November / December 2014

Volume 4, Issue 3
Chairpersons Letter…
Nov-Dec 2014
Inside this issue:
Chairperson Letter
1-2
Cold Weather Riding tips
3
WNMMRO
3
COC Update
4
Motorcyclist of the Year
4
No Colors Welcome
5
Calendar of Events
5
Careless Driving Bill
6
Dan Sorey
7
Restaurant Impossible
Films
8
MRF News
9
NCOM
10-11
Chopperhearse
12
Richard Lester
12
Veterans Day
Advertisements
Announcements
13
15-21
THE NMMRO BOARD:
Chairman…………...Annette Torrez
Vice Chairman.....Courtney Farris
Secretary………Stephanie Lennox
Treasurer……RockHell Thompson
Sgt at Arms……...Todd Thompson
Editor……….………..Kitti Gallegos
Webmaster…RockHell Thompson
Public Relations....Lisa VanDruff
Org. Liaison…………..Tom Newell
CNMMRO……….……….Rod Owens
ENMMRO……………Dorothy Jouett
WNMMRO……………..….Jim Smith
MEETING SCHEDULE:
NMMRO Monthly Meetings:
Thunderbird Harley
Nov 22-12:00pm
COC Meetings:
Caravan -Oct 6
To date for the year 2014, we are aware of
107 motorcycle crashes in New Mexico.
After the last NMMRO meeting the board
members sat and reviewed the crash sites
and statistics. The number of cruisers
crashes is slightly higher than sports bikes
with 32 known overall fatalities. Please
continue to notify us of motorcycle crashes
that you are aware of, these statistics will
help us as when reach out to DOT for
funding on road safety awareness. I
recently returned from a Motorcycle Riders
Foundation Conference in Missouri where
many states also reported an increase in
motorcycle crashes, but overall on a
national level motorcycle crashes are down.
On return from the conference, as my plane
land I was notified that my cousin Gilly had
been in a motorcycle crash the day before
and was in serious condition at UNMH.
When I got to hospital by Godparents (his
mom and dad), and his children were being
notified that the prognosis was not good
and he would not survive due to the injuries
he sustained in the crash. We stood by his
side for the last four hours of his life while
his face and body were still bloody from the
crash as he struggled for his last breath.
While I have visited many victims and
families of motorcycle crashes this was one
of the most traumatic moments I have ever
experienced. Watching his pain and
suffering and as a family watched their son,
father, brother struggle through the last
hours of his life and knowing all I could do
was offer support was something I will
never forget. I hope that no family ever has
to experience this pain; but I also know that
as motorcyclists, we know the risk that
every time we ride we may never return
home. On his drivers licenses he had chosen
to be an organ donor, but when the family
was approached by the doctors the
family chose not to donate his organs
because they felt he had already suffered
too much. If you choose to be an organ
donor please notify your family and
let your wishes be known, so that if God
forbid that moment ever comes, your
family won't have to struggle with making
the right decision at the last moment. We
continue to follow many victims of
motorcycle crashes and the aftermath that
many of these victims have to endure is
horrendous with additional surgeries,
rehabilitation, continued pain, loss of
revenue, sometimes loss of job and the list
goes on and on. I am so proud of the
victims and families of motorcycle crashes
for their endurance to survive, and to the
many victims who did not survive the
crash. May they Rest In Peace. The best
advice is to educate ourselves on crash
avoidance, Motorcyclists, it is important
we enhance our basic rider skills. Respect
and obey the rules of the road; and ride
like every vehicle on the road is out to get
you, so that you are aware of your
surroundings and circumstances at all time
to avoid any crash.
A special thank you to Councilman Ken
Sanchez and Representative Rick Miera
who attended a news conference on our
Watch Out for Motorcycle signs. Thank you
to Councilman Sanchez's assistant Elaine
Romero, who set up the news
conference to announce the signs and
the support from the city. Channel 7 and
Channel 13 attended our news conference
and our own local biker newscaster Steve
Stucker got channel 4 to do a segment on
the signs and has mentioned them on the
news several times. Thank you to
Albuquerque Public Works and Michael
Riorden for installation of the signs.
