ABATE of Arizona

A. President's Report

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 20:01:28 GMT

President's Report

I am Margie Vice President of ABATE of AZ and I am filling in for our President Ross while, I hope, he is enjoying his vacation.

I would like to start by thanking all of our outgoing Officers, all incoming Officers and everyone in between. Without the people who are willing to step up and fill positions we would have nothing.

ABATE is very unique organization in the fact that once you join and pay your dues you still have a voice. All of the ABATE Officers are here to be the members voices. We all represent the voice of our members. So I guess what I am trying to say is speak up let your chapter officers know how you feel and what you would like to see us work on. Everyone has a voice.

Officers, what I would ask of you the officers is that you always keep your members informed and by all means bring these issues back to your members in the most honest factual means as possible. From the President on down, we are your voices. I too have an option of how I would like to see things done like every other member, but if we as member are not honestly informed there is no way to vote properly.

We are about to embark on a new year with new faces. I encourage you all to get involved. If you voice your opinions to your officers instead of venting to your friends I feel we can get a very lot of things accomplished. We ALL need to work together, there is strength in numbers, do let us all join together as one, work together, and we will see positive results. After all we are all on the same side, with the same goal, Motorcycle Rights. We are a large organized organization that can accomplish a lot if we all remember we are all on the same side. After all the tragic things that are happening to us, we need each other.

I would also like to congratulate the Yavapai Chapter who was on the brink of losing their chapter until their secretary put out a cry for help, and by doing this they just brought in around 20 new members and have filled just about all their officer positions. If you don't let everyone know when you are struggling we can't rally together to help.

Bottom line is we are a large extended family here to accomplish the same basic goals and if we stick together we CAN accomplish. Thank you again to all the outgoing officers for all they have done for each and every one of us. I also extent a hearty Thank You for all you have done for us and hope you will stay around and help us accomplish even more. Welcome to all new Officers and remember we are all here to help you with whatever you may need. Not to plagiarize Jimmy, but “Freedom" is our goal and if we all work together we CAN accomplish that. I look forward to working with you all in the future. I personally am here to help you with whatever you and your chapters may need. Here's to the beginning of new and better and exciting year together!

Margie F
ABATE of Arizona
State Vice President, State Run/Events Coordinator
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
Asst. Ad Manager to Communications
602.AbateAZ (222.8329)

Help Wanted: AZ MRF Representative

The men and women involved in the MRF's State Rep Program are dedicated volunteers from the membership ranks who are willing to give their time and energy to build, maintain and enhance the relationship between the MRF and all motorcyclists within their states. They must work closely with the State Motorcyclists' Rights Organizations, attending their meetings and events, keeping the SMROs abreast of national issues, international issues, and issues affecting motorcyclists in other states.

MRF State Reps promote the MRF by all possible means, such as making presentations to SMROs and other groups. Writing articles for newspapers and newsletters, membership recruiting, and speaking to individual motorcyclists are other examples of promoting the MRF.

Some states do not have an MRF State Rep at this time. If you are interested in applying for the position, some of the requirements for appointment are:

You must be a member of the MRF, and have been a member for at least one year prior to appointment.

You must have the ability to be contacted via telephone, and computer availability with Internet access is recommended.

You must possess the ability to relay information to your State Motorcyclists' Rights Organization(s), as well as keep the MRF informed regarding your state's events and concerns.

Anyone interested should contact the State Officers at stateofficers@abateofaz.org or a Board member at bod@abateofaz.org

B. Legislative Report

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 20:36:21 GMT

Legislative

Selected Articles:

The Whole Enchilada
YOUR - $1 - AT WORK FOR YOU

LOBBYIST REPORT – 2011 Legislation - NOV Report

Distracted Driving After much research on ‘Texting Bans’ in other states, follow up data and talking with MRF Lobbyist Jeff Hennie, the lobby team is strongly considering on running legislation to address ‘Distracted Driving’ instead. Once we get the verbiage written, we will be meeting again with Rep Farley and scheduling stake holder meetings with the supporters of his proposed ‘texting ban’ to obtain input and support for our new draft as well.

HIPPA Loophole The lobby team is currently putting together the verbiage for a revision of our statutes to pass a state law to close the HIPPA loophole. We are using the verbiage that the state of Colorado used to successfully pass this at the state level, a few years back. We will be setting up a meeting with Senator John Nelson, to obtain his support and possible sponsorship on the Bill, as well as meeting with Legislative Council to assure correctness of our code.

Interlock Devices on Motorcycles As Motorcycle Lobbyist we have received a number of questions concerning the installation of Interlock device on Motorcycles. Over a period of time we have had conversations with Installers of Interlock device and meetings with our State folks at ADOT. One of our goals was to find out where the issue or responsibility was. We had heard that the Installer would not install because the state wouldn't allow them and we heard that the Installer would not install due to Liability.

In a recent meeting we have found out from ADOT that the state states that the decision to install or not install an ignition interlock device on a motorcycle is at the discretion of the installer. This also is in a pamphlet that the state puts out on Interlock Device. As a business owner, they have the right to decide what they are going to sell and install. The reason could be Liability which as we all know is a big issue these days. The responsibility then lies with the Individual receiving the DUI to work with the court system if his/her ownly means of transportation is a Motorcycle. This we realize is a problem but as Lobbyist we can't force business to install Interlock device. This is more of a marketing/selling strategy for the manufacturer.

Some might say the simpler answer is don't drink and drive. That combination can kill you or others. We have seen to many of our brothers and sisters killed due to DUI's.

Pursuant to A.R.S. § 28-1461, the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) of the Arizona Department of Transportation cannot reinstate a person’s driving privilege or issue a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License until a person installs an ignition interlock device on any vehicle operated by the person. Also, A.R.S. § 28-1464 prohibits a person whose driving privileges are limited due to specific statutes from operating a motor vehicle without a functioning certified ignition interlock device. This decision to install or not install an ignition interlock device on a motorcycle is at the discretion of the installer. It is incumbent on the violator to follow the law and not operate any vehicle unless there is an ignition interlock device installed. The individual is encouraged to use other means of transportation if the individual cannot get an interlock installed on a motorcycle.

If you have installers that you know, we would encourage you to have conversations with them to see if they would change their mind but keep in mind, if it is a liability issue will they change? That is their choice and in the same shoes would you want to take that liability on?

We will continue to work with our State Legislative folks to try and find another resolution to the problem of the individual who's only means of transportation is a motorcycle. As we get more information or are able to take another route, we will communicate that information.

We recently heard that there may be a place in Tucson that is installing Interlock devices on motorcycles, and are in the process of checking it out.

Some of you may have recently read an email on the lists, from another organization talking about the bills for 2011, but containing some incorrect facts. Below are the 'facts' in an updated report, which will also be my State Meeting Lobbyist Report for tomorrows meeting. As I wrote you just prior to the November State Legislator Elections, we were waiting to see who won their positions, prior to making appointments and working on sponsors for our Bills.

HIPPASeeing as how the Federal Bill to close the HIPPA loophole on 'Source of Injury' insurance claims has not passed the Congress in more than 10 years, the MRF has asked that the states do what they can, to pass this legislation at the State level. After obtaining a copy of the Federal Bills language and what Colorado passed a few years back, the lobby team met with Senator John Nelson and his staff last week, in regards to obtaining his support and possible sponsorship of the HIPPA Bill. They seem to be supportive on the bill and understand how some insurance companies are using the HIPPA Loophole regarding claims where a motorcycle is the 'source of injury'. The staff, who now understands the Bill language needed, will be doing more research, counseling with Legislative Council and will be getting back to us shortly with a 'draft folder'. Senator Nelson, whose record of successful Bills speaks for itself, has worked with us and supported our efforts for many years. More on this as we obtain additional details and get closer to finalizing the language. This can hardly be considered a 'feel good' Bill!!

