The Freedom Writer - ABATE of New York

January 2014
1
American Bikers Aimed Toward Education
ABATE of New York State Office
P.O. Box 167
Walker Valley, NY 12588
OR CU R R E NT R E S I DE NT
NON-PROFIT Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Binghamton, NY
Permit No. 1039
23rd annualToy Run to the Children's Hospital
Buffalo-Erie chapter of ABATE
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abateny.org
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ABATE of NEW YORK
January 2014
ABATE OF NEW YORK SUPPORTS THIS PROGRAM FOR ITS MEMBERS
$1
50
HIRE ATTORNEYS WHO RIDE
Law Offices of RICHARD M. LESTER
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Founder, Aid to Injured Motorcyclists
110 Offices Throughout North America
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No Recovery = No Fee
We make House Calls
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No Fee on Motorcycle Damage Recovery
Also Auto Accidents
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We are endorsed by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists and
more than 800 motorcycle groups throughout the United States and
Canada, and serve as Legal Counsel for the Confederations of Clubs.
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Aid to Injured
Motorcyclists
2
ATTENTION ABATE/CMRO MEMBERS: Our nationwide network of
A.I.M. attorneys donate a significant portion of their legal fees from
motorcycle accident settlements back into motorcycling by being the
sole financial sponsor of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists.
LAW OFFICES OF
MITCH PRONER
ATTORNEY AT LAW
New York's Authorized Representative for
the Law Offices of Richard M.Lester
Toll Free
•
24 Hours
1-800-531-2424
60 East 42nd Street, Suite 1448, New York, NY
MEMBER OF ABATE OF NEW YORK
A FIRM DEDICATED TO SERVING THE INTERESTS OF THOSE WHO RIDE
President
Robert "BAR" Porter 619-804-2345
[email protected]
Vice President
Paul Pritchard
845-687-9077
[email protected]
Treasurer
Deb Trask 607-432-2975
[email protected]
Secretary
OPEN
Legislative Coordinator
Mike Giarrusso 315-569-8326
[email protected]
Sergeant at Arms
OPEN
Public Relations
OPEN
Western Region A Coordinator
Pete Campanella 716-655-6473 [email protected]
Region B
OPEN
Cnic Region C Coordinator
OPEN
Metro NY/LI Region D Coordinator
OPEN
Hudson Valley Mohawk Region E Coordinator
OPEN
2014 State Appointees
State Office Manager
Chris Werder 888-344-4400
P.O. Box 167
Walker Valley, NY 12588
Treasury Manager
Deb Trask 607-432-2975
Newsletter Editor
John Reid 315-297-4390
Webmaster
John Cholewa 845-705-6370
Yahoo Moderator
OPEN
American Bikers Aimed Toward Education is a not
for profit corporation formed to promote and protect
the interests of New York state motorcyclists. ABATE
monitors and interacts with the legislative process,
enhancing the image of motorcycling, and provides
educational and social opportunities for members
and non-members. ABATE will continue to strive to
stay acquainted with the issues and the people of the
motorcycling community.
We encourage all our members to be informed
registered voters. ABATE of New York, Inc. supports
Motorcycle Riders Education classes currently being
offered throughout NYS. We welcome the interested
people to any of our activities and to join our
organization. All makes and models of motorcycles
are welcome.
For more information, visit our website at:
http://abateny.org/
New York State Websites
New York State
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS
CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINE:
April 1st, 2014
A S S E M BLY
Sheldon Silver, Speaker
New York State Assembly
http://assembly.state.ny.us/
Assemblymen:
http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/
New York State Senate:
http://www.nysenate.gov/
Senators:
http://www.nysenate.gov/senators
To search for a New York state bill go to
http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/
January 2014
Deadline: February 1st for
the March / April 2014
Send submissions to: John Reid
What is ABATE?
The Freedom Writer
ABATE of New York, Inc.
2014 State Officers
3
ABATE
January 2014
of New York, Inc.
CHAPTERS
ITHACA HARLEY-DAVIDSON, INC.
