Jacksonville Defenders Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club

In an email from “Doc” Pres. CFL  Chapter

It is with considerable regret that I announce the passing of fellow Defender John “Chaser” Schlichting.  He passed away this afternoon, 01-19-2010, after a long and hard fight with cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma).   He was fairly young having not yet reached age 50.  His wife “Keep Order” is an Associate member of the Defenders. 

Chaser joined the Tampa Bay Chapter in 2007 and retired the same year from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office where he had served as a Deputy Sheriff.

In 2008, Chaser was a founding member of the Central Florida Chapter of the Defenders.

Chaser was first diagnosed with cancer on December 22, 2007 and was advised that he had only 3 months to live.  As we would have expected, he fought back and did not allow a physician to dictate the length of his life.  Unfortunately, he contracted the flu in August 2009 and his health began to decline from the complications.

 Please keep Chaser’s family in your thoughts and prayers.

Please keep Deputy Anderson, SJSO, his family, and his brothers and sisters at SJSO in your thoughts and prayers. 

His life was cut short by someone driving the wrong way on SR 9A.   

Semper Fi

http://www.news4jax.com/news/22251612/detail.html/

From the Knoxville Chapter:

One of our members “Shifter” and associate “Red” were getting married tonight in Maryville, Tn (Near where we had the natl. pres. mtg). The ceremony began at 2000 and about 12 or so of our members were to meet on Alcoa Hwy (US 129) at 1900 to ride to the wedding together. We were on our bikes and wearing our colors to the ceremony. While en-route to the meeting location, I began to feel my phone constantly vibrating due to texts and calls and Knew something was wrong. When I got to Alcoa Hwy, traffic was at a dead stop and I could see Blue lights ahead in the distance near where we were all to meet. Since traffic was stopped, I had the oppotunity to check the phone and learned it was RIVER who was in the accident up ahead. I hit the shoulder and rode up to the scene. Our Commander, “De-Law” was already there. He had been with River all day. They had spent the day riding and had logged about 250 miles before heading to the meeting location. De-Law was riding behind River as they approached the meeting location on their right. They missed the turn and went a short distance down the road, made a U turn and started back. This time, the meeting location would be on their left. River went over to the far left in to what he thought was the turning lane and struck the concrete median which was practically invisible at night. The damn thing shouldn’t even be there. It looks like the entire middle of the road is a turn lane. His bike went airborne and flipped end over end several times. De-Law was witness to the whole thing and said the bike landed on top of River at least once. When De-law got off and ran up to him, River was unconscious. He came to shortly and was talking and coherent but in pain and complaining he couldn’t breathe. River removed his own helmet and tried to get up but De-law made him lie still while 2 off duty nurses came to his aide. After he got loaded into the ambulance, he coded and they were never able to get him back. Even though he was wearing a full face helmet, the impact was too severe and he died from head trauma. We all went to the University of Tn medical center ER and sent someone to get River’s wife. Once she arrived, we were given the news that he didn’t make it. River has a daughter and a step-daughter. He worked at Wackenhut in Oak Ridge and was a retired army Drill Instructor. River’s colors were practically shredded. His vest was ripped off him in the crash and ripped into 2 pieces.

R.I.P River

Patriot Guard:

Last night, (11/06/09) Tennessee lost another one of her Great American Hero’s, Raymond “River” Campbell, of Knoxville, TN.  “River” was retired from the United States Army, he was also part of the Defenders Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club in Knoxville.  He was on his bike getting ready to meet others from his group to attend a wedding of a club member.  His accident occured on the Alcoa Highway.  “River” will continue to save lives and enhance lives through his gifts of life.

Let us all remember to keep River & his family in our thoughts and prayers.  Rest In Peace Brother!

Florida drivers beware!

Traffic fines have increased. In Duval County, the fine for running a red light is now $214.00 WOW!

Be careful out there people! AND

ALWAYS WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES!

