August 2012

MEMBERSHIP FEES ARE DUE
Inside this issue:
Cinco de Mayo Event
2
Bill Boards
3
No Colors Welcome
4
Letter to the Governor
5
SNMMRO Update
6
CNMMRO Update
6
Membership Form
6
Hand Signals
6
Entitlement?
7
NM Traffic Fatalities
7
MRF
8
NCOM
9
Truths in Math
10
Grunt Award
10
Calendar of Events
10
Dan Sorey
11
THE NMMRO BOARD:
Chairman…………...Annette Torrez
Vice Chairman.....Courtney Farris
Secretary…………Stephanie Lenox
Treasurer……RockHell Thompson
Sgt at Arms……...Todd Thompson
Editor………….…………….Bev Covert
Webmaster…RockHell Thompson
Public Relations Matthew DeVolder
Org. Liaison…………..Patrick Sierra
CNMMRO……….……….Dave Covert
SNMMRO……..….Todd Thompson
MEETING SCHEDULE:
NMMRO Monthly Meetings:
American Legion Post 49
11005 Central Ave NE Abq., NM
Aug 18 - 12:00 pm
Sept 12- 12:00 pm
CNMMRO Monthly Meetings:
Sept 4 - 7:00 pm
Smokehouse BBQ
Hwy 528 & Barbara Lp. in Rio Rancho
Chairpersons Letter…
New Mexico's Traffic Fatality Analysis has
reported 22 motorcycle fatalities in our state
for 2012 thus far, 48 in 2011, and 40 in 2010.
Deadly motorcycle crashes or crashes with
injuries to the motorcyclist have become all
too familiar on New Mexico Highways.
Recently, Channel 13 KRQE got a hold of
these statics and started discussing the
possibility of a helmet bill, which really
concerns me. They went as far as contacting
legislators by phone and asking their opinion
on a mandatory helmet bill in New Mexico
for the 2013 legislative session; they
followed up with a story on recent
motorcycle crashes and fatalities and the
need for a helmet law in New Mexico. We
need to stand strong and united to make
sure the rights of motorcyclist are protected.
I refuse to standby and allow government to
rule our freedoms and regulate what a
motorcyclist should wear. I don't want Big
Brother pushing a mandatory helmet law in
our state. New Mexico should remain a state
where the rider still has the choice whether
to wear a helmet or not. Statistics can be
misleading and not all key factors are always
taken into account. Even a careful rider
cannot control when a car might pull out in
front of them. Instead of spending our time
on fighting mandatory helmet laws, I would
like to see more emphasis on educational
campaigns such as Sharing the Road, and
Drive Aware, Ride with Care, and promoting
laws that will hold those who kill or injure a
motorcyclist on our highways accountable
for their actions. I feel our community needs
to start creating, implementing, organizing
and producing our own STATS based on
accurate, trustworthy, factual information.
We must continue to promote safety
awareness to all who share the road and
remind drivers to pay attention and look out
for motorcycles. We suggest that all riders
take a motorcycle safety training course to
enhance their rider skills, which even an
Volume 4, Issue 1
August 2012
experienced rider can benefit from. Riders
must be aware of their surroundings at all
times, obey the laws of the road, obey the
speed limit, and don't drink and ride. We are
losing too many motorcyclists in our state, it
is time we turn this trend around through
awareness and become responsible riders
on our part. Thank you to Representative
Rick Miera who stepped in from a last
minute call to be a part of the TV interview
in support of motorcyclists and against
mandatory helmet laws. Many are not
aware Representative Miera got his start in
government in the 1970's fighting and
repealing helmet laws in our state and has
continued to be an avid supporter of the
motorcycle community.
Steve Stucker, fellow motorcyclist and
morning news weatherman, recently
emailed us on this subject. Steve says "The
media sees all these accidents, and because
of misunderstanding the subject, tends to
ask the wrong questions". Steve feels that
instead of asking if we need a helmet law,
they should be asking "Are there actually
more accidents than before, & if so, why?"...
And "Would a helmet law have saved a
life...OR prevented this accident?" Steve
thinks we need to continue to work at
establishing better relationships with the
press, so they look to us for comments on
these types of stories. He also suggested
checking stats with insurance companies &
the MVD, to show that one of the real
reasons for more accidents and deaths is
that there are simply many MORE riders
than ever before. He feels this will help us in
the long run, by making other drivers aware
that there are more Bikers than ever before.
