Driver Pulls Gun on Cyclists This Morning

[ciclismo]

This morning at 6:30am I was riding my bike with three friends down 30-a heading west. There were absolutely no cars on the road and we were passing through WaterSound where they have the medians in the middle of the road. A mid-sized pick-up truck honked and then violently swerved around us passing us very closely.

My friend gestured for the driver to come back and talk with us. There was no reason for his aggression so early in the morning. The driver of the metallic orange pickup truck hit his breaks and pulled a black handgun out of his drivers side window and started waving it at us. He then sped away.

I immediately called 911 and we met with two very nice Walton County Police Officers and filed a complaint. The officers were very nice and took the situation very serious and said they have all officers in the area looking for the car.

If anyone sees a mid-sized metallic orange pickup truck with a male driver, please notify the police.

In all of my years riding I have been yelled at, honked at, spit at, had things thrown at me, been run off the road into a ditch, been intentionally hit with a car's mirror, had a Harley sneak up on me and rev his engine to scare me and then laugh at me, two weeks ago had a driver laugh and cheer when we had a cyclist crash...but I have NEVER EVER had a gun pulled on me for riding a bicycle on a Sunday morning.

I am from the west coast and stilll learning about Southern culture...I am still trying to figure out this whole aggression thing towards cyclists...but I am sure this was not a friendly southern gesture.

I could be wrong...maybe it was his way of cheering in awe as he witnessed a life changing athletic performance by some local cyclists. Or maybe it was his way of showing support for our cyclist in Bejing and his reaction at Sammy Sanchez from Spain winning Olympic Gold in the Men's Cycling Road Race yesterday over Americans Levi Leipheimer, George Hincape and Christian Vandevelde! Maybe he was saying, "I am with you brother and I solute you and your athletic acheivements on this beautiful Sunday morning...ride safe and I will lead the way!"

[Beachbummett]

That is terrible! This makes me sad. I am glad to see you at least have a sense of humor about it. I think it was because of your athletic acheivements on a beautiful Sunday morning. :biggrin: I assure you it was not a southern gesture.

Did you get the tag number? I will be sure and keep an eye out for him today.

Oh! :welcome: to 30-A!

[Beachbummett]

BTW, we live in Watersound I will ask the security guard at the gate if he/she happened to see anything.

[ASH]

Sorry about your misfortune. No matter what you folks might have been doing, there is never a reason to pull out a gun.
Some people do get tired of the cyclist who acts more entitled than they should be. I do get tired of the cyclist who has a three foot wide path alongside the driving lane who won't use that lane. They either peddle right on the white line or they actually peddle in the driving lane. I understand that you have little choice when the bike path isn't there, but to stay in traffic when there is room elsewhere is inexcusable.
We personally slow down and wait until we can move around them and just leave you folks be, it's not that big of a deal.

It goes both ways as far as car traffic too. I get very frustrated when the above situation is coming towards me and for some reason the car coming towards me feels it is OK to just swerve out into my lane to go around the bike and sets up a possible head-on crash. Idiots! :angry:

When we all have a lane to ride in, I would be happiest if everyone would use their appropriate lane.

[florida girl]

I suspect he thought you were shooting him a bird. Not a friendly move. This is an unincorporated area, people can carry weapons if they want. Secondly, the county went to a lot of trouble building a "BIKE PATH" for the tourists that like to ride bikes. Most native Walton countians don't ride bikes, too many miles just to get anywhere. Most vehicles that drive on highways have to be street legal, ie, lights and the ability to drive the speed limit. Highway 30A is a narrow road without any shoulder, and riding a bicycle in the middle of the highway is dangerous, inconsiderate, and very irritating. When I see a cyclist in the middle of the road, I think, why did the county put in a bike path? What, do they think they own the road? They have to much leisure time on there hands! And when they don't move out of the way, they have just made a statement that they don't care about anyone else on the highway, or where the vehicles have to go. They are on vacation, and to heck with the rest of the world!

[Smiling JOe]

Maybe the driver was trying to compensate for having no balls.

[Smiling JOe]

Are you sure it wasn't florida girl driving that truck? Sounds like she is trying to justify reasons for pulling a gun on a bicyclist.

[Beachbummett]

Are you sure it wasn't florida girl driving that truck? Sounds like she is trying to justify reasons for pulling a gun on a bicyclist.

:funn: hmmmm.

I get ill at the cyclist too, but no one should ever pull a gun.

[Smiling JOe]

Got me thinking -- Maybe we need to market little digital cameras, front and rear on our bikes, to record face shots and license plate shots of vehicles of people who commit assaults and threaten us.

[30A Skunkape]

I suspect he thought you were shooting him a bird. Not a friendly move. This is an unincorporated area, people can carry weapons if they want. Secondly, the county went to a lot of trouble building a "BIKE PATH" for the tourists that like to ride bikes. Most native Walton countians don't ride bikes, too many miles just to get anywhere. Most vehicles that drive on highways have to be street legal, ie, lights and the ability to drive the speed limit. Highway 30A is a narrow road without any shoulder, and riding a bicycle in the middle of the highway is dangerous, inconsiderate, and very irritating. When I see a cyclist in the middle of the road, I think, why did the county put in a bike path? What, do they think they own the road? They have to much leisure time on there hands! And when they don't move out of the way, they have just made a statement that they don't care about anyone else on the highway, or where the vehicles have to go. They are on vacation, and to heck with the rest of the world!

oh my

Maybe you should get the word out to the local morons who would pull a gun on somebody that the bicyclist they intimidate might just be the head of a Fortune 500 company considering opening a large operation in Walton County. Do you think that helps or hinders the cause of economic development you so desperately desire? Personally, I hope any redneck who pulls a pistol on anyone in our county is thrown in a small cell and sodomized to the point they wish they were cleaning up a five bedroom 30-A rental after a bunch of liquored up college kids spent spring break there.

[Beachbummett]

ciclismo, did anyone get a tag number?

[jdarg]

I suspect he thought you were shooting him a bird. Not a friendly move. This is an unincorporated area, people can carry weapons if they want. Secondly, the county went to a lot of trouble building a "BIKE PATH" for the tourists that like to ride bikes. Most native Walton countians don't ride bikes, too many miles just to get anywhere. Most vehicles that drive on highways have to be street legal, ie, lights and the ability to drive the speed limit. Highway 30A is a narrow road without any shoulder, and riding a bicycle in the middle of the highway is dangerous, inconsiderate, and very irritating. When I see a cyclist in the middle of the road, I think, why did the county put in a bike path? What, do they think they own the road? They have to much leisure time on there hands! And when they don't move out of the way, they have just made a statement that they don't care about anyone else on the highway, or where the vehicles have to go. They are on vacation, and to heck with the rest of the world!

Good grief. We get it already.:roll: I don't think I have ever encountered anyone with a bigger axe to grind than you. Maybe every person that is not a native Walton Countian should move away. Good luck finding gainful employment and attracting this "industry" then!

Are you sure it wasn't florida girl driving that truck? Sounds like she is trying to justify reasons for pulling a gun on a bicyclist.

:lol: No kidding.

[Smiling JOe]

high-five, skunky!

[florida girl]

oh my

Maybe you should get the word out to the local morons who would pull a gun on somebody that the bicyclist they intimidate might just be the head of a Fortune 500 company considering opening a large operation in Walton County. Do you think that helps or hinders the cause of economic development you so desperately desire? Personally, I hope any redneck who pulls a pistol on anyone in our county is thrown in a small cell and sodomized to the point they wish they were cleaning up a five bedroom 30-A rental after a bunch of liquored up college kids spent spring break there.

Back the truck up! Sodomized? Insulting comments are not conducive to good mediation! A truce will never be between tourists and locals as long as there isn’t mutual respect enough to keep from insulting the other!

[jdarg]

I suspect he thought you were shooting him a bird. Not a friendly move. This is an unincorporated area, people can carry weapons if they want. Secondly, the county went to a lot of trouble building a "BIKE PATH" for the tourists that like to ride bikes. Most native Walton countians don't ride bikes, too many miles just to get anywhere. Most vehicles that drive on highways have to be street legal, ie, lights and the ability to drive the speed limit. Highway 30A is a narrow road without any shoulder, and riding a bicycle in the middle of the highway is dangerous, inconsiderate, and very irritating. When I see a cyclist in the middle of the road, I think, why did the county put in a bike path? What, do they think they own the road? They have to much leisure time on there hands! And when they don't move out of the way, they have just made a statement that they don't care about anyone else on the highway, or where the vehicles have to go. They are on vacation, and to heck with the rest of the world!

Back the truck up! Sodomized? Insulting comments are not conducive to good mediation! A truce will never be between tourists and locals as long as there isn’t mutual respect enough to keep from insulting the other!

I thought it would be interesting to see your posts back to back.

[30A Skunkape]

Back the truck up! Sodomized? Insulting comments are not conducive to good mediation! A truce will never be between tourists and locals as long as there isn’t mutual respect enough to keep from insulting the other!

What the hell are you talking about, 'a truce'? You are making yourself sound foolish. You are right about one thing, however, native Walton residents don't ride bikes. The Indian mounds that were erected hundreds of years before any Scotch-Irish settler arrived are completely devoid of bike parts.

[florida girl]

What kind of a "fortune 500" person would ride a bicycle in the middle of the road, allowing no one to pass? Lets see, an inconsiderate individual that cares nothing about anyone other than themself. And why would we want that kind of business? Isn't that the attitude that earned Florida the top position for mortgage fraud?

[florida girl]

I thought it would be interesting to see your posts back to back.

So, what is the problem? I have to the best of my ability spoken the truth about a matter that is very important.

