FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
One Hundred and Fifty Rally with the MMA to Support Sterling Freedom Fighters
On Saturday November 7, 2009, approximately one hundred and fifty brothers and sisters converged on the Route 140 Rendezvous Pub in Sterling, MA to support the MMA Freedom Fighters -- riders stopped in July at a motorcycle-only hazardous “safety” checkpoint a few miles down the road from the Pub. Hosted by the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association, the event raised nearly $2,000 for the MMA's Legal Expense Fund. The funds will be used to help defray court costs of those ticketed in Sterling who have been and are fighting their citations.
Saturday’s event was attended by representatives of local riding organizations, neighboring States’ Motorcycle Rights Organizations (MROs), independent riders, friends, and MMA board members. It featured live music, raffles, as well as a motorcycle safety exhibit and voluntary sound testing of motorcycles by MMA officers. During the event, both Attorney Paul Lancia and MMA Chairman Dave Condon addressed the large gathering calling on all to support the individuals cited, and recognize that they are fighting to actively defend the rights of all motorcyclists to ride local roadways lawfully without fear of harassment or endangerment. Both men further stated their collective resolve to continue to support the riders in their fight pro bono, and appeal to the highest courts, if necessary.
The successful event was well received by everyone who attended. Even the cooler weather could not keep most motorcyclists from riding their bikes, braving further harassment from the Sterling Police Department. However, despite much publicity, police presence was surprisingly minimal. Riders who attended rode “with respect,” keeping the throttle down as they rode through downtown.
The MMA would like to thank all who came out to the event or donated on line. We would like to give special thanks and recognition to the following (without order of preference, please) for their allegiance.
· The British Iron Association for a generous donation.
· Louise Roberge of the Upper Deck on the Atlantic in Salisbury and MMA Gold Card Member for working the registration table, selling raffle tickets, and welcoming new members to the MMA.
· BikersorNot.Com for assisting with publicity.
· Fire and Iron Station 28 for donations and support.
· Steve Kilcoyne, owner of the Route 140 Rendezvous Pub and his staff who were most gracious and generous hosts and have become our newest Gold Card Member.
· Each of the MMA Freedom Fighters for taking time out of busy lives to defend their own and all of our rights. We salute you.
For further information please see http://www.massmotorcycle.org or contact chairman@massmotorcycle.org