Councilman Sanchez appropriated monies
to put up the signs at a cost of $200.00 per
sign for installation. The hope is that this
signs will bring awareness to motorcycles
on the road, and help prevent crashes and
save lives. We also hope the media
2
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
brought awareness to all who share the road with
motorcycles, and to look twice for us. At this time
we have funding for two signs from Turquoise Trail
Hogg Chapter members, five signs purchased By
Attorney Dan Sorey, two signs purchased by
Attorney Francisco Jimenez, 2 signs purchased by The
Northern New Mexico Confederation of Clubs, and
the four signs that have already been purchased by
Thunderbird and Duke City Harley Dealerships. I also
have another five, promised by victims of motorcycle
crashes. The next step is to address the sites which
have the multiple crashes and work with the city to
install signs in these areas.
Through my affiliation with MADD I was asked to
represent MADD and a DOT and the Traffic Injury
Research Foundation to review the New Mexico
Interlock Program, their effectiveness, their strengths
and their challenges. The greatest challenge is to
change road user behavior to not drink and drive.
The NMMRO helped revive a bill in the 2014
Legislation on the interlock and increase in penalties
to repeat DWI offenders through our media coverage
at our 2014 Bike Day at the Capital. Many motorcycle
crashes are from a drunk drivers colliding with the
motorcycle and many single motorcycle crashes are
from the rider driving while under the influence.
Please don’t drink and drive, please don’t drink and
ride, the life you save may be your own. Several
weeks ago a motorcyclist was killed by a 20 year old
female on her second DWI offence.
We are preparing for the 2015 Legislative session;
this will be a ninety day session so we have more
time to achieve our goals. We are preparing for our
Annual Bike Day at the Capital in February. We hope
to address the Careless Driving Bill again. We hope
that we do not face a helmet bill in 2015. I have
already begun to research in preparation for a fight
to remain a helmet free state and that the choice to
wear a helmet remains with the rider and not
mandated by the state. We will also watch for any
bills that effect motorcyclists, either in a positive or
negative aspect and lobby for or against as needed. It
is important to Support our Bike Day at the Capital so
our legislators know we stand strong and united on
issues that affect us. Motorcyclists and motorcyclist’s
rights advocates are some of the last freedom
fighters in our nation who stand united.
My life has gone through some necessary changes
but I remain dedicated to represent and fight for the
rights liberties and freedoms of all motorcyclists on a
state and national level and support the victims and
families of motorcycle crashes. Ride safe all.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO VOTE. Annette
NMMRO Membership





Single Membership
Couples Membership
Corporate Membership
Renewals: Single
Couple
$20.00
$30.00
$100.00
$15.00
$20.00
Please send info & checks to:
NMMRO
PO Box 27673
Albuquerque NM 87125-7673
--------------------------------------------------Name:____________________________________
Address:__________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
City
____________________________________________
State and Zip
Important Links:
CNMMRO Email Address: [email protected]
NMMRO Website: www.thenmmro.org
NM Confederation of Clubs Website: www.nmcoc.org
MRF Website: www.mrf.org
AMA Website: www.amadirectlink.com
NCOM Website: www.aimncom.com/news/news.htm
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Cold-Weather Riding Tips
Be extremely smooth, no abrupt anything. Beware of
ice or water. Even after the weather has warmed up,
there can be ice underneath that harmless looking
puddle on the road, especially in shaded areas. Drive
slowly. Enjoy the day at slower than normal speeds.
The road may be dry in front of you, but ride on a bit
further and you may run into ice patches, water or
other slick surfaces that can come at you by surprise.
Keep the bike as upright as possible: Ride up on the
gas tank more often. Clutching your thighs tightly to the
gas tank when slipping and sliding on the snow can
give you more steering control.
Cold weather means colder tires. And as everyone
should know, cold tires equate to limited traction.
Riding helps increase heat in the tire, but even the
briefest stop can quickly cool the tires down, providing
lack of traction. Many riders sway back and forth like a
NASCAR driver, but simply put, this is a waste of time.
To truly get heat in the tires, accelerate and decelerate
quickly for a bit, obviously being aware of traction.
Hard on brakes too hard on the throttle puts heat in
tires more quickly than riding like some redneck. Plus
swaying looks stupid. Also, make sure you have
adequate tread on your tires for winter riding. It may
snow, and you’ll need to channel water/snow more
than ever on wet roads that are cold. And check your
tire pressure. This is more than crucial during the
winter months when optimal traction is needed.
While riding in the winter, increase your visibility and
following distance. Increasing visibility simply means
looking further down the road, helping you recognize
hazards before they occur. Increased visibility allows
you to react to a potential threat well in advanced, and
this is more needed in winter when traction is limited
from the cold roads. Rod.