[30A Skunkape]

What kind of a "fortune 500" person would ride a bicycle in the middle of the road, allowing no one to pass? Lets see, an inconsiderate individual that cares nothing about anyone other than themself. And why would we want that kind of business? Isn't that the attitude that earned Florida the top position for mortgage fraud?

Let me tell you something. You should wake up every day and get on your knees and thank God there are tourists here. you ought to do the same every afternoon and evening as well. If there were no tourists you wouldn't be able to live here. Period. PERIOD!

[jdarg]

So, what is the problem? I have to the best of my ability spoken the truth about a matter that is very important.

Thankfully you are not in public position that deals directly with the lifeblood of our community- tourism.:lol::floor:

[florida girl]

What the hell are you talking about, 'a truce'? You are making yourself sound foolish. You are right about one thing, however, native Walton residents don't ride bikes. The Indian mounds that were erected hundreds of years before any Scotch-Irish settler arrived are completely devoid of bike parts.

I keep knocking on the door, people are suffering in this county and need some equity and relief. I will continue to keep knocking until some relief is given.

[30A Skunkape]

Floridagirl, I have a proposal that might be a win/win for us. How about we split Walton County in half into North and South Walton Counties, the bay being the division. That way you wouldn't have to worry about tourists and we could enjoy holding on to the revenues we generate here. Do you think that is a good solution?

[30A Skunkape]

I keep knocking on the door, people are suffering in this county and need some equity and relief. I will continue to keep knocking until some relief is given.

You could get around quicker if you rode a bike.

[florida girl]

Let me tell you something. You should wake up every day and get on your knees and thank God there are tourists here. you ought to do the same every afternoon and evening as well. If there were no tourists you wouldn't be able to live here. Period. PERIOD!

Actually, I have low income rentals, tourists don't rent from me, just locals, and they complain a lot about tourists! You see, before St. Joe quit being a tree farm, tourism wasn't our principal industry. When St. Joe decided to get into the real estate business, people got greedy, and created this mess we're in now. It wasn't a steady growth, it was greed.

[florida girl]

You could get around quicker if you rode a bike.

I suppose so if I didn't have a back problem. But that's another issue concerning the elderly and the handicapped, and what about families with small children having to lug all that stuff around? Or perhaps they should just hire people to do all that for them?

[florida girl]

Floridagirl, I have a proposal that might be a win/win for us. How about we split Walton County in half into North and South Walton Counties, the bay being the division. That way you wouldn't have to worry about tourists and we could enjoy holding on to the revenues we generate here. Do you think that is a good solution?

Actually, I live in South Walton, and have all my life. I was here before you were. The main problem with that would be if you could carry on without the locals that have to travel across the bay to serve you, and believe me, many wish they didn't.

[ciclismo]

I suspect he thought you were shooting him a bird. Not a friendly move. This is an unincorporated area, people can carry weapons if they want. Secondly, the county went to a lot of trouble building a "BIKE PATH" for the tourists that like to ride bikes. Most native Walton countians don't ride bikes, too many miles just to get anywhere. Most vehicles that drive on highways have to be street legal, ie, lights and the ability to drive the speed limit. Highway 30A is a narrow road without any shoulder, and riding a bicycle in the middle of the highway is dangerous, inconsiderate, and very irritating. When I see a cyclist in the middle of the road, I think, why did the county put in a bike path? What, do they think they own the road? They have to much leisure time on there hands! And when they don't move out of the way, they have just made a statement that they don't care about anyone else on the highway, or where the vehicles have to go. They are on vacation, and to heck with the rest of the world!

Whoa Florida Girl! First of all, I am a local and not a tourist. I was riding my bike for leasure at 25mph at the time. If you have noticed, bicycle riding is a sport and people do ride them for enjoyment and not just as a means of transportation. The "bike path" is actually a multi-use path with a proposed 8mph speed limit. Which most of my friends run faster than that on their training runs and my 4 year old daughter has broken the 8mph speed limit on her bike a few times.

Please think through your responses before you show the entire community your ignorance.

I ride early when there is little traffic, I support our community and I am very respectful of drivers. Today's incident was un-provoked and un-called for. If you have ever noticed this area is getting more and more filled with people seeking a healthy lifestyle. You can see it with all of the walking trails, increase of cyclists, increase of runners on the trails, increase in restaurants serving heathly food and etc. Attitudes like yours need some serious adjustment.

[30A Skunkape]

Actually, I have low income rentals, tourists don't rent from me, just locals, and they complain a lot about tourists! You see, before St. Joe quit being a tree farm, tourism wasn't our principal industry. When St. Joe decided to get into the real estate business, people got greedy, and created this mess we're in now. It wasn't a steady growth, it was greed.

And your tenants work where? THEY ARE IN THE SERVICE INDUSTRY! Quit being so bitter.

[30A Skunkape]

Actually, I live in South Walton, and have all my life. I was here before you were. The main problem with that would be if you could carry on without the locals that have to travel across the bay to serve you, and believe me, many wish they didn't.

Gee, I never picked up on that!:roll:

[florida girl]

Whoa Florida Girl! First of all, I am a local and not a tourist. I was riding my bike for leasure at 25mph at the time. If you have noticed, bicycle riding is a sport and people do ride them for enjoyment and not just as a means of transportation. The "bike path" is actually a multi-use path with a proposed 8mph speed limit. Which most of my friends run faster than that on their training runs and my 4 year old daughter has broken the 8mph speed limit on her bike a few times.

Please think through your responses before you show the entire community your ignorance.

I ride early when there is little traffic, I support our community and I am very respectful of drivers. Today's incident was un-provoked and un-called for. If you have ever noticed this area is getting more and more filled with people seeking a healthy lifestyle. You can see it with all of the walking trails, increase of cyclists, increase of runners on the trails, increase in restaurants serving heathly food and etc. Attitudes like yours need some serious adjustment.

You know, there is one part of the information here that is not present. That of the driver of the truck. You don't know what was going on in his life at the time. I'm trying to give you understanding of the mindset of locals, but without actually having his statement creates a uncomplete discussion. Have you ever had trama in your life? He could have been facing some kind of distressing situation that was completely absorbing his thoughts, and you're hand gesture probably almost sent him over the edge. You're lucky he restrained himself when he did.
Those walking trails and restaurants serving "healthy foods" are for people on vacation. Particularly in today's economic situation, local people cannot afford this kind of activity. When people have to work 2 or more jobs to make ends meet, who has time to enjoy a walking trail? Much less spend a small fortune for dinner!

[Mermaid]

So, what is the problem? I have to the best of my ability spoken the truth about a matter that is very important.

Florida girl, you need to improve your ability before you spout your truth. Because it ain't necessarily true.

At no point did cyclismo state that he and his friends were riding four abreast on 30-A. Think of it. If they were taking up the whole road, how could the truck have gotten around them in the first place?

I know you dislike the idea of cyclists in the road when there is a path for their use. However, if you ever rode your bike in SoWal, you'd know that there are curbs (the WaterSound curbs where ciclismo was riding, for example). These things slow you down. There's also the cross-over in Seagrove which does the same. If you're a recreational cyclist like me or my husband, these minor annoyances do not matter. However, if you are more serious about the sport--as I suspect ciclismo is--the road is a better place to be. It is NOT illegal for him to be there! And I can only applaud his consideration to drivers for choosing to ride so early in the morning when his impact is minimal.

Furthermore Florida gun laws state that while it is legal to carry, "It is unlawful to have or carry a firearm in the presence of one or more persons and exhibit the firearm in a rude, careless, angry, or threatening manners, except in cases of self-defense." The truck driver was committing a crime when he waved that gun around. Nothing justifies what he does, and I hope he is tracked down.

[florida girl]

And your tenants work where? THEY ARE IN THE SERVICE INDUSTRY! Quit being so bitter.

Lets see, they work for pittance so the owners can have their pool cleaned? The complaints are getting stronger from the people I run into, and I'm just supposed to ignore them?

[aggieb]

pulling a gun on a cyclist is just wrong. point blank.

[potatovixen]

Those walking trails and restaurants serving "healthy foods" are for people on vacation. Particularly in today's economic situation, local people cannot afford this kind of activity. When people have to work 2 or more jobs to make ends meet, who has time to enjoy a walking trail? Much less spend a small fortune for dinner!

If those restaurants were made specifically for tourists, they'd all close from September to March. But, they stay open, so I assume some locals are eating there.

Also, it doesn't matter how stressed out or distraught the guy in the truck was. He had absolutely no excuse to pull a gun on those cyclists.

[30A Skunkape]

Lets see, they work for pittance so the owners can have their pool cleaned? The complaints are getting stronger from the people I run into, and I'm just supposed to ignore them?

If you really cared you would waive their rent so their pittance would accumulate into a small fortune. How can you in good conscience exploit these downtrodden people!?

[florida girl]

If those restaurants were made specifically for tourists, they'd all close from September to March. But, they stay open, so I assume some locals are eating there.

Also, it doesn't matter how stressed out or distraught the guy in the truck was. He had absolutely no excuse to pull a gun on those cyclists.

Actually that would be the snowbirds, and other transplants, and those lucky enough not to be affected by the economic downturn. No, not a good idea to carry a gun when your mad, I agree. I choose to fight my battles verbally, I get better results. Not everyone does that however.

[Dune-AHH]

ciclismo,
Thanks for your post. We certainly all need to beware and be aware. Pulling guns on each other (whether loaded with bullets or vitriol) is dangerous in any region or culture.

[florida girl]

If you really cared you would waive their rent so their pittance would accumulate into a small fortune. How can you in good conscience exploit these downtrodden people!?

Because these "downtrodden" people don't want welfare, they want to earn their own way honorably, the best they can. Believe me, I don't make a fortune off of them, in fact, if I wanted a "rich" lifestyle, I'd get rid of it, and live in a condo somewhere in some kind of luxury. That's not my idea of a good life though. The greatest blessing comes from helping someone less fortunate than you are. It's a good lesson to learn. Real joy is in giving.