Read an article here

All,

With the Flu season underway and attacking our immune systems in a very systemic fashion, I thought that I would take a hasty position and plan ahead for us all. As you know this year is “hairy”, as Military Clinics, Walgreens, Solantic etc…plan for a secondary vaccine combating the H1N1 virus, better known as Swine flu. Whatever stance you take in approach, please coordinate with your primary care Doc to get vaccinated. The following is some guidance that you may or may not already know, on the two types of Flu vaccines (inactive and Live) the route in which they are administered and some data that will prepare you for the newly introduced Swine Flu vaccine.

Why get vaccinated?

Flu is a contagious disease spread by coughing, sneezing or nasal secretions. The common cold and symptoms are often mistaken for the actual Flu virus.
The duration of the flu virus typically lasts for 72 hours and exhibits the following: Fever, cough, headaches, body aches, fatigue, sore throat and chills. Small children and elderly can experience harsher symptoms due to insufficient immune systems.
The FLU VACCINE CAN PREVENT THE FLU!! Imagine that?

What are the two routes of administering the Flu vaccine?

There are two types/routes. One is INACTIVATED (dead virus) the other is LIVE (live virus).
INACTIVATED- is a dead virus that is injected into the muscle.
LIVE- is a weakened strain the sprayed into the nostrils.

Both suppress the same virus, the same way. Personally I prefer the Intranasal LIVE spray because it generally takes quicker to develop in the immune system. If you are Military, or receive military treatment, you will get Intranasal UNLESS otherwise told NOT to by your Doctor and or 50 years of age or older. Plan accordingly. If there are any questions consult your Doctor prior to receiving vaccine or spray.

What are the risks from Flu vaccine/spray?

Treat the vaccine like any other vaccine you have received. Mild soreness at injections site, with some body aches and possible fever. ALWAYS PRELOAD WITH A TYLENOL PRIOR TO INJECTION OR SPRAY!!

If a severe reactions occurs it will happen within a few hours after the injection/spray. If you are one that passes out or has serious side effects from the vaccine, consult your physician. If you like to pass out while injections are given, eat before the injection, and take a seat while the injection is being administered.

Recap:

1. Consult DR prior to receiving vaccine
2. If you can GET the vaccine, MAKE every effort to do so
3. Practice safe hand washing techniques throughout the flu season
4. Encourage others to receive vaccine
5. Flu vaccine can prevent the FLU VIRUS

H1N1 FLU (SWINE FLU)

What is the Swine Flu?

It is a new flu virus that was first detected in persons in April of 2009. The virus is spreads from person-to-person in the same way the regular seasonal flu virus spreads. The virus was originally referred to as the Swine Flu because lab testing found genes of the virus the were very similar to flu viruses found in pigs. But later studies suggested that this was not the case in North American pigs. But, the genes are produced in European and Asian pigs, much like the avian Bird flu.

What are the Virus’ symptoms/protection?

Symptoms are much like the symptoms of regular flu, some have reported diarrhea and vomiting, which has been an ultimate trigger to diagnosing H1N1 or over Reg flu. Further lab studies will differentiate the two. Death has occurred in several cases, claiming over 540 lives. Remember children and adults over 65 are more susceptible to harsher symptoms then the rest.

Protection

At the moment (8 SEP 09) there is no vaccine available. However there is a vaccine in production and should be ready for public use in the fall. You MUST have the seasonal flu vaccine BEFORE you receive the H1N1 vaccine when that becomes available. As of now, the H1N1 vaccine is a 2 shot series. More to follow with that.

Treatment

There are medications you can take to combat H1N1 if you acquire it. Oseltamivir and Zanamivir are Anitviral medications that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses form reproducing in your body. Most Antiviral medications and help you feel better faster. As of now, you will be issued these meds ONLY if your illness is severe.

