We are located in the Minneapolis / St. Paul Metro Area.

Welcome to our web site.  Much of the older information has been purged in order to allow new material.  You will see that the club is devoted to fun and foolishness, while the web master provides unique commentaries and solicitations for more fun materials.

If you are a licensed professional peace officer, active or retired and ride a motorcycle (doesn't matter if it's 2 or 3, Loud pipes or sewing machine quiet) you probably qualify to be a member of the group.  We often get asked questions about the club and they are addressed under F.A.Q.  

If you are interested in joining our organization, please send an e-mail to MN4@blueknights.org  We will respond to your request for further information.

Recently one of our mischevious group was suddenly seriously ill.  Although she was struggling she had some great backup in her corner.  Her hubby took care of the immediate issues while waiting for the people with the good drugs to help solve the problem.  The patient is in recovery mode. Apparently shortly after her hubby left the hospital for a shower and change of clothes, she woke up.  She called her hubby and asked where he was.  Then she told him she needed a burger.  Sounds like her sense of humor is returning. Hubby said it was the best phone call he ever got and he snuck some food into the hospital as well.

Are you Irish?  IF not we will make you an honorary Irish person.  Just Remember that when you see a Kiss Me, I'm Irish button or sticker you ask permission first or you might wind up in Human Resources...again.  Don't Ask.

Did you celebrate at Bakers Square, Carols Kitchen or someplace else with your favorite flavor?  If not, why not?

It seems like the snow is never going to end in Minnesota to many people.  I like to think of it as a good old fashioned Minnesota winter.  The longer it's winter the less mosquitos who have to deal with!

It is with a sadness that we must report the death of Actor / Comedian Richard Belzer.  He portrayed the role of Dectective John Munch from 1993 to 2013.  He was said to have a wicked sense of humor.  He also believed in conspiracies and wrote several books about some of them.  Sounds like a lot of the Blue Knights who were investigators.  

I'm pretty sure we did that with the first week of the month having a high of 0 Degree Farenheit, windchills ranging from -15 to - Oh My Frigging God, it's damn cold.

Today, Dan Harshman was rembered during a wake and remberance service. Dan was a long time member of the Blue Knights who had been valiantly fighting that common enemy cancer.  Although he didn't beat it, he gave it everything he had.  

A story about Dan from when he was working patrol for his agency.  Apparently, he saw a car that looked familiar, with a nefarious individual at the wheel.  Dan lit up the cherries, activated the siren and the car pulled to the shoulder. Spotlights, high beams and take down lights were used to illumiate the vehicle and its occupant.  Dan is his uniform made his approach.  As the drivers window went down, Dan said in a kind voice to his adult son "I Love You!"  Dan then returned to his squad.  The wall of light and cherries were turned off.  It wasn't said but it was implied that his son had something in his eye for a few minutes before he was able to start driving again.  Take the lesson from this and tell those around you that are important to you that you love them.  Time is too short.

Pastor Mike echoed the importance of telling those around you that you love them as well!

If you have a police officer as a friend or family member, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9 is the perfect time to show officers we understand how difficult their job is. So it’s important to show officers how much we understand their difficult work and appreciate their sacrifice and risk.

For a while the United States’ idea of law enforcement was fairly loose. The Wild West was, well, wild. And most states and cities didn’t consider emergency services like firefighters and police officers to be necessary until much later than most would think. In the mid 1800s, most law enforcement was carried out in the form of posse comitatus, where the sheriff and a posse of volunteers and deputies (much like the stereotypical Westerns of the 1960s) would enforce laws rather than a centralized police force. 

Once the 20th century rolled around most larger cities, counties, and states had developed a centralized police or sheriff’s department. In doing so, most of the country slowly started to see a reduction in the “Wild West” and a more tame and domesticated America, despite many of the newly formed local authorities needing to pick sides in a rise of unionizing laborers going on strike. 

Whether its civil unrest, labor strikes, huge sporting events, or just helping a cat get down from a tree, law enforcement officers are a critical part of our lives, woven into the everyday fabric of living in America. They keep our neighborhoods safe and help ensure that whatever it is you need to do, you can do with peace of mind.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day was created by multiple organizations in 2015 to express their gratitude for officers in the United States. In support of their services citizens are encouraged to do their part in thanking the law enforcers on this day. One of the main organizations to take the lead in this is C.O.P.S – Concerns of Police Survivors. According to them, law enforcement officers need to be shown that the difficult career path they have chosen is recognized by the people who they protect and uphold the law for. 