[30A Skunkape]

Because these "downtrodden" people don't want welfare, they want to earn their own way honorably, the best they can. Believe me, I don't make a fortune off of them, in fact, if I wanted a "rich" lifestyle, I'd get rid of it, and live in a condo somewhere in some kind of luxury. That's not my idea of a good life though. The greatest blessing comes from helping someone less fortunate than you are. It's a good lesson to learn. Real joy is in giving.

Perfect. Perhaps you can pass the word that giving bicyclists a few feet on the highway instead of pointing guns at them will make motorists all warm and fuzzy inside.

[cp]

I 'm not local ,but we have serious looking bike riders in my area all the time.I love seeing them! And even though this is a rural area ,there is a lot of traffic!
And people fly down the road!
Anyway,I would be embrassed for our little community if someone acted like the truck driver did.
6;30 am on a Sunday morning even! I bet he wasn't late for anything!Sounds like a bully to me.

[sunspotbaby]

Wow, somebody needs to pull a gun on this thread :floor:

:blink:

[florida girl]

Perfect. Perhaps you can pass the word that giving bicyclists a few feet on the highway instead of pointing guns at them will make motorists all warm and fuzzy inside.

There aren't a few feet on the highway to give! Maybe a few inches!

[greenroomsurfer]

I don't see the problem here. Nothing more humbling than passing a WANNABE Lance Armstrong on my mountain bike in my flip flops!

[florida girl]

I 'm not local ,but we have serious looking bike riders in my area all the time.I love seeing them! And even though this is a rural area ,there is a lot of traffic!
And people fly down the road!
Anyway,I would be embrassed for our little community if someone acted like the truck driver did.
6;30 am on a Sunday morning even! I bet he wasn't late for anything!Sounds like a bully to me.

On a Sunday morning, what leisure would he be engaging in at 6:30 am? Particularly by himself?

[30A Skunkape]

On a Sunday morning, what leisure would he be engaging in at 6:30 am? Particularly by himself?

reading comprehension pop quiz-Was he by himself?

[Mermaid]

On a Sunday morning, what leisure would he be engaging in at 6:30 am? Particularly by himself?

Please stop, Florida Girl. You are getting unreasonably angry. The truck driver was wrong, you were wrong to defend him, and now you are lashing out over silly things like the fact that some people like to exercise early. Give it up already.

[florida girl]

reading comprehension pop quiz-Was he by himself?

I read a male driver of the pick up. Was there someone with him?

[ameliaj]

.
"Those walking trails and restaurants serving "healthy foods" are for people on vacation. Particularly in today's economic situation, local people cannot afford this kind of activity."

:idontno:Didn't know it cost anything to walk.

Perhaps we should all refer back to Robert Fulgham: (the parenthesis stuff if mine)
"Most of what I really need to know about how to live and what to do, and how to be, I learned in kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there in the sandbox at nursery school.

These are the things I learned:

Share everything. (including the road)

Play fair.

Don't hit people. (or pull guns on them)

Put things back where you found them. (like your tent, chair or umbrella)

Clean up your own mess. (including cigarette butts & large holes)

Don't take things that aren't yours.

Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.

There's more, but I figure that's enough lesson for one day.

[30A Skunkape]

I read a male driver of the pick up. Was there someone with him?

You win. I quit. I am going to go kayaking on my expensive boat now:wave:

[DD]

:yikes::yikes::yikes:

[Miss Kitty]

ho-boy
have mercy
get over yourself
have a nice day

:wave:

[John R]

So if the guy was having a bad day, that justifies his pulling a gun on cyclists. I can't follow that logic.

btw we've gone over this before:
OVERTAKING AND PASSING A VEHICLE
[§§316.083, 316.085, & 366.0875]
The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle
proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the
left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again
drive to the right side of the roadway until safely
clear of the overtaken vehicle. A driver overtaking a
bicycle must maintain a horizontal clearance of at
least 3 feet [§316.083]. Three feet is a minimum
"safe distance" for passing a cyclist under typical
urban conditions; when the passing vehicle is large,
towing a trailer, or traveling at much higher speed,
greater lateral clearance is needed.

[florida girl]

Please stop, Florida Girl. You are getting unreasonably angry. The truck driver was wrong, you were wrong to defend him, and now you are lashing out over silly things like the fact that some people like to exercise early. Give it up already.

I'm not angry at all. If I was I wouldn't be on the computer! What I'm trying to present is you don't know what was going on in his life. Sometimes you run into people that are going through trials that are very difficult. To call those trials silly is rather facetious and very uncaring.

[florida girl]

You win. I quit. I am going to go kayaking on my expensive boat now:wave:

Wow, I didn't know Kayaks were that expensive! Must be a nice one!

[jdarg]

Wow, I didn't know Kayaks were that expensive! Must be a nice one!

He is contributing to the local economy.

Much like the tourists that buy your framed pictures at a local gallery. I bet if they knew how much you hated them, they would reconsider their purchases and not support you at all.

[ciclismo]

Much like the tourists that buy your framed pictures at a local gallery. I bet if they knew how much you hated them, they would reconsider their purchases and not support you at all.


Florida Girls comments are scarier than the driver with the gun. This is the one time I really did not want to know the truth.

[John R]

Sometimes you run into people that are going through trials that are very difficult.

Thank goodness some of them have guns with them to settle things quickly...

[NoHall]

Florida Girls comments are scarier than the driver with the gun. This is the one time I really did not want to know the truth.

Ciclismo, Florida Girl's comments do not represent the views of anyone else on this board. I hope you're getting that. (And I am a legitimate American Indian who worked very happily in the service industry for more than a decade, I ride a bike, and I'm not local!)


Wow, somebody needs to pull a gun on this thread :floor:

:blink:



Thank goodness some of them have guns with them to settle things quickly...

:popcorn:

Where's that thread about how more people die at the hands of doctors than from guns? I think if we gave somebody a gun right now we could complicate that statistic! :bicycle:

[NoHall]

ciclismo, did anyone get a tag number?

Did it have Georgia plates? My neighbors may have taken a vacation in SoWal...

[Ocean Lover]

I'm not angry at all. If I was I wouldn't be on the computer! What I'm trying to present is you don't know what was going on in his life. Sometimes you run into people that are going through trials that are very difficult. To call those trials silly is rather facetious and very uncaring.


Sad. Obviously you just don't get it. No matter what a person is dealing with at the time, there's no excuse for this behavior. Especially at 6am in the morning.... WTH, we're all very caring people here or we wouldn't be posting on this thread. I'm very sorry this happened to the original poster.

[ozbeachmom]

Love Thy Neighbor! Share the road with a bicyclist!

Tourist, local or whomever...............Be Nice or Leave!!!

[LuciferSam]

Actually, I live in South Walton, and have all my life. I was here before you were. The main problem with that would be if you could carry on without the locals that have to travel across the bay to serve you, and believe me, many wish they didn't.

You sound like a trashy low-rent elitist.

[florida girl]

Florida Girls comments are scarier than the driver with the gun. This is the one time I really did not want to know the truth.

My point exactly, words are more powerful than any other weapons! Not wanting to know the truth is the problem. May as well put a bag over your head!

[MissCritter]

Hmmm, let's see. Gun-wielding idiots or early morning recreational cyclists? Let me think about it and get back with you. ;-)

[florida girl]

Love Thy Neighbor! Share the road with a bicyclist!

Tourist, local or whomever...............Be Nice or Leave!!!

How exactly is that "love"?

[florida girl]

[QUOTE=NoHall;449098]Ciclismo, Florida Girl's comments do not represent the views of anyone else on this board. I hope you're getting that. (And I am a legitimate American Indian who worked very happily in the service industry for more than a decade, I ride a bike, and I'm not local!)


I don't see 8,360 members posting to this thread, kind of difficult to believe that statement! What I find difficult is the lack of concern for a fellow human being that may not be of your social status, or belief. I have friends that are legitimate American Indians also that do not like to see other people mistreated.

[LuciferSam]

On a Sunday morning, what leisure would he be engaging in at 6:30 am? Particularly by himself?


It sounds to me like intimidating cyclists and being an a-hole is a favorite leisure time activity.

[florida girl]

He is contributing to the local economy.

Much like the tourists that buy your framed pictures at a local gallery. I bet if they knew how much you hated them, they would reconsider their purchases and not support you at all.

So we're making Kayaks in Walton County now? From those tourists I've met, most do not have this uncaring attitude. I don't believe that you represent the majority.

[NoHall]

I don't see 8,360 members posting to this thread, kind of difficult to believe that statement! What I find difficult is the lack of concern for a fellow human being that may not be of your social status, or belief. I have friends that are legitimate American Indians also that do not like to see other people mistreated.

You have no idea what my social status is, so you have no say in whether or not I'm concerned with them.

So here's a freebie: I have a complete lack of concern for folks who 1) pull a gun on a cyclist for any reason, and 2) think that it's okay to pull a gun on a "fellow human being." If those are the fellow human beings (sociopaths) who are not of my social status or belief (non-sociopathic,) then you're absolutely right.

As for the other 8,360, I'm sure that we could set up a poll. SWGB?

It's time to edit my ignore list. Crazy gives me a headache.

[JUL]

Scary! I am glad you weren't injured.

[gotothebeachmom]

Back the truck up! Sodomized? Insulting comments are not conducive to good mediation! A truce will never be between tourists and locals as long as there isn’t mutual respect enough to keep from insulting the other!


Let me guess. :scratch: You were captain of the debate team in college. You are so eloquent in the way you express your views, and win the opposition over to your side.

You may want to consider a career change and run for public office. With your winning personality, you're a shoo in.