Recap:

1. Wash Hands, wash hands and wash hands. (use HOT soap and water or Hand Sanitizer)
2. Remember: Heat kills Flu (167-212(F), 75-100(C) )
3. When cleaning at your house or work, use germicides like peroxides, chlorine, iodophors(antiseptics) to be effective.
4. Get your FLU vaccine first, standby for supply of H1N1 in the fall
5. Consult your Doctor if you have any questions
6. Use a respirator if you feel you have to
7. Decontaminate your kitchen, bath, and swimming areas as needed

I hope that we all stay aware of our surroundings. If you travel outside of the country for work or leisure ensure you are keeping up with the CDC’s requirements for that AOR. As always please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

HEAT STRESS AWARENESS

Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. During conditions of extreme heat, spend time in locations with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, public libraries, or public health sponsored heat-relief shelters in your area.

Get informed. Listen to local news and weather channels or contact your local public health department during extreme heat conditions for health and safety updates

Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages and increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level

What Is Extreme Heat?

Conditions of extreme heat are defined as summertime temperatures that are substantially hotter and/or more humid than average for location at that time of year. Temperatures lately in Jacksonville have exceeded 95 degrees. During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids each hour.

Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills (Lasik), ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot. Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol, or large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.

Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body. These are necessary for your body and must be replaced. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. However, if you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets.

Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body fluids. It also causes pain and damages the skin. Protect yourself from the sun by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels) 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.

If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. Be aware that any sudden change in temperature, such as an early summer heat wave, will be stressful to your body. You will have a greater tolerance for heat if you limit your physical activity until you become accustomed to the heat. If you travel to a hotter climate, allow several days to become acclimated before attempting any vigorous exercise, and work up to it gradually.

Remember to keep cool and use common sense:
Avoid hot foods and heavy meals—they add heat to your body.
Drink plenty of fluids and replace salts and minerals in your body. Do not take salt tablets unless under medical supervision.
Limit sun exposure during mid-day hours and in places of potential severe exposure such as beaches.

A reminder that April is “Check Your Helmet Month.”

It doesn’t matter what type of helmet you need, motocross, cruising, full face helmet, half helmet, three quarter helmet, modular helmet, flip helmet, it doesn’t matter.  The most important thing is that you are wearing a helmet regardless of whether or not your state has a helmet law or not.  When in the market for a new helmet, pick somebody you can trust.  It is a good idea that you visit a shop and check the fit of the type & brand of helmet you wish to buy.  Then find your best deal online.  Most online companies offer free shipping on helmets. 

As the weather gets warmer and the snow stops falling, riding season starts to swing into high gear! Before you uncover that scooter and perform all your routine maintenance and function tests on your scooter, make sure your helmet is ready for those weekend rides. Better yet, Sturgis is only a few months away. There are a few simple rules to follow to make sure that your helmet is ready for riding:

1. Fit – A helmet must fit properly to be effective, and not all helmets fit the same. A good fitting helmet should rest one inch above your eyebrows and shouldn’t roll forward or sideways on your head. To ensure a comfortable fit, wear a helmet for 15 minutes before making a final buying decision.

2. They don’t last forever – manufacturers and the SNELL Foundation recommend helmets be replaced every three to five years, depending on use. Glues, resins and other helmet materials break down over time and can make a helmet less effective.

3. Keep it clean – a clean and well cared for helmet will protect better and longer. Use a mild soap to wash the outer shell and internal liners. Never use solvents or chemicals for cleaning as they can destroy protective coatings.

4. Mirrors are not hangers – hanging a helmet on a motorcycle’s mirror can damage the impact absorbing liner inside.

Remember, don’t neglect your other gear.  Jafrum provides some of the best prices on the internet for motorcycle apparel and gear. 

What are you waiting for?  Get out there to the garage, uncover that scooter, giver her a good wash while checking to make sure everything works.  Most of all, protect your most prized possession… your head!