This holiday was triggered by the chain of events in 2014, when a police officer was involved in a crossfire shooting in Missouri. The backlash and violence that followed this event led C.O.P.S to take the initiative to change this negative portrayal of police officers in the news in recent years into a positive one. With over 900,000 officers in the United States, the organization believes it is essential to support law enforcers during difficult times, and a holiday dedicated to them does just that. The day also raises awareness on the importance of understanding that the difficult decisions taken by police officers are in the best interest of citizens and the law.

We are unsubscribing to 2023 - After the free 7-day trial we decided we don't like it!

As we start the new year we recognize, those that have left us in the last year and joined Heaven 1.

• Dan Harshman
• Bob Crawford

We also say goodbye to club members who have moved on due to a variety of reasons.  We wish each of them the best and good health.  

• Jerry Dexter
• Bruce Miller
• Andrew Roeder

On December 13, 2022, a Tip came into Anoka County Central Communications (2800).  A citizen had spotted The Grinch in Andover (The Edina of the North). Immediately an alert was sent out to all on duty staff.  Everyone mobilized knowing how much the grinch was wanted.  

The SWAT Team loaded up in the Peace Keeper,  The Dive Team fired up The Airboat, The Aerial Unit drones were activated.  

Neighboring agencies activated and immediately took up a perimiter to make sure he wasn't able to escape.

The DNR responded on snowmobiles.  

The State Patrol Aircraft Unit was already in the air with helicopters and aircraft.  The Red Knights set up the multi-story ladders to watch over the scene.  

The Green Knights mobilzed a Field Force as well.  

Allina staged ambulances in case The Grinch decided to put up a fight and needed medical care afterwards.

2800 reserved a channel for the ongoing search to locate and take The Grinch into custody.  The men and women of public service were not going to let him get away on their watch.  

In short order The Grinch was in custody.  No one was hurt and Christmas was saved.  

The Grinch was taken to the Anoka County Bed & Breakfast where he was going to be held without bail.

Pastor Mike said that he had a feeling The Grinch was going to turn over a new leaf and argued for his release.  In the spirit of good will, the Anoka County Judges ordered that The Grinch be released into Pastor Mikes care.

Pastor Mike said that after The Grinch spends christmas with all the good people of Maranatha Church, their is no way he will be able to avoid the Christmas Spirit!

    Ted E. Bear turned 37 years old.  Did you remember to send him a card?

Twenty one years ago, a group of terrorists attacked our country.  They used our own good nature and trust to take over 4 airplanes and kill thousands of Americans.  If you were alive at the time, you can probably remember where you were.  Many of us were at work.  After the first tower was hit we like so many were hoping it was a horrible accident.  Unfortunately, it wasn't an accident.  It was terrorism against the U.S.A.  Their goal was to kill as many americans as possible.

Those of us working straightened up, double checked our gear, maybe even added a few other supplies and went out to back up our partners where ever they were and prepare to go headlong into any danger that dared to cross our paths.  I know of unmarked squads riding 'heavy'.  Patrol officers on 'routine' calls were suddenly being backed by Detectives and administrators.  Schools suddenly had a presence of unmarked, dark tinted window vehicles, with somber men and women praying that nothing happed to their charges.   Violent Crime and Drug Task Force Officers who work undercover were out as well. These individuals are normally armed to the teeth and this was no exception. Dispatch centers were inundated with calls of every kind.  The dispatchers demonstrated professionalism and tact while advising people that the public safety folks are out there and will continue to be.  To a person everyone was hoping for the best and preparing for the worst in case someone dared to mess in their community.  

Spouses were told we are fine and will be home late.  The spouses knew what was going on.  Their loved ones were once again honoring their oath to Serve and Protect.  

