by Mike Maharrey, Gold Seek: After a six-month pause, China’s central bank officially resumed gold purchases in November. According to data released by the People’s Bank of China, it added about five tons of gold to its reserves in November. China was the biggest central bank gold buyer in 2023, but it stopped announcing increases […]

Hey, It’s so interesting, you’ll notice a brother’s 100-word fiction this week about his canvas bags. At one point he packed everything he owned in the old tattered canvas bags and rode across the country to start life over. Now, we have lots of shit and wonder what the hell we’re going to do with it. We have multiple motorcycles, RVS, SUVs, side-by-sides and shops fulla tools because of many things. Think about it. We wouldn’t be able to enjoy any of these items if it wasn’t for great jobs, opportunities, access to new stuff, freedom to use everything we buy and freedom to choose. I want kids to know they live in the best of times. With a little hard work, innovation and education we can do anything, travel, build, whatever. We experienced a movement to control everything over the last four years. But now it’s time to right the ship, balance the approach with honesty and integrity, compassion and benevolence at our backs. The control freaks will fight desperately to retain their power, so we need to show them where they went wrong with the facts. Ultimately a large percentage will get it and some will try to create problems. Fortunately, the transition is happening during the Holidays and warmth for our fellow peeps abound. I can’t wait to see how 2025 unfolds. Keep the faith and stay involved. One of the major complaints from the rights community is the lack of involvement by shops in the rights movement. A couple of brothers are working on a report about how many shops are out of business in the last four years and why. I know shop owners face unbelievable restrictions from the EPA, CARB, OSHA, Federal, state, local and taxes from all of the above. If they’re not being fined, they’re being taxed. They need to struggle to make a profit, feed their families and promote and market their business. The MIC says they represent and take their funds, but the representation isn’t there. We now have the IMA, the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket association, collaborating with the MRF. These two organizations are the backbone of every effort to retain our freedoms and ability to build bikes. It’s critical to join either one, but their membership isn’t growing. I get it. But the simplist way to help is to join. Some shop owners join, support, get to know their legislators, attend state capitol functions and even go to Washington D.C. when needed. Just joining is a wonderful start. Step up and let the brothers know you care and are concerned. Let’s hit the news… –Bandit The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including: Wayfarer, the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, Laura, Barry Green, El Waggs, J.J. Solari, Amy White, Jenn and the rest of the crew. The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. STEEL RULE CLICKER DIES— You can use our Steel Rule Clicker Dies to cut consistent shapes for leather, canvas, plastic, and other thin materials. Potential applications include key chains, earrings, hat patches, tags, decorations, accents, and bag and wallet components. 8 Piece Shapes Sets: Choose from a set of stars, semi-rounds, rectangles, moons, kites, almonds, circles, and hearts. Each of these themed sets includes 8 dies of the same shape in varying sizes. 52 Piece Various Set: This set provides a variety of small shapes to enhance your design capabilities. These are ideal for detailed accents or functional components in your projects. These pre-sharpened 1” tall dies work in our 4-ton and 12-ton clicker presses. If you do not have a clicker press, they also work with platen dies and our plastic anvil in our BG 180° Convertible Hand or Foot Press. Watch our video to see how. We hope these versatile dies increase your efficiency and enhance the creative potential of your work! The Buckleguy Team INTERMOT celebrates successful first winter edition +++ Cologne transformed into the place to be for the motorcycle community +++ Manufacturers present German premieres of new models and trends +++ CREATOR LOUNGE is a magnet for the young motorcycle scene +++ KICK STARTER 125cc special event enthrals budding bikers +++ Trade fair stages paddock show with racing teams +++ INTERMOT 2024, hosted in Cologne from 5 to 8 December, marked the start of a new direction for the trade fair, which will now take place annually. With the 125cc special event on the Boulevard, the CREATOR LOUNGE as a central gathering for the young motorcycle scene, and numerous German premieres by manufacturers, this year’s edition of the trade fair marked a new era in the motorcycle experience. It was the first time that the motorcycle and scooter event opened its doors in December. Visitors made extensive use of the opportunity to experience the latest models and trends for the coming season first-hand in Cologne. Spanning around 50,000 square metres, INTERMOT transformed the trade fair grounds in Cologne into the biggest showcase for the motorcycle industry in Germany. With BMW Motorrad, Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Sym, Triumph, Yamaha, Zero Motorcycles and other manufacturers appearing at the event, INTERMOT covered more than 70 per cent of the German market at its debut winter edition. Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH, was delighted with the results: “The immense response from visitors this year shows the enormous potential that INTERMOT has. With the Cologne trade fair grounds, we have one of the largest trade fair venues on an international scale and a unique catchment area, which extends beyond Germany. The industry has chosen INTERMOT as the platform to unveil its new launches to the German audience for the first time. For us, this is a clear signal that underscores the trade fair’s importance against the benchmark of other events.” “As the most important motorcycle market in Europe, Germany needs a strong leading sector event like INTERMOT. With this new concept, we’ve proved that we’ve set the right course for the future,” says Reiner Brendicke, General Executive Manager of the German Motorcycle Industry Association (IVM), which acts as INTERMOT’s conceptual sponsor. CREATOR LOUNGE serves as the scene’s hotspotThe young generation of motorcycle fans was crucial in