He strongly agrees with a push for better
awareness of drivers in other vehicles, and
the need to focus on them respecting our
space and presence. Steve also believes it is
OUR responsibility to Apply Peer Pressure to
those motorcyclists who ride unsafely. I
2
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
agree with Steve when I promote safety awareness, I hear so many times from those who share the road with us that many
motorcyclists do not ride responsibly and obey the laws of the road. We must remember the actions of those who abuse the
speed limit, weave in and out of traffic and flee from the police have an effect on a whole motorcycle community and then all
riders are viewed as irresponsible by the public. We as motorcyclist must also act responsible, safety must start in our own
community so others will follow our lead.
The burning question on the mind of many is who Dan Sorey, JusiceForRiders.com is. Well, Dan Sorey is friend and ally to the
motorcycle community. He is an attorney who represents riders in New Mexico, Texas and Arkansas. He helped sponsor our
May safety awareness event with $5000.00 to make our event a success. He purchased hundreds of bandanas to help the
NMMRO promote our White Bandana Campaign and promote safety awareness in our state. He has already advised and
helped motorcyclists in our state and community. He is also the person who paid for the billboard on I-40 near Jefferson South
bound helping the NMMRO to promote motorcycle safety awareness. The billboard was recently the subject of a controversial
feature by a local TV station. The billboard featured a topless woman covering her breast and wearing a helmet. The billboard
was not meant to offend or be disrespectful, only to make an impact and bring attention to motorcycle safety awareness. I
actually think the controversy and media coverage helped bring more awareness to motorcyclists in our state and may actually
help us save lives. This billboard is a series of 5 or 6 to follow throughout the Metro area. Thank you to Attorney Dan Sorey for
his support to our state in motorcycle safety awareness. 2012 has proven to be a dangerous year for motorcyclists on our
freeways, several NMMRO officers along with me have tried to gather information as accidents occur and actually go to the
hospital and support the victims and their families after the accident has occurred. I want each and every one of you to know
that you can contact me at anytime with concerns, issues or questions. If an accident occurs please notify me so we can be of
assistance to you and your family 505-730-0435. The NMMRO has gone through some difficult times in the recent months,
thank you all for your trust and continued support to your organization and the purpose we serve. Remember together we can
accomplish the possible and the impossible. Ride Safe.
With Respect and Loyalty always Annette 
Cinco de Mayo Safety Awareness Event: HUGE SUCCESS…
On May 5th the NMMRO hosted the first annual safety
This
awareness event at the Balloon Fiesta Park.
event included a bike & car show and activities promoting
safety awareness to all who share the road. We estimate
that there were a thousand to fifteen hundred people in
attendance, possibly more. It was unbelievable; we filled the
park with 135 custom bikes, cars and trucks as entries for
the show and hosted a car hop.
Thank you to our sponsors: Attorney Dan Sorey, The NM
Department of Transportation, Thunderbird Harley Davidson
Dealership, MADD, The Confederation of Clubs, The Mz
Behavin Divas, The Rollerz Only Car Club and the Duke City
Wheelman.
Thank you to all who supported, attended and assisted in
the preparation and cleaning up at the end of the day. The
NM DOT officials were there giving out information and in
support; before they left they shared with us, how
impressed they were with the NMMRO and our event and
all our efforts in promoting safety awareness. They also said
the success of this event will help in obtaining assistance for
next year.
Also thank you to NM DOT for the electronic road signs
placed near the event on I-40 promoting SHARE THE ROAD
during the event;
Thank you to APD Bat Mobile, Commander Eric Garcia and
his 10 to 15 APD officers who were there to assist; also
thank you to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, APD
Motorcycle Officers and ThunderBird Harley Davidson Riders
Edge for their motorcycle safety demonstrations throughout
the whole event, and to the Duke City Wheelman from the
bicycle community for the children’s bicycle safety
demonstrations. Our goal was to reach as many people as
possible and ask them to look out for motorcycles, bicycles
and pedestrians and in turn save lives and prevent injuries on
our roadways and highways.
While there are so many to thank, there were some
people we need to thank personally for their assistance and
support, if I forget anyone please forgive.