3
WNMMRO…
Happy Holidays NM
WNMMRO has been busy since we are now the McKinley County
Toys for Tots local community organization. We put together a
dinner/dance Oct. 24 and a toy run on the 26th which had good
turnout and support. Toys for Tots will have a strong presence in
Gallup’s Christmas parade with another toy run scheduled for Dec.
6th. Last year the McKinley County Toys for Tots provided toys for
approx. 1500 kids.
Well hope everyone did their research and voted for motorcycle
friendly candidates. Our vote can be our strongest voice to protect our
rights and freedoms. Fighting for our basic right to ride what we want,
where we want, when we want and with who we want is always under
attack from a government that wants to try and control our every
movement. Don’t forget about Bike day at the Capitol in February.
Since we are in the holiday season I would like to say thanks to all
the folks that keep thing happening. WNMMRO has a strong
Motorcycle Awareness Program (MAP) thanks to Charlene Sekiya the
coordinator. Charlene works hard to schedule and provide the
program, numerous times on her own. Also thanks to Robert and
Monica Morrissette WNMMRO’s Deputy Coordinator and Secretary.
And a really big thanks to Ra our Treasurer and my lady for not only
taking care of WNMMRO’s funds but also supporting and standing
beside me in everything. Last of all Thanks to all the folks that show
their support by participating and assisting with the WNMMRO’s
activities and fund raisers and their membership. I am proud to be a
part of this very supportive and strong organization.
I am very honored to be chosen as the 2014 Motorcyclist of the Year.
It is a fact that a leader is nothing without very strong and active folks
in the organization. So truly the award should go to the entire
organization. It is a privilege to be a part of New Mexico’s strong
motorcyclist rights organizations.
We are still doing our quarterly adopt a highway cleanups and getting
good response from the community when they see the bikes parked
on the side of the road and the group picking up trash. Hopefully
seeing the bikes will help them pay more attention for motorcycles
while they are on the road.
Hopefully everyone will be able to spent time with family and friends
during the holiday season and always remember the reason for
season and don’t forget to say thanks to all those protecting our
rights, freedoms and taking care of us when things go wrong on the
road.
WNMMRO meets the 3rd Sat. each month at El Charrito on W. Hwy.
66 at 8am.
RIDE FREE, RIDE SAFE but most of all RIDE!
Jim Smith Coordinator WNMMRO
4
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
COC of Northern New Mexico …
I would like to thank the Ladies from the Vicious Vixen’s for all the help and organizing the first Duke City Swap Meet. It
was a great success and we were able to send over $2000 to the save the patch fund. I also want to thank everyone
else who helped with the security and parking. Without you all the event would not have been a success.
We had a combined COC meeting with the Clubs from Southern New Mexico in Socorro NM and we had a great turn
out. The Southern COC seems to be doing well and they have been growing each year.
Our next meeting will be held Dec 6th at Noon at the Caravan East on Central there is an event going on that day at the
Caravan and we ask that you all bring Coats, Sweaters, Blankets, or anything else that we can give to keep needy folks
on hard times warm this winter. Again thank you all for all the support with the events that our Clubs are having and let’s
make this end of the year a success.
Dozer - COC Chairman
2014 Motorcyclist of the Year
Jim Smith was honored as 2014 New Mexico Motorcyclist Rights Organization Motorcyclist of the Year at the September
NMMRO meeting. Jim is the Chairman of the Western NMMRO. I meet Jim about five years ago while he was waiting for
his bike as it was being serviced at the dealership. We sat and talked for about two hours and since then we have worked
together and the organizations as motorcycle rights advocates for New Mexico. Jim also serves as one of our Motorcycle
Riders Foundation Assistant Representative for New Mexico. Jim was instrumental in starting up the Western NMMRO,
instructing high school and senior citizens in the western part of our state on road and motorcycle safety awareness. He
has been involved in meetings we have had with DOT to discuss road safety. Jim often attends NCOM conventions his
own personal funds to obtain information to assist our state in safety awareness. I am proud and honored to work with
Jim as is a strong and hardworking freedom fighter for our state. Jim and his board have also assisted victims of
motorcycle crashes in the Grants and Gallup area. Our state is honored to have such a dedicate person advocating for
our liberties and freedoms in New Mexico.
Congratulations and thank you Jim!
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
5
NO-COLORS Welcome …
Establishments as reported by NMMRO members who:

Welcome Bikers and provide friendly service or
Motorcyclist.
