Reshaping the pop culture biker persona

a second look,” Katen said. “There are a lot more bikes out there now, so it is important for everyone to understand safety concerns. Even I have to take a second look sometimes, just to make sure I don’t get in somebody’s blindspot.”

Frank Dickens, treasurer for local 33, said distracted driving has become an issue now more than ever, especially with the prevalence of drivers using their cell phones. In addition, Dickens said the modern car has a range of technological features inside the vehicle that often serve as further distraction on the road.

Even for those drivers who are paying full attention, Dickens said riders often encounter drivers who misperceive how fast a motorcycle is traveling or sidle up too close for comfort.

Sunday’s event was also born out of a desire to reshape the perception of motorcycle riders, who Dickens said tend to be cast in a negative light.

“The general public sees us as motorcycle riders and there’s a misperception that we are rowdy,” Dickens said. “But we are members of the community and work to make our community a better place. They WHAT:

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don’t see us for who we are. We have families, friends, children and raise money for charities.”

Dickens and Katen both said local 33 has held fundraisers for various causes or toy drives for the Salvation Army. In addition, Katen said a committee was formed for one of the group’s biggest fundraising efforts of the year, the Toys For Tots program.

Live Music, free barbecue and a variety of vendors will be at the Motorcycle Awareness Rendezvous 2018, at Washington Square Park, 10th and E streets, Marysville.

The event is on Sunday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Main number .................... Steve Miller ...................... Andrew Cummins .............

Jake Abbott ...................... Patrick Groves .................. Josh Gutierrez .................. Jessica Hice ...................... Chris Kaufman ................. Rachel Rosenbaum ...........

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