giving INTERMOT new dynamism this year. By expanding their creator and influencer marketing, the organisers succeeded in appealing to a digital-savvy young community. Throughout the four days of the event, 85 creators with an impressive number of followers totalling 20 million on Instagram alone reported on the action on their channels. They were greeted with tremendous enthusiasm in Cologne. In addition, fans were able to meet their favourite creators in person at the CREATOR LOUNGE powered by bigFM in Hall 8, where they could take selfies and chat about their shared passion with social media stars. One of the special highlights was the Creator Day on the third day of the trade fair. It attracted many famous names from the young motorcycle scene, including @kuhlewu, @davidbostunt, @ollistuntbuddy, @sophiacalate and @seaky. KICK STARTER: showcasing the world of 125ccThe special KICK STARTER 125cc event powered by fritz-kola also drew a lively crowd. Located in a central position on the boulevard between the exhibition halls, it proved particularly popular with novice bikers. From e-scooters and naked bikes to 125cc enduro models, around 50 of the latest 125cc models from various manufacturers were on display, firing up enthusiasm among newcomers looking to enter the world of motorcycling. As well as having the chance to sit on their dream bike, visitors were also able to get expert advice about licences. A fresh take on the passion for motorbikesIn addition to activities for the younger generation of bikers, such as the CREATOR LOUNGE and KICK STARTER 125cc, INTERMOT also had a special focus on motorsport thanks to strong support from the manufacturers. Meet-and-greets with mechanics and racing stars turned part of the trade fair into the only paddock show outside of the racing season. On top of all this, the INTERMOT LIVE powered by Bering stage was the ideal venue for live discussions covering everything from horsepower and petrol to fashion and adventure. Looking to the future, INTERMOT will continue to pursue its goal of giving all motorbike fans the opportunity to experience the fascination of motorcycling in person. “This year’s edition has laid a foundation on which we will build. Of course, there’s still potential for further development – whether through the addition of more themed areas or with a stronger presence in the accessories segment. We must make it our goal to expand into at least one more exhibition hall by 2025. We want to work with our partners to realise this objective and make the show even more successful for all market participants,” stated Frese. Key figures for INTERMOT 2024Some 300 brands took part in INTERMOT 2024. A total of around 90,000 visitors came to Cologne. INTERMOT 2025 – the datesThe next edition of INTERMOT will be held in Cologne from 4 to 7 December 2025. INTERMOT is organised by Koelnmesse and the event’s conceptual sponsor is the German Motorcycle Industry Association (IVM e.V.). Koelnmesse – industry trade fairs for the mobility segment: Koelnmesse stages INTERMOT, THE TIRE COLOGNE and polisMOBILITY, three major international trade fairs in the mobility segment, hosted at its trade fair grounds in Cologne/Germany. Alongside tires and wheels, THE TIRE COLOGNE focuses on equipment for motor vehicle servicing and tire fitting centres and presents a comprehensive range of products and services for tire retreading and the recycling and disposal of old tires. INTERMOT is the show for motorised two-wheelers and presents the key innovations in electromobility, accessories, clothing, parts, customizing, touring and workshop equipment. The latest format polisMOBILITY shows how urban mobility can and must be designed in the future. The events serve as central, international business platforms, bringing the industry together with a carefully targeted approach to showcase the latest products, developments and innovations. Further information: https://www.intermot-cologne.com/trade-fair/intermot-2024/industry-trade-fairs/ The next events:polisMOBILITY – Moving Cities, Cologne 11.06. – 12.06.2025 INTERMOT Cologne – International Motorcycle and Scooter Fair, Cologne 04.12. – 07.12.2025 polisMOBILITY – Moving Cities, Cologne 27.05. – 28.05.2026 THE LATEST FROM THE LOWBROW GANG–DEATH CO. CHOPPERS: EVO BIG TWIN NO. 1 Dan ‘The Sportster King of the Midwest’ Dellostritto just finished up this EVO Big Twin build with the very first Gasbox Big Twin Full frame and we are pumped to share it with you! This isn’t early 2000’s TV build-off stuff with a bike that you would have to sell your house to own… These days with a bit of looking you can buy a low-mile Softail for around $3k (!!!), and with Gasbox’s new frames and all the parts here at Lowbrow, you too can build a killer Big Twin chopper in your garage… AND you don’t have to sell your house (and garage) to do it! UNSCIENTIFIC AMERICA From James B. Meigs, originally published by City Journal: Michael Shermer got his first clue that things were changing at Scientific American in late 2018. The author had been writing his “Skeptic” column for the magazine since 2001. His monthly essays, aimed at an audience of both scientists and laymen, championed the scientific method, defended the need for evidence-based debate, and explored how cognitive and ideological biases can derail the search for truth. Shermer’s role models included two twentieth-century thinkers who, like him, relished explaining science to the public: Carl Sagan, the ebullient astronomer and TV commentator; and evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould, who wrote a popular monthly column in Natural History magazine for 25 years. Shermer hoped someday to match Gould’s record of producing 300 consecutive columns. That goal would elude him. In continuous publication since 1845, Scientific American is the country’s leading mainstream science magazine. Authors published in its pages have included Albert Einstein, Francis Crick, Jonas Salk, and J. Robert Oppenheimer—some 200 Nobel Prize winners in all. SciAm, as many readers call it, had long encouraged its authors to challenge established viewpoints. In the mid-twentieth century, for example, the magazine published a series of articles building the case for the then-radical concept of plate tectonics. In the twenty-first century, however, American scientific media, including Scientific American, began to slip into lockstep with progressive beliefs. Suddenly, certain orthodoxies—especially concerning race, gender, or climate—couldn’t be questioned. The complete article can be