 High Noon Restaurant
 Leo’s Nightclub
 American Legion Post 49
 Twin Peaks Bar & Grill
Do not allow Colors or have refused service to a
 Rt 66 Casino

 Smokehouse BBQ
Malarkeys
Billy’s Long Bar
Santa Ana Casino
Burt’s 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
The Library Bar & Grill
Ned’s on the Rio Grande
Uptown Sports Bar
That Damn Bar
Los Ojos Locos
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.
Calendar of Events…
11.1 -10:00am
Santa Fe Wings for Hope Toys for tots run
11.2- 9:30 am
9 Annual toys for tots motorcycle run
Duke City Harley
11.4-7:00 pm
CNMMRO Meeting
Cazuela’s Mexican Grill 4501 Sara Rd, RR 87124
11.8.9-9:00 am
The People’s Festival
Balloon Fiesta Park
11.11-8:00 am
Santa Fe Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
San Felipe Hollywood Casino
11.22-10:00am
Disciples Food and Coat Run
Duke City Harley
11.22
NMMRO Meeting
Combined with Disciples Run
12.2-7:00pm
CNMMRO Meeting
Cazuela’s Mexican Grill 4501 Sara Rd, RR 87124
12.6-12pm
2 Annual Winter Coat Drive- Bandido’s MC
Caravan East 7605 Central Ave NE Albuq
12.6
COC Meeting
Combined with Coat Drive
th
nd
Email any flyer’s or advertisement’s to
[email protected]
Santa Fe Harley
6
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Careless Driving Bill
The state of New Mexico has been working on a Careless Driving Bill for four years. This article was in our local newspaper yet
after we were responsible for bill and lobbing for it we were never mentioned. I did contact author of article and she apologized.
It’s cool we will continue the fight w, because FREEDOM FIGHTERS DON'T GIVE UP. Annette
After a Taos County magistrate ordered Questa teen Gerald Bailon to pay a $125 fine as his only penalty for killing two Colorado
motorcyclists and crippling two more during his wild wrong-way drive on a winding Red River road, one of his victims shared a
few scornful words. "It's just more of the same of the New Mexico judiciary system," said Kathleen Pullara, who lost her leg and
her fiancé, Leslie Walker, and friend Tim Serles in a crash witnesses say was caused by the 15-year-old Bailon's game of
chicken with friends. "It's like a Third World country. They kill people down there, they maim people, and there are no
consequences."
Bailon, who had a learner's permit when he took his granddad's pickup for a spin that Memorial Day weekend in 2004, received
no further legal consequence for the bloodshed and the heartache he caused. That's because he had pleaded no contest to
careless driving, a misdemeanor that even at its maximum would have earned him a $300 fine and up to 90 days in jail. Which is
still a light sentence for mowing down people with a two-ton truck?
Ten years later, little has changed in Third World New Mexico. People are still getting killed and maimed on our roads. And those
who kill them are still able to avoid serious consequences if they can secure a careless driving conviction or plea.
That happened earlier this week when a Bernalillo County jury took less than eight hours to convict former Albuquerque police
officer Adam Casaus of two counts of careless driving in the Feb. 10, 2013, crash that killed Ashley Browder, 21, and seriously
injured her sister, Lindsay Browder. Testimony indicated that Casaus, off-duty for about 2½ hours that early morning, slammed
his marked APD Chevy Tahoe into the sisters' Honda CR-V after he blew through a red light on Paseo del Norte at Eagle Ranch
NW, at a high speed and with no siren, in search of a mystery erratic driver he had not reported and no witness had seen.
Casaus told jurors he believed he had the green light, though his defense offered nothing more than his word as evidence of
that. Jurors apparently took Casaus at his word, deciding he was guilty of careless driving, not the more serious charges of
vehicular homicide and reckless driving. He is expected to be sentenced in December.
Like Bailon, he faces a maximum of a $300 fine and up to 90 days in jail. Like Bailon, he will likely get much less than that, given
his otherwise clean record. So, here we are again. Someone is killed on the road, the bike path, the sidewalk, the shoulder, the
parking lot, and someone whose vehicle became as lethal as a 12-gauge shotgun walks away with a slap on the wrist. Had that
same driver crashed into a lamp post rather that a human being, the possible penalties would have been the same. By contrast,
a conviction on a vehicular homicide charge can net a prison sentence of up to six years - better, but still not a lot for the loss of a
life. The difference comes down to intent, not speed or stupidity.