The NMMRO board members and membership; Event
committee: Jason Sedillo, Desert Posse Allan, Viking &
RockHell, Tigger, Diva Kat, China, Wicked, Lorraine Tapia,
Bandido Pat and Marcus; Attorney Dan Sorey; NM DOT; David
Lapington; ThunderBird H-D employees: Karen, Leanne &
Mike; MADD: Dolly Otero; NM Motorcycle Safety Foundation:
David Smith; Confederation of Clubs & all the Motorcycle
Clubs for their participation; Defenders Program; Mz
Behavin Divas; NM MRF assistant Rep; Diva Kat;
SinfullDollz China for obtaining Drums; SinfullDollz Wicked for
the awesome painting she personally painted and donated for
the raffle; CNMMRO: Dave, Bev & Rod; ABATE Red Rocks
Chapter: Jim & Barbara; Representative Rick Miera; Steve
Stucker and to Channel 4 for covering the event; Tanya Griego
and the Tanya Griego Band; Jennifer, Tigger Anthony Cordova
and the Rollerz Only Car Club. Tigger you were God sent
Thank you so so much; Southwest Monster Trucks; My son
Chris Aragon, his girlfriend Nicole, her family and his friend
Bubba for judging the show; Tony Lopez and ShadowRider
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
3
Cinco de Mayo cont …
Ron for judging the bikes; Wind and Fire MC; All the vendors who participated; The Freedom Riders; The ShadowRiders MC;
Legion Riders Chapter One, Yancy; Black Beret Graywolf and the Black Berets MC for all their help and for our Sound
System; To Black Beret KickStand for the Print donation; Bikerboyz MC for loan of equipment for our EMS tent and for
staying to help clean up; United Blood Services; Handle Bars Magazines for your support coverage in magazine and help
with making the T-shirt Logos; To all the Car Clubs; The Fire Marshall Office; Albuquerque City officials; The Balloon Fiesta
Park Employees; Pro Plus Security
What Bill Boards? …
There has been a lot of controversy surrounding some Bill
Boards that are popping up around Albuquerque, it seems
that we are offending some and saving the lives of others.
Attorney Dan Sorey very generously paid for the Bill Boards
that are in the spot light. His intention is to bring awareness
to NM drivers that Motorcycles are on the roads and to save
lives, not to offend; my thoughts are “whatever works!” The
NMMRO Board of Directors received some emails from unhappy travelers; they have been included for your reading
pleasure. The names have been removed to protect their
privacy. It seems that the correspondence stopped as
quickly as it started.
NMMRO Board Members, Jun 13, 2012 at 6:21 AM
I am writing to you to discuss the content on the "watch for
motorcycles" ad on I-25 and Jefferson. I was very surprised
yesterday to drive down the freeway and see a topless
woman covering some of her breasts on a billboard.
Although I completely agree with the message your
organization is trying to promote, I feel that using a topless
woman to get the message across is inappropriate and
absurd. As a father I am appalled to see this content on a
public billboard located in an area where my children can
view it. I am asking that the offensive ad be taken down as
soon
as possible.
Your consideration in this matter is greatly
Annette
Torrez 
appreciated.
heart. My idea for an ad would be to either give statistics of
fatal accidents in the last year in NM or then say someone’s
dad, mom, brother, sister; son or daughter didn't make it
home because someone didn't see a motorcycle. The other
idea would be to list the names of victims (with family
permission) of motorcycle accidents with a similar message of
they didn't make it home to their families because someone
didn't see a motorcycle. I know that this is a very shocking
idea and may be too painful for some to do but it may be
what we need in NM to get people to stop texting, talking on
the phone, and basically doing everything but driving when
they are behind the wheel. Once again thank you for getting
back to me so quickly and I do wish you great success on
getting drivers to be more aware of motorcycles. Ride safe.
Dear Annette Torrez, Jun 14, 2012 at 5:26 PM
I appreciate the fact that your organization wants to bring
motorcycle safety awareness to the Albuquerque area. I think
motorcycle safety is very important especially in our city
where so many accidents and fatalities occur. The billboard
currently in use along 1-25 and Jefferson does nothing for
your organization except give passer by's the impression that
this organization is trashy. Obviously this is the wrong
impression but unfortunately when pornography is used in
any advertisement the real message is lost. I bet your
organization can come up with something better to clean up
the trashy image presented to the drivers of Albuquerque. I
personally do not appreciate driving by pornography on a
daily basis with my two small boys in tow. With all due
respect, please take the ad down. I will be writing to the
owner of the billboard company and ask him why he is
peddling pornography to small children, perhaps he is a
pedophile? Thank you so much and I will be keeping a safe
eye out for all my fellow drivers including motorcyclists,
Hey Annette-June 13, 2012 1:17 PM
See your group is helping sponsor this billboard off I-25 with
the topless woman covering her breast. Although I think it’s
a great ad, we’ve had some callers who aren’t so keen on it.
