Utopia.
I looked it up just to make sure i have the right definition. yeah, I know, Wikipedia ain't 'definitive' - but for the sake of this exercise:
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Utopian, in its most common and general positive meaning, refers to the human efforts to create a better, or perhaps perfect society. Ideas which could/are considered able to radically change our world are often called utopian ideas.
"Utopian" in a negative meaning is used to discredit ideas as too advanced, too optimistic or unrealistic, impossible to realize. Hence, for example, the use by Marxists, of such expressions as "utopian socialism".
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After 1 BRONZ meeting and half a dozen emails I now put forward my highly qualified, enlightened take.
What I observed last night at AKL BRONZ was half a dozen enthusiastic and diligent souls doing some good work in the rider training and charity fields and have achieved some 'statutory' results too, but pretty much, a few swimming against the tide.
My utopian vision is of a 'motorcycle lobby' with a self funding professional advocate lobbying the govt and making appropriate submissions on behalf of motorcyclists on matters like traffic laws, road construction, loose seal killing us, cell phone safety, etc etc etc. under whatever is the most appropriate banner - BRONZ has my vote so far.
Writing and researching these submissions would be a part time gig because the other half would be spent chasing the funding and grants that ACC, LTNZ etc put out - to pay for it all.
Just like I bet the AA, Fulton Hogan, Dept of Works ACC and all the other interested parties have.
For all I know there may already be someone doing it?
The reality
Is a small contingent of under resourced enthusiasts lurching between submission deadlines and commendably picking up what they can. Their efforts are above reproach - the fact that there is so few of them is not.
I'm going to help 'em out with a bit of PR and design work. I knows some folks that knows some folks....and see if I can get it supported/tabled at the Importers Association and the halls of the Industry.
I also have this foggy idea of identifying the process of how Land Transit makes laws and what consultative process are in place - and how motorcyclists can best voice their needs and concerns - as some sort of feature in Kiwi Rider. (The WIIFM)
Unfortunately sussing out how LTNZ makes laws seems to be even foggier.
Fortunately since I penned the first part of this note the response to those emails has been a bit staggering. Some influential people have stepped up. Watch this space.
In the meantime Support BRONZ - I joined last night - They do some good shit.
Some of you senior KB members - step over here please - if we all do a little bit we might make a difference.
Take it forward suggestions welcome.
Bernstein.
(Elmer)
*and slight stigmatism from staring at phosphor screens.
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Originally Posted by skidmark
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