accessed here. –CO2 Coalition BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–AN UNINTENTIONAL PILGRIMAGE 2024 https://www.bikernet.com/pages/AN_UNINTENTIONAL_PILGRIMAGE_2024.aspx Thanks Rogue for your article on the  lil party started by Berry and Robbie. Can’t  wait for our third annual get together of the original Rough Boys , Ladies too?????? — Jim Jmedn MeadMilwaukee , WI “Nomad” an illustration by Wayfarer NEW 100-WORD FICTION CONTEST–The Knapsack It was almost summer 1969 in Philadelphia. The tan canvas knapsack had a main compartment of about 1 cubic foot when stuffed. Soon everything I need to pick up roots and move cross country will fit into the knapsack. It would not be carried on my back. The knapsack would be strapped to the rear fender of my 1952 Harley K-Model. The road trip was full of adventures over the Rocky Mountains and through the desert heat. Eventually rode ocean side to Santa Barbara where it felt like a good place to stop for a while and start over. Let’s see………what’s in that knapsack? –John Martinisko The Bikernet Crew hosts a 100-Word Fiction contest monthly. If you win, you will receive magnificent bling from the vast and unrelenting 5-Ball empire. –Bandit BABE OF THE WEEK—Carla –Sam BurnsTalent ScoutBikernet.com(TM) Don’t forget to Join the Cantina and support Bikernet Content THE LASTEST FROM GREASE & GEARS– We’re thrilled to announce the release of our latest video, Mooneyes Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show 2024! We can’t wait for you to see it. You can watch the video now on our website Grease & Gears TV – please feel free to share it. We hope you enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed creating it. Thank you for your continued support! Choppers Magazine Issue 18 Preorder Regular price$14.00 Shipping calculated at checkout. Issue 18 Our final issue of 2024. Preorder it now to make sure ya get a copy. Featuring: Sturgis – by Jerimiah Smith Sportster Showdown Winner – by Brad Redmond Tuff Love, Jake Braytons Shovelhead – by Tucker Adams Navajo Run – by Ken Nagahara BBQ Run 7 – by Panhead Jim Saturday Sportster – by Mikey Revolt Jeff Bloedorn – by Ben Zales Jona – by Brian Bowan Smith and the Crew Sam Rapshutz – by Jerimiah Smith Jeff Leighton – by Greg Flack Clayton – by Billy Childress Klock Werks Brings Joy and Inspiration to Sanborn Central School In a heartwarming gesture of generosity and community spirit, Brian Klock and his team at Klock Werks made a lasting impact on the students of Sanborn Central School in Forestburg, South Dakota. They donated the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program, equipping the school with bikes and the resources needed to teach kindergarten students the essential skill of riding a bike during physical education classes. The excitement didn’t stop there……….. High school students had the unique opportunity to work alongside Klock Werks to assemble the bikes before their big reveal. During this collaborative effort, Brian Klock shared stories of growing up in a small town in South Dakota, inspiring students with his journey from humble beginnings to leading a successful business. His message was clear: no matter where you come from, pursuing your dreams is always possible. This memorable day not only equipped kindergarteners with the joy of biking but also empowered high school students with inspiration and the invaluable lesson that success is within reach for everyone. Thank you Brian Klock and Klock Werks for your unwavering dedication to our mission to teach EVERY child how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class! SANTA COOL FOR XMAS—From the Prism Gang. Vintage Safety Glasses – Smoke Lens 0100850 Vintage inspired tinted safety glasses Arms bend easily to adjust fitment Contains side shields to keep bugs, metal, wood, etc. out of your eyes Lenses and frame are made of plastic Meets ANSI Z87.1 Safety Standards $24.99 USD Also in green (sorry, don’t have a shot) Vintage inspired green tinted safety glasses Arms bend easily to adjust fitment Contains side shields to keep bugs, metal, wood, etc. out of your eyes Lenses and frame are made of plastic Meets ANSI Z87.1 Safety Standards Danial is working on a self-portriat. This is his first concept. TERRIBLE HOLIDAY SELF-PROMOTION FROM DANIAL JAMES AND BANDIT’S 5-BALL EMPORIUM–in Sturgis. Danial’s an interesting guy. He’s not only talented to the moon, but he’s receptive to suggestions, concepts and input. That’s a rare characteristic in a young man. Bottom line, he’s taken several suggestions on the Salt Torpedo painting. We are also working on several concepts for future pieces. And the Redhead is working on Santa. There’s always something happening at the emporium. –Bandit WAYFARER HITS THE ROAD– Riding Royal Rajasthan on a Dirt Bike Author’s Note: This article was sanitized to redact French language of Wayfarer (moi) which is worse when he is stuck in an office chair So India Time 4 am of Saturday 14-December me and a group of Musafirs will leave Mumbai and head to the meeting point at Rajasthan. Musafirs is a motorcycle group with 13 years of motorcycle touring experience and I had first been on their trips back in 2022. There are a grand total of 5 riders from Mumbai. Sad, because it is such a beautiful destination at a great temperature of 10 degree Celsius with magnificent culture, food, vistas and history and people who are now accustomed to treating guests from India and abroad for over 1000 years. All fanboys in India and maybe elsewhere want to ride Ladakh and the typical Himalayan route—which is barren, nothing to see, nothing to do, nothing worth eating, no one to talk to, etc. Most boring and bland place glorified as Biker Heaven. What is there to drink? Tea with Yak milk…. see photo of a yak—-its milk smells like animal piss it seems. I love animals, I love milk, I ain’t ever drinking that. READ THE WHOLE RANT AT: https://blog.bikernet.com/riding-royal-rajasthan-on-a-dirt-bike/ –WayfarerOn the road in India Not taking the Enfield Bullet in group rides— an illustration by Wayfarer PANHEADS OF THE WEEK— –Sam BurnsFeature Bike EditorBikernet.com Quick! Run to the Safety of Low Prices (Just Don’t Trip…) TOMORROW This Deal Meets Its END Don’t Miss Out On Killer Friday the 13th Prices and Have to Spend Your Rally at Camp Blood… Ki-Ki-Ki Ma-Ma-Make Plans to Party Hard to 9 Days of Entertainment At the 85th Sturgis Rally Anniversary Including FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH Monday, Aug. 4, 2025 (More Bands Coming Soon) Save Up to 55% on