So, for the sake of argument, let's say that the noon ride at Hains Point follows all traffic rules and they applied this rule in Washington, DC. This would mean that any time that that "event" had more than 20 participants, somebody would have to obtain a permit?! Why that's crazy talk! I can't imagine even Rudy Guiliani going for that! (OK, well, maybe I can...)

Someone apparently hasn't heard of "freedom of assembly." Oh wait, I forgot, our government has abolished the Bill of Rights.

i have it on good authority that the elected representatives of new york city carefully considered the time-honored tactics of curtis lemay to deal with errant and uncontrollable packs of cyclists.

there were justifiable concerns about collateral damage. some photographs of the infrastructure re-orientation programs that the israelis are currently conducting in southern (and northern and western and eastern) lebanon caused them to reluctantly decline to deal with these menaces in kiloton installments. can't have office buildings being destroyed just so you can stop critical mass.

but it's tempting. ooooohhh, so tempting.

See, Mayor Bloomberg is a uniter, not a divider. He gives people of all political stripes good reason to unite in their hatred of him, and his galloping nanny-ism. For his efforts to galvanize the proletariat, the bourgeoisie, messengers, roadies, smokers, homeless people, and yes, touring riders against himself, it might be a good idea to consider him for a Hero of the Racing Union award. Yes, some might view it as bitterly ironic. But the rest of us would see it for what it is, just plain bitter.

As for Curtis Lemay... didn't he ride for NCVC? You know, the Nuc-u-lur Combat Velo Club?