Distracted Driving/Texting As I reported in November, we have decided not to do a straight 'Ban Texting Bill', and are seriously looking at Maines Distracted Driving language instead. The decision was made by the entire lobby team, due to the problems we heard that other states were having with 'texting bans', while at the MRF Meeting of the Minds Conference in September. In talking with Jeff Hennie, MRF's Federal Lobbyist, we found that he highly suggested a more inclusive Bill, similar to Maine's Distracted Driving statute. After obtaining their language and working with their lobbyist to understand all of Maine's related statutes, we've put together the proposed language for a Bill to do the same. We've been talking to some of our legislators on this 'Potential' Bill and will be having a meeting with Representative Farley on the 17th of this month. As you can imagine, there is much more to do, prior to making final decisions on this type of legislation. We will need to get more background information and facts, and then review that with Rep Farley and others, before moving forward.

EmissionsThe lobbyist have another meeting scheduled with ADEQ on December 15th. As I reported some time ago, the EPA and ADEQ were finalizing additional information requested and are moving forward as planned. As I've continually reported, the ADEQ and MAG have been working closely with the lobby team, from the beginning. All of us are still looking at this coming to a close by the first quarter of 2011.

Lane Splitting As I reported throughout the year in 2010, there were some major issues with this legislation. Although it passed through the House and Senate, the Governor vetoed it. The number one reason she did, was that neither ADOT nor DPS supported or were in favor of this Bill. One of the biggest arguments was, that there wasn't enough support for this type of legislation and no support for what it would take to run a test for a year in Maricopa County only. We also found, after the fact, that many of our organizations members were not in support of it either, and said that they were glad it didn't pass. This does not mean that we wouldn't look at this issue again, if these factors were to change.

Motorcycle Safety Fund Sweep As Ross reported at the November meeting, according to the lawyer he reviewed this with, it is not possible to get this money back. The council is doing the best they can to get the monies in the fund committed to the individual projects chosen to be financed by the fund. Senator Nelson spoke of how the fund of one of his much needed programs was swept last year as well, and that this year isn't looking much better. It was easy to see that he too was devastated by the cuts that were made and the jobs lost, due to the budget crisis in this state. That's it for now and should put to rest any confusion brought on by any existing or additional emails to the lists. As always in January, I will be updating the BOD and more than glad to answer any additional questions you may have at that time. Also, an updated version of our current Political Agenda and this report, will be included in the January Officers Training Packets.

Any questions feel free to me

Bobbi Hartmann
ABATE Designated Lobbyist
ABATE MAP Coordinator
NCOM LTF Member
bobbij2@earthlink.net

NCOM Region II Conference – Desoto Texas - DEC Report

I truly have to say that this was one of the best NCOM Regional Conferences that I’ve ever been too. They really do know how to do it better in Texas!!! There were anywhere from 300-400 in attendance, which is unheard of when it comes to a regional. Guess ‘mandatory’ does work in some cases.

Region II is made up of 6 states, Oklahoma, Texas, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska. Thanks to the hosts, there was a band on Friday night as riders came in, as well as a ‘Freedom Fighters Social’ Saturday night to rap it all up. A big thanks also, to the Soldiers For Jesus MC for hosting the hospitality room. It couldn’t have been better.

The day started with introductions, a brief overview of Confederation of Clubs by Sarge, Executive Coordinator NCOM/AIM, followed by ‘Freedom of the Road Throughout the Nation’ by Doc Reichenbach, NCOM Chairman and President of ABATE of FL. Doc mentioned that there was currently no BILL in Congress or Committee regarding a National Helmet Law, and that New York had an AIM Attorney filing a lawsuit in regards to the motorcycle checkpoints. He stated that there were no states currently running bills to repeal helmet laws and that we needed to get the clubs to make a bigger presence at the Capitol. He said, “We need to take our country back and how about doing that at the ballot box.” Motorcycle accidents are up in Florida due to Population Growth, Tourism and Climate. He talked about the “NCOM Flyer Program” and how your organization can save up to $250 when printing your flyers, just by putting the NCOM/AIM advertising box on the bottom of your flyers and have Richard Lester pay for their printing. Contact Sarge for the details. Later on in the day, Doc presented Gimmi Jimmy, Liaison for COC Texas, Bandidos M/C, with a new and much deserved award, called the Chairman’s Award

South Dakota’s State Senator Jim Putnam, and newly appointed Chairman of the NCOM Legislative Task Force (LTF), gave everyone tips on getting our people elected to public office. A few of his Tips for going into politics were:

Know the Rules and Requirements of running for office.

You should have more than one issue and talk about those as well as ‘freedom’ issues.

Get involved early. Start with your precincts.

Be yourself, if you can bray without lying!

Be prepared to ‘repeal’ as well as ‘pass’ legislation

Never talk out of both sides of your mouth. Give same message to everyone.

I believe it was Animal, Alabama COC, that said that it was all about Participation and Commitment. He said it was much like a Ham and Egg Omelet. The Chicken represented a ‘Show of Participation – BUT – the Pig’s contribution was definitely considered ‘Commitment’

After lunch, Gimmi Jimmy spoke about the creation of ‘Fusion Centers’, which are a means of bringing together information from distributed sources for the purpose of collection, retention, analysis, and dissemination. These new fusion centers, over 40 of which have been established around the country, raise very serious privacy issues at a time when new technology, government powers and zeal in the "war on terrorism" are combining to threaten Americans' privacy at an unprecedented level.

He also spoke of InfraGard, whos goal is to promote ongoing dialogue and timely communication between members and the FBI. InfraGard members gain access to information that enables them to protect their assets and in turn give information to government that facilitates its responsibilities to prevent and address terrorism and other crimes. This could go so far as to collecting data off of credit cards during transactions made while shopping etc. Goggle both of these topics. Scary business.

Jimmy followed this conversation, with one of his infamous presentations of the Defender Program, something I never get tired of hearing time and time again. He said it’s time to quite going nowhere!! In 2007 they ‘took Texas back’. He spoke of how, after speaking to other 1% clubs, that he changed the U.S. Defenders patch from their Bandidos Club colors, to making it Red/White/and Blue, and that they currently have 35 states who are solid in the Defender Program. He described how the COC’s are like a mechanics shop without tools, and how the Independents are important tools in the process. They are now doing it ‘legal’ and getting the legislators attention by flooding them with phone calls and emails.

He talked about how the ABATEs are knowledgeable in this arena and know what they’re fighting for. BUT, without “boots on the ground” and an army behind them, they can’t get as far as they could with them. He stated that he’s going to fight no matter what it takes and that we need to help him! He re-iterated that in Texas, they are Large and in Charge and Loud and Proud. He went on to say that it’s no longer about fighting over turf and areas or that one club is better than the other. He asked, “Where were you in the 60’s? The fight was then. You all know where it all is by now and who’s in charge of it. There’s only one thing going now, and that’s RESPECT!!! The Defenders is a must join. Quit bitching about Richard’s office. Get out there and do it.

He finished by saying that what he saw that morning, when Doc had everyone under 30 years old stand up and saw how few there were, scared the s--t out of him. He said we need to be Respectful in ALL aspects of our lives and that they have a thing in Texas – “Do the right thing, or don’t be around when it gets dark”!!

Texas State Representative Chavez, may have lost her political race, but was in attendance to receive her ‘US Defenders Patch’. She honored the memory of Sputnik, one of the greatest Texas Freedom Fighters known, and assured the clubs that she will be working with and standing along side of them, throughout the 2011 legislative session.

Later in the afternoon, representatives from the National Sport Bike Association (NSBA) held a seminar for all to attend. Lady Ninja started off by talking about bridging the gap which formed when older riders started looking down on the younger ones. She educated us on what they as an National association promote amongst other sport bike riders. A few of them being – Pick and choose when to do some of the things you do – Being part of an association gives you the opportunity to be heard – They have to start speaking for themselves and help those that are out there fighting the fight for them – Need to get attitude – Don’t matter what you feel about someone next to you, what unites us is 2 wheels – Stop the crap, wheelies only pour gas on an existing fire – Encourage responsible riding – Write charity press releases to be recognized for positive in the public eye – Pull someone over and “Correct” bad behavior when you see it. She also spoke of how the NSBA riders can be part of any of those Confederations like Texas, that allow independents, or the Defenders COIR.

