[Jeff Higgins]

These clubs were a dying breed 20-30 years ago. I'm actually not all that surprised that they have made a comeback, with the increased popularity of motorcycling. Patch holders used to be a rare sight, now it's impossible to go to a biker event without seeing them. They've risen from the ashes to a new level of prominence and sophistication.

And no, you don't have to kill someone to join. You don't even have to be a criminal. You have to be willing to put up with a lot of criminal activity, and look the other way, but none of these clubs actually require you to break the law. As a matter of fact, they would prefer you didn't. Their lives are hard enough...

Law enforcement has done a commendable job of beating some sense into these guys. You will notice that all of the trouble we hear about these days is inter-club - they rarely involve "civilians". So, what the hell - let them beat on, stab, and shoot each other all they want - as long as there is no "collateral damage". As long as they don't bring it outside their own little gutter. When they do, hammer them as hard as the law allows. That is what has been happening, and they seem to be getting the message. They are nothing if not polite when I see them at biker gatherings. They actually go to great lengths to avoid contact with anyone outside their club, even if they have gone to great lengths to go to an event... kinda weird, really...

The biggest event in our area is the Oyster Run up in Anacortes. Most have no idea it's a club event, organized by the Bandidos. It's a well-run, very organized event, and I've never heard of a lick of trouble. Even with rival clubs in attendance. Limp Lee and company do a fantastic job on this event. Granted, much of this effort has an ulterior motive - that of improving their public image. Behind the scenes, though, the clubs still control meth production and distribution, prostitution, and other family-friendly activities in this area. They have learned if they want to stay in those games, it's best not to go around starting bar fights anymore...