" 1997 R11RT "NOIR RAD" IBMWR, AMA, MOA, RA, BOOF, DoD, VI Date: Mon, 8 Dec 1997 19:48:23 -0500 From: "Larry Wilbers" Subject: BMW: Re: AAA Well, to my surprise, I have already heard from the AAA concerning Fontana. Larry in Columbus >Dear Mr. Wilbers: > >Thank you for contacting AAA. I have forwarded your comments to our Member >Services >Coordinator for review. We will be in contact with you shortly. > >Marilou Wills-Kutz >AAA National Office > Date: Wed, 10 Dec 1997 21:39:13 -0500 From: "Larry Wilbers" Subject: BMW: Re: Motorcycle Convention Dear Laurrie Mulholland, Thanks for your reply. I believe I understand your inability to take this matter further. However, I would like an expansion of the statements in your reply. 1. How does stopping motorists every 7 miles to check registration and insurance papers ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians? 2. Should the same motorists be stopped at check points six or seven times in the course of an afternoon drive? 3. Are the political ambitions of a small time sheriff considered valid pre-existing conditions (as no others apparently existed)? 4. Is your organization willing to deem this incident as possibly significant as to the infringement of motorists rights? 5. Has your organization considered not doing a travel destination report on the Graham County / Fontana Dam area? 6. Does your organization warn motorists about areas where speed traps and other similar tactics are used? 7. Would it more pertinent to this issue if members brought this complaint up with their state AAA clubs? Please note that attendees included individuals from all over the United States. 8. What was the nature of your conversation with the Carolinas AAA organization? Do they have information on this incident that would help to defuse the animosity that now exists between law enforcement and visiting motorists/motorcyclists in the Graham County area? You allude to pre-existing conditions, but don't explain what these are. 9. Does the AAA have a special department for protecting motorist's rights and, if so, how can they be contacted? 9. Lastly, my request was not for the AAA to condemn or approve of the police actions at Fontana Dam, but simply to investigate whether they were appropriate or not. Is this within the purview of the national AAA to do this and, if not, should this request be forwarded the the Carolinas AAA organization? Sincerely Larry in Columbus cc. BMW Mailing List, Honda VFR Mailing List > Dear Mr. Wilbers: > > Thank you for your inquiry. Since 1902, AAA has been a >spokesperson for the rights and prerogatives of motor-vehicle owners and >travelers. Working through legislature against oppressive laws and >unfair persecution, AAA has been at the forefront of the movement for >adequate roads and reasonable taxation, and is a leader in the field of >Traffic Safety. > > As AAA is a Federation of Independent Auto Clubs, I spoke with >Mr. Tom Crosby, Director of Public and Government Relations, AAA >Carolinas. > > AAA is very concerned with the overall well-being and rights of >motorists/pedestrians today. If the main objective of the police was to >accomplish this as well, than it would appear the nature of police >actions during this time would not be indicative of harassment. It is >possible a pre-existing condition may have also contributed to coverage >in the area at this time. > > I sincerely apologize that we are not positioned to take this >matter further as you suggest. I have shared your concerns with the AAA >National offices, as well as AAA Carolinas Club Executive Management. > > Thank you again for writing. > > Sincerely, > > Laurrie L. Mulholland > AAA National Offices > email: lmulhollandNoSpam@NoSpamnational.aaa.com > > > >> << Dear AAA, SOURCE: INTERNET >> >> Your comments: >> -------------------- >> Hello, >> >> My family has been a long time member of the AAA. In fact, my wife >> worked at the AAA in Cincinnati for a number of summers while she was >> in college. >> >> My current comments have to do with a matter that is peripherally >> related to the goals of the AAA. This past fall, a group of >> motorcyclists held a club rally in North Carolina at the Fontana Dam >> resort area. The club was the BMW Riders Association. Its members >> are the antithesis of the old Hell's Angles stereotype and include >> many professional people. >> >> The problem that is alleged to have occurred during the rally was the >> excessive use of police surveillance and check points and the use of >> entrapment. These included helicopter flights over the resort area, >> police >> dogs