“More of a distraction than anything else”…”Too provocative
etc.” Can you give me a call on my cell? We might do a story
on it and would love to do a local interview; keeping in mind
of course the point behind the ad is to raise awareness about
To all members: Jun 15, 2012 at 5:47 PM
riders.
It is too bad that your group has to use woman as dirty sex
objects. Your billboard will not make me respect motorcycle
Annette, June 14, 2012 1:51 PM
Thank you for getting back to me. I truly hope that drivers riders more. Nobody wants bike riders to be injured but I
will start to pay more attention to motorcycles as well. I do don't understand how having this disgusting sign up for
have an idea that may be very impactful for future ad women and children to see will help. My husband used to ride
campaigns about motorcycle awareness that I would like to and subscribes to two motorcycle magazines. I went riding
share with you. I have several family members and close with him a few times before our age and health caught up
friends who are riders and so this topic is very close to my with us. I am not anti motorcyclist but I am against using
4
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
NO-COLORS Welcome …
Establishments as reported by NMMRO members who:
 Welcome Bikers and provide friendly service or
Do not allow Colors or have refused service to a Motorcyclist.


High Noon Restaurant
Leo’s Nightclub
Billy’s Long Bar
Santa Ana Casino
Burts Tikki Lounge
Silva’s in Bernalillo
Cottonwood Mall
Slate Street – Rio Rancho
Hard Rock Casino
Stone Face Tavern
Horse & Angel Tavern
T.D.'s Showclub
KnuckleHeads (Bar & Grill ABQ)
The Library Bar and Grill (downtown)
Los Ojos Locos
Twin Peaks Bar and Grill
Ned’s on the Rio Grande
Uptown Sports Bar
Bill Boards cont…
women this way. Cycle World and
Motorcyclist also display these ads.
Motorcycle groups will be more
discriminated against by people when
they portray themselves as slime balls.
Using women to arouse men to promote
motorcycle safety doesn't make much
sense. Women should not be used! This
type of ad makes motorcycle clubs seem
primitive and full of uneducated people,
which is not true. Why must motorcycle
people use negative images of women to
get their point across? If you want to get
people's attention, show a dying rider on
the billboard. It would not be appropriate
either, but it would make more sense.
Women are more than just T and A, but
not according to your organization.
Lovington, NM 
Sandia Casino
This list will be updated and published in every newsletter.
Please email Annette Torrez with new submissions or resolutions
[email protected]
The NMMRO would like to recognize Biker Friendly establishments, please take
the time to report those businesses that appreciate your business.
Please take a moment to view channel 7 news clip regarding the safety
awareness billboard sponsored and paid for by Attorney Dan Sorey, which
has our NMMRO Website on it was approved by the NMMRO board) causing a
stir in New Mexico. I think it is great we are getting the attention of the people
to look out for motorcycles.
http://www.koat.com/news/new-mexico/albuquerque/Motorcycle-Billboard//9153728/14818078/-/10le03x/-/index.html#.T9l2K6I0ZOw.email
Founded by a mother whose daughter was
killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against
Drunk Driving® (MADD) is the nation’s
largest nonprofit working to protect
families from drunk driving and underage
drinking. With the help of those who want
a safer future, MADD’s Campaign to
Eliminate Drunk Driving® will end this
danger on America’s roads. PowerTalk 21™
is the national day for parents to talk with
their kids about alcohol, using the proven
strategies of Power of Parents, It’s Your
Influence™ to reduce the risk of underage
drinking. And as one of the largest victim
services organizations in the U.S., MADD
also supports drunk driving victims and
survivors at no charge, serving one person
every 8 minutes at 1-877-MADD-HELP.
Learn more at www.madd.org or in NM
call (505)255-2955.
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Watch for new arrivals…
5
Letter to Governor Martinez…
What would you do if someone you knew, your father,
brother, son, friend, who was a motorcyclist, was killed
when a semi truck ran him over? You would be
mortified, heartbroken, angry, and wanting justice to be
served on the truck driver. Now, how do you suppose you
would feel if said truck driver got a slap on the wrist,
placed on an ankle bracelet and set free to return to his
home in California? Justice didn't seem to be served, in
your opinion. In fact, a stiffer penalty was given to a man
who shot up an EMPTY speed van!
Did you know that since the beginning of 2012 that at least
TWO motorcyclists PER WEEK have been killed on New
Mexico roads? The justice system in this state stinks, to be
honest. Almost daily we are still hearing about corruption
and people such as this truck driver being let go when he
SHOULD be in jail.