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6033 Rt. 13, CAYUTA, NY 14824
Hours: Monday ± Friday 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. Sat. 8-3
Phone 607-594-3536 Fax 607-594-3009 www.ithacah-d.com
4
Albany Chapter
P.O. Box 3808
Albany, NY 12203
Brooklyn Chapter
P.O. Box 245064
Brooklyn, NY 11224
Brooklyn Alliance Chapter
P.O. Box 193
Brooklyn, NY 11216
Buffalo-Erie Chapter
P.O. Box 286
West Seneca, NY 14224
BuffaloErieAbate.com
Cattaraugus Chapter
P.O. Box 204
Cattaraugus NY 14719
cattcountyabate.org
Cayuga Chapter
P.O. Box 74
Auburn, NY 13021
Chautauqua Chapter
P.O. Box 572
Dunkirk, NY 14048
Columbia Chapter
P.O. Box 227
Hudson, NY 12534
www.columbiaabate.org
Cortland-Chenango Chapter
P.O. Box 245
McGraw, NY 13101
cortland-chenangoabate.com
Finger Lakes Chapter
P.O. Box 353
Hornell, NY 14843
Greene Chapter
P.O. Box 92
Leeds, NY 12451
abateofgreenecounty.org
ABATE of Genesee
P.O. Box 233
Elba, NY 14058
Lewis Chapter
P.O. Box 245
Port Leyden, NY 13433
Long Island Chapter
P.O. Box 22
Yaphank, NY 11980
longislandabate.org
Monroe Chapter
P.O. Box 13277
Rochester, NY 14613
ABATEnyMonroe.org
North Ulster Chapter
P.O. Box 13
West Hurley, NY 12491
Onondaga Chapter
P.O. Box 11575
Syracuse, NY 13218
Ontario Chapter
P.O. Box 546
Canandaigua, NY 14424
abatenyontario.20m.com
Orleans Chapter
P.O. Box 43
Medina, NY 14103-0043
orleanscountyabate.com
Oswego Chapter
P.O. Box 133
Central Square, NY 13036
www.oswegoabate.org
Southern Tier Chapter
P.O. Box 2441
Binghamton, NY 13902
abateofstny.org
Wayne Chapter
P.O. Box 332
Ontario, NY 14519
Visit Wayne ABATE
on Facebook
FIGHTING
FOR
YO U R R I G H T
TO R I D E
ABATE of New York, Inc.
SPONSORS
ABATE of New York,
Inc. MEETINGS 2014
The following clubs, businesses and organizations
have joined ABATE of NY, Inc. to help further our goals
and to help us fight for motorcyclists’ rights
by becoming a sponsor.
Meetings are held at:
THANK YOU! We appreciate your SUPPORT!
FULL THROTTLE INS AGENCY- Patchogue, NY
SWAHN INSURANCE- Riverhead, NY
Sponsors pay $25 per year to have their business
or organization name printed in our state newsletter
and receive a certificate. If your club, business,
or organization supports our mission
and would like to become a sponsor,
contact Mike Grasby, our Advertising Manager
for further details. You can reach him by email at:
[email protected] or by phone: 585-728-5246.
The Freedom Writer
ABATE of New York, Inc. AIMS & PURPOSES
American Legion Post 80, 76 Main St.
Binghamton, New York
STATE CHAPTERS MEETINGS
The State Chapters Meetings start at 1:00pm.
The ABATE Board meets at 12:00pm
before every State Chapter Meeting.
February 15, 2014
STATE BOARD MEETINGS
The State Board Meetings start at 10:00am.
March 16, 2014
SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT US!
January 2014
5
January 2014
U.S. lawmaker: Is Centers for Disease
Control trying to reduce motorcycle
use?
American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (RMich.) is asking the federal Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention whether it is trying to reduce
motorcycle ridership by pursuing a federal mandatory
motorcycle helmet law, the American Motorcyclist
Association reports.
The congressman is also questioning the economic
impacts the CDC cited to support mandatory
motorcycle helmet laws.
The First in Synthetics ®
ROBERT “BOBP” PIACENTE
SINCE 1972
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AMSOIL AND ALTRUM AUGHORIZED DEALER
ZO# 1434872
47-37 245th Street
Douglaston, NY 11362
(917) 747-0662
[email protected]
www.lubedealer.com/bobp
6
In a letter to CDC Director Thomas Frieden dated Nov. 21,
Walberg, who is a lifelong motorcyclist, an AMA life member
and a member of the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus, asked
"...is it the goal or strategy of the CDC to reduce the use of
motorcycles -- a legal mode of transportation -- by
recommending and pursuing a federal helmet law?
"If so, how would this strategy be implemented and by what
authority would it be instituted?" Walberg asked. He also
questioned whether Frieden believes the CDC is the federal
agency best suited to research and make recommendations
related to transportation safety.
The CDC, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, is headquartered in Atlanta.
Walberg sent the letter after analyzing a presentation titled
"Economic Impact of Motorcycle Helmet Law: A Systematic
Review." The presentation was made by the Helmet Law
Review Team of the Community Preventive Services Task Force
on Oct. 23. The 15-member task force, each of whom is
appointed by the CDC director, makes recommendations to the
CDC and reports to the U.S. Congress about community
preventive services, programs and policies to improve health.
The task force is preparing to recommend that all states have
universal helmet laws, which means that all riders, regardless of
age, would be required to wear helmets.
