June 2013 - ABATE of Georgia
Transcription
June 2013 - ABATE of Georgia
JUNE 2013 Welcome to Georgia, where Tar Snakes are A-OK because according to GDOT.... Their CHEAP! That looks PERFECTLY safe for your motorcycle right? (wonder how those snakes feel in the rain?) Fighting for the rights and education of every Georgia motorcyclist June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER STATE OFFICE ADDRESSES www.abatega.org Advertising Fees (Mailing Address) ABATE OF GEORGIA, INC. P.O. BOX 116 Austell, GA 30168 Phone: (770) 881-7438 Fax: (770) 234-4177 ABATE OF GEORGIA STATE OFFICERS 2012-2014 Term State Director Ned Williams E-mail (404) 324 –2037 [email protected] Legislative Director James F. Trucks E-mail (404) 307-2541 [email protected] Treasurer Gary Bonds Email: (404) 915-8778 [email protected] Membership Director Ann Crenshaw Email (229) 924-7449 [email protected] Sgt. At Arms Dave Woodruffe Email: 678-778-9646 [email protected] Activities Director POSITION OPEN State Secretary Ann Turner Email (770) 881-7438 [email protected] (Acting) Director of Education Chriss Carr (678) 896-5909 Email: [email protected] Webmaster Bill Mattison [email protected] A.B.A.T.E. Legal Advisor Steve Murrin (404) 221-0777 A.B.A.T.E. State Chaplin Wade Warnock (CMA) (678) 271-2860 Website Newsletter 115 Business Card Black & White $ 40.00 $ 110.00 $ 200.00 1/4 Page Black & White $ 70.00 $ 200.00 $ 360.00 $ 660.00 $ 1 1/2 Page Black & White $ 125.00 $ 360.00 $ 660.00 $ 1,200.00 $ 2 Full Page Black & White $ 225.00 $ 660.00 $ 1,200.00 $ 2,200.00 $ 3 1 Month Term in Months 1 3 6 Term in Months 1 3 6 12 One Month Member Memorial Term in Months 1 3 6 12 One Month Member Memorial Term in Months 1 3 6 12 One Month Member Memorial Ads Must Be Received in digital format or ready to scan by the 10th of the month, accompanied by full payment, to be printed in the next issue. Credit card payments are welcome. Ads must be paid in advance to receive the multiple ad discount rate. If you wish, we can lay out your ad for you for an additional $25 charge plus any reasonable costs. Additional charges and services offered at the discretion of the editor. Please allow additional lead time for all ads that we must lay out. Payment must be received in advance for ad renewals. If not you will lose the discounted multiple ad rate and the account will revert back to monthly prices. Make your check or money order payable to A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia, Inc. Send to: A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. P.O. BOX 116 Austell, GA 30168 Call the State Office @ 770-881-7438 for more info. A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia, Inc. All rights reserved. This newsletter is published monthly and distributed throughout the state of Georgia as well as to other motorcycle organizations nationwide. A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia accepts no responsibility for the comments or opinions from reprinted materials contained within this publication. We welcome your news, opinions, comments, complaints, and suggestions on Motorcycle related issues. All articles must include your name and address. We do not accept slanderous, accusing letters; profanities (photographic or written); non-A.B.A.T.E. related letters. A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia reserves the right to refuse or edit any article, photo, letter, or advertisement that is decided is not in the best interest of the organization or its members. 2 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER ATTENTION ABATE OF GEORGIA MEMBERS If you have had trouble with your member card, a pin or a patch A new hotline has been set up to make sure your issue is addressed Please call the membership hotline At (678) 753-6018 (The hotline is monitored during business hours 7 days a week. Calls made after hours will be returned the next business day 3 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Some of A.B.A.T.E.’s accomplishments over the years: • Successfully lobbied for legislation that created the Georgia • • • • • • • • • • • • • Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP), our state’s rider education program that is available to all. Lobbied to have legislation passed to modify the existing mandatory helmet law to allow adults age 21 and older freedom of choice as to the wearing of a helmet. Successfully lobbied for legislation leading to the repeal of the Georgia law prohibiting use of speakers or headphones while riding a motorcycle. Fought and stopped legislation introduced in the 1992 Session of the Georgia General Assembly that would have made it illegal for kids age 10 and under to ride as passengers on motorcycles. Established May as “Motorcycle Awareness and You” month through a proclamation signed by the Governor and through resolutions passed by the Senate and House each year. This is an annual effort that raises public awareness of motorcycles. Successfully lobbied legislators to approve increased funding for the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program, in