I'm not a motorcyclist, but my husband is and so are a
great number of our friends and family. They are from
every walk of life and occupation and all of them enjoy a
common bond - the freedom of riding in the wide open
spaces, feeling the wind in their hair, so to speak. It is a
freedom that is unparalleled. Something needs to be done
to make our roads safer for them. Bike Day at the Capitol
each year is meant to bring awareness to incidents such as
the one mentioned above, but are you listening? Is this
Bike Day a waste of time?
The person mentioned in the semi/motorcycle accident
died at around 7:00 a.m. on April 22, 2012 on I-40 between
Moriarty and Edgewood. His name was John Hamilton. The
truck driver was seen trying to pull the body from beneath
the truck as well as pull the mangled motorcycle out from
under the front bumper and wheel. John's Black Berets
club brothers, friends and especially his family are still
mourning this devastating loss.
So, Governor Martinez, what are YOU going to do about
these types of tragedies? You are supposed to be a servant
of the people of New Mexico. I hold you accountable and
expect you to step up and do what is right!. Laws
protecting motorcyclists need to be stiffened, and I'm not
talking about a stupid law requiring helmets. It seems
that's the first thing that the news media always reports in
these accidents, that the rider wasn't wearing a helmet.
That was reported, erroneously, in John's accident, too.
Helmets, which John always wore, can't and won't provide
any protection against a semi weighing thousands and
thousands of pounds running you over, literally! Wearing a
helmet needs to remain the choice of the rider.
Cordially,
Donna Little
Wife of Black Berets member Grumpy Jim
6
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
SNMMRO Update…
On June 2, 2012, the first stand alone SNMMRO meeting was
held in Roswell. Attendance was about 20. We discussed the
recent wrecks involving motorcycles with no new wrecks
reported in the Roswell area. I reported on the Cinco de Mayo,
Sharing the Road event in Albuquerque was received very good
positive feedback. There are no new events from any of the
clubs in the Roswell area. The White Bandana program was
explained to those attending the meeting and white bandanas
were given to those attending. Many took some for those not
present. SCOC Chairman, Bryant Dunlap reported a few items
of interest. The new nightclub, The Complex, will be opening
soon and has a "No Colors" policy. Bryant and I will try to talk
with the owner/operator of the Complex to attempt to change
their minds. Also, the SCOC meeting will be held at Quarters in
Ruidoso on June 10, 2012. Nothing else to report from the
SCOC. I will be travelling to the SCOC meeting on the 10th.
SNMMRO SA Loki advised nothing new to report involving the
motorcycle community in Roswell.
On June 9, 2012 it was reported the SCOC meeting in Ruidoso
has been cancelled due to the Little Bear Fire in the Lincoln
National Forrest. It will be rescheduled for the 2nd week of July.
I travelled to Roswell on the 10th-11th to meet with SCOC
Chairman Bryant Dunlap regarding the "No Colors Policy" at the
Complex. I met with one of the co-owners around noon on the
10th and discussed the policy. She was advised that bikers
police themselves and there should not be any problems,
should they decide to change the policy. She said she would
discuss it with her husband and fellow co-owner and possibly
hold a "Bike Night" to see if there would be any potential
problems. I advised Mr. Dunlap who appreciated the door
being opened. He promised to follow up.
Todd "Viking" Thompson
SA NMMRO
Chairman SNMMRO
CNMMRO Update…
The CNMMRO held its most recent monthly meeting on July
th
10 Items discussed were:
• CNMMRO hosting a Benefit Run
• Nomination Results:
Dave C– Chairman, Steve – Vice Chairman, Rod –
Treasurer/Secretary, Dave S – Sgt at Arms.
• Motorcycle Awareness Bill Boards – They have created a
controversy
• Participation in the MAP Program without being a member,
it was discussed and decided that this would be OK provided
we maintain control over MAP and they uphold the integrity
of the CNMMRO.
