Josh Dawsey
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Private security guards are turning away bikers from an event today in Myrtle Beach thanking the city leaders for approving rules to stymie the May bike rallies.

The Take Back May group planned a "thank you'' luncheon for the mayor and City Council for the steps they took last year, including approving a helmet requirement for motorcycle riders.

Bikers aren't welcome at the luncheon, which is set to start at 11:30 a.m. at the Myrtle Beach Train Depot.

Security guards had turned away about a half dozen bikers by 10:30 a.m.

"I'm an invited guest. This is open to the public, and I can't park my vehicle of choice here. That's discrimination,'' said Don Emery, owner of the Steel Horse Saloon.