The Regional Meeting, with moderators Tiger Mike of ABATE/COC of Oklahoma, Louie Nobs NCOM BOD and Paul Landers Chairman of TMRA2, Escondidos MC, allowed the states in Region II, an opportunity to talk about what was going on in their states. Tiger Mike talked about how Oklahoma riders can now proceed with caution when they come upon a malfunctioning traffic light due to not recognizing their motorcycle. They have written clarification of their Right Of Way statutes and have 3 riders now appointed to the motorcycle safety council, and are also working on the fact that patches were not allowed at the OK State Fair.

Texas - Escondido Paul spoke of how they are busy expanding their US Defenders program to other states and how there is a HUGE hole at the Capitol with their good friend Sputnik in the lead. Sputnik had asked that Paul take over the TMRA2, and so he has had to evaluate how the TMRA2 can move forward, but more importantly to continue by utilizing those people that were doing it in the past. ABATE of Texas is growing and they’ve brought them into the fold, by opening up there Texas COC meetings to them. He spoke of how they need to put ‘Territorial issues aside and utilize the people and processes already in place.

The Christian Unity Seminar and Meeting was as informational as ever. They talked about serving their communities and that they would have to set aside denomination, in order to serve the communities as one. Texas Bandido Lee spoke of the many things they do in regards to hospital and funeral work, and providing condolences and weddings. He said not everyone wants to marry a biker of course, but then not all bikers want to get married. They divided up their regions and layout who and what they do. They even have a hotline for bikers to call, and last month managed to beat the ambulance to the scene. He summed it up by saying that some clubs may have been ignoring the Christian Clubs, but now realize that they’re not going away. He thought of this as an opportunity for the Christian clubs to fulfill their missions. He ended by saying, “The Clubs have needs your missions can fill.

Last but not least was the Confederation of Clubs Regional Meeting. Normally this would have been for the 6 states in Region II, but it was decided to have any and all states present, to the table to talk about what was going on in their states. Sarge, Executive Director AIM/NCOM, along with others, insisted that I join them to provide a legislative update for Arizona as well. Following are a few of the issues covered in this session.

OK – COC in existence for 14 years – 60 clubs – working on Anti Gang Bill and Criminal Street Gang issues.

NW-Texas – Share the Road Program is good – Told everyone the importance of joining your local ABATE.

SE-Texas – Were able to get Motorcycle Awareness Proclamations from 18 counties and 17 cities plus signs mounted.

Austin – Have gone from 30 to 72 clubs. Talked of how they reach out to sport bike riders and the importance of that.

Arizona – Have gone from 17 clubs in the beginning to over 50 clubs including associate members. Fortunate to have a lobby team made up of ABATE, MMA and Arizona Confederation lobbyists. Passed a very comprehensive Right of Way legislation in 2010 and introducing bills to address the HIPPA Loophole and possibly Distracted Driving in 2011. Spoke of Motorcycle Awareness Program presentations done by MRO’s and clubs alike and that the ACMC was holding a run to the Pima County Fair in April to address the ‘No Colors’ policy at that event.

San Antonio – They now have almost as many independents signed up, as they do clubs

Houston – Stated that they were ‘Huge and in charge’ and that they needed more independents to sign up.

The information passed along at this regional was phenomenal to say the least. And, like I told Jimmy and Escondido Paul, I have a whole new appreciation for the ‘commitment’ and ‘cohesiveness’ in TEXAS!!!!

Any questions feel free to me

Bobbi Hartmann
ABATE Designated Lobbyist
ABATE MAP Coordinator
NCOM LTF Member
bobbij2@earthlink.net

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You Can Follow Bills Through The Legislative Session:
LOGON TO www.azgohs.gov
ENTER THE BILL# - into the search box - top right corner of home page
CLICK ON - "Show Bill Overview" - to see sponsors, committees assigned, voting summaries for each House/Senate committee it goes before, as well as the floor votes.
CLICK ON - "Show Versions or Fact Sheet" - to see the contents of the bill itself or the Fact Sheet as written by Staff.

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Want write a letter? Download a Letter Template with Notes
Writing Letter Tips Link http://usgovinfo.about.com/library/weekly/aa020199.htm
Writing Letter Tips Link Formal http://www.usingenglish.com/resources/letter-writing.html

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Remember, this is YOUR organization and it cannot survive without its members and volunteers. If you can help your fellow members and ABATE, let us know.

C. State PAC Report

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 19:51:13 GMT

PAC Report

Quincy, Calif.: At a recent meeting the Plumas County Board of Supervisors encouraged their Public Works Director to move forward with the creation of a county off-highway vehicle (OHV) ordinance. This will clarify which county roads within the Plumas National Forest and the Lassen National Forest are approved for recreational use by OHVs.

The ordinance would ensure certain county roads within the national forests in Plumas County are available for OHV and over-snow vehicle use where public works staff deemed it appropriate. The Forest Service has previously claimed many county roads were not available for OHV travel and contended their inability to designate the use of these county roads has resulted in loss of OHV opportunities. However, neither the county, the California Highway Patrol or the local sheriff’s office agrees with the position, and the Board hopes the OHV ordinance will clarify the matter. The director said the process began when the Plumas National Forest conducted a public workshop on its travel management project.

Source and full story: http://tinyurl.com/25o44fv

Salt Lake City, Utah: Kane County is again suing the federal government in an effort to gain control of dozens more roads. The lawsuit, filed Friday in U.S. District Court in Salt Lake City, comes after the government recently surrendered title to several roads to the southern Utah County in September. The suit seeks ownership of 49 commonly used roads that cross federal lands. In September, the federal government agreed to cede the Sand Dunes, Hancock, Mill Creek and Bald Knoll roads to the county

The county says the roads provide access to private property, grazing allotments, mineral deposits and Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Among them is Hole-in-the-Wall, a dirt road that traverses Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to the spot where Mormon pioneers blasted a wagon route down a cliff face to the Colorado River.

Attorney Shawn Welch, who represents the county, said recent washout stranded eight people and illustrates why the county seeks control of the road. The U.S. Interior Department declined to comment on the suit.

Source: http://connect2utah.com/search-fulltext?nxd_id=115546

FYI: I was at the AVI casino Tuesday (11/9/2010) getting my bike washed, I went inside for some food, while sitting in the food court with my "cut" on and a friend with a vest without a mc on, we were approach and asked to leave, when asked why, we were told that the Friday past that the AVI started a new policy that no patches are allowed.

Ride Safe,
Tom Bateman
Coyote38_61@yahoo.com
ABATE of Arizona
State PAC

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We need the MRF to fight for our rights in Washington D.C. During these challenging times some members may not be able to join due to financial responsibilities. That is understandable, but we need to respond to a call for action when appropriate. Individual state MROs need MRF's help to keep our interests and fight and protect our Motocycle Rights. http://www.mrf.org/

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If anyone would like to read a Bill HR2694, Motor Vehicle Owners Right To Repair Act Of 2007.
Go to U.S House of Representatives, 110th Congress
http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d110query.html
Click on find a Bill, Amendment or Debate.
Type HR2694 in search box,
Now choose bill number, and HR2694 will present in its entirety.

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To look up your Elected Decision Makers at Project Vote Smart.com:
http://www.votesmart.org/index.htm

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D. Safety Report

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 19:43:49 GMT

Safety Report

Selected Articles & Downloads:

Download 49 Safety Tips

Hand Signals

Another month has come and gone with weird weather and all. I hope all survived the hail and the lovely tornados we had. Even with the strange weather it is still that time of year we all love cause you can ride at anytime, even when the sun is up. No more melting into the asphalt hoping your engine doesn’t overheat while you wait for traffic to start moving. But with that comes the eagerness to get going before you take a few mins to check your bike or trike for safety issues. Walk around your and look at the tires, are they low? Are they worn badly? Can you chance one more long ride today or do they need changing? What about your chain or belt? Does it show major wear? The guys with shaft drives, does it show leaks around the gaskets? Front forks, are they showing leakage? Ask yourself this, “When was the last time you set down for a nut and bolt tightening party? I would like to make sure my front fork was tight, as well as other areas like the shocks, mirrors, break handles. A simple afternoon with your tool box and a cold beverage, not to mention the quiet time away from the spouse after you spent that money on a new set of pipes last week would be nice, and you get the good feeling that when you go out the next time everything is tight and safe.