Multi-Day Passes Limited Time Only Special Prices End on Friday the 13th (12/13/24 @ 11:59 MST) You’ve been warned. This killer deal dies tomorrow. MOTIVATION FROM THE BIKERNET PHILOSOPHER– You Can Do, Be, or Have Anything You Truly Desire “Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light.” – Helen Keller Within each of us lies the power to be, do, and have anything we desire, as long as it harms no one. Take a moment to close your eyes and revisit a time in your life when you knew, without a doubt, that you could achieve something. Perhaps it was learning to walk, ride a bike, draw, speak in public, sing, play an instrument, excel in a test, land a date, get your first car, or secure a job. Think back to that moment in life when you had unwavering confidence, where hurdles and challenges were merely stepping stones. Remember that childlike enthusiasm, that burning desire to succeed, and the inner knowing that you were divinely supported on your journey. I vividly recall when I got my first two-wheel bicycle. The confidence I felt as I learned to ride was unshakable. No matter how many times I fell, I got back up because I held a vision of myself riding that bike. The desire to ride burned within me, and I had the determination to keep trying until I succeeded. When I finally rode that bike for the first time, it was a moment of pure triumph and joy. Think back to those moments in your life. For some of us, it’s been a long time since we’ve felt that kind of confidence. But let me assure you, it’s still there—right within you. It may be clouded by fears, doubts, and the collective consciousness of limitation, but it is ever-present. Each of us carries that divine power and light capable of dispelling all darkness. We simply need to return to that place of inner knowing—that space where we trust that good triumphs over evil, faith and trust overcome fear and doubt, and love conquers hate. Know this: you are Divinely guided, guarded, and supplied. The light of Spirit dispels all darkness in your life. Reconnect with that childlike enthusiasm and confidence, and let it ignite your inner strength. Affirmation for Today:I recognize the Truth of who I am: infinite potential ready to express in extraordinary ways. I embrace the childlike confidence within me and know I can do, be, and have anything I desire. I connect to the light within me, illuminating my path and filling my vision with a bright, beautiful future. I release any doubts or limiting beliefs imposed by others, for I am one with my Higher Power, which is limitless. The same Power that carried me through past triumphs is alive within me today. My light shines brightly, and I have more than enough to give and to share. I am deeply grateful for this Truth, I live this Truth, and I embody this Truth. And so it is. Namaste. “The Divine Light within dispels all darkness and makes my way clear.” – Yale Musk’s politics hadn’t seeped into Tesla. Then he axed its … The Washington Post:  The Tesla CEO was once an outspoken voice on climate change. But Musk now argues many risks are overstated. … Excerpt: Once one of the most vocal American executives on the dangers of climate change, Musk called for a ‘popular uprising’ against the fossil fuel industry in a 2016 film. At Tesla, every internal power point presentation had to include figures from former vice president Al Gore’s documentary ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ citing rising carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, a reminder of the company’s mission. But the paragraph about global warming is no longer required in Tesla’s power point decks and climate change has plummeted on Musk’s list of priorities: In an August live stream on X, he told Trump ‘we don’t need to rush’ to solve the climate crisis.” Climate Depot’s Morano: “First, RFK Jr. and now Elon Musk! The world has lost two of the most prominent climate activists post-COVID lockdowns. We welcome Elon Musk into the climate red pill group.” See: RFK Jr. red-pilled on climate agenda?! RFK Jr. declares climate ‘being exploited by the WEF & Bill Gates’ in ‘the same way that COVID was exploited’ – ‘Top-down totalitarian controls on society’ –Mark MoranoClimate DepotWUWT LAW TIGERS TIPS– Types of Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents The San Diego motorcycle accident lawyers with Law Tigers can help you pursue a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident to claim compensation for the losses you suffered because of the crash. Substantial losses can cause your life to spiral out of control, but a motorcycle accident settlement can help you weather the storm and have financial stability. There are two general types of compensation for motorcycle accidents: economic and non-economic. Courts may also award plaintiffs punitive damages to punish the offender. EconomicEconomic compensation includes compensation for all your losses with a definite dollar amount. A motorcycle accident attorney from a firm like Law Tigers can gather all records of your expenses to calculate your losses and ensure you receive adequate compensation. Medical BillsFirst, a settlement will contain money to pay for medical bills your accident generates. This would include emergency medical treatment, surgery costs, hospitalization bills, and continuing medical expenses, such as prescription medications, medical equipment, rehabilitative services, or in-home medical care. Compensation for medical bills is often the most significant portion of any motorcycle accident settlement. Lost IncomeYour injuries might also leave you unable to work for an extended period. A settlement can also include money for the time you missed work. Lost income doesn’t only mean hourly wages or salary but could also potentially include overtime pay, lost sick days or vacation days, missing bonuses, and lost tips if you work in a tipped position.  