[Lady D]

This morning at 6:30am I was riding my bike with three friends down 30-a heading west. There were absolutely no cars on the road and we were passing through WaterSound where they have the medians in the middle of the road. A mid-sized pick-up truck honked and then violently swerved around us passing us very closely.

My friend gestured for the driver to come back and talk with us. There was no reason for his aggression so early in the morning. The driver of the metallic orange pickup truck hit his breaks and pulled a black handgun out of his drivers side window and started waving it at us. He then sped away.

I immediately called 911 and we met with two very nice Walton County Police Officers and filed a complaint. The officers were very nice and took the situation very serious and said they have all officers in the area looking for the car.

If anyone sees a mid-sized metallic orange pickup truck with a male driver, please notify the police.

In all of my years riding I have been yelled at, honked at, spit at, had things thrown at me, been run off the road into a ditch, been intentionally hit with a car's mirror, had a Harley sneak up on me and rev his engine to scare me and then laugh at me, two weeks ago had a driver laugh and cheer when we had a cyclist crash...but I have NEVER EVER had a gun pulled on me for riding a bicycle on a Sunday morning.

I am from the west coast and stilll learning about Southern culture...I am still trying to figure out this whole aggression thing towards cyclists...but I am sure this was not a friendly southern gesture.

I could be wrong...maybe it was his way of cheering in awe as he witnessed a life changing athletic performance by some local cyclists. Or maybe it was his way of showing support for our cyclist in Bejing and his reaction at Sammy Sanchez from Spain winning Olympic Gold in the Men's Cycling Road Race yesterday over Americans Levi Leipheimer, George Hincape and Christian Vandevelde! Maybe he was saying, "I am with you brother and I solute you and your athletic acheivements on this beautiful Sunday morning...ride safe and I will lead the way!"


Judging from the description of the vehicle and what he did, this is what in the South is considered a redneck. Sorry this happened to you. I would expect that up here but not there.

[wino]

So, Florida Girl: It's pretty obvious that you're the only one defending the down-trodden- redneck-going-through-a-rough-time-in-his-life-so-it's-ok-to-pull-a-gun-because-he-has-no-balls in a metallic orange small chevy pick-up. If you do know who it is, tell him to get it over with and own up!

[audie]

wow, i'm gone for one afternoon, and this thread has gone downhill faster than the john edwards thread.

as an aside, i find myself wondering a lot if the other drivers i see have guns, i have a fear of getting shot if i accidentally cut someone off, or turn in front of someone etc. the world is a scary place. i'm not sure which scares me more, guns or attitudes...

[Bob]

I once had a beer bottle thrown at me by an oncoming vehicle while I was out for a run. I should have understood the thrower was having a bad day.

[Mermaid]

I once had a beer bottle thrown at me by an oncoming vehicle while I was out for a run. I should have understood the thrower was having a bad day.

I bet it wasn't filled or chilled, either. Talk about insult to injury!!! :yikes:

[NoHall]

I once had a beer bottle thrown at me by an oncoming vehicle while I was out for a run. I should have understood the thrower was having a bad day.

(*snort*) :lol:

I bet it wasn't filled or chilled, either. Talk about insult to injury!!! :yikes:
(*snort!snort!*) :rolling:

[ItzKatzTime]

wow, i'm gone for one afternoon, and this thread has gone downhill faster than the john edwards thread.

as an aside, i find myself wondering a lot if the other drivers i see have guns, i have a fear of getting shot if i accidentally cut someone off, or turn in front of someone etc. the world is a scary place. i'm not sure which scares me more, guns or attitudes...


I agree with audie...I am so afraid of someone pulling out a gun or knife if I even frown at them. I had a terrible and very traumatic experience from this....my fiance was murdered by our neighbor. This neighbor always yelled at us for parking in his space (no one had their own space) He yelled at the kids if they were playing ball in the yard, or skateboarding, or got too close to his car with their bike's, etc. etc. He had been reported more then once by many people. We were a few months away from our wedding and moving into a new house.

One night we were watching tv and he screamed outside that he was calling the police because the noise was too loud.:idontno: Then he threw something at our wall. My fiance got up and went to his door and told him there was no need as HE was calling the police. As he was walking back to our door the neighbor came over and argued more then pulled a huge handgun with hollow-point bullets and shot him between the eyes. My daughter and I stood at the front step and saw the whole horrible thing. The neighbor worked for the Post Office andtold the detective and police he had a "bad" day. He also had been drinking Jack Daniels since he got home from work.

No, of course it's not right for anyone to pull a gun out and start waving it at you or anyone. But I've learned the hard way it's best to let someone go on their way. I have tried to teach my children it's just not worth it to confront people like this. Best to try and get their tag number and description to report them. You just never know. I am just glad to hear ya'll are safe and will be out riding again.

I can't tell you how much I have said over and over, "If only we had called the police from our house", instead of going over and confronting him. Our neighbor was looking for a fight....he was a very angry man.

Of course it was this tragedy in my life that brought me to Grayton Beach almost 20 years ago. I came to heal on the beach and clear blue October Gulf waters.......and stayed!!!!

[wino]

Thanks for sharing your tragedy with us, and I sincerely hope the healing continues and peace finds you daily. This is why it is so clearly important that we be determined in our efforts to preserve this place of peace, and turn in those who violate our calm waters...
Please all, be on the lookout for a small to mid-sized metallic orange chevy pick-up, late model. Call the Walton Co. Sheriffs if you see it. They have witness reports and probable cause to pull him over and arrest him.

[bluemtnrunner]

:bang:
Florida Girl's comments are really making me so upset. I have had a lot of trauma in my life and these faulty arguments about trying to see the gun holders point of view are bringing it all back. I am so frustrated by it all that if I run into a low rent landlord in an expensive kayak it might make me snap. But if I do, I know that you will all forgive me because you understand my state of mind, the history of my trials and tribulations. Florida Girl especially will understand and defend me.

[sunspotbaby]

:bang:
Florida Girl's comments are really making me so upset. I have had a lot of trauma in my life and these faulty arguments about trying to see the gun holders point of view are bringing it all back. I am so frustrated by it all that if I run into a low rent landlord in an expensive kayak it might make me snap. But if I do, I know that you will all forgive me because you understand my state of mind, the history of my trials and tribulations. Florida Girl especially will understand and defend me.


:funn:

[Smiling JOe]

You know, there is one part of the information here that is not present. That of the driver of the truck. You don't know what was going on in his life at the time. I'm trying to give you understanding of the mindset of locals, but without actually having his statement creates a uncomplete discussion. Have you ever had trama in your life? He could have been facing some kind of distressing situation that was completely absorbing his thoughts, and you're hand gesture probably almost sent him over the edge. You're lucky he restrained himself when he did.
Those walking trails and restaurants serving "healthy foods" are for people on vacation. Particularly in today's economic situation, local people cannot afford this kind of activity. When people have to work 2 or more jobs to make ends meet, who has time to enjoy a walking trail? Much less spend a small fortune for dinner!
I'd give you more negative rep, but I have to spread it around. :cry: I am embarrassed to live in the same town with someone who has such a mentality. I'm beginning to wonder what is so distressing in your life that you would have such thoughts.

By the way, your mindset isn't the mindset of most locals. Perhaps you need to look up the definition of local. Being a local vs being a native doesn't give you any more rights to pull a gun on someone. You don't even know whether the driver of the sparkly orange truck is a local. Seeing how I have never seen a sparkly orange truck in SoWal, I think there is a pretty good bet that the driver wasn't from here, or either they don't get out much.

[Smiling JOe]

... What I find difficult is the lack of concern for a fellow human being that may not be of your social status, or belief. I have friends that are legitimate American Indians also that do not like to see other people mistreated.

How do you know the social status of the driver of the truck? Do all jerks driving a sparkly orange truck who pull a gun, live in the bottom level of the social status? Your statement doesn't add up. You talk about the lack of concern for someone who would pull a gun, but you don't even acknowledge concern for the people whom encountered the gun wielding jerk. If you started reading your own advice, you might see the other side.

[Autumn Moon]

Reading this thread has left me feeling like I've just had an arguement with my first wife...but now I need a shower.
Perhaps all but one are missing the point, "peace- through superior firepower" or "never bring a knife to a gunfight" or even "don't ride bikes on 30A or you deserve to have your life threatened".

Let's vote: Who likes tourists? :wave:

[Smiling JOe]

Karma works, and it has a way of coming back and biting you in the @ss.

[scooterbug44]

I don't even know where to begin............... :blink:

1) There is no reason to EVER pull a gun on someone.

2) It's sad that the behavior of road cyclists has caused such discord/frustration among local drivers that it escalated to an ridiculous and unsafe incident like this.

3) I am a local, work 2 jobs, have bills to pay, have bad days, and yet don't feel the need to pull a gun on people or constantly use my geographic location or bank account balance to justify my actions.

4) Given the description and location of the driver/incident, I predict the po-po will be chatting w/ the local quite soon.

That is all!

[Smiling JOe]

#2 confuses me. Most road cyclists don't exhibit unusual behavior. Typically, that is the drivers of the automobiles which have the bad behavior.

[scooterbug44]

#2 confuses me. Most road cyclists don't exhibit unusual behavior. Typically, that is the drivers of the automobiles which have the bad behavior.

Thanks for demonstrating my point! Seriously though, the double standards for behavior and 'bikes rule and cars drool' attitude is what I was referring to. ;-)

There's a general lack of courtesy/manners on both sides. I doubt that this incident occurred because the driver had never encountered a rude cyclist.

I am not in ANY way condoning pulling a gun or reckless driving and rude behavior, but I'll certainly admit that my sympathy/outrage level was much lower than it should have been. I am SO tired of hearing the biatching about the big bad car drivers in a hurry to get somewhere (also known as driving the speed limit) and not following the rules of the road, when part of the stated justification for biking on the road is that the multi-use path is too slow and a bike rider actually stopping for a stop sign is noteworthy for its rarity. :roll:

[ASH]

Wow! What a thread. So many positions shown.
Chalk me up as one of the 8,000+ folks who do not agree that there is any good reason to pull a gun.
What good reason could there be.

