Author: Isabella Lavorgna

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla.– The Reza Ride Club is a non-profit organization that is focused on advocating, supporting, and raising money for the LGBTQ+ members of the Jacksonville
community. They work with other charities in Jacksonville, such as Colors Jax,
Campout, and The Trans Queer Project to help equality in healthcare and create a
safe and welcoming outdoor space. Thirty-six riders came together to raise around
18,000 dollars that will be distributed between all the organizations. They also
announced that they will be sending part of the proceeds to help with aid relief for
those suffering from the effects of hurricane Helene and Milton. Events like these
have happened all around South Florida and California, however, this is the first to
ever happen in the North Florida area. If you are looking to participate in events or
want to donate to the cause, follow their Instagram reza_ride or visit
https://p2p.onecause.com/rezaride2024 . With every pedal, they will be raising
funds for our community, spreading joy and goodwill with every mile

Author: Dominic Dacunto

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.– Riding a motorcycle is inherently dangerous but in Florida especially. After the tragic death of two 25 year-old motorcyclists on October 3rd at Beach Boulevard and San Pablo, Duval County has now seen over 20 traffic fatalities involving motorcycles this year. Florida is one of a few states that does not legally require riders to wear any safety gear and likewise does not require riders to have insurance unless their bike is $10,000 or more in value. This leads to a culture of reckless riders that are raised in a riding environment where rider safety is not prioritized, thus the likelihood of developing unsafe riding habits increases. This is evident in Duval County’s crash statistics from 2023, where 5% of motorcycle accidents were fatal for the rider and 13% caused serious injury. However, for some riders their own safety is their utmost priority, while having fund riding their bike is their second highest. Chris Walters and Paul Barnett are two local motorcyclists with a proclivity for wheelies and stunts. But unlike some of their more reckless compatriots, Chris and Paul keep their stunt riding to empty and abandoned parking lots. They say it’s a win-win they get to keep doing their adrenaline fueled antics and stay safe from other traffic while doing it, and those in cars don’t have to contend with motorcyclists riding crazily around them.