HELLS ARE WELCOMED, BY SOME

Police maintained a formidable presence in the city and the county on
the first night of the Hells Angels' gathering, but some Windsor
citizens were ready to greet the notorious motorcycle gang with open
arms.

"People make a big deal of things. I don't see what's wrong," said
Marcel Barbary, 53-year-old owner of the Tiffany Dining Lounge on
Howard Avenue just north of the E.C. Row. "Their money is as good as
anybody's money."

On Friday morning, Barbary decided to make his feelings known with his
restaurant's double-sided street sign welcomed members of the gang.

Despite the Hells Angels' reputation as a criminal organization,
Barbary insisted their visit to Windsor and Essex County will be good
for the area. "You know, bring some excitement around here," he said.

"I don't have a problem with them. They're not gonna eat people," he
added with a chuckle.

"They're human like you and I."

For Tiffany cook Sara Trepanier, 23, it all comes down to business.
"Five hundred people -- that's good business. They got to eat
somewhere," she said.

Just down the street at the Ivy Rose Motor Inn and Restaurant, more
than 20 immaculate motorcycles belonging to Hells Angels members lined
the parking lot.

Tattooed men wearing Quebec chapter patches could be seen relaxing in
front of their rooms, as well as in the company of a few young women.

At a gas bar across the street, OPP Biker Enforcement Unit officers in
unmarked minivans kept watchful eyes on comings and goings from the
motel.

About 5:30 p.m., at least six Windsor police motorcycle units joined
the BEU in their vigil.

Barbary said he'll continue to welcome Hells Angels patrons to his
restaurant. "I don't mind them being here. If you don't bother them,
they don't bother you."