Unfortunately, the terrorists were able to turn 2 airplanes into bombs and struck the North and South World Trade Center Towers in N.Y.C.  As many of you know, 'The Towers' ultimately imploded.  One airplane bomb was flown into the Pentagon.  The 4th Airplane was forced to crash in a field rather that its possible target of the White House.  A group of indidivuals on the 4th plane knew that they were going to be sacrificed by the terrorists, because of what they had learned while in the air.  They were able to fight back against their captors with the war cry 'Let's Roll'.  They gave their lives in order to stop the terrorists from succeeding in their destination.  Many civilian and public safety lives were lost as a result of the airplane bombs.  

As the events unfolded during the day, their was talk of United We Stand, We are One, Remember Flight 93, etc.  Politicans came out talking about how we are united and we will not let this atrocity go unanswered. 

During the unfolding of these events, many of our military personnel who were stateside training, enjoying a little R&R, etc. were activated.  It's been reported that some of the more notable Special Operations sites were buzzing with activity and then those sites were empty a day later.  Military personnel literally disappeared from the sites.

The only thing flying was U.S. Military.  Everything else had been grounded.  It seems a lot of those F16s, C130's and other craft suddenly had a need to be in the air and they weren't wasting any time.  Navy ships locations were not being advertised, but we all knew what was going on.  

During the subsequent days, many politicans came out speaking about Unity and how a sleeping giant had been awoken.  

Today, it is 21 years later and our great country is divided by our politicians who seem more intent than ever to ruin our country.  One politican in 2020 even described 9/11 as 'some people did something'.  That politician who was born outside of the USA and is still in office.  On August 31, 2021, all of our troops left Afghanistan, and the longest war in our countries history ended.  The US Military left behind aircraft, vehicles, weapons, communications and a multitude of other items.  The Taliban who took credit for the 9/11 events now are better armed than ever thanks to the decision by unknown individuals to leave equipment behind.  The politicians are now saying that we need to bring even more people who helped during the war into the USA as refuges.  

Our wish is that their is never another horrific event like 9/11 in the US or anywhere else!  Hopefully, we have learned from our mistakes.

Be Safe and remember our fallen.

                          Bob Crawford Memorial Service

Today, the Blue Knights MN IV stood as a silent honor guard for Original Member Bob Crawford.  The entire Crawford family said it was what Bob wanted and we were happy to make it happen.  Judy was transported in their motorcycle sidecar, holding Bob's remains.  Upon arrival, they were met by a full Blue Knights Honor Guard.  Members took 15 minute watches, until it was time for the ceremony.  

The leader of the facility advised he didn't feel right wearing his normal outfit and then slipped on his black leather jacket.  He fit right in with all the people wearing HD clothing or HD colors (black & orange).  

The family spoke about the 2 sides of the man.  Stearn, Fair and hard working.  However he always had time for a malt no matter if it was with a child, a senior or anyone in between. 

Apparently the young kids were not allowed to watch what Bob put in the malts, but he pulled out tobasco sauce, black pepper, mushrooms, pickles and anything else he could find to put on the counter.  Then he would convince the kids they were getting flavorful malts from all the special ingredients.

In the end their were lots of tears, but many good hearted stories were shared. We are looking forward to the completed project the neices are working on.

Although today is unofficially known as May the 4th be with you, it is also a sad day for those of us in MN IV.  

One of the original members Bob Crawford, has left us.  Apparently he was the force (4th) needed to keep Roger, Dale and Marj out of trouble.  We can only imagine the storytelling / B.S. being told in Blue Knights Heaven 1 chapter.

Bob was here and then suddenly gone.  He was known as a traveler with his ever present bride Judy keeping him company.

As we mourn the passing of Bob with his family and extended network of friends, we hope each of them will find peace in rembering the good times.   Please say an extra prayer for Bob, Judy and their family at this difficult time.

Today the family and friends of Brandon Young laid him to rest beside his bride who preceded him in death.  The event was a respectful, yet somber event with many happy memories shared by those present.  Law Enforcement Officers from multiple agencies active and retired attended the visitations and service to honor Brandons memory.

It was an impressive site going to the cemetary with a Lino Lakes squad driven by one of the officers who worked with Brandon.  Yes, all the flashing lights were doing their thing.  The collective motorcycle riders and Blue Knights then followed.  Brandons friend and riding partner Dave had the priviledge to ride the white Indian Motorcyle Brandon had named Willow.  The family asked the Blue Knights to ride escort to the burial site with Dave and Willow.