CNMMRO meetings are held at 7 pm on the first Tuesday of
each month at the Smokehouse BBQ, Hwy 528 & Barbara Loop
in Rio Rancho and are open to everyone. Our upcoming
th
meeting will be held on Tuesday Sept 4
NMMRO Membership
Single Membership
$20.00
Couples Membership
$30.00
Corporate Membership
Renewals:
$100.00
Single
$15.00
Couple
$20.00
Please send info & checks to:
NMMRO
PO Box 27673
Albuquerque NM 87125-7673
--------------------------------------------------Name:_________________________
Address:_______________________
______________________________
(City, State and Zip Code)
E-mail: ________________________
Phone Number: _________________
Are you a registered voter? ________
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Entitlement is the new buzz word…
7
NM Traffic Fatality Statistics…
The following is the opinion of the author and not necessarily the
opinion of the NMMRO:
I see that the majority of the past two generations are not being
educated, motivated, inspired or given opportunities to learn
about and look up to our Government. Our Government is NOT
respected anymore and those "inside" are tainted, dishonest,
corrupt, and greedy. The American people have become "puppets"
who are used, manipulated and abused by those that use to be
honored, respected, and revered as "representatives and/or
ambassadors of the USA.
Then self interest groups, businesses, and organizations came to
offer "contributions, gifts, under the table deals, and promises" for
consideration, perks, and/or favoritism. Our elected officials
(which was suppose to be a "service to your community" was now
being "bought off". Their greed, self-serving, egotistical, selfish,
dishonest, above the law attitude has created the apathy and
acceptance to mediocrity, transgressions, abuses of power and a
total disregard to the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Our Flag. This
is NOT a Democrat or Republican issue. Those two parties have
Founded
a mother whose
was killed
a drunk
Mothers
become
veryby distorted
and daughter
overlapping.
It by
feels
likedriver,
religion
in aAgainst Drunk Driving® (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to
protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking. With the help of those who want a safer future, MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk
sense.
You
have
the
orthodox
(right
wing)
believer.
Then
the
Driving® will end this danger on America’s roads. PowerTalk 21™ is the national day for parents to talk with their kids about alcohol, using the proven
conservative
(middle
road)
believer.
And
lastly
the
reformed
strategies of Power of Parents, It’s Your Influence™ to reduce the risk of underage drinking. And as one of the largest victim services organizations in the
U.S., MADD also supports drunk driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every 8 minutes at 1-877-MADD-HELP. Learn more
(liberals).
at www.madd.org or in NM call (505)255-2955.
The Republic has become entrenched with political correctness
and trying to serve everyone's needs and beliefs at the costs of
throwing out the fundamental principles and reasons WHY this
Country was established. We are a police state and country
without most of the population knowing it. We have rewritten
history and convoluted our definitions of Rights, Liberties and
Freedoms so much that the majority of our children and their
children do not even know the fundamental principles or
foundation of The United States of America. We are too busy
trying to make "everyone happy and content" that we are losing
OUR identity and uniqueness.
No respect. No convictions. Little involvement. Mostly apathetic.
Dependent. And the majority doesn’t even register to vote or
actually vote. They are lambs who are lead by leaders who say one
thing and do another. No honor, morals, values, or integrity. In
fact, Americans today state that they do nothing because nothing
will change.
Entitlement is the new buzz word. Give them what they want, not
what they need. Government will take care if you and make it easy. All you have to do is stay down, do nothing, be quiet and live
off programs that were meant to be temporary solutions. We have become lazy, self absorbed, selfish, and accepting of "less
than, mediocre, average". No accountability to our Politicians, Media, Government Agencies, Banks, Wall Street, Big Business,
etc. NONE! We are too busy just making a living and staying one paycheck away from being homeless.
Love and Respects,
Kat Grover,
President MMMC, AZ, ACMC BOD, ACMC Webmaster & Spokesman Editor,
AZ US Defender Lieutenant Commander, MRF Member & AZ Asst Rep,
MMA Board member & Secretary-Casa Grande, Co-founder AMMCP,
Abate-Vice-Coordinator Phoenix/Shadow Mountain, AMA Member, MMAA Member
8
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Meeting of the Minds 2012
The annual Meeting of the Minds is closer than you think. The dates seem early; but it is still the 4th weekend in September.
This year those dates are September 20-23.
Concerned Bikers Association/ABATE of North Carolina (CBA/ABATE) will be our hosts for this year's conference. We will be in
Durham, NC at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel. For those not familiar with Durham, they share an airport with Raleigh. Our rate
for the Conference is $99.00 per night. Be sure to mention the Meeting of the Minds to get our rate. You must make your
reservations no later than August 19th to take advantage of the discounted rate. Shuttle service is available to and from the
airport to the hotel.
August 19th is also the pre-registration deadline for the Conference. Members pay only $70.00 registration fee; for nonmembers it is $80.00. On August 20th, the registration fees go up by $10.00 for both members and non-members. Preregistering is easy. Simply log on to www.mrf.org, click on 2012 Conference Information. A secure link for registration is right
on the page. You will also find a link to make your hotel reservation. If you prefer to pay by check you may send you check to
the DC office: 236 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Suite 204, Washington, DC 20002. To get the pre-registration rate the envelope
must be postmarked no later than August 19th.