While you do your walk around take a look at other things. How much brake pad do I have left on the front and rear? Have you looked under the bike or trike to see a new leak and wonder where did that come from? Is it coming from my bike or trike? What kind of leak is it?

If you see a new leak and want to know if it is coming from your ride try a plain clean piece of cardboard or a couple of them and place them under your ride . The next morning check to see if it was you. If it is this will help to locate the leak faster by the area under your ride where the leak is. Then you can go though and figure out what the leak is oil, brake, or for you with water cooled engines, a coolant leak.

When was the last time you checked your saddle bags to make sure you have a spare belt or master-link for your chain? How about the right tools to take care of the simple issues that might hit as you enjoy the day? Do you have a small first aid kit with you? Is any of the stuff in it any good anymore? If you plan a long day ride did you remember to pack spare clothes with ya? You may ride into weather or maybe get coated in something that you need a clean shirt or pants? How about rain gear, just in case? How about a bottle of water or two? How about a couple protein bars in case you get stuck for awhile till you can get a hold of someone? Or in case you stop to help and that person has been out for awhile waiting?

It's the little thing that will get ya if you don't stop and take a good look.

Until next time, be safe. Ride free.

TC Fulgham

Accident Scene Management Class

In regards to the Accident Scene Management class, soon to be provided to various members of ABATE of Arizona. Thanks to Sandy Hassinger for the follow up necessary and to the BOD for approving up to $700 to make it happen. The contents of the basic course offered are basic first aid, helmet removal, supplies to carry and such etc. It was suggested by the BOD that a budget might be put in place to do this on a regular basis. Bobbi, as State Safety Officer, stated that she would follow up with those attending this course, to see if they felt it was sufficient, or if a more advanced class would be better, do some comparison budget wise by researching the ASM's website and then submit a suggested budget and class curriculum to the BOD at the October meeting.

A safe motorcyclist knows what trouble looks like and has taken the effort to build the skills to avoid whatever happens. Learn from the mistakes of others by sharing riding techniques and help others by reminding them of safe riding techniques.

E. MAP Report

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:34:38 GMT

MAP Report

AZ MAP Collaborators & Stakeholders:

Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (MSAC) with Governors Office of Highway safety (GOHS) http://www.azgohs.gov/motorcycle_safety.asp GOHS-MSAC also, works with ADOT and Law Enforcement

Modified Motorcycle Association (MMA) http://www.mma-az.org/

Arizona Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs (ACMC) http://www.azcmc.com/home.html

Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) http://www.gwrraaz.com/

Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) http://nm.msf-usa.org/msf/ridercourses.aspx?state=AZ

YOUR - $1 - AT WORK FOR YOU

Motorcycle Awareness Program (MAP) - Arizona

Being the Coordinator of Abate of Arizona’s Motorcycle Awareness Program (MAP), I’d like to share a little bit of what’s been going on. This program was started in Arizona, by ABATE of Arizona approximately 8 years ago. It had a rough start the first year or so, but finally took off running about 2003. With the potential for access to funding from the Motorcycle Safety Fund, I started a documenting process, recording all aspects of the classes presented and number of students taught, as well as teacher and students comments, for every class moving forward. I went to different areas of the state and worked with ABATE members in those areas, to educate and train prospective MAP presenters. I then approached the Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council that I was a member of and requested funds for such things as the Key Chains and informational Tri-folds we handed out to students. They did us one better, by actually making these part of what we know as ‘stock items’ today, and are available to all motorcyclists to hand out at their events

As continuity of the MAP is a key to its success, all presenters follow a script that takes approximately 50 minutes to present. The fact that MAP is presented to all High School Driver Ed periods for any given day, we may present to 150-200 students in one visit. We usually have anywhere from 2-4 presenters and at least 1-2 bikes at every presentation. The ‘certified presenters’ and their assistants introduce themselves and explain the reason for the program is to make drivers more aware of motorcycles on the road and how to see us better and safely share the road with us. They then talk about the most common crashes being left turns or pulling out in front of a motorcycle, show examples of the different types of gear they might see a motorcyclist in, and invite participation from the students on if they or anyone they know rides. After the showing of an 8 minute MSF Video, the presenters verbally go through the 10 question quiz with the students, giving examples of real life experiences that relate to each question throughout.

Afterwards, the students are taken outside to witness a few ‘ride bys’ to demonstrate how hard it is to judge the speed of a motorcycle by having them guess the speed and to further explain the ‘narrow profile’ of a motorcycle coming at you and how easily it can be hidden by small objects or ignored due to larger vehicles around it and so on. They then go back into the classroom, collect the evaluation sheet students fill out, hand out key chains and informational tri-folds to everyone and ask them to take them home, along with the quiz, and educate their parents.

We now have ‘certified presenters’ teaching in Tucson, Kingman, Lake Havasau, Phoenix/Metro, and soon to be Payson. Many others from ABATE and MMA and the motorcycle clubs themselves are working with us to present this very FUN and IMPORTANT Program. Although most of our recipients are High School students, we have also presented to Senior Groups and even one engineering company on 24th Street and Camelback to help them meet their safety education requirements for that year. The man in charge just happened to ride and had heard of our program from his teenage son.

Please read a few of the Teacher and Student Comments that we’ve collected off of the Evaluation sheets over the years. Their comments speak volumes for the success of MAP in Arizona. I especially like the first one under students.

You DO NOT have to be a member of ABATE or any other organization or club to assist in these presentations. If you have the time, and want to get involved in any way, shape or form, please contact me at 602-672-3531 or bobbij2@earthlink.net and I’ll get your name to the presenters in your area. If MAP is not currently being presented near you, I’ll get something going there myself and with your assistance we’ll go from there.

Teachers Comments:

I love this presentation – The message is so important and is presented very well. The kids love having the message come from real motorcycle riders!

Program provided information in a very professional and interesting manner. Students enjoyed the demonstration and the video. The guest speakers were great with their interesting backgrounds and experiences.

Great presentation, students like it very much. Fun and informative. Bobbi and Tim Carney relate really well to the students.

The students enjoyed the information given first hand knowledge

Great information that most vehicle/car drivers don’t understand, but need to know about motorcycles. Good info and Good Demo. Students learned a lot.

Did a tremendous job. The students return the next day and say, “I saw a bunch of motorcycles today/yesterday”. It’s an effective program and we are thankful for the presenters who bring this to us.

Enjoyed the professional touch and knowledge of the subject – Definitely would like to make this an annual event each semester.

This is always one of my favorite days of the semester – Very well done and the fact it comes from “bikers” I think carries more weight with the kids.

Students. Enjoyed all 3 participants. Very well adapted to students needs.

The students really like meeting motorcycle riders. This presentation helps raise their awareness and appreciate motorcycle riders.

Tim, Sky Pilot, and Lisa do a very thorough job while maintaining student involvement throughout.

The guys did a wonderful job. I like watching the motorcycle demo. Certainly raises students awareness of motorcycles.

Excellent information about motorcycle awareness and safety. Much interaction with students! Great.

• Good presentation. Helps make students aware of how they can better interact with motorcycles and some of the problems motorcycles have to deal with on the roadway.

• Bobbi and Tim are awesome! Without a doubt their presentation will help our students be safer while driving.

• This is a fine program that all licensed vehicle drivers need to see – awareness of motorcycles. We were pleased to have them speak to our students.

Students Comments When Asked: What Did You Like About The Presentation?

I hope that I never have to say what I learned today. “I didn’t see the motorcycle officer.” That fact will be stuck in my mind when I drive.

Interesting facts about how to watch out for a motorcycle – you made a point to me.

Learned more about the bikes and how they operate – how small they are, why they maneuver, lane positions, why they wear things, where accidents happen.

Nice people, they were real personalities – taught by real motorcyclists – they knew what they were doing.

It was better than using the simulators – I would never have learned it otherwise if I had not heard it from a real person.

Presentation taught me more about how important motorcycles are and how vulnerable they are. I learned to give them more respect on the road and how I will treat them in the future. I will be a lot more cautious and keep my eyes open for motorcycles.

Got us to talk about our friends and family who ride motorcycles.

They are real people that took the day off to inform us of the hazards on the road.

Good info and facts on needing to be safe around motorcycles and to look out for them.