In his letter, Walberg strongly opposed its findings and
conclusions. One part of the presentation, in particular, "infers
a positive awareness of helmet laws with the potential for
reduced motorcycle use," Walberg said. "The presentation goes
on to conclude that 'economic evidence shows that universal
motorcycle helmet laws produce substantial economic benefits,
and these benefits greatly exceed expected costs,' however, there
is no reference whatsoever to the significant economic costs
anticipated by reducing motorcycle use.
"In fact, the only costs identified by the Task Force on slide 37
are the costs of purchasing a motorcycle helmet and the
enactment and enforcement costs of helmet laws, which are
concluded to be negligible," Walberg said. "Not only does this
contradict the earlier findings about how imposing motorcycle
laws would discourage motorcycle use, but it ignores the
positive economic impact motorcyclists provide.
continued on page 16
The Freedom Writer
January 2014
7
January 2014
ABATE of Ontario County
Syracuse Cycle Expo '14
The Freedom Writer
February 8-9, 2014
8
Hello from ABATE of Ontario County,
We have snow!!! I hope you all had a
wonderful spring, summer and fall.
By the time this news letter arrives to
you, the holidays will be over and the
New Year will have begun. Happy
Belated New Year!!!!!!!!
The members of this chapter are so
gracious and giving, not just this time
of year but all year long. This has
shown through many acts of kindness,
but also their time for our local
communities.
As much as we hate seeing riding
season end, riding season 2014 is
coming and it will be so great. Let’s
hope that there will be less hassle and
more freedom of riding as well. We will
keep you abreast of any new or old
challenges.
Our Swap Meet will be coming in
March and it will be an awesome one,
as always. The information will be
posted on our web site and will be
advertised everywhere!! So please look
for it.
Check out of web site as often as
possible because Rodney keeps it
updated with any news or events.
(Look above for e-mail address).
Be safe and we will see you soon.
Rita Bradshaw (PR)
I find it impossable to not ask you one more time to try and pool your efforts and strengths to
move the legislative houses in Albany for the cause of motorcyclists in New York. Yes the
Governor signed into law this fall the motorcycle parts bill. There are many issues that we can
point the representatives toward and ask them to do something for us. Is it no-fault, government
money for motorcycle only road stops, more info to the licensing public at the school level, and
most of all, waiting for the powers at the controls of transportation to change so we can get adult
freedom for helmet choice?
The Freedom Writer
Presidents outgoing messege
Some of our powers to influence these law makers must be exercised. We have a PAC that has been created for our needs that
needs us to fund and operate from it. If you and your chapter can find room next year in the schedule of ride and fundraises to
pass the hat or fill the jar, you will be more drawn to ask and visit your local biker friendly reps. with PAC money for the reps.
campaign program. Not all that complicated.
Next, if you can get the awareness and the word around town a little louder with signage or ads of all kinds to the public, we
will use the Foundations powers also. This Foundation needs the hat and jar treatment also so that we can get more programs
running and making the riders of New York know that ABATE is doing something.
The chapters have the ability to reach the individuals of their community, but the chapters also have a strength multiplied by
joining together and being heard as the larger voice in Albany like the Freedom Rally in May! All of these tools that we have to
use, PAC, Foundation and our down where the rubber meets the road, in your face one on one talk the talk and walk the walk
efforts increase our odds of getting something done. ABATE of New York Inc. is the MRO of New York that has got things done
in the past and will get more done if we continue to press the effort forward and rely on each other to make the louder noise!
Don’t stop and Ride on-
We ride, So Don’t Get
Taken For A Ride!
5800 Main Street
Williamsville, NY 14221
716.626.0404
CALL OUR
24 Hr. Toll Free Helpline
1-877-752-6867
If you’ve been injured
in an accident
WE GET
RESULTS!
January 2014
PROUD MEMBER OF THESE ASSOCIATIONS
ABATE - American Bikers Aimed Towards Education
HOG - Harley Owners Group
AMA - American Motorcycle Association
Trust
in our
experience
9
January 2014
NEW YORK STATE ABATE, INC.
STATE CHAPTER MEETING
November 16, 2013
The meeting was called to order by President Tom
Alton at 1:03 PM. All stood and gave the Pledge of
Allegiance and a moment of silence was honored to all of
those recently past that we wish to mention.
Roll call was taken and the following chapters
answered: Albany, Brooklyn, Brooklyn Alliance, Buff-Erie,
Columbia, Genesee, North Ulster, Onondaga, Ontario,
Oswego, Southern Tier, Wayne, 12 chapters present.
Motion, #S14-13 to waive the reading of the minutes
from the previous meeting dated 9-17-13. Motion by
Wayne, second by Southern Tier, roll call vote, unanimous,
Oswego and Ontario not in good standing because one
month behind in treasury chapter reports, Albany never up
to date with treasury reports.
Asked by the body to allow Oswego and Ontario to
vote because they are always on time only this time not, the
Board and Body agreed to let those two chapters to vote.