The Conference begins on Thursday evening at 7:00PM with the Meet and Greet. This is one of the most important events at
any conference. This is where we find out who is in attendance and what issues they are facing at home. It gives us an answer
to the question "Who do I need to talk to this weekend?"
Again this year, we have a variety of topics to cover in the General Sessions as well as the offered workshops. We will be doing
a panel discussion of what challenges different parts of the country are facing; and how to help each other. Our individual
workshops will cover topics ranging from attracting younger (read that sport bike) riders to leadership to an analysis of the
CDC statements on motorcycle safety.
Another item to note is this may be the last year for the Tug of War. Currently, the standings are three wins each for Bibs and
Kilts. And as an added bonus, Bruce “goes both ways” Downs will come out of retirement and again tug for the team who
raises the most money. In the previous year's that Bruce tugged, the team he was on won three of four matches. We have
other fun events planned as well. You will need to join us to find out what all there is to do, and who all there is to meet. See
you next month!
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
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THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and
the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For
more information, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at www.ON-A-BIKE.com. NCOM
BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)
The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) is solely sponsored by the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) nationwide
legal services program and serves as an umbrella organization for more than 2,000 NCOM Member clubs, organizations and
associations worldwide, representing well over a quarter of a million politically active motorcyclists. NCOM has successfully
outreached to numerous segments of the motorcycling community in an effort to unite for our rights, both legal and
legislatively, and has become a unifying voice amongst North America’s motorcycle rights organizations (MROs), motorcycle
clubs, women riders, religious riding organizations, touring groups, trikers, sportbikers, and minority motorcyclists.
All motorcyclists are welcome to attend the NCOM Convention, hosted this year by the Indiana Confederation of Clubs, and
encouraged to participate in the many meetings, seminars and group discussions that focused on legislative efforts and
litigation techniques to benefit our right to ride.
Next year’s 28th Annual NCOM Convention will be held May 9-12, 2013 at the Silver Legacy Resort-Casino, 407 N. Virginia St.
in Reno, Nevada. For further information, contact NCOM at (800) 525-5355 or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.
HEALTH AGENCY PUSHES HELMETS WITH BOGUS FINDINGS
Researchers at the Centers For Disease Control are using flawed logic to promote their crusade for helmet laws, but
“Garbage-In, Garbage-Out” numbers reveal helmet use is actually in indirect proportion to motorcycle fatalities.
In a newly-released CDC study of Fatal Accident Reporting System (FARS) data, the following has been quoted recently by
media outlets from coast to coast; “According to a CDC analysis of fatal crash data from 2008 to 2010, a total of 14,283
motorcyclists were killed in crashes, among whom 6,057 (42 percent) were not wearing a helmet. In the 20 states with a
universal helmet law, 739 (12 percent) fatally injured motorcyclists were not wearing a helmet, compared with 4,814
motorcyclists (64 percent) in the 27 states with partial helmet laws and 504 (79 percent) motorcyclists in the three states
without a helmet law.”
The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) looked over the CDC’s own numbers and found some serious faults in their
findings: First off, if 6,057 motorcyclists were not wearing helmets of the 14,283 motorcyclists who were killed in crashes
during the 3-year study period, that means that 8,226 riders (58%) WERE wearing helmets when they died, meaning that the
vast majority of motorcyclist fatalities nationwide wore helmets!
Using the CDC’s twisted logic, nearly half of all motorcyclists killed were in the 20 states that required them to wear a
helmet!
If the agency’s numbers are to be believed, between 64-78% of riders in the 30 partial and no-helmet law states legally chose
to ride without a helmet, yet only 38% of the fatalities involved non-helmeted riders, so helmet use is astonishingly overrepresented in motorcyclists’ mortality statistics!
But the CDC also touts that 12% of the biker deaths in helmet law states were not wearing a helmet. The most amazing thing
about this figure is that helmet use rates approach 100% in helmet law states and virtually no one rides without one at the
risk of facing hefty fines! What the government’s numbers most likely reveal, if they have any legitimacy at all, is that
helmets come off in about one in ten fatal accidents. This revelation is consistent with prior estimates, and seriously skews
their other helmet use/non-use data, because it would mean considerably more riders were wearing helmets up to the
moment of their demise than previously anticipated, which means all the Center’s fiscal extrapolations are meaningless as
well.