Brandon is the 4th member of our chapter we lost this year.  He had recently been fighting some serious medical issues.   Unfortunately, the combination of diseases where too much for him to overcome despite the dedicated medical care he received.

Brandon had been a part of his church for over 40 years.  During that time he was known to be a kind and generous man with a sense of humor and musically talented.   

Brandon was a well known individual who impacted many young people through his work as a school liasion officer.  He was known for wanting to be annonymous many times when doing charity.  One example is his paying for lunches for school children who couldn't afford them.  No child should go hungry was his motto.

Many of the tales shared included his sense of humor and jokes he would pull. He was known to often pull out the blue rotary desk phone at school and tell the children that he would call his friend ask them for the answer to a question. Brandon apparently had direct dial numbers to everyone including Santa Claus!

Brandon also taught young drivers the rules of the road, how to be safe and to always look for motorcycles.  

Brandon as you join your bride and other family members, ride safe.  We already know that you Rode your Motorcycles with PRIDE!!!

Today, a horrible accident happened in the twin cities.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the men and women of law enforcement.

Today, the family of Marj Masley had a end of life celebration due to her unexpected passing.  The Blue Knights of MN IV, were honored to be present as an Honor Guard.  Marj was the eye candy for Morrie A., but she like every spouse / significant other and their children are considered part of our family. Marj was known as a motorcylce riding, fun loving, always smiling woman who was respected for her knowledge and opinions.  Please see our photos page.  

We just can't find the words to express how sad everyone is.  Our Blue Knights family lost another member today.  

Marj M., one of the Blue Knights Ladies sucummbed after having recent surgery.  Everything was looking positive and then in the blink of an eye it changed.  Obviously the man upstairs needed a helper to watch over everyone but I know none of us were ready to let her go.  

For those that knew Marj she was always ready with a kind word, smile or hug.  She will be missed by many and the world is a darker place without her light.  Please consider saying an extra prayer for her family and friends.  

It is with a heavy heart that we have to report Roger G. has left our chapter and joined Heaven 1.  

Roger and his family are proud members of military and public service.  During the service on February 5, 2021, the adult children spoke about the love between Roger and his bride.  They also spoke of the importance of duty and honor.  Additionally, some of the grandchildren also spoke as part of the service. It was a far too short tribute to a man who always had a smile and kind word for everyone.  

The Washington County Sheriff's Office Honor Guard stood the watch prior to the mass.  Afterwards, they lined up in the -0 windchill outside the church posting the colors as the casket was escorted through the church to the hearse. The Blue Knights were given the honor to stand at the interior of the church as the casket and family walked out to the hearse.  It was a sad moment saying goodbye to Roger.  Those who attended the mass included lots of friends and family members.  We also saw a number of Peace Officers in uniforms or in suits.  They may have not been able to wear the uniform due to assignments, but trust us we saw them their.  Cops recognize cops wether or not they are still working! Their wasn't a dry eye among the group.  

Afterwards Roger and family were escorted to Ft. Snelling where a military honor guard was waiting.  The escort vehicle to Ft. Snelling was a motorcyle. How fitting is that!

As we age many of us have to give up our bikes and Roger struggled with that decision, but don't think for one second he didn't check over every bike that was at a meeting or event.  He teased some about how they haven't been out riding enough because their bike was too clean.  Then at the next bike he would tease someone about needing to clean their bike.  

Finally, here is a photo of Roger during a designated stop on a monthly ride. The driver of the 4 Wheel ATV went over hills, down the dales, and did some drifting with Roger as the passenger.  You couldn't pry that smile off Rogers face if you tried!

Today, a Blue Knight member has left the chapter behind.  He is now riding with the angels as the newest member of Heaven 1!  I'm sure that those who have gone ahead of him are showing him around and making sure he knows that although he is gone, his family will not forget him.

Dale C. was a retired officer from the Maplewood Police Department. He was a founding member of the Blue Knights MN IV Chapter in 1990.  

On January 23, 2021, a Blue Knights MN IV honor guard had the privilege to stand the watch.  Pastor Mike was present and as usual did an outstanding job.  