Correspondence: A finance report was offered to be
heard as to the balance of the Foundation’s funds.
Ontario Chapter offered a statement of protest about the
loan that was granted the Foundation and discussion was
expressed after a letter from the corporate lawyer was handed
out to all of the Chapters.
Presidents Report: Asked all Chapters to help make
ABATE attractive to visitors and outsiders at all meetings
and gatherings by avoiding ugly and undesirable activities in
the hopes of growing our ranks and membership. We are
sometimes the bad PR that is created that people remember
even after all the good we do.
No Vice President to report.
Treasurer’s Report: Deb report handed out by
appointed SAA for this meeting Damian Ruzbaci the full
detail of the treasury. After discussion Onondaga
motioned and Columbia second to accept the treasurer’s
report submitted as all ten Chapters voted to approve
Legislative Coordinator’s Report:
Mike
announced that we have a bill that was signed into law
by the Governor this past week. A3598 and the matching
S97 were completed by the Governor as a law.
Public Relations Coordinator’s Report: No officer.
Committees: Javits /Center show is the 13 to the
15 of December2013 and Brooklyn Chapter states that
they will need $3,000.00 of financial support to attend.
Columbia Chapter motioned and Oswego Chapter
second to have ABATE provide $1,500.00 and
Foundation provide $1,500.00 to Region Coordinator
reports and the
Region Chapters:
The A region had a letter about the recent region meeting
submitted from Pete C.
The C region report was given by Bob C.
The D region Chapters talked about their events.
The E region Chapters talked about their issues.
Sgt. @ Arm’s Report: No Officer
State Office Manager’s Report: The membership
as a whole is not growing by any more than 1%. The
Office Manager needs all of the Chapters to report their
election results with all of the details so the paperwork
can be filled in for the seminar and the updates made.
The Freedom Writer
QUOTABLE QUOTE:
10
“Man is born to live, not to prepare for life.”
Boris Pasternak, Russian author (1890-1960)
The Freedom Writer
Finger Lakes Chapter gets help spreading the word and signing up memberships at Arkport
Cycles fall sale !
ABATE of New York, Inc.State Board Meeting
Binghamton, New YorkNovember 16 2013
The meeting was called to order at 10:04 AM by President
Tom Alton. All stood and gave the pledge to the Flag and a
moment of silence to remember our cared for and lost ones.
Roll call was taken all of the sitting Board members were
present with the exception of the State Secretary and appointed
Region A coordinator. With a quorum being present they
proceeded with business.
Treasurer’s Report: Deb reported that seven Chapters
are not in good standing, Monroe, Albany, Cattaraugus,
Ontario, Orleans, Oswego and Brooklyn Alliance. The loan
payment from the Foundation was received in full and
deposited. The full report was submitted and detailed. Motion
made by Mike, 2nd by Bob to except the Treasurer’s report
#B49-13 Unanimous.
January 2014
The Legislative coordinator took minute notes.
Motion made by Bob, 2nd by Deb to except and waive the
reading of the minutes from the previous meeting, dated
9-15-13. #B48-13 Unanimous.
Legislative Coordinator’s Report: The Governor into law
this past week the Donna A. Lupardo sponsored bill. Motor
vehicle must now inform motorcycle owners about
replacement parts to be determined by committee.
Newsletter Editor’s Report: Tom finished the recent
newsletter late. John R. Reid has requested appointment as
newsletter editor as a volunteer to service. Motion by Tom 2nd
by Mike to appoint him Newsletter Editor at this time,
#B50-13 Unanimous.
State Office Manager’s Report: Our numbers are still flat
totals, but not shrinking
Pete Campanella sent in a Foundation report for
informational purpose.
Motion made by Mike, 2nd by Bob to adjourn the meeting at
12:40 #B51-13 Unanimus.
11
January 2014
The PAC
ABATE Road Riders for Freedom Political Action Committee
What is the PAC?
Corporate law prohibits ABATE of New York Inc. from making political contributions. The PAC is a separate and independent
corporation that is able to make monetary contributions and endorse candidates. It is subject to close scrutiny by the state of New
York.
How is it funded?
There are several ways that the PAC is funded. The first is through dues of the PAC representatives, which is $50 per year. The
PAC would like to have a representative in every county throughout New York State, so if you are interested in representing your
county, contact the address below. The second is through individual donations. The third, and most effective source, is passing the
hat at every chapter, state, and board meeting and at every event. A personal check NOT A CHAPTER CHECK- is the made and
sent out to the PAC.
How is it used?