Another gem proffered by the CDC to bolster their helmet law push is that while motorcycles represent only 3% of registered
vehicles they represent nearly 14% of traffic fatalities. But when you consider that motorcycles offer little in the way of
physical protection during a collision, unlike cars with airbags, crumple zones and impact-absorbing structures, it’s easy to
understand why motorcyclists seldom have fender-benders…yet auto drivers routinely walk away from high-speed impacts.
The true numbers are pretty clear; a previous DOT Traffic Safety Facts Research Note states in 2010 that 54% of all U.S.
motorcyclists were observed wearing a helmet when they rode, whether by choice or by law, and since the CDC says 58% of
fatally injured riders wore a helmet at that time, then helmets obviously are not designed to protect against fatal injuries.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: Wisconsin’s embattled Governor Scott Walker, following his strong win in the state’s recent recall
election, sees support from Wisconsinites not just a ticket to govern, but also a ticket to ride; “I'm gonna go ride my Harley
all around the state of Wisconsin. Who knows where I’ll end up. I’m just getting on the motorcycle and riding,” he told Fox
News.
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Truths in Math…
On Sun, Jul 15, 2012 the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette published an article stating that Motorcycle crash costs are a burden:
Below is Ron Fryer’s response to the article. The link to the article is provided as they do not allow their material to be reprinted. http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20120715/EDIT07/307159972/1147/EDIT07
He has noted some interesting statistics.
This is the same old story. The issue here cannot possibly be about money. If the research is properly done, it will reveal that
61% of motorcycle accident victims do not pay their hospital bill. The same study will show that 63% of automobile accident
victims do not pay their bill. On the surface, these numbers are approximately the same; however, when tied to the number
of people who drive motorcycles and the number of people who drive automobiles, the results clearly indicate that the
automobile drivers are the greatest burden on society. Only about 3% of vehicles are motorcycles and about 95% are
automobiles. What is the greater number? 63% of 95% or 61% of 3% ??? Lawmakers need to look at the real costs.
Unfortunately, the real issue here is freedom of choice; and any kind of freedom stands little chance of being upheld because
freedom does not get politicians elected. Very sad.
Best Regards,
Ron Fryer - MRF Rep, Washington State
GRUNT AWARD…
I received a special recognition award for appreciation for improving the image of
motorcycling in our state at NCOM (National Coalition of Motorcyclist) this past weekend.
NM now has 3 NMMRO's in our state, and have been involved in legislation, profiling
and discrimination against motorcyclists, improved and established relationships with
MADD, DOT, MSF, Police Departments, public and state officials and the media; Worked on
promoting safety awareness to all who share the road.
Annette Torrez
NM MRF REP
NMMRO Chairman
Calendar of Events…
Aug 6 - 12
Monday - Sunday
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
http://www.sturgis.com/
Time:
Location: Sturgis, SD
th
NMMRO Meeting
American Legion Post 49 - 11005 Central Ave NE
Aug 25 9:00 am
th
2 Annual Rescue Riders M/C Poker Run
Veterans Memorial Park Louisiana & Gibson
[email protected]
Aug 30 - Sep 3, 12
Ignacio Bike Week
http://www.ignaciobikeweek.com/
Time:
Location: Ignacio, Colorado
Aug 30 - Sep 3, 12
Sugar Pine Ranch Rally
http://sugarpineranchrally.com/
Time:
Location: Mancos, Colorado
Aug 31– Sep 3,
2012
All ABATE Campout http://www.abateofcolo.org/images/stories/AllABAT
E_preregistration_.pdf
Time:
Location: 6.2 miles east of Ignacio
Sept. 1
Saturday
Bikes, Blues & Brews
http://www.cyclefish.com/event/15834/
Time: all day
Location: 10 Miller Lane, Angel Fire, NM
Sept. 6 - 8
NM HOG Rally
http://www.nmstatehogrally.com/
Time:
Location: Abq. Marriott Pyramid N, TBird HD
Sept. 12 - 16
Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally
www.motorcyclerally.com
Time:
Location: Ruidoso, New Mexico
Sept. 20 - 23
MRF Meeting of the Minds
www.mrf.org
Time:
Location: Durham, NC
Aug 18 12:00 pm
nd
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Sales Service Installation, Repair,
Carpet, Wood, Laminate, Ceramic
Great Carpet Sale and Specials
Contact Pancho Frank Rivera
505 837 1950
For all your flooring needs
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
In Remembrance
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