patrolling the camp grounds, slow unmarked police vehicles urging >> motorcyclists to pass on double yellow lined sections followed by >> arrests, >> etc.. >> >> My request to you is to conduct an independent investigation into the >> charges and counter charges surrounding this event. I am soliciting >> your help because the police tactics affected not only innocent >> motorcyclists but motorists as well. It is also clear that evaluation >> by your institution would provide an authoritative report to be used >> as a focus point about such police tactics on a national level. >> ------------------------------ ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 07:52:43 -0500 From: "Larry Wilbers" Subject: BMW: Re: Fontana Plot for Fontana, the Novel. The time is post summer tourist season, but before the fall leaf season. A resort facility in the mountains of North Carolina offers a beer permit in order to obtain business from 2,000 plus, mostly out of state visitors. However, the permit is not really available, then or ever. The bait and switch is finessed. Several days before the rally, when cancellation is no longer possible, Rally administrators are semi-informed of the problem without the clear statement, "no beer, no how." This is a legal maneuver to preclude any grounds for a law suit. Only upon the actual start of the rally does this "minor detail" become completely evident. Police, in on the ruse with the rally site owners from the git go, have discussed possible unrest due to absence of expected beer. The reputation of motorcyclists in general is considered and someone pulls out the Hollister issue of Life magazine. Only one solution --- surround the rally with Gestapo and so distract the rally people that the real problem will be overlooked. And use that old southern boy trick of playing stupid. Besides, these BMW people like to think they're smarter than the rest of us. Easy target. Graham county up both rooks and a bishop. BMW motorcyclists, not used to being treated like thugs, are outraged. Police offer up contrived tale of killer bikers reportedly coming to wipe the beemer group off the map. Tale is brilliantly conceived in that it soothes the locals uninformed of what really is going on and further reinforces the false image of stupid hick police to the rally goers. The first BMW knight is taken. Rally attendees never see killer bikers from hell, but police dogs, helicopters, and every other mode of intimidation are put in place. No one stops to think why bikers aren't checked as they enter the rally site rather than when they leave it. How does this keep the killer bikers from hell from cutting the throats of the peaceful beemers as they sleep in their tents? The beemers go ballistic and rightfully so. Well, at least they go verbose on the net. The Fontana story is spread far and wide. The special Graham county damage control task force is secretly formed. Principle strategies include continuing to play stupid, don't reply to letters and especially don't admit guilt as anything you say may and can be used against you in either a criminal or civil court, and monitor the BMW mailing list in order to anticipate any first strikes by the motorcyclists. The beemer queen falls. Beemers spend months trying to figure out what happened until a half-witted article is written defending the Graham County Gestapo (GCG). Author of article fails to contact the good folk in Robinsville to find out what the complete game plan is. Unfortunately, the beer permit item is brought up in a public forum. Clumsy uninvited move by kibitzer leaves Crisp's king exposed for check. The crisis group reconvenes. The no-further-statements/ no-reply-to-letters strategy is in jeopardy. (I'll be back in a second to finish this, as someone's at the door. t i m e Seems a group of violinists with southern accents got lost on my street and needed directions and a glass of water. I showed them where the glasses were and told them to help themselves. Hmmm, they might be getting ready to play some music to thank me for my hospitality as I hear the violin cases being opened. Now back to the plot.) Suddenlyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyhhhhhhhhhnnnnnnnnnn ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 16 Dec 1997 17:46:51 -0500 From: "Ted Hall" Subject: BMW: Re: Exchange with Graham County Chamber Don, After reading your post, I-just-don't-get-it!! WHAT the hell are these people thinking? Not one valid apology or response. I have never-ever seen a group of officials in so much denial. Collectively, they are loading the gun and shooting