the amount of $170,000 after the license tag rate was raised on all vehicles to $20. Successfully stopped proposed legislation that would have increased the size of motorcycle tags. Successfully lobbied for handicapped tags for motorcycles without further enabling legislation, by bringing it to the attention of the Department of Revenue that the code section was written in such a way that it was already authorized. Successfully lobbied for antique tags for motorcycles in the 1998 legislative session. Established a 15 District organization that has led to more participation locally, while raising our membership statewide. The more members we have, means the more clout we have at the State Capitol. Sponsor and promote the largest Swap Meet/Bike Show in Georgia, 5 times a year. Successfully forced prosecution of a trucker who, while making an illegal turn, killed fellow motorcyclist Mark Bonner. Successfully lobbied to pass the “Frank-Lee” (ROW) bill to enhance penalties to those who cause death or serious injury to a motorcyclists by failing to yield the right of way. Successfully lobbied to pass the “Tag/Title” bill SB-437 that allows for registration of kit/assembled bikes. Signed by Governor Purdue May 14, 2008. Your benefits as a member of A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia: Organized lobbying of State and Federal legislators to make your views on motorcyclist rights known to your Representatives. Current information on all motorcycle related legislation and where your legislators stand on the issues that affect your motorcycling rights and freedoms. Monthly newsletter with legislative updates, event dates and places, and information Membership card, patch, and one year pin for new members. Yearly pin for renewals. Admission discounts at most A.B.A.T.E. events around the state, including ALL State Swap Meets. Discounts at many motorcycle shops and dealers around the state Personal satisfaction of joining your brothers and sisters in promoting the great sport of motorcycling while supporting your right to ride by participation at State and District meetings, toy runs, blood drives, camp-outs, bike shows, swap meets, etc. Spiritual consultation with the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA) for ride prayers, weddings, and visitation. WHAT IS A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, Inc.? The letters “A.B.A.T.E.” stand for American Bikers Active Toward Education. A.B.A.T.E. is composed of motorcyclists from all areas of the state, from all walks of life, and who ride all makes of bikes. A.B.A.T.E. is not a club, it is a non-partisan politically active organization working on motorcyclist’s rights. We are affiliated with national rights groups like the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). Our main focus is to keep motorcycle legislation in its proper perspective. Many restrictive laws are enacted by uninformed legislators. A.B.A.T.E.’s goal is to keep our lawmakers informed of our members collective position on Motorcycle related legislation. Preventing unfair legislation from becoming law is easier than fighting to get the law repealed. Rider education and public awareness of motorcyclists are goals of A.B.A.T.E.. We are not against the wearing of helmets, and we encourage all riders to ride safely. An informed and educated rider is a safer rider. Helmet laws do nothing to prevent an accident, and a helmet only provides the illusion of safety, while rider education is proven to prevent accidents and save lives. A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, Inc. IS A TEAM EFFORT WE WELCOME ALL RIDERS, ALL BRANDS 4 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Ned Williams, State Director Summer riding season is upon us, that means Georgia’s 200,000 riders will be out in force. This also means now more than ever ABATE of Georgia’s members to get the word out about joining to those members. The question each member should be able to answer is “Why ABATE?” , last month we asked members the “Why question” on facebook, we will use their answers in an upcoming Membership poster for districts to display when they work membership booths at events. Each member should ask themselves the same question, the faster you can the question for yourself the faster you can answer it for someone who does not know what A B A T E stands for. Also this month we are asking each district to make a point to introduce themselves to their member of the Georgia DOT State Transportation board. James Trucks our legislative director feels these people are our best bet to end the Motorcycle Only checkpoints. They are also the people we need to ask to get GDOT to stop spreading tar snakes throughout our state. Check out this month’s article on Tar Snakes and look at the photos from some of our state’s motorcycle roads. Definitely something each of us should work towards stopping the spread of. Check out the GDOT State Transportation board at their website: http://www.dot.ga.gov/aboutgeorgiadot/board/pages/default.aspx ABATE’s own Ann Purcell is on the State