322.12  Examination of applicants.–

¹(5)(a)  The department shall formulate a separate examination for applicants for licenses to operate motorcycles. Any applicant for a driver’s license who wishes to operate a motorcycle, and who is otherwise qualified, must successfully complete such an examination, which is in addition to the examination administered under subsection (3). The examination must test the applicant’s knowledge of the operation of a motorcycle and of any traffic laws specifically relating thereto and must include an actual demonstration of his or her ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable control in the operation of a motorcycle. Any applicant who fails to pass the initial knowledge examination will incur a $5 fee for each subsequent examination, to be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. Any applicant who fails to pass the initial skills examination will incur a $10 fee for each subsequent examination, to be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. In the formulation of the examination, the department shall consider the use of the Motorcycle Operator Skills Test and the Motorcycle in Traffic Test offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. The department shall indicate on the license of any person who successfully completes the examination that the licensee is authorized to operate a motorcycle. If the applicant wishes to be licensed to operate a motorcycle only, he or she need not take the skill or road test required under subsection (3) for the operation of a motor vehicle, and the department shall indicate such a limitation on his or her license as a restriction. Every first-time applicant for licensure to operate a motorcycle who is under 21 years of age must provide proof of completion of a motorcycle safety course, as provided for in s. 322.0255, before the applicant may be licensed to operate a motorcycle.

(b)  The department may exempt any applicant from the examination provided in this subsection if the applicant presents a certificate showing successful completion of a course approved by the department, which course includes a similar examination of the knowledge and skill of the applicant in the operation of a motorcycle.

(5)(a)  The department shall formulate a separate examination for applicants for licenses to operate motorcycles. Any applicant for a driver’s license who wishes to operate a motorcycle, and who is otherwise qualified, must successfully complete such an examination, which is in addition to the examination administered under subsection (3). The examination must test the applicant’s knowledge of the operation of a motorcycle and of any traffic laws specifically relating thereto and must include an actual demonstration of his or her ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable control in the operation of a motorcycle. Any applicant who fails to pass the initial knowledge examination will incur a $5 fee for each subsequent examination, to be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. Any applicant who fails to pass the initial skills examination will incur a $10 fee for each subsequent examination, to be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. In the formulation of the examination, the department shall consider the use of the Motorcycle Operator Skills Test and the Motorcycle in Traffic Test offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. The department shall indicate on the license of any person who successfully completes the examination that the licensee is authorized to operate a motorcycle. If the applicant wishes to be licensed to operate a motorcycle only, he or she need not take the skill or road test required under subsection (3) for the operation of a motor vehicle, and the department shall indicate such a limitation on his or her license as a restriction. Every first-time applicant for licensure to operate a motorcycle must provide proof of completion of a motorcycle safety course, as provided for in s. 322.0255, before the applicant may be licensed to operate a motorcycle.

When we last left our unwitting Taser Tester, he had just pulled the trigger…

HOLY MOTHER OF GOD . . . WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION . .. . WHAT THE HELL!!!

I’m pretty sure Jessie Ventura ran in through the side door, picked me up in the recliner, then body slammed us both on the carpet, over and over and over again.

I vaguely recall waking up on my side in the fetal position, with tears in my eyes, body soaking wet, both nipples on fire, testicles nowhere to be found, with my left arm tucked under my body in the oddest position, and tingling in my legs?

The cat was making meowing sounds I had never heard before, clinging to a picture frame hanging above the fireplace, obviously in an attempt to avoid getting slammed by my body flopping all over the living room.

Note: If you ever feel compelled to ‘mug’ yourself with a taser, one note of caution: there is no such thing as a one second burst when you zap yourself!You will not let go of that thing until it is dislodged from your hand by a violent thrashing about on the floor. A three second burst would be considered conservative?

SON-OF-A-BITCH, THAT HURT LIKE HELL!!!

A minute or so later (I can’t be sure, as time was a relative thing at that point), I collected my wits (what little I had left), sat up and surveyed the landscape.

My bent reading glasses were on the mantel of the fireplace. The recliner was upside down and about 8 feet or so from where it originally was. My triceps, right thigh and both nipples were still twitching.

My face felt like it had been shot up with Novocain, and my bottom lip weighed 88 lbs. I had no control over the drooling.

Apparently I shit myself, but was too numb to know for sure and my sense of smell was gone. I saw a faint smoke cloud above my head which I believe came from my hair.

I’m still looking for my nuts and I’m offering a significant reward for their safe return!!

P. S. My wife loved the gift, and now regularly threatens me with it!

‘If you think Education is difficult, try being stupid.’