This class really helped me learn how to look for motorcyclists and be aware and to respect them like other motorists.

It was hard to judge the speed of the bikes, now I know how to be more careful.

I had never been talked to about motorcycles and I never realized how important the information is to me and the rest of the driving world.

The instructors didn’t talk down to us. They made us feel important.

It was great having real people teach the class who were nice, and could relate to us, and weren’t really serious (boring).

I liked that the presenters were here on their own time and were excited to be here.

I like the “drive by”. It gives you a better prospective on motorcycles and their riders.

Covered a lot of helpful information. It was good because we had people who knew about motorcycles first hand, and now motorcyclists do not intimidate me anymore.

I thought it was great. Very informational. It’s better to have presenters who know what they are talking about.

That there was an actual biker (motorcyclist) giving presentation. And we got to see an actual motorcycle.

The information you gave us. Very informative, interesting and valuable.

Real people trying to help kids and prevent death of motorcyclists.

I liked that it taught me to watch out for motorcycles. They are harder to see than people think.

I liked learning about how driving is for motorcyclists. I did not know anything about motorcycles and now I know more and how to be safe and share the road with them.

The information given was very useful and helpful when dealing with motorcyclists on the road. Being a beginning driver I am still a bit nervous about driving around cyclists, but having this info and knowledge now makes me a bit more comfortable.

I liked that she was passionate about what she was saying. Made me really believe what she’s talking about. I liked the demonstration.

I liked the demonstration and the presenters sharing their own experiences.

• Knowledgeable presenter, good speaking skills, very good examples, guessing speed gave a realistic view to new drivers.

Bobbi Hartmann
ABATE Designated Lobbyist
ABATE MAP Coordinator
NCOM LTF Member
bobbij2@earthlink.net

Motorcycle Awareness Events

Remember, this is YOUR organization and it cannot survive without its members and volunteers. If you can help your fellow members and ABATE, let us know.

F. East Valley Chapter Report

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 22:28:39 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - East Valley

Hello All,

I have the NEW DATE and information for the HARD ASS RUN. The Hard Ass Run will be on October 9, 2010. It starts at Chandler Harley Davidson which is on the southeast corner of Chandler Blvd and 56Th St. Sign-in will be from 7am to 9am. $20 for single riders and $30 for couples. Everyone is welcome. There will be a Live Band, run t-shirts, and a run pin included at the last stop. There will also be a 50/50 and door prizes. The poker hands go to 1st place $250.00. Second place $150.00 and the worst hand gets $100.00. "This ain't your Granpa's Poker Run!" "Tour some of the best back roads of Arizona, and enjoy a free Poker Run to boot!!" "As always the route is a mystery, known only to a select few." "Come and join in the fun!!!" This run is brought to you by A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona the East Valley Chapter. For more information you can call Jack at (602) 696-3015. All of the proceeds to benefit A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona. Hope to see you there and having a great time.

For anyone that may be interested I want to pass this on. Sons of the American Legion Post 2 presents a Classic Car & Bike Show. October 16th, 2010, 9am-2pm. The show is being held at Post 2 on 2125 S. Industrial Park Tempe, AZ 85282. Registration for vehicles (if you have one to show) 7:30 am- 9:30 am and registration is $20 a vehicle. There will be FOOD, VENDORS, and MUSIC. Hope to see you there.

Till next time ride safe and have fun, it is still HOT out so keep yourselves hydrated. Cha!

JoAnne King
Miss Too Broke 2009
ABATE of AZ
East Valley Chapter, Communications

G. Flagstaff Chapter Report

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 01:21:42 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - Flagstaff

Reorganizing

H. High Country Chapter Report

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 19:41:04 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - High Country (Payson)

NOV Report

Hello to my fellow Riders,

Brothers and Sisters damn it's getting cold up here in the rim country Buurrrrrr! So this is what we have going on up here in High Country Chapter for December.

We are having 8th annual Christmas party on December, 11th at Famous Sam's, this is also a Toy Run please bring a unwrapped toy for a girl or a boy, I’m sure he or she will love it!

Now moving on, officers elections are coming up! Here in High Country Chapter we already elected Billy (BUNGEE) Hensler as our state board member, now for our OFFICERS nominations are as the following:

Coordinator > Jim chicknbone Mazzone

Vice Coordinator > Billy Hensler

Secretary > Kristen Blakeslee

Treasurer > Debbie Fickel

Membership > Barbie Hensler

Run Coordinator > Johnathan Lucerno

Safety Coordinator > Steve Leonard

Sgt. at Arms > Ed Holyoak

PAC > Johnathan Lucerno

Communications > Billy Hensler

Merchandise > Kristen Blakeslee

For those who want to run for any officers positions please step up and make it known at our December meeting on the 18th!

Now the help we gave to our brothers and sisters of the Rim Country District M.M.A. on their BIRDS on BIKES was a real success! The appreciation from the families was great and heartwarming! It was a great feeling seeing the smiles on their faces!

Now to all my Brothers and Sisters and my Fellow Riders, Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Live Free Ride Safe Be Heard,
Jim (chicknbone) Mazzone
ABATE of AZ
High Country Chapter
Coordinator
928-970-1134

DEC Report

Hello Brothers and Sisters,

I'd like to start this report by sayin’ thank you to my brothers and sisters that came to our Toy Run Dec 11th 2010! Without you and your generosity, it would not have been such a success! Again thank you!

Also I want to say thank you to Bud and Christine and the Famous Sam's staff for hosting our after party! It was great a good time for all.

Happy New Year 2011!! Now it’s a new year I want to say congratulation to all the new Officers for 2011.

Now on weather up here is getting cold please be safe dress warm. Layer up, stay warm if you get to hot you can always take it off its only clothes haha (joke)!

I hope to see you out there riding on the open road.

Live Free Ride Safe Be Heard,
Jim (chicknbone) Mazzone
ABATE of AZ
High Country Chapter
Coordinator
928-970-1134

I. Mohave Chapter Report

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 19:41:39 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - Mohave

NOV Report

Mohave County Chapter will be having our gun raffle on December 11th at Noon. Location is Cathiez Leathers in Bullhead City. We will be Drawing for the Kimber 45 Auto Pistol as well as gift certificates from Cathiez.

We will be having our December meeting immediately following the drawing.

Our Annual Blessing of the Bikes and First Ride of the year will happen on January 1st. at 9:30 am at Mother Road Harley Davidson in Kingman. Immediately following the Blessing by the local Mission Riders CMA we will ride to Lake Havasu City for lunch. Please join us. It is the best way to start the New Year.

Rodney Rich
ABATE of AZ
Mohave Chapter, Coordintor

DEC Report

I feel that I need to take some space and put my thoughts and feelings down for the chapter. We are all very sad that we have lost our Brother "Coyote" Tom Bateman. Tom was a light to our chapter and the state. At times a rowdy light, but always ready for fun and excitement. One thing about Tom was his extreme passion for motorcycle rights. He was devoted and hard working in the fight. He also was an inspiration and help to many local charities in Mohave County. He had a heart of gold and was willing to help anyone out. If there was a ride going on he was there. As I spent time talking with his son, he was glad to know how patriotic and selfless his father was. We are all missing his enthusiasm and lighthearted comments. Our meetings and rides just won't be the same. I know Tom would want us all to carry on and keep up the fight. Even though we may have lost a battle by losing Tom we will definitely win the war. Coyote will always be with us in our hearts and memories as we do the work he was so passionate about.

Rodney Rich
ABATE of AZ
Mohave Chapter, Coordintor

J. Phoenix - Shadow Mountain Chapter Report

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 19:37:09 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - Phoenix & Shadow Mountain

Fall is finally here! Time to get out the riding gear and hit the pavement! Arizona has the best weather for riding especially now and the runs WOW every weekend, and then some. No matter what you like you are sure to find it happening now.

Our chapter is hosting the Moon Mullins Run October 23rd. Sign in at Charley’s @6pm $10 will get you directions and a score sheet. This is a multi-game contest, trophies and cash for 1st 2nd and 3rd place and for the worst hand. The ride ends at the Maverick, where winners will receive their trophy/money.

October 16th is the “Hard Ass Run.”