First, the PAC donates funds to our supporters in Albany. Second, a representative of the PAC attends as many high profile
fundraisers as possible in the Capital area to let legislators know that motorcyclists are politically active the maximum donation at
these events is usually kept around $250 per ticket-. Third, riders should go to local fundraisers in there districts and are
encouraged to ride to these functions, it only takes a half dozen or so motorcycles to be noticed, so be on your best behavior; the
idea is to be seen, speak to your legislator, make a good impression. The PAC will pay for tickets to these fundraisers. All chapter
legislative coordinators are urged to get on the mailing list of all legislators in their chapter’s area. Remember when you attend
these events, you go as an individual motorcyclist, not as an ABATE member.
The PAC is a very effective tool, but only if we use it, and in order
to use it, we must fund it.
To send a donation: ABATE RRF, INC P.O. Box 1155
Riverhead, NY 11901
The Freedom Writer
To request funds:
AJ Travis 631- 369-0729
12
All reimbursements are subject to availability of funds, but any
reasonable request is usually honored. Remember, the money
supply is short in election years.
ATTENTION:
ALL NEWSLETTER MATERIAL SUBMITTED
FOR FUTURE EDITIONS
SHOULD BE SENT TO [email protected]
Chapters remember that you are entitled to
a 1/4 page of every edition of this newsletter.
Blocks of rooms have been reserved
for 1/10 and 1/11.
The Freedom Writer
The ABATE of NY State
Business Seminar
will be held January 10-12, 2014
at the Owego Treadway Inn
& Conference Center
If reserving a room, please inform them
that you will be attending
the ABATE of NY Seminar
and which Chapter you are from.
Owego Treadway Inn
1100 State Route 17C
Owego, NY 13827
Phone: (607) 687-4500
Fax: (607) 687-2546
For more information,
please contact Chris Werder,
State Office Manager, at 888-344-4400
or by email at: [email protected]
January 2014
13
January 2014
Foundation Report:
At the 2013 Seminar in Owego this past year Ben Rabin
and the
Foundation bought the lunch for everyone. Ben has stepped up
as the
single provider for the lunch in 2014. Donated to the
Foundation, this allows
the Foundation to pay the bill and use the tax free option. Last
year this option saved us $200.00 from the cost of the seminar.
We should know that the Foundation has received very
generously from Buffalo-Erie, Orleans, Monroe, Genesee,
Columbia and the past raffle sales from other chapters that have
made up the balance of the treasury of the Foundation.
The Freedom Writer
In the past two Grant cycles from the GTSC the
Foundation has been able to access over $100,000.00 worth of
product and service. None of this 100K was money that was in
the bank, but had to be loaned first so the expense could be
reimbursed and then paid back to the loans.
14
This year Pete, Bruce LePorte and finally ABATE Inc. the
primary made the loans so the products were bought. Other
types of grants are being considered
but few have been found to allow the purchase of the awareness
and the ABATE name together. The term that says “charity
starts at home” is so important for
the Foundation’s finances. When the Foundation is able to find
a bike dealer or company to provide some type of up front item
for raffle, then it can have a
chance to build up an operating fund. This would make available
resources that chapters could request for awareness just like the
PAC provides if we fund it.
ABATE is able to lobby, and so much more with these tools that
we have to work with.
We would like to acknowledge our newest Milestone
Members and thank them for their continued dedication
to the organization.
10 Years:
Charles Lion, Pete Muscara, Nick Emanuele, Sue Emanuele,
Bob Cron, Susan Cron, Jon Anderson, Michele Zimmerman,
Paul Pritchard, Douglas Talmage, Toni Jamieson, Scott
VanDuser,
Paul Rurka
15 Years:
Damian Ruzbacki, Sara Michaels, Kurt Straub, Robert Rotolo,
24 Years:
Glenn Manning, Bill Healey Ron Jinz
26 Years:
Sue Matteson, Pete Campanella
27 Years:
Paul Hermann, Paul Hermann
20 Years:
Gene Raduns, Scott Fentzke, Leon Hall, Deborah DeanSchachner,
Jim Priestley, Nicholas Napolitano
28 Years:
21 Years:
Ken Postle, Joseph Valent, Matthew Valent, Jerry
Croston
Fred Niemann, Cliff Saunders III
22 Years:
Joe Cash, Mike Clerico Barry F Morehouse Sr Steven Brady
23 Years:
Marlene H Trafford, Patrick “Smoothie” McBride, Pam Cox,
Joseph M Giorgio, Debbie Sackel Giorgio, Donald “Corky”
Edwards,
Leonard Palmer, Jean A Saunders
The Freedom Writer
MILESTONE MEMBERS
Fran Abrams, Dale Graff
29 Years:
30 Years:
J.R. Stadler
32 Years:
Gary White, Jerry MacDonald, Bruce E Meyers Jr,
Rick Shaw
33 Years:
Frank Westfall
Our Newest Charter Life
Member: Roy Baker
January 2014
15
January 2014
continued from page six ....