Transportation board, feel free to say hello! The Georgia Department of Transportation State Transportation Board 1st Congressional District Ann R. Purcell 2nd Congressional District Johnny Floyd 3rd Congressional District Sam M. Wellborn 4th Congressional District Robert L. Brown, Jr. 5th Congressional District Stacey Key 6th Congressional District Dan Moody 7th Congressional District Rudy Bowen 8th Congressional District Jay Shaw Vice Chairman 9th Congressional District Emily Dunn 10th Congressional District Jamie Boswell 11th Congressional District Jeff Lewis 12th Congressional District Don Grantham 13th Congressional District Dana Lemon 14th Congressional DistrictRoger Williams 5 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Closed Districts are a complete loss to ABATE of Georgia. Districts 12 and 14 need to be reopened and made productive once again. These Districts closed for different reasons and for the most part they still have a membership base. If you have friends or family members in those areas please talk with them about reactivating the districts so we can continue with the growth we need in order to accomplish the fight for our rights. I have made an effort to contact those that have an e-mail address however a friend’s request is much more likely to have an impact in getting this done. It only requires 3 officers to open a district. One must be the District Coordinator and the other must be a Treasurer and the third can be any position. Make the phone calls and see what we can accomplish. UPDATE:Disitrict 10 is REOPENING! Contact Michael Smith for information! (see below) District Coordinator Contact Information District 1st Name Last Name Phone # EMAIL 1 Tami Culver 706-581-4132 [email protected] 1W Frank Chaney 706-694-8626 [email protected] 2 Anthony G Love 706-754-8517 [email protected] 3 Dave Woodruffe 678-778-9646 [email protected] 4E 4S 4W 5 5-N 6 Paula Rod Jon Richard Allen Don LaValley Hargrove Lambert Jackson Kennedy Whitlow 678-231-9942 770-363-4515 404-3682093 678-283-1725 [email protected] 770-294-7640 [email protected] 6-2 David Putnam 678-481-4124 [email protected] 6-3 Jim Blessitt 770-235-9642 [email protected] 7 Leigh Jester 478-319-4013 8 Nancy James 706-592-1015 [email protected] 9 Cyndi Griffith 706-332-7675 [email protected] 9-2 10 11 Al Michael 706-884-9498 478-542-1037 912-441-7586 [email protected] David Harper Smith Jackson 13 Joseph Neese 229-567-0973 [email protected] 15 Stephanie Cruwys 912-269-6500 [email protected] 6 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 770-231-4824 June 2013 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia District Boundaries 1W: The Fourth Monday of each month at the Dari Dip on Villanow St. Lafayette. Meeting starts at 6:30pm 1:1st Tuesday of the month at the Logan’s Roadhouse 2140 East Walnut Avenue Dalton, GA 2: 1st Sunday of the month 2:00pm, Location alternates every other month: El Jinete Mexican Restaurant in Clarkesville, GA or Lorena’s in Dawsonville 4E : 1st Wednesday of the Month 7PM, Confetti’s Bar and Grill, 6470 Spalding Dr. 3 The Watering hole ,Tri County Plaza 451 W Bankhead HWY Villa Rica 1st Sunday of each month at 2:00 pm Norcross, GA 30092-4656 5N: third Tuesday of the month 7PM at Cycle World 4225 Atlanta Highway ,Athens Ga 4W :1st Tuesday at 7:30pm at Red’s Timbers, 730 Concord Rd. Smyrna Ga. 5 : 7:00PM 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 5 O’Clock Somewhere 7189 Turner Lake Rd Covington Ga 4S : Third Thursday at 7:30PM Solutions Bar and Grill, 2040 Sylvan Rd, 8: 1st Sunday of the month @ 2pm at Road Runner Cafe, 2508 Peach Orchard Rd. (Rt. 25), Augusta Atlanta 6/2: 1st Thursday of the month at 7PM @Jekyll and Hyde's, HWY 29 North, Newnan 9: 1st Tuesday of the month at 7:30 PM at Player’s on 54th St. Columbus. 6 :1st Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM at The Grove Bar and Grill, 4681 Bill Gardner Pkwy., 7: 1st Sunday of the month at 2:00 PM at AP's Hidden Hideaway on Broadway in Macon 9/2: 3rd Monday of the Month at 6 pm Los Naopales Restaurant 382 S. Davis Rd. Lagrange, Ga 10: 3rd Saturday of every month at 2PM at Dairy Queen Mcrae, GA 6/3: 1st Monday of every month at 7pm at Big Daddys Oyster Bar,101 Crossings E # 3, Peachtree City, GA 11: 2nd Sunday of the month at 3:00 PM at The Redleg Saloon Savannah, GA 13: Meets 1st Sunday of Month @2PM at The Henry T. Elrod Welcome Center 100 Washington Ave. Ashburn, Ga 7 June 2013 15: 1st Sunday of every month at 2PM at Toucans Ale House 2450 Perry Lane Road Brunswick, GA 31525 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER 8 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER IMPORTANT: ABATE of Georgia: PEACHPASS INFO FOR MOTORCYCLES The new "HOT" Lanes (most of the current HOV Lanes are being converted to HOT Lanes) will require a "PeachPass" to use the Lane, this cost money, $20.00 minimum, plus the cost of the Georgia Legislature realized the motorcycles will still need to be exempt from the "PeachPass" and still be able to use either the "HOV" or "HOT" Lanes. What do you need to do? To use the new "HOT" Lanes will require that you register your motorcycle with the "PeachPass" people and there is NO CHARGE for this. All you will need is your motorcycle license tag and drivers license numbers. You CANNOT NOT USE THE WEB to register but must call the following number: (855) PCH-PASS (724-7277). If you use the online form then you will end up paying for the privilege to use the "HOT" Lanes. Ride like a pro would like to offer the members of ABATE a special discount on Ride Like A PRO Atlanta Advanced Motorcycle skills training. This offer is good for current and future members of ABATE. The ABATE discount pricing is $140.00 per rider - a $10 discount off regular price. As I offer to all my students, they can retake my advance training classes for 12 months after they take the initial class. They will need to email or call and check if I have additional space in the class Scott Ford Ride Like A PRO Atlanta www.ridelikeaproatlanta.com The new ABATE of Georgia Graffiti wall. ABATE of Georgia . needs your input and assistance in tracking the Access to the wall can be found at Motorcycle Only Safety Checkpoints and the http://www.abatega.org/wall Rolling Random "safety" stops known as Wall entries will be featured starting in the November newsB.E.A.S.T. We expect that The Georgia State Patrol may set letter. up at a DOT truck weigh station north of The Wall is subject to the following rules. Macon on I-75 and perhaps on I-85 north of LaNo advertising for any business. Grange. No Vulgar or inappropriate language. If you see a LARGE portable message board near either of these locations or even further You message may not exceed 256 characters, this includes south near a DOT weigh station or Rest Area spaces. contact us at 770-881-7438 and leave a message Cost is $10.00 dollars per month, payable via paypal or or e-mail [email protected]. These are nor- credit card at http://www.abatega.org/wall mally set out a day or two before the stops beSubmissions can be submitted at http://www.abatega.org/ gin. wall If you have the opportunity record through picSubmissions received before the 15th of the month will be tures or video what is happening. You can forfeatured in the following month’s newsletter and on the ward this information to the e-mail above. ABATE website. Submissions received after the 15th will be included in the newsletter of the month after the next We hope you have a safe and enjoyable ride. month.. 9 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER The ABATE back patches are available in large for men $30.00 and medium for women $25.00 , Contact y our District coordinator to get yours now! A Special offer for ABATE of Georgia Members from Two Wheel Adventures HTTP/www.garage71.com http://www.twowheeladventures.com Do you know of a traffic signal that does not see your bike when you pull up? Is there a pothole that no one will fix? Is there some form of road hazard that public works NEEDS to repair? Are there roads that have more than a few isolated accidents, with or without fatalities? If so, TELL US! http://www.abatega.org/ roadhazard.htm 10 June 2013 Call us (678) 896-5909 Two Wheel Adventures will be offering a class every other month. Cost per Student is $125.00 First class offering starts Feb 26, 2012 Students have to ride their own bikes, must have a valid motorcycle endorsement GET YOUR LICENSE MSF and Georgia approved training provider Abate Preferred Provider and Abate member Official trainer of the Zac Brown Band 2 Locations : Lakewood Amphitheater & Fraziers Harley Davidson Classes taught by Chris Carr 2011 National Middleweight Superbike Champion A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER CHAPLAIN’S CORNER Eric Shumans CMA Georgia State Coordinator Happy Father’s Day to all the dad’s out there. Hope you all have an awesome day celebrating with your families. I’ve been recently thinking about how sometimes when we celebrate certain holidays it can really stir up some not so pleasant emotions in us. Some of you may not even know who your dad is or your dad may not have been such a nice guy. I’ve realized over the years in trying to be a good husband and father that I wish that my dad had taught me moreabout how to be better in those roles. But, I’ve come to understand that he wasn’t able to teach me something that he was never taught himself. I spent a lot of years being bitter and angry with people in my life and over certain situations and because of that I’ve done a lot of stupid things to make matters worse. But, I’ve recently been learning about how Satan has a scheme against every one of our lives’ to destroy us as early on as our conception. He devise’s an individual plan for each of us and most often he does it through the people in our lives. He causes us to hurt one another and to be selfish and prideful and then as we continue to hurt one another then we become bitter and angry with each other. Ephesians 6:10-12 in the bible says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” It would do us all good to realize when we’re struggling with the relationships with the