"Intention is hard to prove," said District Attorney Kari Brandenburg, whose prosecutors handled the Casaus case. "You don't get
in your car and say you're going to kill someone." Brandenburg said jurors are loathing imposing vehicular homicide convictions,
because they empathize with the driver. "They see themselves as the driver who makes that one terrible mistake," she said.
Brandenburg's office issued a statement after the Casaus verdict that voiced hope the case and others like it "will draw attention
to the need to address the law, and the potential penalties, of careless driving when a death occurs as a result." But we've drawn
that attention again and again in blood, and nothing changes.
Jennifer Buntz, president of the Duke City Wheelmen Foundation, has lobbied for years to strengthen the maximum penalties for
careless driving to 364 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, plus the option to suspend an offender's driver's license. "It's just an
injustice for family and friends when they lose a loved one and the person who did it receives no serious consequence," Buntz
said. "It's just so insulting to think that a life is worth so little." So far, though, her bill for increased sentencing has gone nowhere
at the state Legislature - partly, Buntz said, because key lawmakers who oppose the bill - including Senate Majority Leader
Michael Sanchez, D-Belen - are defense attorneys. Sanchez could not be reached for comment Friday.
Buntz said she is unsure whether she will try to push for the bill again at the 2015 Legislature. State Rep. Rick Miera of
Albuquerque, the bill's sponsor, is retiring this year. "It's hard," Buntz said. "Sometimes, it seems like no one is listening.”But we
must listen to the cries of those who lost a loved one in the crash of a car; to the voices of reason who say surely there is way to
balance the rights of the victim with the rights of those motorists who truly did make that one terrible mistake; to those who are
tired of New Mexico's reputation as a lawless Third World country and tired of our endless, bloody game of chicken.
UpFront is a daily front-page news and opinion column. Comment directly to Joline at 823-3603, [email protected] or
follow her on Twitter @jolinegkg. Go to www.ABQjournal.com/letters/new to submit a letter to the editor.
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
NCO
MOTORCYCLE E-NEW
7
M
8
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Restaurant Impossible Films in New Mexico
Restaurant Impossible filmed an episode at a local biker restaurant Shade Tree Customs and Café.
Shane Stanford coordinated a group ride that was filmed with approximately 50 to 60 motorcyclist
filmed riding in front of the restaurant with Chef Irvine and restaurant owners that will air on the
episode. Many of us got to meet Chef Robert Irvine he an awesome host. Please support Shade Tree
Café. Annette
By Jessica Dyer / Journal Staff Writer PUBLISHED: Friday, October 17, 2014 at 1:02 pm
An Albuquerque restaurant fighting to stay alive is about to get some high-profile help. Chef Robert Irvine and
a crew from the Food Network's “Restaurant Impossible” will be in Albuquerque next week to film Irvine's
attempt to save Shade Tree Customs & Cafe, a Nob Hill restaurant and motorcycle shop.
Shade Tree general manager and part owner Josh Berry said Friday he could not comment on the production
due to a confidentiality agreement, but he told the Journal last month that Shade Tree had fallen behind
“pretty substantially” on tax payments and was trying to stave off closure. “We're struggling pretty hard right
now,” he said in September. “We're doing everything we can to prevent closing down. We're in a rough
place.”
“Restaurant Impossible” follows Irvine in his efforts “to save America's most desperate restaurants from
impending failure in just two days with only $10,000,” according to the Food Network website. Restaurants
can apply for an Irvine intervention online, co-producer Nick Smalarz said. He said Shade Tree's model – a
motorcycle shop that expanded into food – helped make it a compelling case, though he couldn't offer more
detail about the restaurant's plight. “It's a unique place,” he said.
Shade Tree will close Tuesday for Irvine to take stock of the situation and begin the transformation, Smalarz
said. The restaurant will celebrate its grand reopening Wednesday night. The public is invited to attend, but
reservations are required by calling 200-0777. Shade Tree's episode likely will air in January or February,
Smalarz said. Shade Tree originated as a motorcycle shop in a one-car garage, according to its website. It
opened its current Nob Hill location, at 3407 Central NE, last fall.
“Restaurant Impossible” has been in Albuquerque before. Irvine came last year to make over Pasión Latin
Fusion, which co-owner Elvis Bencomo called a “life-changing experience.” “Since 'Restaurant Impossible,'
our sales are up about 30 percent each month (year over year) and people come in from all over the country
to come talk to us and meet us and hear our story and see what it was like to work with Robert,” Bencomo
said Friday.
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
9
[Type a quote from the document or the summary of an interesting point. You can
position the text box anywhere in the document. Use the Drawing Tools tab to change
the formatting of the pull quote text box.]