"Motorcyclists not only enjoy riding on American
roads, they also spend billions of dollars touring and
attending rallies," he said. "Reducing motorcycle use
would have a detrimental
Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government
relations and a former U.S. representative and U.S.
senator representing Colorado, praised Walberg for
"asking some tough questions that need to be asked.
"The AMA doesn't understand why the Centers for
Disease Control is involving itself in motorcycling
when it is supposed to be protecting Americans from
diseases," Allard said.
"Motorcycling is not a disease that needs to be
eradicated," he said. "It's a legal form of
transportation and a source of responsible
recreation for millions of Americans nationwide.
"We anxiously await the CDC's answers to Rep.
Walberg's questions," Allard said.
The Freedom Writer
The AMA strongly advocates helmet use but
believes adult helmet use should be voluntary.
Simply put, mandatory helmet laws do nothing to
prevent crashes.
16
The AMA supports actions that help riders avoid a crash from
occurring, including voluntary rider education, improved
licensing and testing, and expanded motorist awareness
programs.
To read the AMA position on voluntary helmet use, go to
www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/PositionStatements/
VoluntaryHelmetUse.aspx.
effect on the motorcycle industry, dealer sales, tourism,
associated employment and related tax revenues. As an avid
and experienced motorcycle rider, I believe government should
be in the business of promoting the recreational, economic
and environmental benefits of responsible motorcycle riding not discouraging it."
Governor Cuomo Signs
Assembly A03598 and Senate S00097 are signed into law on
November 13th 2013.
This directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to provide
motorcycle owners
with a notice of the laws regarding unidentifiable motor vehicle
parts.
Thank you Donna Lupardo.
23rd Annual Toy Run
The Freedom Writer
Buffalo-Erie Chapter of ABATE
These are photos of Buffalo Erie ABATE members giving toys to " Children's Hospital of Buffalo New York". The
members in the photos collected and purchased the toys after our 23 annual toy run. The ride may not have been the
largest ever but I don't think the critically ill kids at Childers Hospital cared.
Thought for Today
January 2014
“ A technical objection is the
first refuge of a scoundrel.”
Heywood Broun, American
Journalist (1888-1939)
17
January 2014
Finger Lakes chapter of ABATE helps spread the word !
Arkport Cycles held their fall sale on November 29th &
30th, 2013 at their new location. They asked Finger Lakes
ABATE if they would like to set up a table with applications,
lawn signs and any other new items that we had to give away.
On Friday the table was set up by Michael J. Grasby,
Sr., President of Finger lakes chapter. I was there from 8am to
4pm. During that time I spoke to many people about ABATE
and gave them the different hand outs that the Foundation has
available. One of our other members Bonnie also talked to the
people and signed up one new member. She also got a
promise from two others to look over what ABATE does and
may also join.
They were also open on Saturday from 8am to 4pm.
Michael spent 4 hours there and talked to people at the sale
about membership and handed out more of the items. At
about noon, I had run out of many items and shut down the
table after inviting about 10 or 15 people to attend our next
meeting and if they felt good about it they would join. During
the time that I was there I was able to take a few pictures of the
items on the table and the wall behind the table.
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WITH YOUR BRO LJ JAMES
& PREACHER CHUCK D
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Online Advertising
Council Member Vallone Letter about Proposed Revision to
the New York City Air Pollution Control Code
I am writing in regard to a proposed revision to the New York
City Air Pollution
Control Code, which stated that any motorcycle manufactured
in the year 2013 or
thereafter shall display a required emission label on the exhaust
system.
I am pleased to inform you that because of our combined
efforts the
Administration’s request to include this provision has been
dropped. At the most
recent hearing on November 21st, the Commissioner of the
DEP recognized my point
that emission labels do not accurately control emissions and
enforcing this
provision would be nearly impossible without potentially
causing damage to our
motorcycles or subjecting them to towing because of confusion.
It is because of our strong opposition and advocacy that this
provision was
removed and I would like to thank you for the support.
Very Truly Yours,
PETER F. VALLONE JR
December 13 - 15 New York City
Progressive International Motorcycle Show
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
655 W. 34th Street
New York, New York 10001
http://www.motorcycleshows.com/new-york
December 14
Lewis County Chapter of ABATE Christmas Party
Additional information TBA
December 14 Sodus, NY
December 14
Long Island Chapter of ABATE - Holiday Party at the Red
River Inn.
Party starts at 7pm (more info to follow)
January 10 - 12 Owego, NY
ABATE of New York - Business Seminar
Owego Treadway Inn, 1100 State Route 17C, Owego, NY
13827
The Freedom Writer
ABATE of NY Events
For more information, please contact Chris Werder, State
Office Manager, at 888-344-4400
or by email at: [email protected]
Wayne County of ABATE - Holiday
Christmas Party
The Party will be at The Alley Sports Bar,
6742 Maple Ave. (just off Route 104) Sodus,
NY
There will be a short meeting at 6:00pm
before the party. Note, no Sunday meeting.