people in our lives that “hurt people, hurt people” and try to remember that our enemy is not each other but Satan himself. God the most perfect father desires that we would love one another and he desires that in all of our relationships that we would experience healing and reconciliation. So, the best way that any of us can be the people that God intended us to be is to first ask Jesus into our hearts so that we can be reconciled to our heavenly Father and then to study God’s word in order to learn how to forgive one another and to walk in the spirit of Love. Christian Motorcyclists Association Georgia Contacts – Here if you need us! State Coordinator – Eric Shumans 912-269-3272 East Central Area Rep – Terry Kleeblatt 770-788-3948 Middle Ga. Area Rep – Barry Walker 770-328-0873 North East Area Rep – Cliff Finney 706-91-06 North Metro Area Rep – Bobby Grimes 678-986-4708 ABATE District – CMA Chapter Presidents District 1 – Dalton – Robert Bearden 706-980-8096 Ellijay – Ken Rice 770-789-6343 Lafayette – Eddie Wilson 706-861-4666 District 2 – Blairsville –Dennis Salvatore 828-837-3703 Cleveland – Keith Garrison 706-859-0414 Gainesville – Dan Montgomery 678-989-7016 District 3 – Carrollton – Paul Holder 404-247-3854 Cartersville – Cliff Graham 678-576-9606 Rome – David Maloney 770-527-8260 District 4 – Duluth – Jonathan Landwer 678-463-6955 Lawrenceville – Ricky Berry 404-432-7381 Marietta – Lee Brooks 770-309-3618 District 5 – Athens – Diane Hardigree 706-769-6911 Conyers – Roy Skinner 678-255-5185 Loganville – Bruce Darnell 678-407-9414 District 6 – Griffin – Jimmy Dykes 770-567-5994 11 June 2013 District 7 – Warner Robbins – Gordon Reyher 229-268-6290 District 8 – Augusta – Kelly Newsome 803-593-5351 District 9 – Columbus – Larry Eggie 706-888-2603 District 11 – Savannah – Vinnie Dorsi 912-748-9138 Statesboro – George Pollard 912-690-0845 District 15 – Brunswick – Dan McFee 912-399-2663 Jesup – Larry Madray 912-586-2384 St. Marys – Curt Johnson 912-674-3253 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER What’s Happening In ABATE of Georgia for June and July 2013 12 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Events for June and July 2013 13 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News District 1 May 2013 Hello to all and happy spring! Don’t know about ya’ll, but here in North Georgia, we were having doubts that we would have a spring this year. I am trying very hard not to bemoan the rain, too. I know we will be so happy this summer when the gardens are green and plentiful!! We had our monthly meeting on 5/7 and were pleased to welcome a new face, Eric Wagner, who also became a new member the next day!! Thanks Eric! Philip Garnett and Vicki Cline renewed their membership to begin their 2nd year. We are so happy to have new folks joining us. We were also pleased to see some “re-newed” faces. Jackie and Linda Poag surprised us, as did Sharon Williams. It was wonderful to have them with us for the meeting. I would like to congratulate Sharon on her graduation from nursing school this week. She has worked very hard for this accomplishment. I updated everyone on the status of our various family members who are suffering with illness. Prayers continue for Otis, Boo, Animal, Cale, Bobby and Leonard. We offer our sincere condolences to the family of EJ Stanley, as he lost his battle with cancer last month. Little EJ was a warrior and we were honored to know him. I have also just learned that Rick and Ellen Patterson lost their dear Mother, Winnie Patterson today. We are so very sorry for these families losses. Jackie led us in a heartfelt prayer for all. Dennis Warren told us of our financial standing and assured us we were ready for the IHR. Roxanne Black informed us of our upcoming events. Jeff Gates updated us on our membership and encouraged everyone to renew early. Debbie Warren scribbled furiously to take notes, as our interim secretary. Debbie suffers with carpal tunnel and it is hard for her to do this, but she does it to help. We need a volunteer to help with this, if anyone can! Thanks Debbie! We had a good Poker Run and appreciated all who attended. It was a nice day and we all had a great time while generating some needed funds. Our plan was to end the ride at El Pueblito Mexican Restaurant in Chatsworth, but they were victims of a storm that week and lost their roof. Plan B went into action and we thank the American Legion in Chatsworth for allowing us to use their grills and picnic area. Hot dogs and slaw took care of the hungry riders. Upcoming events include the Motorcycle Awareness Day on May 18th, the 25th Iron Horse Rodeo on May 31st& June 1st, T-Bone Memorial Ride on July 13th.Non ABATE events, Smiles for the Smiths Benefit on June 22 and Rosie’s Red Rider Run, July 20th. Monthly meeting for July will be canceled, due to the holiday. Beware of new crack seal on Highway 60 from Blue Ridge to Suches. We have been informed it is freshly laidand they are thick!! Door prize winners were Jeff, Linda, Big Al, Pat, Clay and Anna. Ms. Linda Poag won the 50/50 and donated her share to Donna and Leonard. Kind lady! Rosie won the 2nd place 50/50 prize. We thank all who attended and hope to see you next month and at all of our upcoming events. It is (FINALLY) time to get out and ride. Be safe everyone. 