Late for work
Really needed to go potty bad
Gas pedal stuck
House is on fire
Blue light special in aisle 4
:idontno:
Let's stop defending people who are overly-angry. I will not give a stupid name like road rage because that does nothing but give justification for making really poor decisions that some sleazy lawyer will use to keep someone out of jail that clearly should be locked away.

The ability to own and misuse a gun transcends income, race, religion, address, sex and color of your pickup. Some people drive beat up old vehicles so that they can make higher payments on something else like maybe a dream home. For all we know, this was the Fortune 500 guy considering a big development in Walton County who was stressing over the poor investment he made a year and a half ago.

FL girl, please try not to make it a them against us discussion. The worst thing North and South Walton needs is division.

South Walton very much needs North Walton and North Walton very much needs South Walton. And we all need the tourists or most of our incomes become directly or indirectly threatened.

Anyone disagree with these last statements

[Bob]

Wow! What a thread. So many positions shown.
Chalk me up as one of the 8,000+ folks who do not agree that there is any good reason to pull a gun.
What good reason could there be.

Late for work
Really needed to go potty bad
Gas pedal stuck
House is on fire
Blue light special in aisle 4
:idontno:
Let's stop defending people who are overly-angry. I will not give a stupid name like road rage because that does nothing but give justification for making really poor decisions that some sleazy lawyer will use to keep someone out of jail that clearly should be locked away.

The ability to own and misuse a gun transcends income, race, religion, address, sex and color of your pickup. Some people drive beat up old vehicles so that they can make higher payments on something else like maybe a dream home. For all we know, this was the Fortune 500 guy considering a big development in Walton County who was stressing over the poor investment he made a year and a half ago.

FL girl, please try not to make it a them against us discussion. The worst thing North and South Walton needs is division.

South Walton very much needs North Walton and North Walton very much needs South Walton. And we all need the tourists or most of our incomes become directly or indirectly threatened.

Anyone disagree with these last statementsI would agree that North Walton needs South Walton.

[Miss Kitty]

I would agree that North Walton needs South Walton.

:cool:...I have been waiting long enough for this!

[KISH7374]

Put me in with the group that feels that there is no reason topull a gun on anybody unless you are protecting your loved ones or property. As a visitor, I am very conscious of bike riders on the road. I think that is one of the reasons people come down to this part of the world. You can see more and enjoy more and relax when you are on a bike. As with all kinds of people, there are good ones and bad ones just like with bikers and car drivers but to pull a gun??????

[Bdarg]

At first I thought this was a case of a driver, who was running late for work, trying to figure out where in a pickup truck he could legally lock his gun up while at work, then, in a potential stoke of brilliance, he thought to just toss it out the window.

Then, on second thought, maybe he was trying out a new mosquito control technique that one of the mosquito board candidates might have proposed, where by in the early morning hours, in lieu of spraying insecticide over a given area, they would spray hot lead. (Note to self: with the size and aggressive nature of some of the mosquitoes in the area, high powered rifles may be better option).

Third, that he was multitasking while driving on 30A, as so many of them do, so he had one hand on the gearshift, one of the cell phone, one on his cigarette, one on his beer, and one on the radio knob and one on his gun, so when he tried to wave back at the bikers, it was his gun hand that was closest to the window.

[Bob]

At first I thought this was a case of a driver, who was running late for work, trying to figure out where in a pickup truck he could legally lock his gun up while at work, then, in a potential stoke of brilliance, he thought to just toss it out the window.

Then, on second thought, maybe he was trying out a new mosquito control technique that one of the mosquito board candidates might have proposed, where by in the early morning hours, in lieu of spraying insecticide over a given area, they would spray hot lead. (Note to self: with the size and aggressive nature of some of the mosquitoes in the area, high powered rifles may be better option).

Third, that he was multitasking while driving on 30A, as so many of them do, so he had one hand on the gearshift, one of the cell phone, one on his cigarette, one on his beer, and one on the radio knob and one on his gun, so when he tried to wave back at the bikers, it was his gun hand that was closest to the window.you remembered the mosquito control thread from hell!!!

[John R]

you remembered the mosquito control thread from hell!!!

scarred for life from that one...

[wrobert]

I would agree that North Walton needs South Walton.


Why can't we just be Walton County?

[Bdarg]

Why can't we just be Walton County?

Unfortunately because fair and balanced in Walton county is much like fair and balanced on Fox News.

[jdarg]

Why can't we just be Walton County?

Unfortunately because fair and balanced in Walton county is much like fair and balanced on Fox News.

:popcorn::floor:

Hiya boys.:wave:

[John R]

Why can't we just be Walton County?

because we got the Victory Center...;-)

[Kimmifunn]

:wave:If you want to live in the zip, you have to live by the code.

[RiverOtter]

I too rode my bike today and did notice the motorists were more aggressive. I had several close passes which usually doesn't bother me. One of them was a lady driving a Silver BMW X5 baring a SoWal sticker on the right side of the back window and a 30A Radio sticker on the left side. Was this you FL Girl. You sped up to pass me (I was rolling 22 at the time :cool:) only 100' before the intersection the Seagrove Market and 30A. Funny thing you tried to jump before your turn in the intersection and I ended up right beside you. You never know who you are going to run into in SoWal :biggrin:.

I forgot to mention that the time was 9:30AM CST.

I also had a couple of meat heads on a maroon minivan yell at me. Actually they might have been cheering me on. I couldn't tell because one of my favorite songs was playing on my IPod :idontno:.


Now lets talk about the "Multi-use Path". Back in June one of my friends had rented one of our High Pointe units. She and her 12 year old daughter were tooling down the Multi-use Path when a motorists pulled across the path without looking and hit the 12 year old girl knocking her off her bike to the ground. The Popo was called my friend declined to press charges because she felt it could have happened to anybody. Kudos to her.

[highwayjunkie]

I will say that the cyclist bother me sometimes as well, but pulling a gun? Dorks! And I think that this thread turned into something it is not. I road biked for years when I was a kid to train for mtn. biking. I always tried to find a road with as little drivers on it as possible. I think that may be the problem some people have with the cyclist here. I honestly do think it is a hazard in a lot of ways (on 30-a), not only to drivers who swerve and almost take out four cars, but to the bikers as well. On the other hand, riding a road bike is NOTHING like riding a beach cruiser. One patch of sand (on the bike path as opposed to the road) can send your arse flyin with the skinny tires! As far as I know though, as long as you are not on the interstate, you can ride your bike anywhere you want to. I am sorry you had a gun pulled on you, and I hope they get caught. That is redonkatardulous!!!

[NoHall]

That is redonkatardulous!!!

The north Georgia judge gives you a 10 on form and a 9.8 on technical difficulty.

[jim45]

Seen and heard on 30A today: redneck in black pickup pulling up along side a biker and yelling "get out of my effing way"! The driver was keeping pace with the biker and screaming at him through the passenger window, almost forcing him off the road and cars going the other way were swerving to get out of the truck's way.

This has got to stop people. Someone is going to get killed. SoWal should be very cycle friendly. Slow down and share the road. If you can't relax or are in a hurry you need to be living or visiting somewhere else.

[wino]

Seen and heard on 30A today: redneck in black pickup pulling up along side a biker and yelling "get out of my effing way"! The driver was keeping pace with the biker and screaming at him through the passenger window, almost forcing him off the road and cars going the other way were swerving to get out of the truck's way.

This has got to stop people. Someone is going to get killed. SoWal should be very cycle friendly. Slow down and share the road. If you can't relax or are in a hurry you need to be living or visiting somewhere else.

Was this another one of your tenants, Florida Girl?

[RiverOtter]

:scratch:Hmmmmmmm... no takers on the BMW X5??? How about this one? I was also passed, properly, by a white minivan with a Sowal sticker, 30A sticker and one of those stickers that tells everybody you have a bunch of kids?

[sowalgayboi]

Wow, heard about this thread over the weekend, had no idea it had gotten this bad.

I would strongly encourage the WCSO to subpeona the sowal records to determine who florida girl is, I think she knows a little more about this incident than she is letting on. Oh wait, if they wanted to they could figure it out from the galleries she hangs her "art" in.

I do have a question florida girl, if I go into one of those galleries and smash the glass with a tack hammer are you going to forgive me if I'm having a bad day?

[Miss Kitty]

http://bigcartel.com/account/27337/681483/300.jpg (http://bigcartel.com/account/27337/681487/peace2.jpg)
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[audie]

I will say that the cyclist bother me sometimes as well, but pulling a gun? Dorks! And I think that this thread turned into something it is not. I road biked for years when I was a kid to train for mtn. biking. I always tried to find a road with as little drivers on it as possible. I think that may be the problem some people have with the cyclist here. I honestly do think it is a hazard in a lot of ways (on 30-a), not only to drivers who swerve and almost take out four cars, but to the bikers as well. On the other hand, riding a road bike is NOTHING like riding a beach cruiser. One patch of sand (on the bike path as opposed to the road) can send your arse flyin with the skinny tires! As far as I know though, as long as you are not on the interstate, you can ride your bike anywhere you want to. I am sorry you had a gun pulled on you, and I hope they get caught. That is redonkatardulous!!!

this may be my new favorite word :D

[audie]

:scratch:Hmmmmmmm... no takers on the BMW X5??? How about this one? I was also passed, properly, by a white minivan with a Sowal sticker, 30A sticker and one of those stickers that tells everybody you have a bunch of kids?

do you have stalkers ?