there feet right off. Oh wait!, I get it, THEY DON"T GET IT! t - ---------- From: Don MacQueen To: bmwmcNoSpam@NoSpamworld.std.com Cc: Ed Jorgensen ; Robert Hellman <75262.520NoSpam@NoSpamcompuserve.com>; Roozbeh Chubak ; Stephen N. Karlan, M.A., J.D. ; Jim Bessette Subject: BMW: Exchange with Graham County Chamber Date: Tuesday, December 16, 1997 12:48 AM Fellow Presidents: After posting the article by Dennis Rogers a couple of weeks ago, it occurred to me that perhaps someone from Graham County would find his viewpoint interesting, and might like to set him straight in terms of the negative local impact of the Fontana episode. So, I sent a note to Rob Mason, Director of the Graham County Chamber of Commerce. My mistake. For your edification ;-) following is my note to Mr. Mason, and his *interesting* response. (With my apologies for yet one more swipe at the proverbial horse) >--I wrote: >> >> Mr. Mason: >> I am sure that since September, you have had at >LEAST your fill of mail and >> email regarding the BMWRA rally at Fontana. I >apologize for adding another >> straw to the haystack. >> >> I wanted to ask whether anyone has sent you a >column by Dennis Rogers in >> the Raleigh News and Observer concerning the rally. > He had (at least from >> a BMW rider's perspective) an "interesting" >viewpoint. I don't think he >> considered the embarassment your office has >suffered from this, or the >> potential economic impact. If you would like, I >can send you a copy, but >> if you already have it, I will spare you the >electronic traffic. >> >> I look forward to hearing from you. >> >> Don MacQueen >> Shelby NC >> You wrote: >Mr. MacQueen I have not received that article as yet. > But if it is another slanderous attack on the good >people of Graham County or someones displaced >aggression on an overblown case of heavy ploice >presence please spare me the traffic. On the other >hanc if there is any profit to the article yes I >would like a copy. Thank You Rob Mason It has been posted before, but Mr. Mason's e-mail address is: >> >> Hm...Let me see if I understand. Our group brings 2200 tourists to Graham County. The purpose of your office is to encourage "commerce" in Graham County. Our commerce, if a minimal estimate of $100 per attendee is used, the value of this "commerce" is $220,000.00. The local law enforcement authorites trample the rights of the 2200 attendees, effectively telling them that they aren't welcome there, and that our "commerce," whether in September 1997, or during future events, family vacations, or as a result of recommendations to collectively thousands of friends, acquaintances, business associates or family members is not wanted either. Is this the message that the Chamber wants to present? If your office, or anyone else in Graham County is interested in eliminating "slanderous attack(s)" on your community, then why has there been no official apology to the attendees and members of the BMW Riders Association? Why has there been no pressure on Governor Hunt to apologize on behalf of the State of North Carolina or for an official investigation? Has it not occurred to you that the Chamber of Commerce is the custodian of a community's civic image? Certainly you are aware that there are legal repercussions and public relations fallout forthcoming from the incidents at Fontana during the rally. Certainly you are aware that this tide has far from crested. A simple apology, stated within days or even a few weeks of the rally would have blunted these repercussions, but none has been forthcoming, then or now. But I digress... Again, let me see if I understand. Instead of sending you an entire article, I "spare you the traffic" by writing a short, polite note to ask if you have seen it. You respond with the e-mail equivalent of spitting in my eye. The "profit" is this: Use better manners, whether with visitors bearing money, or strangers sending e-mail. Your note leaves me with the sad impression that after it all, YOU don't get it either. Someone in your community needs to pick up the burden of "damage control" from this incident. It seems that your office is abdicating this responsibility. If neither you nor anyone else assumes this role, the lack of conciliatory response will continue to convince BMW riders and anyone else we come in contact with to stay away. Sincerely, Donald R. MacQueen, O.D. Shelby NC ____________________________________ Don MacQueen, Shelby NC - -"Man, we've got too much time on our hands!" '95 R1100RS '75 R90/6 '93 GSF 400 Bandit ____________________________________ ------------------------------