MRF E-MAIL NEWS Motorcycle Riders
Foundation
1325 G Street NW Suite 500 | Washington, DC 20005
202-546-0983 (voice) | 202-546-0986 (fax) | http://www.mrf.org
14NR39 - Election Day is Coming
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
22 October 2014
Election Day is coming
Contact: Jeff, Vice President of Government Relations and Public
Affairs
With less than two weeks before Election Day, November 4th, it’s time to start getting ready to vote. The
Motorcycle Riders Foundation encourages you to find your polling place and start making decisions about who you
are going to vote for, if you have not done so already. Deciding at the last minute at the polling place is never a
great idea. Do a little research about all of your candidates, from federal to local-every race, and every vote matter.
Sometimes the smallest race can impact your life the greatest.
A lot is in the balance this election, no matter which political party you are pulling for. The Motorcycle Riders
Foundation is and always will be a bipartisan organization. We do not advocate for the election or defeat of any
political party. We do advocate for the election or defeat of individual members of congress that stand in the way of
motorcyclists' rights and freedoms, which the MRF has been doing for 30 years.
Plan your day to vote now. Find out if you can vote early, as that is generally the best way to avoid long lines at the
polling place, or make the time in your day to vote on November 4th. Being an American comes with privilege, and
voting is perhaps the greatest of all. Do not squander your chance to be a game changer.
10
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
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)
CITY IN WASHINGTON SETTLES PUBLIC RECORDS LAWSUIT WITH BIKERS
The city of Kennewick, Washington has settled with a Tacoma motorcyclist and a group of motorcycle clubs who accused the city
of violating the state Public Records Act. The city will pay $45,000 as part of the settlement of two lawsuits and will release
some of the disputed records, City Attorney Lisa Beaton recently told the city council. The city has not admitted any wrongdoing
in the handling of the records requests filed by Edward Goehring and the Washington Confederation of Clubs (COC) Both
separately sued Kennewick after they claim they were improperly denied documents, including photos and videos, which
Kennewick police took when they cited motorcyclists in separate incidents. Goehring was one of eight motorcyclists stopped by
Kennewick police and Benton County sheriff's deputies in August 2012 and cited for traffic violations. And in April 2013,
authorities stopped some motorcyclists from the Washington Confederation of Clubs and cited them for traffic infractions during a
gathering in Kennewick. In both cases, Kennewick police pursued information about outlaw motorcycle gangs, according to
Beaton.
The city, Goehring and the motorcycle club still disagree about some records. However, they agreed to have a third-party
arbitrator review those records to decide which should be withheld or redacted and then released, Beaton told the Tri-City
Herald. The $45,000 will come from the city's risk management fund. Insurance does not cover public record lawsuits, she said.
About $12,400 will go to the WA COC, and Goehring will receive the remainder. As part of the agreement, Goehring and the
motorcycle clubs will dismiss their lawsuits with prejudice, which means they can't be filed again, according to city documents.
Goehring and the Washington Confederation of Clubs are represented by the same attorney group, Aid to Injured Motorcyclists
(A.I.M.) Attorneys Marty Fox and Mike Meyers.
CHIEF OF POLICE CANCELS OCEAN CITY BIKE WEEK "NO COLORS” POLICY
A.I.M. Attorney addresses Ocean City's No Colors Policy... GOOD NEWS (Sept 12, 2014): The Maryland Confederation Of
Clubs Attorney Mitchell Greenberg approached the Ocean City Police on Thursday, Sept. 11 to address the “NO COLORS”
policy stated on the Chief of Police Bike Week Rules and Regulations page on the OCPD website.
The matter was brought to a quick and friendly close including a personal call to Mitch from Chief of Police Ross Buzzuro who
assured the Maryland Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney that all Clubs and Colors are welcome in Ocean City. Mitch in
turn assured Chief Buzzuro that the leaders of each Club share his hope for a Safe and Incident-Free bike week. The OCPD also
assured Mitch that the “No Colors” language will be removed as soon as possible and that Colors are welcome in Ocean City
public areas.
NHTSA WAIVES BUY-AMERICAN REQUIREMENT FOR MICHIGAN RIDER TRAINING
Because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration determined that American makers don’t offer a small and light
enough motorcycle for a Michigan Rider Training Program, the agency has approved their request to waive federal BuyAmerican rules to allow the state to purchase foreign-made motorcycles for their courses. The Michigan Office of Highway Safety
Planning will now use government grant money to buy a fleet of 20 Suzuki training motorcycles, though so-called “Buy America
rules” say NHTSA cannot award any funds “unless steel, iron, and manufactured products used in such project are produced in
the United States.”