14 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News On a recent Saturday morning, a group of ABATE of Georgia D1 members met with Murray County Sheriff Gary Langford and Deputy Donald Ridley to present a Safety Awareness DVD. The safety material is provided by ABATE to the county to be used as a tool to enhance the public’s awareness of increased motorcycle traffic on the roadways. Warmer weather brings out more riders and increases the danger of collisions. The DVD can be used in schools to increase awareness among young people…especially young drivers. The presentation was made in honor of the memory of Officer Jackie Head who was a large presence in the community and participated in many motorcycle fundraisers, and to coincide with the start of May Motorcycle Awareness Month. On hand to witness the presentation was Eric Head, Jackie’s son. Pictured, left to right: Bill (Whiskers) Greig, Deputy Donald Ridley, Eric Head, Sheriff Langford, Philip Garnett, Vicki Cline, Dennis Warren, Tami Culver and Melissa Boyd. Photo taken by Roxanne Black. 15 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News District 2 MAY 5th, 2013 Lorena's Dawsonville START TIME:2:06 END TIME: 3:26 Meeting begins with Brother John leading us in The Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. Bank statement: $732.88 $100 petty cash We needed to cancel our stand-down for 5/4 due to rain and inclement weather. Our numbers are stagnant at this time. We need to start getting events on to bring in more membership. We are hovering at the 200's. We need to build those numbers. Next Saturday is the Board of directors meeting in Macon. Acceptance of last month's minutes passed unanimously. Sons of Liberty meetings are at the Tilted Kilt in Suwannee. We would like to get in conjuction with them for information as well. Donna Liles discusses the website. I've requested anyone that would like to add their member services or information to email or call me to add their info to the website. We will have a GBNF (Gone but not forgotten) page on the site once the information is available. Email to [email protected] or call 678-696-5412 to have your member services added to the diestrict 2 webpage. The webpage again is www.abateofga2.org Pat @ Chattahoochee Biker Gear would like to have an event right on the chattahoochee river with District 2. There is a very large area available for us to set up. Destination Helen is coming up- we have a free space for a booth given to us to appear and bring in more members. Born to Ride magazine has an ad set up for Abate for free. Anyone that has been up 441 lately...the Tar strips are terrible. If you see a stretch of highway with bad tar strips or excessive strips, report them on the state website for Sue Dugan. We would like to get in with Copperhead in Blairsville to get a free spot there to gain more members. Like to get in Hartwell and Franklin counties as well. Next month's meeting will be at the restaraunt that is opening up next door to Chattahooche biker gear in Helen. Roadhouse Tavern Restaraunt. The owner there is very excited to have us come in and meet at her place. She will also be holding bike nights as well. The state of Georgia had a slight decrease in motorcycle deaths this year as opposed to last year. RAFFLE: Donna Liles Pat Harris Jule Kelley Jeremy Bennett Raffle winners will receive a sign made by Anthony Love. Abate of Georgia peach pass info: Peach pass required to use those hotlanes. Motorcycles are still exempt from those charges. Call 855-PCH-PASS to get your motorcycle registered for the peach pass. 16 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News If you see a motorcycle only checkpoint... report where it is. Every member of district 2 gets a 10% discount with Chattahoochee Biker Gear. Go see Pat and give her some love! Pat is having a bench made and will raffle it off for charity. Bike night is at Lorena's on Thursdays. July 13th will tentatively be the date for the "Chicken Run" in Blairsville. We will check with the nursing home to verify that date will be okay. We would like to have a great big turn out for this one. Chicken is always so very excited to see everyone. Floor opened for any other business. None brought to the floor. Dismissed! Thank you Lorena with Lorena's in Dawsonville! Always great to be at your place! District 4 East 5/1/13 The May meeting took place on Wednesday, 5/1/13 at Confetti’s in Norcross GA. 4 Attendees Treasury report – We have some money in the bank and insurance payments are current thru June 2013. Events – The majority of the May meeting was taken up discussing the ABATE State Swap April 6 – 7, 2013. From all we’ve heard it was a great success! There were some suggestions to make the next Swap Meet even better. First off, we need more participation from ABATE members. There were only 31 volunteers who showed