[Beach Bimmer]

maybe he was trying out a new mosquito control technique that one of the mosquito board candidates might have proposed, where by in the early morning hours, in lieu of spraying insecticide over a given area, they would spray hot lead.

Okay, now I get it.

Florida Girl = current Walton candidate

:idontno:

[Cheering472]

This thread is giving me a headache. Be careful on the road people. Peace out...

[Miss Kitty]

Okay, now I get it.

Florida Girl = current Walton candidate

:idontno:

:eek:

[Smiling JOe]

Third, that he was multitasking while driving on 30A, as so many of them do, so he had one hand on the gearshift, one of the cell phone, one on his cigarette, one on his beer, and one on the radio knob and one on his gun, so when he tried to wave back at the bikers, it was his gun hand that was closest to the window. __________________

Love it!

RiverOtter, I think I know where that silver X5 parks in the day time, if you are interested in leaving a nasty note on her window.

[NotDeadYet]

Okay, now I get it.

Florida Girl = current Walton candidateI thought I would bump this a little bit in case anyone missed it.........

[Amy@Avalon]

I don't believe I have ever seen more generalizations about locals/tourists in one thread. Rude people come from all over- they might be in a truck, they might be on a bicycle. They might be just typing away at home or work. How about a little common courtesy all around. As this area gets more popular (maybe a little too in my opinion ) more tolerance will be needed in all aspects of life in South Walton. Get used to it, our little secret is no more.

[ciclismo]

I thought I would bump this a little bit in case anyone missed it.........


Thank you. That is all I needed. :D

[ciclismo]

...and now all of the comments makes sense. And why there was an overwhelming tone of "entitilement" and a "locals vs everyone else" elitist attitude.

OH MY!! :yikes:

[scooterbug44]

Did they catch this guy yet or charge him w/ anything? Seems pretty simple to track him down since there are only 1 or 2 metallic orange pickups in the area.

[aleonard]

Did they catch this guy yet or charge him w/ anything? Seems pretty simple to track him down since there are only 1 or 2 metallic orange pickups in the area.

Did I miss the post where the tag nuber was gotten and this was verified to be a Walton Co. resident:idontno:

Never, never, never, show or pull a gun unless you have reason and are ready to use it. Just a little sage advice from my Grandpa. Glad the orginal poster is okay and I hope you never have to deal with this again.:wave:

[ItzKatzTime]

I don't believe I have ever seen more generalizations about locals/tourists in one thread. Rude people come from all over- they might be in a truck, they might be on a bicycle. They might be just typing away at home or work. How about a little common courtesy all around. As this area gets more popular (maybe a little too in my opinion ) more tolerance will be needed in all aspects of life in South Walton. Get used to it, our little secret is no more.

Thank You Amy!
:clap:

[Bob]

Why can't we just be Walton County?you are already...i was just referring to the cash cow tax status of all those beach homes. the whole county benefits, so it's a good thing.

[RiverOtter]

Love it!

RiverOtter, I think I know where that silver X5 parks in the day time, if you are interested in leaving a nasty note on her window.


She just needs to be a little more cautious. And remember that we cyclists do see the details ;-)

[Bob]

:scratch:Hmmmmmmm... no takers on the BMW X5??? How about this one? I was also passed, properly, by a white minivan with a Sowal sticker, 30A sticker and one of those stickers that tells everybody you have a bunch of kids?I could have been in the green '66 Dodge Dart[no a/c, slant 6, vinyl bench seats, Paul Harvey on the am radio, Sowal sticker holding the trunk closed] passing you on the right.

[RiverOtter]

I could have been in the green '66 Dodge Dart[no a/c, slant 6, vinyl bench seats, Paul Harvey on the am radio, Sowal sticker holding the trunk closed] passing you on the right.


I would have remembered this as well... ;-)
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cause I'd still be LMAO :floor:

[ciclismo]

Did they catch this guy yet or charge him w/ anything? Seems pretty simple to track him down since there are only 1 or 2 metallic orange pickups in the area.


I want to thank everyone for their support. I have learned a lot and will make sure that as a cyclist I continue to be aware and considerate of cars. I do recognize that respect needs to go both ways between cars and cyclists and only education and respect for others will solve this issue. The cycling population will continue to grow proportionately with the amount of traffic and we need to learn to co-exist.

The person was found. The situation was and will be handled by authorities and the law. He showed no remorse for his actions which was disapointing.

Thanks again for all of your support.

[NoHall]

I want to thank everyone for their support. I have learned a lot and will make sure that as a cyclist I continue to be aware and considerate of cars. I do recognize that respect needs to go both ways between cars and cyclists and only education and respect for others will solve this issue. The cycling population will continue to grow proportionately with the amount of traffic and we need to learn to co-exist.

The person was found. The situation was and will be handled by authorities and the law. He showed no remorse for his actions which was disappointing.

Thanks again for all of your support.

That is disappointing, but considering the mentality that would lead to that sort of action, it's not surprising... :(

[jdarg]

That is disappointing, but considering the mentality that would lead to that sort of action, it's not surprising... :(

I guess it would have been surprising if the jerk HAD been remotely sorry.

Wonder if he told the officials about his "bad day"?:roll:

[30A Skunkape]

I want to thank everyone for their support. I have learned a lot and will make sure that as a cyclist I continue to be aware and considerate of cars. I do recognize that respect needs to go both ways between cars and cyclists and only education and respect for others will solve this issue. The cycling population will continue to grow proportionately with the amount of traffic and we need to learn to co-exist.

The person was found. The situation was and will be handled by authorities and the law. He showed no remorse for his actions which was disapointing.

Thanks again for all of your support.

Now wait, you have to give us some details as to what this guy's story was.

[Bdarg]

As a former cyclist I can tell you that many drivers wave their 4000 lbs cars around at cyclist in much the same way at this guy waved around his gun, not realizing that it can be just as deadly, unfortunately most people are not as outraged by that, although we all should be.


A little common courtesy from all people on the roads would definitely get a lot more people safely home for supper.

[Miss Kitty]

Now wait, you have to give us some details as to what this guy's story was.

Like, was he a LOCAL or heaven forbid...a TOURIST???

[Dune-AHH]

:wave:If you want to live in the zip, you have to live by the code.

:lolabove: Clever! Would make a great siggy line!

[Smiling JOe]

Thanks, Bdarg. I agree. I'm a pedestrian, bicyclist, motorcyclist, and auto driver. I try to have respect for other people no matter which shoes I happen to be wearing at the time. It isn't just a bicycle vs car issue, though when I'm on my bike, it sure seems like it. I see drivers of 6000+ pound vehicles not even think about stopping for a six year old trying to cross the street in Seaside, EVERY DAY. I see pedestrians not think twice about walking in the middle of the streets. I see motorcycle drivers who think that the white stripe in the middle of the two lanes is a special lane in itself, created solely for motorcycle operators. I've seen bicyclists on the road, who don't know the meaning and intent of a traffic light or stop sign. I encourage everyone to think of ways to make our roadways and paths much more friendly. Show some respect for all others, no matter which shoes they are wearing at the time, or which shoes you happen to be wearing.

[highwayjunkie]

So I was driving out of town today to help a friend move in bama. As I was leaving the house I was looking forward to putting into action my new frame of mind about the 30-a cyclist. I was hoping to see a rider so I could exercise my patience ( and block cars behind me from trying to pass, I was going to be the goalie).:blush: There he was, tight clothes and all, right by seagrove thumb!!! Only problem, he was on the bike path, and I passed him by!!! He took it from me!!! :bang:I wanted to be patient and considerate...crap!! I think maybe he read this forum and decided to give it a try. So, kudos for the efforts and goodwill of the road bikers. Point one goes to you my friend!! Nice shorts, and when I get back in a week i'll be ready to share the road with you.

[toofargone]

Ciclismo, Florida Girl's comments do not represent the views of anyone else on this board. I hope you're getting that. (And I am a legitimate American Indian who worked very happily in the service industry for more than a decade, I ride a bike, and I'm not local!)

Oh, and now you are speaking for everyone on the board???


:wave::wave:

[LuciferSam]

So I was driving out of town today to help a friend move in bama. As I was leaving the house I was looking forward to putting into action my new frame of mind about the 30-a cyclist. I was hoping to see a rider so I could exercise my patience ( and block cars behind me from trying to pass, I was going to be the goalie).:blush: There he was, tight clothes and all, right by seagrove thumb!!! Only problem, he was on the bike path, and I passed him by!!! He took it from me!!! :bang:I wanted to be patient and considerate...crap!! I think maybe he read this forum and decided to give it a try. So, kudos for the efforts and goodwill of the road bikers. Point one goes to you my friend!! Nice shorts, and when I get back in a week i'll be ready to share the road with you.

Am I the only person who knows how to go over the centerline in my car with oncoming traffic and not have a head on collision? It's not that difficult to negotiate bikers [Edit] and other cars [end Edit]. You don't have to stop and you don't have to block traffic. It's not rocket science.

[LuciferSam]

Oh, and now you are speaking for everyone on the board???




Every sane and rational person on the board.

[highwayjunkie]

Am I the only person who knows how to go over the centerline in my car with oncoming traffic and not have a head on collision? It's not that difficult to negotiate bikers. You don't have to stop and you don't have to block traffic. It's not rocket science.


Looks like you are the one I will be playing goalie against. :D ( I am not planning on blocking anyone, sorry you got so irritated, it was something we call, what is it again....oh, humor) By the way...going over the line while oncoming traffic is coming is certainly not something a rocket scientist would do. I hope you don't do it while I am heading your way.

[LuciferSam]

Looks like you are the one I will be playing goalie against. :D ( I am not planning on blocking anyone, sorry you got so irritated, it was something we call, what is it again....oh, humor) By the way...going over the line while oncoming traffic is coming is certainly not something a rocket scientist would do. I hope you don't do it while I am heading your way.