November 7th-Vote for ABATE Board Reps at Kid Chilleens Bad ASS BBQ at I-17 and exit #244. Please have your ABATE card to vote in November.

Officer Elections are in November. Election of chapter officers will be at the November chapter meeting. It’s not too late to run for an Officers Positions, some positions are running unopposed. The following are the UPDATED nominations.

Coordinator - Pete MacKinnon vs Jimmy Page

Vice-Coordinator - Walt Homsey vs Sandy Hassinger

Secretary - Connie Johnson

Treasurer - Carole O’Reilly

Membership - Kat Grove vs Mikki Aaronson

Run/Events Coordinator - Darin Yates

Safety - Mike Falcone

PAC - Tim O’Reilly

Co-PAC - Billy Larson

Communications - Casey Yates

Sergeant-of-Arms - Victor Grady

Merchandise Officer - Mariah Newill vs Jimmy Page

Happy Birthday to Darla, Michael and Casey

NEW BUSINESS
A suggestion was brought up to have a contest and have the students of Collins College submit ideas for our 2011 ABATE Chapter shirts.

OPEN DISCUSSION
Eric Hampton spoke of the dangers of texting and driving.
Ron Kool let members know that we still have Denim “Too Broke for Sturgis” shirts still available for the sale price of $20.00
This months 50/50 Raffle, won by Mike Falcone and the $1.00 Jar was won by Jar Billy Larson.
Safety-T.C. Fulgham- Spoke about Halloween Safety on the roadways, and watching out for the little ghosts and goblins trick or treating in your neighborhood. It’s a big night for kids and in their excitement they can dart into the road in a flash. Most costumes have masks, please keep in mind that these masks limit vision and hearing. These children are the next generation of riders let’s keep ‘em safe.

Happy Halloween!

Keep on Ridin!

Casey Yates
Communications Officer
Phoenix-Shadow Mountain Chapter,
ABATE of AZ

K. Southern Arizona Chapter Report

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 19:42:18 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - Southern Arizona

OCT Report

How would you like to attend your first meeting and get paid for it? It can be done. Just ask Art Burke who won the dollar jar during his first ABATE of SA meeting. It wasn’t big bucks but it bought him breakfast and a tank of gas. You could be the lucky winner in November – just show up at the Kettle Restaurant on Nov 28th. Oh yeah, that’s also Dawn’s birthday and she may pop out of a cake -- we don’t know for sure what will happen.

The nominations for Chapter officers are in and it’s the same old, same old. The Chapter has been around for about four years and we still have the same folks sitting at the head table. We could sure use some new blood in the leadership. Ron is up to his armpits with State Membership and several other projects. Dawn has two jobs, Treasurer and Merchandise. I’ve been cranking out the minutes and this report for the past four years and I’m sure all of you are tired of my rant. We’re down to one event a year and need some help for the Run Coordinator. Come on folks, step up to the plate and volunteer! The nominees are:

Coordinator: Ron Kool

Vice Coordinator: Jim DeYoung

Secretary: Rich Montgomery

Treasurer: Dawn Detelj

Merchandise: Dawn Detelj

PAC: Sean Pinder

Sgt At Arms: Jim Butsback

Membership: Jim Butsback

Run Coordinator: Ken Lamb

Safety: Jimmy Clark

We’ll vote at the November 28th meeting.

I want to personally thank all ten folks that showed up to clean our mile of State Highway in Whetstone. With that many picking up the trash it doesn’t take very long to knock it out. We gathered up 11 bags of trash and then had lunch on the Chapter at Buddy’s Bar. I’m looking at February 12th, 2011 for out next cleanup. Sharon Kolb got pretty banged up on a bike accident but she is expected to fully recover from her injuries. Please keep her in your prayers too.

Ron says we’re down to 123 Chapter members. So start beating the bushes for new folks that are interested in motorcyclist’s rights. Remind them about the increased right of way fines, the right to wear or not wear a helmet and many other things we get involved in.

After kicking the Chapter shirt around for more than a year John Hanusch came up with the idea of a transfer. What a strategy? With a high quality transfer you can have the Chapter logo put on any kind of shirt you want. Hell, you could even put it on your skivvies. So, Dawn will be looking into the possibility of making up a transfer for our long awaited shirts.

Keep in mind the Experienced Riders course is available to all of us. Actually, we can all use the course for our own riding skills and it will no doubt drop the cost of our bike insurance. Check with Ron for the website.

Enjoy this great part of the year by riding a lot. The rain has moved on for the most part and it's getting cooler by the day. Oh yeah, remember to

Ride Hard,
Rich Montgomery
Southern Arizona Chapter
Secretary

NOV Report

Wow, we had 20 folks show up for our last meeting of the year. Nice work guys and gals. Ron moved the meeting right along and we covered a bunch of topics in the 45-minutes we talked story. (Hawaiian talk!) Dawn told us about the Chapter transfer and the issues involved. It seems like we’re going to have just a couple colors to choose from as some colors in the transfer will not go with a particular color, i.e. black on black. It sounds complicated but Dawn will figure it out and let us know early next year what options we have.

We did hold elections and I could list the names but they are exactly the same as last year, and the year before, and the year before, etc. Come on folks, we need some new blood running the show.

Sean had a good report on the PAC and indicated the motorcycle only checkpoints are an ongoing issue. Discrimination is another problem that isn’t going away and our lobbyists are working on that. There is also legislation afoot about “distracted drivers.” That’s the current buzzword for talking and texting while driving. I don’t think the legislators are going to stop the talking part but hopefully the texting will be unlawful. That’s good for those on two wheels – I’ve never seen a biker texting while riding down I-10!

Bob Welton is heavy into Bikers for Babies. He has formed Bob’s Posse and it’s a March of Dimes effort to help premature babies. He is soliciting money for the cause and has already had a garage sale that netted over a thousand bucks. There will also be a fund raiser at Big Sky Motorcycles with a pool tournament and other fun gameson January 22nd. TGI Fridays will be helping with the chow. Put it on your calendar and let’s make sure Southern Arizona Chapter of ABATE makes a good showing.

The HOG Pit won the dollar jar but the business member wasn’t there so it rolls over as usual. Ron won $19 in the 50/50 and donated it back to the Chapter. Thanks Mr. Coordinator.

After the short meeting we celebrated Dawn’s 50th (good Lord how can she be that old?) with a birthday cake done appropriately with a biker theme. Happy birthday young lady. Robert Guenther was kind enough to bring the cake. He certainly has good taste.

We don’t have a meeting in December and our next one will be January 23rd at the Kettle Restaurant. By the way, we no longer have the buffet and we all order off the menu. That works better for a lot of folks.

The officers of the Chapter want to wish each and every one of our members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See you folks next year and remember to:

Ride Hard,
Rich Montgomery
Southern Arizona Chapter
Secretary

Southern Arizona's LQQK Out For Motorcycles Trailer

L. Yavapai Chapter Report

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 19:52:45 GMT

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Report - Yavapai

The November Chapter General Meeting on Sunday the 14th is crucial to the future of Yavapai Chapter. This is urgent; we strongly request that membership show up for this extremely important meeting. We will be voting for our 2011 chapter officers. What makes this year different from previous Novembers is all officer positions are open and we, as of yet, had anyone come forward with a definite yes. Especially needed to hold the chapter together are the three primary offices; Coordinator (run the meeting following the agenda), Secretary (if I can do it anyone can) and Treasurer (if you are honest, you can balance a check book and have a calculator you’re good to go). Without these three positions filled the chapter will fold. There are also secondary offices up for grabs; Vice Coordinator, Membership, P.A.C., Run & Events, Safety, Merchandise and Sgt. at Arms. If you can attend the Sunday November 14th meeting we will discuss this further and you will be given the opportunity to ask questions about any position you’re interested in. If someone is thinking of the Secretary office but feel you have no experience taking meeting minutes, don’t be concerned, I had no experience either and no one to really teach me. I will, on the other hand, help the new Secretary until that person is comfortable on their own. Every new officer will have plenty of help getting started. In January there is an officer training to show you the ropes.

Once again, if you choose not to attend this meeting, ABATE of Arizona Yavapai Chapter will be shut down, the end, finis. If you give a damn about your rights and freedoms as a motorcycle rider (even if you don’t ride) than please step up to the plate, volunteer for at least a year and keep this great chapter alive.