Diminished Work CapacityAn injury can also leave you permanently disabled and unable to perform specific job functions. An injury can reduce the capacity of work you can handle or even require you to switch careers entirely. A settlement may include compensation that is calculated based on your current earning capacity, future projected earnings, cost of living, and total work-life expectancy. Property DamageThe last major type of economic loss is property damage. If your motorcycle or other property sustained damage during the accident, a settlement should reimburse you for those items. Non-EconomicNon-economic compensation exists for intangible losses that do not have explicit monetary value. The classic example of a non-economic loss is pain and suffering. Other examples of non-economic losses include: Emotional distress and mental anguishLoss of life enjoymentLoss of consortium or companionshipScarring and disfigurementDiminished quality of life California does not have an explicit formula for calculating a victim’s non-economic losses, but various factors can affect the amount, including the severity of the injuries, the duration of the harm, and the injured party’s previous quality of life. There is no cap on non-economic compensation in California, except for a $250,000 cap in medical malpractice cases. An attorney can also help here by gathering evidence and arguing about the toll on your life the injuries have taken. A $4,000.00 donation was presented to the “Veterans 4 Veterans“ organization at their December organizational meeting. The funds were a result of the annual POW/MIA Recognition Ride, which takes place each August. “Monies raised from the POW Ride have always been made available to local veterans in need.” Said rally committee chairman Ray McPeek. “This year, we were happy to support Vets 4 Vets, who have a great success record in taking homeless veterans off the street, getting them jobs and a place to live.” McPeek added “Vets 4 Vets is made up of all of the area Veterans motorcycle clubs, so partnering with them on the veterans rally makes perfect sense.” To date, more than $150,000.00 has been raised and donated to local Veterans and Veterans organizations in need as part of the annual Veterans event in Teller County. www.theveteransrally.org BUILDER OF THE WEEK—PIERCE THORPE –Sam BurnsFeature Bike Editor QUICK, HIT THE ST.ONGE BAR– The St. Onge Bar is located at 201 SD Highway 34 in St. Onge, SD. This unique bar features Prime Rib every Friday Night. –Bandit MRF NEWS — New Faces In New Places It has been four and a half weeks since election day and the last race for Congress has been called. The final breakdown of the U.S. Senate will be 53 Republicans and 47 Democrats. The U.S. House of Representatives will also have a slim margin, with 220 Republicans and 215 Democrats. Complicating these margins, in 2025 two (2) Republican Senators and three (3) House Republicans will be leaving to assume positions in the Trump Administration. Those five seats will be filled with appointments by Governors in the case of the Senate and special elections for the House seats In total, starting January 3, 2025, there will be 10 new members of the Senate and 63 new members of the House of Representatives. That means a lot of new faces in and around Capitol Hill. We have a lot of work to do introducing the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) and our legislative priorities to these new lawmakers! You can help us meet these new legislators by joining us in Washington, D.C. for Bikers Inside the Beltway on May 19 and 20, 2025. In January the MRF website will have updates on registration and travel details. We need bikers to show up, be seen and be heard! Here are the 29 states with at least one newly elected lawmaker representing them in Congress next year: Alabama – 1 Alaska – 1 Arizona – 2 (Plus New Senator) California – 9 Colorado – 3 Delaware -1 (Plus New Senator) Florida – 1 (Plus New Senator) Indiana – 3 (Plus New Senator) Kansas- 2 Louisiana – 1 Maryland – 3 (Plus New Senator) Michigan – 2 (Plus New Senator) Minnesota – 1 Missouri – 2 Montana – 1 (Plus New Senator) New Hampshire – 1 New Jersey – 2 New York – 4 North Carolina – 5 North Dakota – 1 Ohio – 1 Oregon – 2 Pennsylvania – 2 (Plus New Senator) South Carolina – 1 Texas – 4 Utah – 1 (Plus New Senator) Virginia – 3 Washington – 2 West Virginia -1 (Plus New Senator) –MRF www.mrf.org CARB–Withdraws Electric Motorcycle Plan Friday, in a dramatic move, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) announced they would not be proceeding with proposed standards requiring half of all new motorcycles sold in the state be electric within the next decade. In a statement, CARB said, “The proposed amendments to on-road motorcycles (ONMC) emission standards and test procedures and adoption of new provisions relating to ONMCs have been withdrawn.” This is a major victory for those who believe consumers should be free to choose whatever engine type they want. This move to withdraw the proposed plan comes after two hearings, one in January and one in October on this topic were cancelled. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is pleased by CARB’s decision to withdraw its plan to mandate the sale of electric motorcycles. MRF President, Kirk “Hardtail” Willard stated, “It’s nice to see policymakers admit a mistake and withdraw a plan that was flawed from the outset.” He also added a note of caution, “Let’s remember CARB reserves the right to adjust, amend and resubmit similar plans like this in the future. We won a battle, but the war rages on. We must stay vigilant, in defense of the internal combustion engine.” –MRFJoin the MRF at www.mrf.org QUOTE OF THE WEEK–“Fake Climate Doom…Recent Research Shows ‘Vast Majority’ Of Pacific Atoll Islands Have Grown in Size.” –Marc Morano NEVER GIVE UP OR GIVE IN– Here’s what’s glistening on my rusting metal plate for this week. I just finished reports for the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Board Meeting next week. I covered Expansion, Fund Raising, Education and added a sidebar regarding the Easyriders Streamliner coming to the Museum. I’m working on several articles. I just launched Episode 105 of Bandit’s Cantina, so I better get started on 106. I need an entire day to rough out the Life and Times of Bandit 2024. What an incredible year. I’m working on Charlie’s Knucklehead feature with Cycle Source. Finally, I’m working on Danial James piece around his art. That’s easy. His art tells the story so well. Ran across these Dr. Neon shades. What a kick. Our extraterrestrial editor, Bill May is building a new Evo chopper, traditional style. Here’s the chassis. It’s always a rush to start a new project. I came close to firing the VLXAFL Knuckle chopper last weekend but ran into a gas leak. Irish Rich recommended Red Kote sealer and it’s on order. Hang on. This week we mailed out packages to our 5-Ball Racing Salt Torpedo sponsors. I’m still trying to find James Simonelli. Where is that guy? Ride safe and free forever,–Bandit The post THE HOLIDAY BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for December 12th, 2024 appeared first on Bikernet Blog - Online Biker Magazine.

