Critical Mass Vancouver July 31, 2009 Part 8

Watching this video, it doesn't take long to notice that this isn't about sharing space with bikers, but about occupation of a critical transportation corridor - and on the Friday of a long weekend no less. This isn't about participating, but about exluding others, and incoveniencing the maximum number of people not in their camp. Notice how they block both lanes of the bridge and stop in the middle of the bridge and hang out. What purpose does this possibly serve? I suppose the critically injured person sitting in an ambulance is shit out of luck.

What's even more amazing is that the current city authorities have taken the position that it is better to "avoid confrontation" with anarchists, than to maintain freedom of movement for law-abiding citizens. The police actually authorize unlawful behaviour rather that maintain order.

If the current city officials can't or won't maintain rule of law, citizens should find new ones that can and will. Otherwise the chaos and anarchy will spread.

Faulty argument - Letter to Editor - The Province

The police position that this evening's Critical Mass "protest" is "protected by Charter rights" is utter nonsense.

The Charter protects Canadians from governmental action which infringes fundamental freedoms and then only to the extent that the government action is not a reasonable limitation in a free and democratic society. Just what government action is it that is being protested?

Further, who gave the police the right to determine that a Charter right is at issue? Those judgments are reserved for the judiciary or elected officials.

The "blockade" of public streets is a violation of the law and it is not up to the police to decide which laws they will enforce or not. The police do not have the right to abrogate my entitlement to live in a society of laws.

Donald Jordan, Q.C., Vancouver

Cyclists' sense of entitlement excludes any respect for rules - The Province

Rules are like kryptonite to cyclists.* Stop signs are there for amusement and "one way," apparently, means "any one way you wish."

Many of them don't wear helmets. The sidewalk is the same as the street. And I swear, if I ever saw a cyclist signal a turn I would drop dead in gobstruck shock.

All this is nothing new.

Vancouver cyclists have always had a difficult relationship with rules.

Vancouver police predict Critical Mess on Friday - The Province

"Critial Mass" bycicle ride has morphed into a major traffic disruption.

Police must act when cyclists' protest threatens rights of others - Vancouver Sun

Robertson's explanation to the Vancouver Sun editorial board Thursday that it is unlikely much can be done about today's illegal ride because it is difficult to communicate with a group that has no identifiable leaders is lame.

He should state clearly that, as with all citizens, the members of Critical Mass are expected to obey the law. He should say that all citizens can expect the law to be enforced. He should say that anyone who starts flouting the law, either by recklessly blocking traffic, running red lights or failing to wear helmets, will face legal consequences.

Critical Mass claims to be speaking up for the rights of cyclists. If they can't understand that other people have rights as well, it's time for the police to step in.

The shocking weather has only begun - Vancouver Sun

South Africa was great too! Pics from Vancouver Sun

Lightning strike above English Bay, one hour before July 25 fireworks - Vancouver Sun

We had the most unusual weather and sunset last night for the South Africa fireworks.