If by chance you will be attending for the first time here’s the time and place; we meet the 2nd Sunday of every month at The Pinon Pines Bar & Grill, 2701 E. Hwy 89A in Prescott. Hopefully you’ve been reading your monthly Masterlink and the Yavapai Chapter Report, if so, you know what good work ABATE does for Arizona rider’s rights and in the report how much fun this chapter has on runs. Now the call is out for you to join us, get involved and be part of the solution.

When I write my last Yavapai Chapter Report for December and sign off for the last time as Secretary I will only be saying good bye as an officer. I hope to God that I won’t be saying good bye to Yavapai Chapter because it will abate. The definition of abate is ‘to put an end to, nullify’. Interesting, that is the name of this Motorcycle Rights Organization, ABATE of Arizona. This organization works to stop legislation aimed to take our rights and freedoms away, that’s a good thing, if that word applies to the existence of this chapter it’s a bad thing. The future of this chapter, along with your rights and freedoms, are in your hands now. See ya’ all November 14th and let’s keep the chapter going.

Until next month,
Ride with your eyes open and your head clear,
Linda "Gabby" Kocar
ABATE of Arizona
Yavapai Chapter, Secretary

M. Latest Info

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 18:47:48 GMT

Latest Information

UPCOMING ABATE of AZ EVENTS

Help Wanted: AZ MRF Representative

Some states do not have an MRF State Rep at this time. If you are interested in applying for the position, some of the requirements for appointment are:

You must be a member of the MRF, and have been a member for at least one year prior to appointment.

You must have the ability to be contacted via telephone, and computer availability with Internet access is recommended.

You must possess the ability to relay information to your State Motorcyclists' Rights Organization(s), as well as keep the MRF informed regarding your state's events and concerns.

Anyone interested should contact the State Officers at stateofficers@abateofaz.org or a Board member at bod@abateofaz.org

I would like to update everyone on a few things that ABATE has been up to lately

Let’s go back to May when we went to the May 3rd Mesa City Council meeting to except a Proclamation declaring May Motorcycle Awareness month. When the Mayor presented ABATE with the Proclamation, in return he was given 7 copies of a sign proposal. Basically what the proposal stated was that we wanted Mesa to put up 10 "Look Out For Motorcycles" signs. Well much to my surprise, they had the signs approved and installed within 3 weeks time. They can be seen in the following locations. EB direction - Main St west of May, EB direction - University Dr east of Ironwood, EB direction - Southern Ave east of San Jose , NB direction - Alma School south of Nido Ave, NB direction - Country Club Dr north of Baseline Rd, NB direction - Power Rd north of Baseline Rd, WB direction - Southern Ave east of Rialto, WB direction - Main St west of Sunvalley Blvd, WB direction - University Dr west of 88th St, SB direction - Power Rd north of Redmont Dr. I would like to thank Mesa Mayor Scott Smith and Sanja Grujakovic, City of Mesa Transportation Department, Traffic Studies Crash Analyst, they were very cooperative and helpful.

So then the next Mayor to approach was the Lake Havasu Mayor, because I was up there quite a bit, he was very receptive and will be getting an update back to us soon.

While in Lake Havasu, ABATE was able to score a face to face with Senator John McCain, We discussed how dangerous it is for all motorcyclists here in AZ and how people do not respect or see us on the roads, and how when they do hit and even kill us the penalty is not enough to make people more aware of us. We asked him to put 10 signs up in each city in the State, more billboards, and also to be allowed to use the overhead light warning signs when they are not in use, to say "Look Out For Motorcycles". He too was receptive and has since been in touch with me, this one might take a little longer than Mesa did, lol.

There is an appointment scheduled with the Mayor of Kingman on the 2nd of Aug., and I have been trying with no avail to contact the Phoenix Mayor, but we won't give up. I certainly hope when it's time for another update I will have nothing but good news of more and more signs.

I would personally like to suggest that anyone having the bumper stickers that say "Watch Out For Motorcycles" put them on your garbage cans, so once a week when it's garbage day, everyone driving down your street gets reminded to watch out for us. Ride safe and watch out for the other guy.

Margie F State Vice President
State Run/Events Coordinator
ABATE of AZ
American Legion Rider
602.AbateAZ (222.8329)

AMSAC / MSFund Budget Update

To view the minutes of the Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (AMSAC):
GOTO - www.azgohs.gov
CLICK - on Programs (right hand corner drop down)
CLICK - on Motorcycle Advisory Council

Although I've been waiting on the facts to be available, before I publish the exact Radio and Electronic Overhead Sign coverage the 12/3/09 council selected media plans will include, I can give you an overview of what to expect.

RADIO:

$55,000 - Proposed plan is to have 15 and 30 second announcements related to motorcycle safety and motorists awareness, spread out over a 4-month period. Possibly running January thru April which I am waiting to confirm, as Skypilot and myself recommended it start later so as to include the month of May. Proposed plan is to announce on 9 of the Phoenix Suns Network Coverage stations, which cover the entire state of Arizona, along with 4 major Phoenix and 3 major Tucson stations as well. I will be providing you with a list of complete location coverage as soon as it is confirmed.

ELECTRONIC OVERHEAD MESSAGE BOARDS:

$45,000 - As chairman of the council, I had met with ADOT in early November, obtained maps and locations of these message boards (i.e. Rural, Phoenix and Tucson Metro) and put together a proposed plan for placing the "LOOK OUT FOR MOTORCYCLES" message on 63 statewide Electronic Overhead Message Boards, where available throughout the state, to be displayed twice a day 1 day a week, all year around, for $63,000. I provided this proposal, so that the council would have something to start with and we could go from there. After a thorough review of this plan, by the council, at the November meeting, it was suggested that the council members return to the 12/3/09 meeting with ideas for a revision of this plan. Council members discussed lowering the cost, and to help in doing so, that some message boards may be more seasonal for rider presence in that area. The council members accepted a revised plan presented by Skypilot at the 12/3/09 meeting. As soon as I get confirmation and facts on what and when ADOT will be starting the scheduling of these boards, I will make that information available to everyone. I should be able to provide the Mile Post of each location and days/times the message will be present. For now, all I can tell you is that the final plan proposed included 43 message boards with state wide coverage, with 37 of those displaying the LOOK OUT message for 1 hour Tuesday morning - 1 hour Friday afternoon, year around and 6 of those displaying the same message for 1 hour Friday afternoon and Sunday morning, April-September. I was told by ADOT that if an Amber Alert or Crash message was to be displayed during our hour, therefore using some of our time period, that they track that time and would provide it to us during another timeframe.

MSFund TOTALS:

In regards to the additional $56,000 sweep of the Motorcycle Safety Fund. The hierarchy goes like this. DPS has a budget. Within that budget are the different department budgets of the GOHS, one of those being the Motorcycle Safety Fund. When DPS was told to cut back an additional 15%, which equated to approximately 4 million dollars, they went through and swept all of the budgets under themselves which included GOHS and therefore our fund as well.

State Legislators $205,000 appropriations for fiscal year 7/1/09-6/30/10 - minus $56,000 swept due to additional cut backs = $149,000 of Motorcycle Safety Fund monies available for expenditure:

$30,000 - Set aside by the council in order to restock items used by motorcyclists everywhere, all year round and for MAP presentations, and May awareness events (i.e. bumper stickers, key chains, badges, info tri-folds)

$19,000 - Each year the Director of the GOHS is able to use 10% of the Motorcycle Safety Fund toward administration and maintenance of that fund and the running of the council etc. For 2009, Director Gutier chose to not take that money, but rather use it to pay for the printing of close to 50,000 Motorcycle Operator Manuals which are used by the Rider Ed schools in some cases, but a more prevalent use is by MVD to provide to motorcycle riders as needed.

$55,000 - Radio (see above)

$45,000 - Electronic Message Boards (see above)

Although there may only be $12.31 left out of the original $205,000 appropriations for the current fiscal year, that does not reflect the balance of the MSFund at this time. Remember that any monies for motorcycle registrations coming in since 7/1/09, are accumulating in the MSFund on a daily basis. Those monies will accumulate until the next legislative appropriations for fiscal year starting 7/1/10.

