2nd Annual Ride to Stop Violence Motorcycle Ride

The 2nd Annual Ride to Stop Violence Motorcycle ride was kicked off at Kennedy's motorcycle shop in Oceanside Saturday October 30th. Michelle Renee, the founder of Rock to Stop Violence, greeted all with coffee, donuts, and a smile. Upon signing in, each rider received a t-shirt and a raffle ticket. The riders rode from Kennedy's Motorcycle Shop to Froggy's Bar and Grill in Pacific Beach. It was there they were treated to a fashion show by Blew Print Models, DJ Noel spinning tunes, a great lunch, an art exhibit by Pat Carney (with a percentage of the sale of his art going to Rock to Stop Violence), and a presentation to the crowd from Michelle Renee and others involved in this Rock to Stop Violence event.

The day started with rain, which hampered the overall turnout, but for those hardcore bikers who made the ride, it was worth it. The money raised at the event went to Rock to Stop Violence, an organization created to help the community through such things as being a victim of crime, being bullied, being in domestic abuse situations, and PTSD. Rady's Children Hospital is one of Rock to Stop Violence's partners and was also at the event.

Among the people who turned out was Rushing Winds Church founder Pastor Z. His church in Oceanside was started in Bills Bike shop. He was proud to be part of the Ride to Stop Violence Bike Ride. As a Veteran, he knows the need to support the victims of violence. Bill Kennedy and his partner Screwdriver also chatted with us about this event. They are very passionate and adamant about helping Michelle Renee and her cause. They too are Veterans and after hearing Michelle Story they were on board.

The story of Michelle Renee, the founder of Rock to Stop Violence can be seen in the movie "Held Hostage" on the Lifetime network. The book, of the same name, was written by Michelle Rene based on her and her daughters ordeal of being victims and now survivors of a horrific Violent Crime. It was this event that triggered her to create Rock to Stop Violence. She decided to use her situation to help others and to heal. She also incorporated her love for motorcycles, rock music and fashion to make Rock to Stop Violence what it is growing to be.

There are many more future events planned for Rock to Stop Violence. If you want to know more about them and the organization go to www.rocktostop.org

By: Melissa Anderson
Photos By: Rockwell Anderson Media