You've never passed on a two lane road? Do you actually have a valid driver's license? Doubtful.

[Minnie]

As to passing, on 30-A isn't most of it, double yellow line?:idontno:

[John R]

hopefully the LOE will take pity on this poor guy having a bad day and give him a stern talking to.

[ASH]

I did learn something from this thread.

I didn't know that there was a speed limit for the multi-use path.

The idea of bikes being on the road makes a whole lot more sense now and they just gained a lot more respect from me.

[Miss Kitty]

I did learn something from this thread.

I didn't know that there was a speed limit for the multi-use path.

The idea of bikes being on the road makes a whole lot more sense now and they just gained a lot more respect from me.

I hear you...there are always two sides to every story!

[Biff]

:scratch:good point. .. ... .... .....

I did learn something from this thread.

I didn't know that there was a speed limit for the multi-use path.

The idea of bikes being on the road makes a whole lot more sense now and they just gained a lot more respect from me.

[scooterbug44]

Is there really a speed limit for the path?

I know there was one proposed, but I've never seen a sign (not that my motivated coast style o' bike riding is in any danger of violating it) or heard of anyone getting in trouble for it. :idontno:

[hnooe]

Just Curious....did this story make the Sun or the Log or any other newspaper?

[Smiling JOe]

proposed speedlimit for multi-use path is 8mph. Two days ago, the BCC had its first public hearing regarding the proposed rules for the multi-use path. Next one will be two Tuesdays from now, in Defuniak, at the BCC meeting.

[aleonard]

Just Curious....did this story make the Sun or the Log or any other newspaper?

I know we have a reporter working it and should have something out next week.:idontno:

[WaterCourseWay]

I did learn something from this thread.

I didn't know that there was a speed limit for the multi-use path.

The idea of bikes being on the road makes a whole lot more sense now and they just gained a lot more respect from me.

Yet one more reason why SoWal.com is awesome. When I first moved here and encountered cyclists on 30A, I was very annoyed and couldn't for the life of me understand why they weren't on the bike path, where they would be out of my way and not forcing me to go slower. Yes, I know, I was being both ignorant and selfish - lovely traits... (I never pulled a gun, made a rude hand gesture, swerved wildly or honked though, even when I was having a REALLY BAD DAY, geez...)

Then I read several posts from cyclists, whose points of view I would probably never had known otherwise, and learned their side. Taking a few extra moments to slow down and safely pass them is now just a regular part of driving on 30A... so simple to share the road, and what a pointless waste of energy to get all worked up over it.

[elgordoboy]

My point exactly, words are more powerful than any other weapons! Not wanting to know the truth is the problem. May as well put a bag over your head!
I suggest you try two, in case the first one falls off.

[ciclismo]

I did learn something from this thread.

I didn't know that there was a speed limit for the multi-use path.

The idea of bikes being on the road makes a whole lot more sense now and they just gained a lot more respect from me.


As GI Joe would say "...and knowing is half the battle" :D

We are a local bicycle racing team sponsored by several local businesses and we do our best to promote safe cycling, a healthy lifestyle and support our local community. I am happy to hear that some good has come out of this incident.

We have a long way to go to becoming a welcomed part of the community on the roads for locals & tourists. It is a shame that we had to have such an extreme situation to get the message out. But at this point, I will take anything that helps make it safer on the roads for everyone.

There should be an article coming out soon on what happened. The reporter was very nice and supportive of cyclists. Thank you again for all your support and ask for some discretion with the driver on this message board.

[Chickpea]

I am just so happy that I am never stuck in traffic here and never have to inhale those god awful fumes of so many cars and trucks and SUV's that cram every highway in this country - I have zero problem with the few cyclists I encounter along 30A who are courteous to all the joggers, strollers, slow cyclists on the multi-use path by moving to the road - it has never been a problem to slowly pass them by swerving around (and if I am 5-10 minutes delayed then that is also OK) - 30A anyways is supposed to be for slower traffic. I understand that at times it is a bother and a nuisance but for those of you in a terrible hurry you do have highway 98 and that is never congested.

[onespeed]

Yo Florida Girl. good luck with your election. I hope you have a good campain manager to write your platform because it is gonna have to be good one. If my tax dollars go to pay you I may leave my beloved home of Walton County. As for pointing guns at cyclist, I think it is absurd and to try to defend them is about as insane. Do you know the alleged gun brandisher? I feel like you might.
How many of your tennants are local? True locals? How many of them make there living on tourism in which they turn around and hand you for rent? It is hard to beleive that there are many jobs here that are not based around tourism. Regardless of what you do here, most of it boils down to tourism.
I am local. Not a true local. I have been here 14 years and I ride my roadbike in the road.

[RiverOtter]

Why do people think a guy robbing a bank, threatening a teller with a guy (or killing the teller) is a horrible crime but swerving at a cyclist, trying to make them wreck and possible killing them is somehow acceptable?

I hear Harley riders laugh about sneaking up on cyclists and revving their engines so startle the rider in hopes they wreck. But they cus and are willing to hang a person that didn't see them and during a lane change. Their intentional act can does and will cause the same damage that might happen to them accidentally.

In Chattanooga a young Harley rider was killed when a lady didn't see him, pulled out in front of him and he was killed in the incident. The courts found her at fault but did not give her any jail time. The local biker crowd freaked. Literally calling for the death penalty. Hello, it was a horrible accident, she was at fault but she did not plan the incident. The local biker's rep get on the radio literally calling for her to be jailed for the rest of her life. Later he was bragging about scaring cyclists by revving his engine as he passed them. What if the cyclist has run off the road and on been injured or even killed? I wonder if he would expect jail time?

Sorry for the rambling post but I'm still ticked over this.

[ciclismo]

My Harley experience experience got me very angry. I always thought folks on two wheels should stick together.

[cp]

I am just so happy that I am never stuck in traffic here and never have to inhale those god awful fumes of so many cars and trucks and SUV's that cram every highway in this country - I have zero problem with the few cyclists I encounter along 30A who are courteous to all the joggers, strollers, slow cyclists on the multi-use path by moving to the road - it has never been a problem to slowly pass them by swerving around (and if I am 5-10 minutes delayed then that is also OK) - 30A anyways is supposed to be for slower traffic. I understand that at times it is a bother and a nuisance but for those of you in a terrible hurry you do have highway 98 and that is never congested.
I'm not local but I agree Chickpea 30A is for local slow moving traffic its hard for me to drive down it and not go slow bikers or not. I like to savor each mile.:wave:

[seagrovegirl]

Apparantly, someone hasn't witnessed 30A, especially 30A on the week of July 4th, at the 395S/30A intersection......we call that traffic, especially when it takes 30 minutes to get from Eastern Lake to get through that intersection.

Seaside is still a zoo and it scares me that someone is savoring the atmosphere and not watching the road!

[TreeFrog]

I've been biting my tongue on this thread...

What happened to ciclismo is unfortunate, and a matter for the Sheriffs. I'm glad to see they found the individual.

Over and over, we get posters who think cyclists should ride on the bike path. It's always clear, from their comments, that these folks have never tried to ride a lightweight road bike on the bike path. Their comments also usually indicate that they may not have significant experience with ridiing one at speed (15 to 25 MPH).

It would be a bad idea to ride a road bike on the path, because:
1-You'll risk a collision with walkers or slow cruiser bike pedalers. You = 20 MPH, them =3 MPH is a recipe for trouble.
2-The bike path is bumpy and, in some places, poorly maintained. Going 20 MPH is likely to lead to a wreck, even if you don't hit someone.
3-You'd be breaking the speed limit on the bike path.

Realistically, you'll never get anywhere in a hurry on 30A. Much of the speed limit is 35MPH, and there's more than a little bit at 25 MPH. There's no difference between going 25 MPH behind a cyclist and going 25 MPH behind a vacationer who doesn't know where they are going, except that you WILL eventually get a chance to pass the cyclist.

[seagrovegirl]

Recipe for cyclist on 30A going 20mph=being hit by auto at 35 mph....I'll take the bike path, thank you.

[Fishfood]

I am from the west coast and stilll learning about Southern culture...I am still trying to figure out this whole aggression thing towards cyclists...but I am sure this was not a friendly southern gesture.



Culture? LOL. Anyway the gun thing is unusual, but I will tell you that we have the most over-aggressive idiotic drivers per capita on the planet right along highway 98 from Panama City Beach to Pensacola. Sometimes they get over to 30-A, but not too often. I am very careful at all times in a car- couldn't imagine how I'd be on a bike.

[sunspotbaby]

Culture? LOL. Anyway the gun thing is unusual, but I will tell you that we have the most over-aggressive idiotic drivers per capita on the planet right along highway 98 from Panama City Beach to Pensacola. Sometimes they get over to 30-A, but not too often. I am very careful at all times in a car- couldn't imagine how I'd be on a bike.

I think in general that drivers everywhere are more aggressive. We are a society that is growing accustomed to having what we want instantaneously....that includes our destination.
I'm more leery of drivers here than in Houston though. :roll:

[Andy A.]

I think in general that drivers everywhere are more aggressive. We are a society that is growing accustomed to having what we want instantaneously....that includes our destination.
I'm more leery of drivers here than in Houston though. :roll:
While I certainly agree with your part about "instantaneously", I certainly disagree with what you say about Houston and its drivers. It is the worst city I've ever driven in and that says a lot because I've driven in many, many cities here and abroad. As for the cyclists, it only takes a few seconds to slow down for them and give them the courtesy they deserve. You will find you are always able to pass them quite safely if you just bide your time for an instant or two.

[florida girl]

FL girl, please try not to make it a them against us discussion. The worst thing North and South Walton needs is division.

South Walton very much needs North Walton and North Walton very much needs South Walton. And we all need the tourists or most of our incomes become directly or indirectly threatened.