Anyone is welcome to attend the council meetings at any time. Please check the GOHS website for times and dates. The next council meeting, which will concentrate on motorcyclists needs for May Awareness Events, is scheduled to be held, Wednesday, February 3rd, 10am @ the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, 3030 North Central Ave. Suite 1550, Phoenix, AZ 85012. On Central just North of Thomas. Check the website for any changes to this schedule.

28-2010. Motorcycle safety fund; administration; advisory council
A. A motorcycle safety fund is established consisting of monies deposited pursuant to subsection B of this section and monies from gifts, grants and other donations. The director of the governor's office of highway safety shall administer the fund. On notice from the director of the governor's office of highway safety, the state treasurer shall invest and divest monies in the fund as provided in section 35-313, and monies earned from investment shall be credited to the fund. Up to ten per cent of the monies in the fund may be used for administrative costs. Monies in the fund are subject to legislative appropriation and are exempt from the provisions of section 35-190 relating to lapsing of appropriations.
B. Notwithstanding section 28-2004, through June 30, 2010, the director of the department of transportation shall deposit, pursuant to sections 35-146 and 35-147, one dollar of each motorcycle registration fee collected pursuant to section 28-2003 in the motorcycle safety fund.
C. Subject to legislative appropriation, the director of the governor's office of highway safety shall use monies deposited in the motorcycle safety fund pursuant to this section, after consultation with the Arizona motorcycle safety advisory council, to implement and support voluntary motorcycle education, awareness and other programs, including covering the cost of materials for motorcycle safety, education and awareness programs.
D. Through June 30, 2010, the Arizona motorcycle safety advisory council is established consisting of five members who have experience in motorcycle safety and who are appointed by the governor for three year terms. Members may be removed for cause and may be reappointed. The council shall meet at least quarterly and on the call of the director of the governor's office of highway safety for advice on the expenditure of monies in the motorcycle safety fund.

You might want to look at your license plate frames on all of your vehicles and determine if you need to change or modify it to meet the new law. The following is the result of changes to Arizona law effective January 01, 2009:
License Plate Holder Law - State law* requires that the state name at the top of Arizona license plates must be visible. Any license plate holder or cover that prevents the license plate from being clearly legible, is in violation of this new law. * A.R.S. 28-2354(B.)

Download NHTSA's Report for the State of Arizona
Note: Motorcycle Accident and Helmet Statistics may be skewed, since Registered Class M includes Golf Carts and ATVs to Motorcycle Stats impacting statistical accuracy.
Download NHTSA's Report of Motorcycle accidents by AZ County
Download Motorcycle Owners Manual - Courtesy of MSF
Download State of Arizona Highway Safety Plan
US DOT Misreports Gasoline Tax Revenue
Useful Links

HELP WANTED:

Always welcome, new ideas, volunteers in any capacity to promote, expand and improve ABATE of AZ for the benefit or all motorcyclists, regardless of machine or rider.

Join, attend a meeting, and become part of ABATE of AZ that is a Watchdog to protect Freedom of the road and Fight Discriminatory Legislation.

Find a purpose by Contributing to solutions to responsibly reduce Accidents through MAP and promoting Rider Ed.

Masterlink Newsletter Distribution Help is always Needed

If you can help ABATE with the distribution of the Masterlink, then please contact the President at president@abateofaz.org

Always looking for new Biker friendly Business drop locations and Business Members

State Merchandise Officer

If you're interested in a new role as State Merchandise Officer, then please contact the President at president@abateofaz.org

State Business Manager

If you're interested in a new role as State Business Manager, then please contact the President at president@abateofaz.org

Remember, this is YOUR organization and it cannot survive without its members and volunteers. If you can help your fellow members and ABATE, let us know

Any Organization is only as Strong as its Members, Exacting as its Leaders, and Effective as all parts working in concert.

I DO NOT BELIEVE IN A FATE THAT FALLS ON MEN HOWEVER THEY ACT;
BUT I DO BELIEVE IN A FATE THAT FALLS ON MEN UNLESS THEY ACT
G. K. Chesterston

N. Tales from the Chrome Side

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 20:42:15 GMT

Tales from the Chrome Side

Well, well, well… last month’s Chromeside was surprising on many fronts. As explained, I strayed away from strictly motorcycle related issues because the only real thing that we’re facing as motorcyclists in Arizona right now that is REALLY troubling is the fact that our state legislators swept (stole) $100,000 from our Motorcycle Safety Fund. This fund is created by one dollar being added to each and every one of our motorcycle registrations each year.

So, what surprised me? My most vocal critic (another State Officer) appreciated that I printed an opposing viewpoint to my article. That was surprising. Even though we’re great friends, we poke at each other about politics – but we are able to work well together for a common cause – motorcyclists’ rights.

Let me explain how that happened in the first place… I submit all of my articles for review before it goes to print, just like everyone else. Tim read it and answered in a private email. I then asked if I could run it as a rebuttal. He was good with that and it ran. I hope that clears up any confusion that there may have been about how a rebuttal appeared in the very same issue of the paper as the “offending” article.

What also surprised me? My most personal critic (also another State Officer) criticized me for the overall content of the Chromeside - because I slammed our federal congressmen for not reading legislation that they passed, and affects every one of us… my reply? How could that possibly bode well for bikers, let alone the American people?

I received no reply to that question. I’m seeing a pattern here… I ask the hard questions and get no answers.

I guess I’m the “angry mob” Nancy Pelosi warned you about and that makes me proud. When war protestors shout down politicians, they are referred to as “concerned Americans”. When concerned Americans stand up for themselves and voice their opinion on bailouts or health care reform, they are labeled un-American (among other rude comments) and, of course the now famous “angry mob”.

Nancy Pelosi is saying anyone that doesn’t agree with her is part of “Astroturf” – demeaning the actual grassroots movement that is really occurring throughout the country. This woman’s arrogance is simply unbelievable. She is forgetting about the protestors in her own district in San Francisco being “angry mobs” protesting the last administration. Clearly, she is using her convenient memory loss and dismissing the sins of the past as not happening.

If our right to free speech is removed, our job as freedom fighters comes to a screeching halt. That, my friend, is the plain truth and could develop into a plain shame.

If we as motorcyclists are shouted down when we try to explain our views or dismissed as a radical fringe Astroturf movement – then we got problems. This whole bucket o’ crap HAS to be viewed as a motorcyclists’ concern.

Again, I have to stress that this is not a donkey vs. elephant thing. This is a government thing. Our Community Organizer in Chief is a politician – not your best beer-drinking buddy next door. I believe that he is out for his own best interests – just like ANY other politician. If you can prove me wrong, please do so. I need to be convinced, though. Hope and Change do not give me a warm, fuzzy feeling when 10 percent of this country is unemployed and the government is taking control of more and more aspects of American business and intruding further and further into the American peoples’ lives.

The day that they try to take my motorcycle is the day that they will rue their decision. My bike is an expression of who I am and what I believe in. If they try to tell me that my beliefs mean nothing because I have been hired by the motorcycle lobby to oppose them, they’ve got another thing coming.

If you’ve never been the “political sort” before, you better reexamine your way of thinking. If you’ve never written your congressmen before, you better consider doing so. If you’ve never gotten really pissed at our government – Red or Blue – I gotta feel sorry for you.

And if $100,000 of your money being stolen by our state legislators doesn’t piss you off, check to see if you still have a pulse.

Until next time… all of my bitching is for a good reason…
FREEDOM!

Eric Hampton
Editor, The Masterlink

O. Classifieds

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:53:12 GMT

Classifieds

Classified ads are free for ABATE Members. Need to place an ad? Click Here.

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94 Harley Davidson
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2003 HOTROD bike S&S 111ci motor, Baker 6 speed train, Primo belt primary & drive, Custom Rolled aluminum gas tank, American Wire Wheels, Metzler tires, 180 rear end, Ceriani front end, Custom seat
Built by Chuck Butitta of the Electric Hog in Prescott. Deborah Butitta AZ MRF State Rep. Prescott, AZ.
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2000 HD Custom (623) 374-5510 $15K OBO