As my heart becomes more aligned with God's heart, through increased time in praise and His presence, my desires shift to His desires. And I start to see that I already have, or am in the process of unfolding, that which my heart ultimately longs for. And my contentment with the simple and small surrounding me swells.

One of my mentors gave me wise advice as I first stepped into my senior pastor role: Lead with humble confidence. Although oxymoronic, the phrase intuitively made sense to me. This is the way of our crucified Savior: strength through restraint and victory through death. But what does leading with humble confidence practically look like for a leader today? Does it mean strongly pushing one’s own agenda but qualifying it every time with “If the Lord wills”? Is it about balancing out strong preaching with patient counseling? Or receiving criticism well without being devastated? In this cultural climate marked by various leadership crises in the church, I wonder if one of the timely expressions of humble confidence we need is secure curiosity: leading with the ability to genuinely listen to and learn from others out of a secure sense of self in Jesus. Secure Curiosity As Christians, we must constantly remember our ultimate source of security isn’t in what we own or accomplish but in what we receive in and from God (Matt. 6:19; Rom. 8:14–17). We’re his image-bearers, fearfully and wonderfully made by our Creator (Gen. 1:27; Ps. 139:14). We also receive for ourselves the benediction that Jesus heard from the Father during his baptism: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11), not because of our efforts but because of Christ’s willing work to take on our sin’s consequences (which we deserve) and give us his righteousness (which he deserves; see 2 Cor. 5:21). This good word that was only fitting for Jesus is now ours to receive by faith. Our ultimate source of security isn’t in what we own or accomplish but in what we receive in and from God. Every morning when we wake up, it’s worth remembering that our sense of security, and therefore our confidence, isn’t earned but received. As leaders, grasping this truth allows us to pour ourselves out to our people, not because we need to feed our insecurities but because our sense of self is already secure in Jesus. I’ve long wrestled with my Asian American identity as a potential liability in my leadership of a multiethnic church that’s striving to be more diverse. This has partly been a battle against my inner critic––which is common among Asian American leaders––but is also based in the reality that there aren’t many models for Asian American senior pastors and leaders in multiethnic churches. While this wrestling motivated my work ethic for a short time, it wasn’t able to ground me. I woke up each morning needing to earn and prove, not receive and rest. After reflecting further, I realized I didn’t know how to rightly view and embrace my Asian American identity the way God would see it in his own child. The security I was called to find repeatedly through God’s Word was that my cultural identity, along with my growth journey as a pastor, aren’t accidents to compensate for. Rather, these are the outworkings of God’s perfect design and sovereign grace in my life to receive and embrace in full. By his grace, and with intentionality, he fearfully and wonderfully made me. And by that same grace, he has sustained me through the highs and lows that have accompanied my growth as a leader (2 Cor. 12:9). This helped me to realize I have so much more to offer to those around me when I fully receive and humbly lead out of God’s unique and purposeful design of my life as his son and his servant. From this place of security, which gives us otherworldly confidence, we can lead others with humility expressed through curiosity. Secure Curiosity In Mark 2, the scribes question Jesus in their hearts after seeing him heal a paralyzed man (vv. 6–8). But this kind of questioning is far from curious, for it comes from grumbling hearts. The scribes have already made up their minds about what’s happening through Jesus, so they can’t see him for who he truly is. In contrast, people who question from a spirit of curiosity desire to learn. They see and hear others, and they value differing perspectives even in disagreements. Ministry leaders need to build their curiosity muscles to exercise healthy power, build up other leaders, and create a culture of trust and vulnerability that comes through humility. Ministry leaders need to build their curiosity muscles to exercise healthy power, build up other leaders, and create a culture of trust and vulnerability that comes through humility. Leading with curiosity doesn’t mean we lack conviction, nor does it mean we shirk the responsibility to make timely decisions. Rather, the goal is to pursue secure curiosity. Because we’re secure in our sense of self in Jesus, because we have confidence in our convictions without attaching our ego to them, we can empower others, ask for their input, and thereby demonstrate that learning from others is an essential ingredient for confident leadership. Curiosity without security produces unstable leadership. Security without curiosity produces stuck leadership. Secure curiosity means we don’t need to consider people as projects, peers as competitors, or ministry as a means to alleviate our insecurities. Secure curiosity means we can genuinely and intentionally make the first move as leaders to ask questions, learn from differences, admit mistakes, and pay attention to the Spirit’s movement in various conversations and even conflicts for greater learning. This is much easier said than done, and I’m learning as I go. But perhaps this process is exactly what people long to see in a leader in this cultural moment—someone who’s a work in progress, growing in living and leading out of a secure sense of self in Jesus, and therefore confident enough to learn from mistakes and ask questions with genuine curiosity. Lead with Humble Confidence Pastors and leaders, lead with humble confidence. Embrace the security that can only be received and not earned. Secure in that sense of self, open your ears and hearts to humbly learn from others. Let secure curiosity set the tone and culture for those you’re leading, so they may take on a similar leadership approach in all spheres of their lives. May we taste the goodness and joy of the gospel security that gives us the confidence we cannot manufacture on our own (2 Cor. 5:11). May our curiosity in our constant learning from others give us the humility to truly consider others more significant than ourselves (Phil. 2:3).