Send your events to John Cholewa, type the information and send a flyer if you have one.
E-MAIL EVENTS TO: [email protected]
For the latest, most up to date version of the calendar, go to our web page: www.abateny.org/events.htm
January 2014
19
January 2014
YO U C A N R E A D T H E S TAT E N E W S L E T T E R O N L I N E !
You can download your ABATE of NY Freedom Writer from our website
instead of receiving the printed version. Give your name and email address to the state office manager,
Chris at: [email protected]. You will receive an email letting you know when the state newsletter is available online.
Trouble seeing a pdf? Update your Adobe Acrobat Reader FREE http://get.adobe.com/reader/
ABATE of New York, Inc. - Membership Application
ABATE of New York State Office • P.O. Box 167 • Walker Valley, NY 12588 • 1-888-344-4400
ARE YOU MOVING? Bulk Mail is not forwarded; please update your address.
Mail to: ABATE of New York, Inc. • P.O. Box 167 • Walker Valley, NY 12588
Name:_________________________________________________________________ Member #:_______________________________________
The Freedom Writer
Chapter:_________________________________________
20
Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ______________________________________________________________ State:____________________ Zip:________________________
Date this new address is to take effect:_____________________________________________________________________________________
Phone:________________________________Fax:________________________________ Email:_______________________________________
Other members in the household who will need to be updated:
Name:_________________________________________________________________ Member #:_______________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The Life Membership Program consists of a one time payment based on
the number of years the member has in the organization. Beginning with their
25th year, they are automatically a Charter Life Member and dues are waived.
0 - 5 yrs Membership
6 - 10 yrs Membership
11 - 15 yrs Membership
$400
$300
$200
In addition to all benefits
of a full member,
the Life Member will receive:
• A Life Member patch
• A distinctive Life Member card
• Yearly pins
The Freedom Writer
ABATE of NY, Inc. Life Membership Program
Forever Members
You can shed tears because they are gone, or you can smile because they lived.
Chris Allen
Stan Bach
Donald Blasko
Dorothy Falt
Tom Fleming
Brenda Force
Dick Fulton
Victor Green
Michelle Hall
Martin Hourihan
Edmund “Eddy” George Keyes
Frank Martorana
Gary P. Myers
Terry ‘Doc’ O’Rourke
Brian Paschen
Chris Peek
Barbara Rancourt
Robert Ritchie
Walt Rutski
Angie Shufelt
Robert Shuster
Martha Strouse
Robert Taylor
John V, ‘Jack’ Wrigley
ABATE of NY Forever Members
January 2014
The ABATE of NY State Board is honored to present another level
of membership, designed to memorialize members passed.
The ABATE of New York Forever Member will be memorialized
through a unique card and memorial certificate, and continuing
annual ABATE of New York pins. Forever Members’ names
will be published in a special section of every subsequent issue
of The Freedom Writer and on the ABATE of New York website.
The card and certificate are meant for the memorializing party to treasure,
pins perhaps to be saved or placed at the grave, and the publication
so all remember. Forever Membership has been established at a one-time
cost of $100, and eligibility is limited to those who were
members of ABATE of New York at time of death.
For further information, or to memorialize an ABATE of New York member
through Forever Membership, please contact the State Office Manager
at 888-344-4400, or [email protected]
21
January 2014
Advertiser Index
Freedom Writer Advertising Form
Page
1-800-HURT-911
24
American Harley-Davidson, Inc.16
Date:_______________________ AMSOIL Dealer
6
Email:_____________________________________ Web page:______________________________________
Bad Pig Saloon
10
Business Name:_____________________________ Your Name:_____________________________________
Brunswick Harley-Davidson, Inc. 19
Street:_____________________________________ Phone:__________________________________________
Eagle Beverage Co.
Extreme Biker Leather
5
14
Falcon Designs • Bullet Jewelry22
Geneva Harley-Davidson
21
Gowanda Harley-Davidson
16
Hardtails Magazine
12
City:_______________________________________ State:________________________ Zip:_______________
JANUARY
8
Harley-Davidson of Utica
10
Haymond Law Firm
7
Iron Block Harley-Davidson, Inc.14
____ Full Page
9” x 10”
____ Half Page
9” x 4.95”
$1,000
____ Full Page
9” x 10”
$500
____ Half Page
9” x 4.95”
$260
JJ Cycle
6
____ Eighth Page
$140
16
Kantor & Godwin
9
Mid-State Trikes
18
Niagara Falls H.O.G.
12
Proner & Proner
2
Road Hazard
13
Ronnie’s Motor Sports, Inc.