Anyone disagree with these last statements

North and South Walton have had division particularly since Sandestin has been established.

[florida girl]

I too rode my bike today and did notice the motorists were more aggressive. I had several close passes which usually doesn't bother me. One of them was a lady driving a Silver BMW X5 baring a SoWal sticker on the right side of the back window and a 30A Radio sticker on the left side. Was this you FL Girl. You sped up to pass me (I was rolling 22 at the time :cool:) only 100' before the intersection the Seagrove Market and 30A. Funny thing you tried to jump before your turn in the intersection and I ended up right beside you. You never know who you are going to run into in SoWal :biggrin:.

I forgot to mention that the time was 9:30AM CST.

I also had a couple of meat heads on a maroon minivan yell at me. Actually they might have been cheering me on. I couldn't tell because one of my favorite songs was playing on my IPod :idontno:.


Now lets talk about the "Multi-use Path". Back in June one of my friends had rented one of our High Pointe units. She and her 12 year old daughter were tooling down the Multi-use Path when a motorists pulled across the path without looking and hit the 12 year old girl knocking her off her bike to the ground. The Popo was called my friend declined to press charges because she felt it could have happened to anybody. Kudos to her.

:funn: I don't drive a BMW!

[florida girl]

Why can't we just be Walton County?

I wish, but both sides need to be willing to listen and come to some kind of agreeable compromise.

[florida girl]

Was this another one of your tenants, Florida Girl?

No.

[florida girl]

Wow, heard about this thread over the weekend, had no idea it had gotten this bad.

I would strongly encourage the WCSO to subpeona the sowal records to determine who florida girl is, I think she knows a little more about this incident than she is letting on. Oh wait, if they wanted to they could figure it out from the galleries she hangs her "art" in.

I do have a question florida girl, if I go into one of those galleries and smash the glass with a tack hammer are you going to forgive me if I'm having a bad day?

Wow! I could have sworn that I posted that words are much more effective? I don't have road rage, and since dad was a constable, some of the deputies do know who I am.

[florida girl]

Yo Florida Girl. good luck with your election. I hope you have a good campain manager to write your platform because it is gonna have to be good one. If my tax dollars go to pay you I may leave my beloved home of Walton County. As for pointing guns at cyclist, I think it is absurd and to try to defend them is about as insane. Do you know the alleged gun brandisher? I feel like you might.
How many of your tennants are local? True locals? How many of them make there living on tourism in which they turn around and hand you for rent? It is hard to beleive that there are many jobs here that are not based around tourism. Regardless of what you do here, most of it boils down to tourism.
I am local. Not a true local. I have been here 14 years and I ride my roadbike in the road.

:floor: Frankly, I could care less! I will continue to speak to try to bring some equity to the poor, and those who suffer because of the selfishness of others. Regardless of whether I win the election or not! This position is elected by the majority of voters, and the majority will decide.
I don't care for Jimmy Buffet, by the way. My tenants are people trying to make a living against the odds. If you read the Time Magazine article, July 21, it brings a lot of things to light. We need other industry beside tourism!

[dgsevier]

I have a great compromise...I'll keep coming down to my house on a regular basis and leaving money in the businesses (except the art galleries) in exchange for being allowed to walk on a path, ride a bike on the road, or do any other thing that is legal here or anywhere else.
I'm just poor and downtrodden too; that's why we bought in Seagrove and not Rosemary...

BTW- I love this thread!!!

[oberger]

I currently live England and talk about narrow roads! Sometimes two cars can barely fit side by side much less two cars AND a cyclist, but I see it all the time. Not to mention parked cars in the street, mopeds and even farm tractors on the motorways. I've lived here for four years and I have never seen any road rage directed toward cyclists (no guns because they are illegal over here but that's a topic for another day!). People just accept that cars don't own the roads. Try driving in Holland - that poor man in the orange pick-up would have had a coronary with cyclists come at him from all different directions – he wouldn’t have known who to point his gun at first!

My husband & I recently spent the weekend in Paris and rode bikes all around the city. It was great fun. Instead of charging a congestion charge like London, Paris instead installed bike stalls all over the city. You can rent a bike at one location and return it to another. And people from all economic classes do this. It is ridiculous to try and defend that man’s actions – he was so in the wrong. I don’t understand how anyone cannot see that.

[RiverOtter]

It is ridiculous to try and defend that man’s actions – he was so in the wrong. I don’t understand how anyone cannot see that.


Amen. :cool:

As for the cyclists, it only takes a few seconds to slow down for them and give them the courtesy they deserve. You will find you are always able to pass them quite safely if you just bide your time for an instant or two.

It amazes me how people can't chill for 5 freakin' seconds :idontno:

[florida girl]

My principle concern is how quick judgments are made without having all the data. Have you ever been judged erroneously? I don't know the driver of the truck; therefore I can't in all good conscience make a judgment against him. The cyclist posted on the board, here to defend himself. I say, we live in a scary age; folks are judge, jury and executioner all in one, at a rumor of an alleged suspicion! :bang:

[Andy A.]

RO, are you sure you didn't mean "can't" chill for 5 freakin' seconds?

[30A Skunkape]

My principle concern is how quick judgments are made without having all the data. Have you ever been judged erroneously? I don't know the driver of the truck; therefore I can't in all good conscience make a judgment against him. The cyclist posted on the board, here to defend himself. I say, we live in a scary age; folks are judge, jury and executioner all in one, at a rumor of an alleged suspicion! :bang:
Do you think there is any valid reason somebody should point a gun at unarmed bicyclists?

[sunspotbaby]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRc5EbeDC6o

[Mango]

:floor: Frankly, I could care less! I will continue to speak to try to bring some equity to the poor, and those who suffer because of the selfishness of others.

As oberger stated above, go to other countries and the bicycle, moped, small motorcycles are the mode of transportation for the majority of people in the world. The bicycle rider has priority in the road over the motor vehicle.

Part of leadership is having vision, and you might as well get used to the fact that this country is going to head into a more eco-friendly, oil and resource conservation society. You are doing a great injustice to the people you claim to represent by condoning bad behavior.

Further, you are wrong about tourism being the only industry. There are many open positions for engineers with major employers in the area. You should be encouraging people to further their educations. The alternative energies field is going to expand enormously, and there aren't enough educated scientists and engineers to support the growth as it is right now. These are well paying jobs. And don't tell me that poor people do not have access to money for education. It's available to those who seek it and work hard. Nothing worth having is ever easy to get.

[toofargone]

Originally Posted by RiverOtter

I also had a couple of meat heads on a maroon minivan yell at me. Actually they might have been cheering me on. I couldn't tell because one of my favorite songs was playing on my IPod .

:lolabove::lolabove::lolabove:


Hey Otter, I may be wrong but aren't you supposed to obey the rules of road on your bike? Is it legal to listen to IPOD while cycling if you are using the ear buds?

:wave::wave::wave:

[RiverOtter]

RO, are you sure you didn't mean "can't" chill for 5 freakin' seconds?

Oops... Thanks for the edit :blush:

Originally Posted by RiverOtter

I also had a couple of meat heads on a maroon minivan yell at me. Actually they might have been cheering me on. I couldn't tell because one of my favorite songs was playing on my IPod .

:lolabove::lolabove::lolabove:


Hey Otter, I may be wrong but aren't you supposed to obey the rules of road on your bike? Is it legal to listen to IPOD while cycling if you are using the ear buds?

:wave::wave::wave:


You are and I have no idea if listening to an IPod while riding a bike is illegal :idontno:. Look it up and let me know. I do know it's illegal to intentionally force a cyclists off the road because just don't like them on the road. I'm pretty sure it's illegal to point a gun at an unarmed cyclist. I also pretty sure it's illegal to exceed 25 mph through Alys Beach however I get passed riding through Alys while I'm rolling at 25 mph. I'm pretty sure it's illegal to come to a rolling stop but cars and yes bikes do it all the time. I do not see that listening to my IPod while riding my bike equates with threatening someone with a hand gun though, maybe you could explain.

[toofargone]

Oops... Thanks for the edit :blush:




You are and I have no idea if listening to an IPod while riding a bike is illegal :idontno:. Look it up and let me know. I do know it's illegal to intentionally force a cyclists off the road because just don't like them on the road. I'm pretty sure it's illegal to point a gun at an unarmed cyclist. I also pretty sure it's illegal to exceed 25 mph through Alys Beach however I get passed riding through Alys while I'm rolling at 25 mph. I'm pretty sure it's illegal to come to a rolling stop but cars and yes bikes do it all the time. I do not see that listening to my IPod while riding my bike equates with threatening someone with a hand gun though, maybe you could explain.




Guess I was right. :wave::wave::wave:

Guess you aren't perfect either. :yikes:

[drivingtheview]

You know, there is one part of the information here that is not present. That of the driver of the truck. You don't know what was going on in his life at the time. I'm trying to give you understanding of the mindset of locals, but without actually having his statement creates a uncomplete discussion. Have you ever had trama in your life? He could have been facing some kind of distressing situation that was completely absorbing his thoughts, and you're hand gesture probably almost sent him over the edge. You're lucky he restrained himself when he did.
Those walking trails and restaurants serving "healthy foods" are for people on vacation. Particularly in today's economic situation, local people cannot afford this kind of activity. When people have to work 2 or more jobs to make ends meet, who has time to enjoy a walking trail? Much less spend a small fortune for dinner!

The lack of response is obviously attributed to the utter sadness/ignorance of these comments. I have had some traumatic days, as we all have. Never flashed a gun at anyone as a result. Never crossed my mind. One great thing about America is that we all can live where we choose. I used to live in a place that I did not like. So I worked hard, got a new job, and moved away. I offer this; do unto others as you would have them do unto you.