Emilio M., the ever present bagpipper, made sure to fill the building and great outdoors with his pipes sounding loud and proud.  

In particluar a special note should be made of Mike S. taking the lead to keep everyone informed as Dale neared his passing.  Mike as a young whippersnapper got to know Dale through the always smiling Morrie A. and has been a friend ever since.  

The family expressed their thanks to the Blue Knights for being a part of Dales extended family.  

A U.S. Army honor guard including a 1st Lt. was also present because of Dales military service.  It's always nice to see the military come in and go 'WOW, look at all those guys here honoring one of their own!'  The military provided a trumpter also.  You know the song he played and it always brings tears even in 14F weather.

Additionally, their was a Maplewood Police Squad, piloted by a sergeant with lots of hard earned hash marks on his sleeve.  Finally, some Maplewood P.D. retirees also attended to say goodbye to their partner.

Today was the funeral service for Anthony 'Tony' Rollins.  Tony was killed in a motor vehicle rollover crash.  Tony was the only son of a proud family devoted to public safety and making the community better.  He was the North Branch F.D. Safety Captain.

Pastor Mike Haseltine and the staff at Maranatha Church made sure the entire event was handled with the utmost respect as always.  

Many members of Public Safety Agencies were present to offer their respect and support for Tony and his family.  Many members of the public were present and it was often heard about Tony's passion for kids and the desire to serve.

One of the best stories was of he and a partner had a couple of hours one day. What to do on a warm day, but go to the fire station, take out a rig in search of every lemonade stand they could find.  They found them and many kids sold lemonade while getting to try on helmets and turnout gear.  

The Blue Knights had the priviledge to also stand in the honor guard line.  Many firefighters were trying to figure out who those guys with the badges and vests were.  Soon the word went out those guys are cops showing respect for a public safety member.  

Peace Officers - If you are having a rough day and feeling like no one likes you and your job, go to the following website.  SIGforum

Para and many of the members of SIGforum, are strong proponets of professional peace officers who have a tough job to do.  Just read some of the comments and you will start feeling better!

Introduce yourself to your neighbors.  They may want to go for a ride on your motorcycle.  You could have another person become a member of the motorcycle community, or at least not be afraid of them.

 E-mail: MN4@blueknights.org

If you are reading this, you probably have a friend, family member, loved one, neighbor, etc. that is in the field of Public Safety as well as a motorcycle enthuasist.  Remind them to Wear Their Vests!  Don't leave them on the front seat of the car until they are really needed.  Yes they are hot.  Yes they are warm, but it's easier to wash off sweat at the end of the shift then a bullet.  Sure we may smell a little, but I promise you a hug from a loved one saying thanks for wearing your vest but you stink is much better than the alternative.

  Drivers and Passengers

PLEASE remember to keep your eyes open for us. We drive squads, rescue rigs, motors and ambulances.  We do it fast and precise.  We are more fun to watch than NASCAR since we don't make just left turns.  Don't try capturing video of us while you are driving.  Yes the lights on the rigs are pretty, but pay attention to your driving.  Give us extra room when you pass us while we are helping others.  We appreciate all the distance between us on foot and you in your vehicles.

If you see our lights on or hear our sirens, please get out of the way as quickly as possible.  We are on a mission to help! Pull over to the right shoulder and give us the right of way. We want to get to the scene as quickly as possible and help as many as possible.  

Make sure to keep your eyes open after the first emergency vehicle passes by.  We are like deer, if you see one, you will proably see many more coming.

Finally, If you want to see the pretty lights up close stop by your local public safety agency and ask to see them. Bring your children, grand children, neices, nephews, etc.  Let them meet some real heroes; the men and women of Emergency Services.

If you have a humorous photo or cartoon that is motorcyle related, please consider sending it to our e-mail.  We will review it and may place it on our web page. You could become infamous as a result of your photo appearing on our web page.  

Now for the legal disclaimer about your photo / cartoon:

You won't be paid for submitting your photo.

We have the ultimate say in what is posted in good taste and humor.

We will credit the author if known. 

If you see something you like tell your friends.  If you see something you don't like, please share your concern with us.