14
Seeber’s Tavern
16
Stan’s Harley-Davidson
4
Staten Island Harley-Davidson 6
Stone’s Snow Sled
14
Woodstock Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4
Support those
who support us
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
SINGLE ISSUE ADVERTISING
____ Quarter Page 4.48” x 4.95”
The Biker Low-Down Radio Show18
The Freedom Writer
FULL YEAR ADVERTISING - 6 ISSUES
4
Joe’s Cycle Repair
JULY
** Extra charge applies for front or back inside cover placement.
All Advertising, Including Renewals - Must Be Prepaid.
Ithaca Harley-Davidson
Lighthouse Harley-Davidson, Inc. 5
22
MAY
NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING RATES
Harley-Davidson of Jamestown 4
Harley-Davidson of Suffolk
MARCH
4.48” x 2.45”
____ Business Card
$170
$85
How Many Issues: ________
$120
Please supply your ad, with this form. Business Card Sponsors can supply a business card or similar
size ad. If you do not have a suitable ad, we can prepare one for you. Just supply us with the ad text
and any graphics. Print clearly or type all ad text. ABATE of New York, Inc. reserves the right to refuse
any advertisement that is not in the best interest of our organization. We also reserve the right to change
our advertising rates without notice.
Circulation 3500 per issue.
DISCOUNTS
____ ABATE of New York Sponsored Events
FREE
____ Non-ABATE of New York Sponsored Events
$102 for Full Page / $51 for Half Page
PLEASE REMIT YOUR PAYMENT WITH YOUR ADVERTISEMENT
Make Checks Payable to:
ABATE of New York, Inc.
223 Lincoln Street
Wayland, NY 14572-1417
Freedom Writer Advertising Manager
Michael Grasby • Email: [email protected]
Phone: 585-728-5246 • Cell: 585-739-4797
d
v
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r
t
i
s
e
m
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n
t
motorcyclist news & Items, observations and
viewpoints from a legal
riding perspective
GAZETTE
WE Couldn’T
HElp noTICInG
Insurance companies head for
court more frequently.
Seemingly straightforward claims are
denied or disputed more often, with
injured riders forced to turn to legal
representation. We couldn’t help noticing
because while it’s admittedly good for our
business, it burdens the injured and the
court system.
A recent case was so obtuse the insurer
seemed to think paying for the injured
bike was sufficient and their obligation
did not extend to its badly injured rider.
He had extensive surgery and four metal
screws inserted into his spine.
Apparently opposing counsel needed
to see the full case preparation to realize
they’d best settle out of court—for consi­
derably more than they bargained for.
It still struck us odd that they contem­
plated even going to jury. Actuarial tables
don’t predict folks will just roll over or
that they dislike lawyers so much they’ll
resort to self­representation, we hope.
“Motorcycle Abortion Law”
Motorcycling’s image took a sideways hit
with the NC legislature sneaking abortion
restrictions onto a motorcycle safety bill.
Bad law­making with a bad tag attached.
Vol. 1 Issue 1
Tooling around downtown Manhattan we
saw this art bike in a gift shop near the 9/11
Memorial Fountains. NFS, in case you were
wondering.
KENDO
STROKE
It doesn’t occur often,
but an exposed and
unguarded opponent must
be dispatched decisively.
It’s called Summary Judgment.
A judge makes the ruling from the
bench and it’s lights out for the oppo­
sition’s case.
A lawyer’s got to present irrefutable
cause to influence a judge to make this
preemptive decision. Summary judgment
starts the clock ticking—with interest—
on the jury award, compelling the opposi­
tion to reach a speedy resolution.
That sword of justice can be swift when
wielded by an experienced, skilled hand.
Mike
Chris Matt
Singer Galiardo Myers
nICEr THAn
FlIppInG THE
BIrd, BuT STIll
Doubtful the DMV approves of the
“Plate Flipper”
Dash­activated 007 gizmo reveals a custom
message beneath license plate. Our amuse­
ment in no way implies endorsement.
pullover Attitude Factor
Let one thought occupy you when pulled
over: cooperation. Anything else or any­
thing less can set an entirely different
encounter into motion. No one’s exempt
from a bad day—avoid making bad worse.
The Freedom Writer
a
Myers Singer
& Galiardo, LLP
299 Broadway, NYC
212-986-5900
The legal team of
Myers, Singer and
Galiardo represents
individuals.
Where individual
rights and freedom
are at stake we take
it very personally.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Police Misconduct
Criminal Defense
January 2014
“Objection!”
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January 2014
HURT in an Accident? Find out your rights, FAST!
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NEW YORK
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Esq.
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©2003 1-800-HURT-911, Inc. 1-800-HURT-911® is a registered trademark owned by Philip L. Franckel, Esq.