When I think of recent feuds, musicians like Drake and Kendrick Lamar or athletes like Kobe and Shaq come to mind. I’m surprised by how hot the emotions get when observers choose sides. The substance of these trivial beefs rarely leaves the circles of pop culture, yet their effects seep into our lives. We get so accustomed to the silliness of these debates that we sometimes underestimate substantive divisions in our circles and fail to navigate them well. In When Christians Disagree: Lessons from the Fractured Relationship of John Owen and Richard Baxter, Tim Cooper, professor of church history at the University of Otago, delves into the contentious relationship between two prominent 17th-century Puritan figures. Despite their shared commitment to reforming the Church of England, their lifelong rivalry was marked by deep animosity. Cooper’s exploration of their contrasting views on salvation and confessions reveals the destructive power of theological division, even among those who share a common faith. By examining the complexities of Owen and Baxter’s relationship, Cooper challenges us to consider the importance of Christian unity. He reminds us that genuine disagreement, rooted in deeply held convictions, can lead to substantial fractures—but it’s possible to maintain loving relationships even when we disagree. Underlying Personality Clash Baxter and Owen, though both Puritans, differed significantly in their backgrounds and personalities. Born a year apart in the early 17th century, they occupied different spheres of influence and life trajectories. Their experiences influenced their approaches to the issues that divided them. For example, Owen, a well-educated scholar and ambitious networker, viewed the English Civil War (1642–51) as divine liberation. Baxter, a less formally educated but deeply passionate believer, experienced the war firsthand and saw it as divine judgment. Neither fought in the war, but Baxter’s geography brought him face-to-face with hostility, death, and destruction. Owen’s war experience was calm and distant as he served as a chaplain to Oliver Cromwell. Despite their different backgrounds, both men were sometimes proud and stubborn. Owen, the son of a clergyman, preached sermons to Parliament on three occasions and was an intimate of Cromwell. He was determined and “desirous of honour and preferment” (47), and he didn’t take kindly to disagreement. In contrast, Baxter evinced the cloistered thinking found in autodidacts. He came across as “haughty . . . impervious to correction . . . incapable of self-doubt” (51). He said, “Though I offend, I must say that which cannot be hid” (53). Baxter would rather have “the discord of the saints” than the “concord of the wicked” (120). According to Cooper, “The difficulties between John Owen and Richard Baxter represented, as much as anything else, a personality clash” (41). So one lesson from this historical disagreement is that our personal biases tend to intensify conflict. By understanding the role of personality traits, we can work to mitigate their effects and foster more constructive dialogue. Substantive Theological Disputes One lesson from this historical disagreement is that our personal biases tend to intensify conflict. Baxter and Owen held divergent theological views that formed the substance of their quarrel. A major contention was their approach to Socinianism, a heresy that denies the Trinity. Owen, a staunch defender of orthodox Trinitarianism, wrote extensively against Socinianism and viewed Baxter’s theology as inadvertently encouraging it. Baxter claimed to be orthodox; however, he spoke much like a Socinian and wouldn’t accept any formulation of authorized doctrine that went even one syllable beyond Scripture’s words. The Socinian controversy revealed a major divide between the men on their views of church confessions. Baxter favored a more informal approach, emphasizing the importance of personal faith and spiritual experience. As Cooper observes, “Baxter wondered if a believer from the early church who firmly held to the Apostles’ Creed or the Nicene Creed could even be accepted as a Christian in this later, contentious, confession-ridden age” (89). Owen, on the other hand, preferred a more formal approach, emphasizing the importance of doctrinal orthodoxy and confessional subscription. The issue seemed to hinge not merely on principle but also on each man’s place within the church’s hierarchy. The men were even divided on the issue of salvation. Yet here Cooper argues there was more than theology at play. He notes, “Their different experiences infiltrated each one’s theology of salvation: Baxter hammering away at human responsibility, Owen constantly arguing that the only merits that mattered were those of Christ alone” (70). Each man’s theological emphasis, Cooper argues, was influenced by his confidence in his ability and social position. These theological disagreements, coupled with Owen and Baxter’s personal differences, created a toxic dynamic that prevented meaningful dialogue and cooperation between the two men. Their inability to bridge their differences serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unhealthy theological division and the importance of maintaining healthy debate within the church. Seek Faithful Disagreement This historical account is helpful in our contentious age. However, there are points where Cooper’s presentation of Baxter’s theology seems overly generous. For example, Cooper argues, “We can see both men as Calvinists” (69). Yet, as pastor Andrew Belli writes, “[Baxter’s] views on justification and atonement were not in step with the Reformed tradition,” and “Baxter leaned toward Arminian sentiments in major areas.” While both Owen and Baxter were godly and committed to the gospel, their theological disagreements were substantive. Each man’s theological emphasis, Cooper argues, was influenced by his confidence in his ability and social position. Additionally, nonhistorians may find some of the debate hard to follow. There’s too little context on the Nonconformists, the Church of England, and the aims foiled by the monarch returning to power. The book’s emphasis is, rightly, on the interpersonal clash between the two men. However, it’d be helpful to get more information on the debate’s stakes. In balance, When Christians Disagree is a fascinating case study of the personal and theological factors that can fuel division within the church. As Cooper reminds us, “Not all disagreement stems from a high-minded concern for the truth” (120). Baxter and Owen’s rivalry demonstrates how even the most devout believers can be blinded by their prejudices. The book doesn’t offer definitive solutions to theological conflict, yet it’ll benefit pastors and church leaders as it encourages humility, charity, and commitment to truth even as they pursue faithful disagreement within the church.

