Palm Springs rolls out the welcome mat for bikers

The prospect of two rival biker gangs -- the Mongols and the Vagos -- riding into town would normally generate visions of deadly violence and mayhem. In Palm Springs, however, the bikers' arrival means sold-out hotels and jam packed bars and restaurants.

That may explain why some of this resort town's business and civic leaders have for several years now put aside concerns about possible violence to welcome the Mongols, Vagos and many other bikers for October's American Heat Palm Springs Motorcycle Weekend.

For this year's event, the City Council voted to move the event to its main drag, Palm Canyon Drive, chip in $35,000 for public safety and clean up and even suspended its noise ordinance for American Heat, reports the Desert Sun. Police and some council members warned about possible violence, especially with the presence of two of California's most notorious biker clubs:

The Mongols and Vagos Motorcycle Clubs are identified as outlaw motorcycle gangs in the Organized Crime in California Annual Report to the California Legislature 2005 document prepared by the California Department of Justice.

"When you get this event, you have Vagos, Hells Angels, the Green Machine, and when they all come together, they are bitter enemies," Palm Springs Police Chief David Dominguez said. "That's when we have the potential for violence."

Mayor Steve Pougnet conceded that there is a potential for violence but noted that police have done a good job of keeping the peace in earlier American Heat events.

If there are problems in October, however, Pougnet will most likely not be around. As he has in previous years, the mayor usually leaves town during American Heat because he said he "can't stand the noise."

-- Jesus Sanchez

Photo: Don Kelsen / Los Angeles Times

Comments

[scary biker]

"Can't stand the noise" but really loves the money brought into town. Really, he's scared.