However, NHTSA is allowed to waive the rules if they are “inconsistent with the public interest” or such materials and products
are not produced in the United States in reasonably available quantities or “the inclusion of domestic material will increase the
cost of the overall project contract by more than 25 percent.”
Finding that “a cost waiver is appropriate for the twenty training motorcycles because domestically produced motorcycles would
increase the cost by more than 25 percent,” NHTSA awarded Michigan grant funds to improve rider training.
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
11
VIRGINIA COPS SPIED ON MOTORISTS AT POLITICAL RALLIES
Documents released by the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia confirm that the Virginia State Police used cameras to track
motorists attending political events. Automated license plate readers (ALPR) are used by law enforcement agencies throughout the
country, ostensibly to fight crime by finding stolen cars. But a March 18, 2009 state police memo also documents the use of the “Help
Eliminate Auto Theft” (HEAT) camera to identify attendees at 2008 campaign events for then-Democratic presidential nominee Barack
Obama and Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.
It was not until 2012 that the state police chief asked for an official determination of the legality of the license plate reader program, and
in a February 13, 2013 ruling, Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli blasted the "passive" use of recording the comings and goings of
innocent drivers who are not part of an ongoing criminal investigation. "Its future value to any investigation of criminal activity is wholly
speculative," Cuccinelli wrote. "Therefore, with no exemption applicable to it, the collection of license plate reader data in the passive
manner does not comport with the Data Act's strictures and prohibitions, and may not lawfully be done."
TAG, YOU’RE IT
In a survey of 2,000 licensed adult men and women across the country, Carinsurance.com found that half or more of America’s drivers
would support the use of special license plates to identify certain drivers on the road:
- 49.4% support license plates identifying drivers older than 70.
- 57.9% support license plates identifying novice drivers.
- 59.8% support license plates identifying those convicted of texting while driving.
- 69.1% support license plates identifying those convicted of a DUI.
BRITISH POLICE APPEAL FOR INFO ON BOOBY TRAP
Police in Totton, Hampshire U.K. are investigating after a piece of thick string was found tied across a road at neck height, posing a
distinct danger to motorcyclists. It had been tied between lampposts either side of a residential street, and “The string could have
caused serious injury and even a broken neck,” according to the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG-UK). “It was spotted by a passer-by at
night time, when it would have been difficult for riders to see.”
Totton councilor Chris Lagdon said: “The morons responsible must be tracked down by the police and made to face the full force of the
law. As a motorcycle rider myself I know how dangerous something like that can be. It was an atrocious thing to do and I’m absolutely
disgusted that an incident of this sort has occurred in Totton. ”Mog Morrison, head of the New Forest Motor Cycle Action Group, said: “If
this was some sort of prank involving youngsters I hope the police or their parents take them to one side and educate them about the
potential consequences of their actions… This sort of thing has killed people in the past. Totton Police Tweeted following the incident
on Tuesday, October 13: “Unknown persons have placed green string across Water Lane near Bagber Road. Any information?”
WEIRD NEWS: HORMEL MOTORCYCLE RUNS ON BACON GREASE
Hormel Foods Corp. headed out on the highway with a motorcycle designed to run on bacon grease. The Austin, MN-based company
created a new marketing campaign in time for the International Bacon Film Festival in San Diego in late August, and rode the bacon
bike from Minnesota to California. America runs on bacon, and so does this bike -- getting about 100 mpg -- and the exhaust smells like
bacon! Hormel and marketing firm BBDO Minneapolis sponsored the world’s first motorcycle that runs on organic biodiesel made of
refined bacon grease, and a team of 12 travelled with a rider during the trip to document the journey for a film, “Driven by Bacon,” which
was shown at the film festival this year.
Charlie Smithson of CSE Engineering and Taylor Bamber, Smithson’s work partner, custom designed the motorcycle based on a rare
2011 Track T-800CDI diesel model. Grease is an abundant fuel source, as hotels and restaurants in the United States generate 3
billion gallons of waste cooking oil per year, which could fill tanker trucks parked bumper-to-bumper from San Francisco to Washington,
D.C. and back. Hormel representatives say the marketing push is an exciting opportunity to spread the word about Hormel’s Black
Label Bacon brand and the pig-powered hog will likely be used as a promotional tool in the future. Once the film is complete, the
motorcycle could be displayed at the Spam Museum.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote.”