In this episode of TGC Podcast, Kendra Dahl, Andrew Wilson, and Glen Scrivener explore the incarnation’s richness and the unique opportunities for evangelism during Christmas. They discuss the following: Cultural challenges and the transition from Advent to Christmas The richness of the incarnation Challenges of preaching the incarnation Learning from the United Kingdom’s evangelism at Christmas Christmas as a paradigm for year-round evangelism Recommended resources: Andrew Wilson, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas (book) Glen Scrivener, The Gift (book) Glen Scrivener, “Glory to God in the Lowest” (article) SpeakLife “There’s a Dragon in My Nativity” (video)

Planning a holiday party shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Actually, you can host a stress-free and unforgettable gathering with thoughtful preparation and a touch of creativity. Whether you envision a sophisticated soirée or a lighthearted ugly sweater bash, this guide filled with practical tips offers actionable ideas to make your event a success! Start with an Engaging Holiday Party Theme A well-chosen theme simplifies your planning by aligning decor, food, and activities, which creates a memorable atmosphere for guests. Here are four creative ideas: Winter Wonderland Picture your home transformed into a snowy, glittering haven. Use silver and white accents, faux snow, and twinkling fairy lights to set the mood. Complement the look with icy blue napkins or frosted glassware. To complete the theme, serve “snowball” cookies and white-hot chocolate in clear mugs. For more decorating tips, check out HGTV’s holiday decor ideas. Ugly Sweater Bash Encourage guests to wear their most ridiculous sweaters to create a festive and humorous vibe. Organize contests with categories like “Most Hideous” or “Best Handmade.” Use oversized ornaments, candy cane garlands, and colorful lights for playful decor. A photo booth with props like elf hats and reindeer antlers will provide entertainment and photo-worthy moments. Holiday Movie Marathon Choose a classic holiday film, such as Elf or Home Alone, to anchor your party. Dim the lights and provide cozy blankets for a theater-like experience. Add a snack bar with popcorn, movie-themed cookies, and hot cocoa. Label food stations with movie quotes for an extra touch of fun. If you need snack ideas, explore The Spruce Eats’ holiday recipes. Elegant Evening Affair Opt for metallic tones like gold or silver paired with crisp white linens for a refined gathering. Serve hors d’oeuvres, such as prosciutto-wrapped figs or crab-stuffed mushrooms, alongside champagne cocktails. Play soft instrumental holiday music to maintain a polished yet festive ambiance. Plan a Tasty and Efficient Menu Once your theme is set, focus on a flavorful and easy-to-prepare menu. Choose dishes you can make or serve buffet-style to maximize your time with guests. Appetizers Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill large mushrooms with a creamy cheese mixture, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs. Bake until golden brown for easy, bite-sized delights. Charcuterie Boards: Include seasonal items like spiced nuts, dried cranberries, and rosemary sprigs. Arrange meats, cheeses, and crackers beautifully for an eye-catching display. For tips, visit The Spruce Eats’ charcuterie guide. Main Dishes Glazed Spiral Ham: A sweet, smoky classic that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Bake, slice, and serve. Butternut Squash Risotto: A creamy vegetarian option that’s hearty and flavorful enough to please any guest. Desserts Peppermint Bark: Layer white and dark chocolate, sprinkle with crushed candy canes, and let harden. Break into pieces for serving. DIY Cookie Bar: Provide sugar cookies, frosting, and sprinkles so guests can decorate their own treats. Drinks Cranberry Spritzers: Mix cranberry juice with prosecco and garnish with a sprig of rosemary. Hot Apple Cider: Simmer apple cider with cinnamon sticks and cloves. Serve warm in clear mugs with orange slices. Decorate Your Space with Impact Your decor sets the tone for the entire event. Even simple touches can transform your home into a festive and inviting space. Add Layers of Lighting String fairy lights along mantels, doorways, and windows to create a soft glow. Add candles of varying heights to enhance depth and warmth. Flameless candles are an excellent option for safety in high-traffic areas.  Focus on the Centerpiece Create an elegant centerpiece with pine branches, pinecones, and candles. For a festive finish, add metallic ornaments or faux snow. This versatile setup complements both rustic and sophisticated themes. Personalize Place Settings Wrap cloth napkins with twine and attach handwritten name tags. Include a sprig of rosemary or cinnamon stick for added fragrance and style. These small details make guests feel appreciated. DIY Ornament Wall Hang ornaments vertically on fishing lines to create a striking photo backdrop. Pair the display with garlands or a wreath to enhance the holiday charm. Pro Hosting Tips to Reduce Stress Even with the best plans, hosting can feel overwhelming. These practical tips will help you stay organized and relaxed: Prep Early: Complete cooking, cleaning, and decorating one or two days before the party. Delegate Tasks: Ask friends or family to help with simple responsibilities, such as refilling drinks or managing the playlist. Include Activities: Offer engaging options like trivia games, ornament decorating, or a photo booth to keep guests entertained. Holiday Party Planning Made Easy Holiday party planning doesn’t have to feel stressful. By selecting a thoughtful theme, preparing an easy menu, and adding charming decor, you'll create an enjoyable and unforgettable celebration. These tips will keep you organized, help you create lasting memories, and allow you to enjoy the party alongside your guests. Start planning today! Choose your theme, finalize your menu, and begin decorating.  FAQs How far in advance should I start planning? Begin 3-4 weeks ahead to finalize a theme, send invitations, and shop for supplies. How do I pick the right theme? Think about your guest list, available space, and personal style. For elegance, choose a Winter Wonderland. For fun, go with an Ugly Sweater Bash. What’s an easy way to decorate on a budget? Use affordable items like fairy lights and natural accents like pinecones or branches. How do I accommodate dietary restrictions? Offer a variety of dishes, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Clearly label each dish. How can I make my party kid-friendly? Set up a kids’ corner with crafts, movies, or cookie decorating. Offer simple, fun snacks.

Gladiator Rock Tour! Featuring Heavy Metal Artists: Toto, Christopher Cross and Men at Work (Huh?)

Kamala Reheats ‘Bring Your Own Dish’ Joke in Stale Stand-Up Routine