12
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Four years ago, funeral professional and biker, David B. Cruz set out to create a unique alternative to the “traditional” hearse. Now with
a patented design, trademarked and copyrighted name, logo, and phrase, their own urns, keepsakes and apparel line they will be taking
their New Mexico based company to a national level. Chopphearse is currently providing service to ALL New Mexico families.
ChoppHearse has recently joined the NMMRO and is proud to say they are Veteran owned and operated. ChoppHearse is available
to anyone with a “free spirit”, who is a biker, a motorcycle enthusiast our any family wanting that alternative to that traditional hearse.
How we live is how we should be remembered. For more information about ChoppHearse please visit the website at
www.chopphearse.com and “like” them on Facebook at chopphearse side car. !
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
13
Veteran’s Day
11.11.14
Please take time out on this day to give thanks to all our Brave and
Fearless Soldier’s that have given up so much for our Freedom!
The New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial is a special place – paying tribute to veterans from the past, honoring those who currently
serve our country, and inspiring future service men and women.
The City of Albuquerque built the New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial with open space, landscapes, sculptures, museum and meeting
space to celebrate our loved ones who have sacrificed to make our country and the world a better place.
Visit the New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial museum, conference center, amphitheater and 25 acres of memorial park to experience,
remember and honor the many citizens who have made a difference.
For centuries, New Mexicans have given their lives with honor and sacrifice in countless ways
The New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial is a place to respect our veterans past, present and future who have served our country here
and around the world.
Covering 25 landscaped acres, the New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial hosts events, provides places for reflection, and offers spaces for
celebration of those that answered the call.
14
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Since 1996, the visitor center has served as the welcoming venue for veterans and their loved ones. Visitors are invited to explore
The visitor center and the museum free of charge. This was ‘ground zero’ …the beginning of the New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial.
Armed with gold shovels, Community leaders, Heather Wilson and Mayor Marty Chavez along with base officials, officially
broke ground on this spot in 1996. Initially the building was completed only to the stained glass artwork visible high on
the west wall of the front room. The artwork was created by a west coast artist and was donated to the Memorial in
her father’s memory who was an Air Force veteran. Today, the Visitors’ Center is staffed by volunteers from a variety of military
organizations and one paid staff member from the City of Albuquerque Senior Affairs office.
The volunteer ‘Greeters’ are available 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Thursday – Monday. Beyond those hours, the city employee is available
to answer your telephone calls 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.
They will be having their Veterans Day Ceremony, November 11, 2014 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
New Mexico Veterans’ Memorial
1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE
Albuquerque, NM 87108
0900 - 1000 Veteran’s Day Parade
1000 - 1100 Musical Prelude
1100 - 1200 Veteran’s Day Ceremony
Speakers:
Colonel John Kubinec, Cmdr. 377th ABW-KAFB
Mayor Richard J. Berry, City of Albuquerque
George Marnell, Director, Raymond G. Murphy VAMC
Presented by
United Veterans Council of New Mexico
City of Albuquerque
New Mexico Veterans Memorial and
Kirtland Air Force Base
** Parking & Continuous Shuttle Services from Gibson/ Louisiana **
Park and Ride Locations: Kirtland Federal Credit Union and Bank of America
Come early for best parking!
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Advertisements & Announcements’
15
16
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
17
18
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
19
Santa Fe Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
Santa Fe, NM, 11-11-2014
Patriot Guard Riders of New Mexico have been invited to participate in the annual
Santa Fe Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony. As part of this year’s ceremony, Patriot
Guard Riders of New Mexico will be recipients of the prestigious “Farrel Udell Veterans
Service Award”.
EVENT STAGING INFO - 11-11-2014:
Location:
San Felipe Hollywood Casino
Interstate 25 exit 252, 25Hagen Rd
San Felipe, NM
Staging Time:
8:00A.M.
Special Instructions:
BRIEFING: 8:20 AM
KICK STANDS UP: 8:30 AM (35 miles to destination)
Staging for parade: 9:30 AM, Murales Rd, Santa Fe
Veterans Day Ceremony Ceremony 11:00 AM Bataan
Memorial Bldg., Veterans Monument
RCIC:
Larry "Iron Man" Wiles - RC - [email protected] - 505-385-6787
Flags will NOT be needed.
Large bike flags will be needed. Please furl during highway speeds.
Weather:
AVERAGES Hi 55°F - Watch for updates.
20
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
21