up to man stations. This was by far too few. We need to have greater volunteerism from ABATE membership to have this event come off smoothly. From all accounts we had over 50 vendors and all the vendors were happy with the attendance and their time was well spent. A couple of additional activities for future Swap meets might include, a burn out pit, Loud pipes contest, Wheelie machine, Side by side drag racing etc. For the campers, portable showers and a dedicated route for all motorcycles. ABATE board of directors will be looking into a possible future date. Stay tuned. May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. Various events will be taking place. Look for the “Loop” ride scheduled for May 25, 2013. Our 50/50 drawing was won by Andrew Pickens. Congrats! Meeting was adjourned at 9:3-pm. Next ABATE District 4 East meeting scheduled for Wednesday 6/5/13 at Confetti’s in Norcross GA. Come out and find out what’s happening in ABATE District 4 East. 17 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News District 4-W May 2013 Meeting opened in usual manner, at Timbers, on Concord Road, Smyrna. It certainly was good to see our Membership Director, Jim Brewer walk in. He is recuperating well, and walking even better. Cheef reported that the Ethics Bill has been passed, and Gov. Deal signed it. It does limit contributions to $ 75. From lobbyists to legislators, but the limit is for each contribution. And each contribution must be reported by both individuals. The total amount spent last year was down from the previous year, but it should be down more, as those representatives are supposed to reflecting our wishes, not those of people with money to influence their votes. On 19 June the AMA is going to bringing to the attention of Congress that the 15% ethanol fuel is not good for small air-cooled engines. They are also going to put in a bill to prohibit motorcycleonly check points. Nationwide. (despite the fact that nationwide, m/c fatalities are down, some of the legislators still insist that helmets are the saviors. If so, since head injuries are the greatest number of injuries in car crashes, why are helmets specifically prohibited from being worn in cars?) A vote was taken, and passed, to change our location yet again. This time, it will be to an old place that now has a new name. B-3’s Bar and Grill (that was FatCats). And we will change the night to Thursday, the first Thursday of the month, still at 7:30.(Bike Night at B-3). Starting on Thursday 11 July, as the first Thursday is Fourth of July. We need to have a July/August Membership Drive. 26 May is to be a Motorcycle Awareness Ride around the Perimeter. That weekend, Memorial Day, is also Rolling Thunder in DC, and the Peach State Memorial Bike Rally at Powers Pavilion in Newnan. 21-22 June is to be the Triumph weekend at Barber Museum. The Maggy Valley ride was rained out. It will be rescheduled. April Swap Meet was a success. We hope to be invited back to do it again. Welcome to renewing members; Chad Daniel, Kim Koch and Ron Adamson. Hopefully, the change of place/date will bring out more members whom we have not seen in a long while. Next meeting: 4 June 2013 at Timbers. 18 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News District 6 May 7, 2013 Grove Bar & Grill, Locust Grove, GA The meeting was called to order by Don Whitlow @ 7:00 pm. Don Whitlow led the Pledge and Jim gave the prayer Secretary – Reading of the minutes – Waived Treasurer Report: Frank Hapgood Balance: $2,012.52 Swap Meet: Expenses: $6,600.00. Frank also shared that Wal-mart has designated biker parking. A motion was made to donate Swap Meet t-shirts to Hooter volunteers. A second was made and the motion passed. District Coordinator Report: Don Whitlow Don reminded everyone that Hooters in McDonough has Bike Night the 3rd Thursday of each month from 7-9 and asked everyone to support Hooters Bike Night. Don read a letter from Southside Bikers regarding the Swap Meet. The letter congratulated all involved on a successful Swap Meet and commented on the great impression the event left with local authorities, Kiwanis and others. Don stated that Ned Williams is organizing a ride on the last Saturday in May and would like to see at least 4 rider’s form each district attend. Lisa Bruce reminded Don that the ride will be on Memorial Day weekend which may cause problems for many members. It was suggested that the ride be rescheduled for another day. Don will follow up with Ned. Paul congratulated Don on a great swap meet. Reminder: Newsletters can be found at http://www.abatega.org/newsletter.htm There is also a membership hotline to call with concerns about pins, patches or cards. (678) 753-6018. Activities Report: Paul Kerr Paul thanked the Windwalkers for their support and help with the swap meet. Everyone thanked Paul. Upcoming Rides& Events: Sat. May 11th, Run to the Sun ride hasbeen postponed due to conflict with Board ofDirector’smeeting atAP’s Hideaway. See facebook for details. Ride to AP’s will leave the Grove at 9:45. May 11:Cloudland Canyon ride – Cancelled June: Friday Night Drags – Majority not interested. Need a new ride for June. July 13: Dickey’s Peach Farm, Musella, GA Departs The Grove at 10 AM August: September: Lake Tobosafkee. Bands Friday and Sat. Paul has bumper stickers for $2.00 each. Legislative Report: Lisa Bruce Lisa reminded everyone that there are lots of pictures from the swap meet are in the Newsletter. Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner introduced a bill on 5/6 to stop motorcycle check points. Sue put a challenge in the newsletter that every district set up an Abate table during the month of May. It was suggested that a table be set up at the next Hooters Bike Night. Lisa asked for prayers for her cousin who is suffering from cancer. Membership Report: Tanya Neal Tanya reported that there are 8 new members and 2 renewals. She read a list of members who need to see her to renew their membership. 19 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News Old Business: David Neal thanked the night crew that helped out at the swap meet. He also thanked Cathy, Tanya, Paul, Frank, Don and Tipple D BBQ. He reported that while in Panama City he spoke with many vendors who said they had heard about the swap meet and are interested in coming to the next one. He collected cards from 96 vendors who will be added to the vendor list. New Business: Monkey of Windwalkers congratulated everyone involved on a great swap meet. He reported that the Windwalker club house has open house on Fridays after 6:00 pm. Abate members are invited to attend. On 6/22 there will be a Poker run ride fundraiser ride for Drew who needs a heart transplant. Ride leaves from Kevin’s in Griffin and will end with an anniversary party at the Windwalkers Club House. Flyers will be out soon. Members collected money for Sherrie to cover expenses related to the loss of Brad. Kathy donated a gift card left from swap meet, to the Windwakers for Drew who inturn donated the gift to Sherrie. Kathy also purchased the dog grooming gift cards and donated the money to Sherrie who in turn donated everything, including money collected back to Windwalkers for Drew. She stated that Brad would have wanted this. There will be a memorial ride for Brad on June 8th. Ride to leave the Grove at 10:30. Flyers will be out soon. Open Forum: Paul Kerr stated that the swap meet was the biggest event in 7 years. He said we need to keep the momentum up and that Board of Director’s will vote on frequency of future swap meets. He polled members to determine support forspring & fall swap meets or an annual swap meet. The vote was split 50/50. $61.00 to winner of 50/50. Winner: Hika Door prizes The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m. DISTRICT 7 May 5, 2013 30 Members 5 Guests Leigh Jester called the meeting to order @ 2:00 PM and thanked everyone for coming. Leigh used a microphone at the meeting so everyone could hear him (trying something new!). Pledge of allegiance said by all followed by prayer led by Jackie DeFore. Leigh informed everyone the ABATE Swap Meet was a huge success and thanked all the volunteers from District 7 who worked at the Swap Meet. The state raised around $19,000 – we will definitely do this again! There was good attendance, no major issues and there were some great deals for purchase! Wayne at Angel City said he was planning to have a “Fallen Riders Booth” at Angel City and the tribute banner to Delmar Singleton that was on display at this past Angel City Rally would be a part of this booth. ABATE District 7 has “In Memory of Delmar” patches for sale. Large patches are $5.00 and small patches are $3.00. Leigh gave a BIG thank you to Cathy Edwards & Nancy Heard for ordering and getting these patches made. All proceeds from the sale of the patches goes towards our monthly chapter insurance bill. See Leigh or Janet Jester to purchase a patch. Sue Duggan resigned as State Director of Education for Abate and Chris Carr will be appointed at the next Board of Directors meeting on May 11. 20 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News Our Legislative Director, David Carmichael, reported the man who was involved in the accident that killed Delmar Singleton has been charged with Second Degree Homicide and Reckless Driving. At the time of our meeting, the case was set to go to court on June 17 at the Houston County Courthouse. If anyone can get off from work and be there it would be great to have a large number of bikes at the courthouse to show our interest in this case – there have been too many of our friends and fellow bikers killed by careless drivers! We were also encouraged to contact our state representative and let them know you want to vote YES on SB116 which is the Vulnerable Victim Bill. Janet Jester announced she had received a Bibb County Raffle License for us to officially hold our raffle as a 501c4. We are selling tickets for $5.00 for a chance of winning one of three great prizes: a 50” High Definition TV, an iPad and a Digital Camera. The drawing will be held at AP’s on August 4 (you do not have to be present to win). If you are interested in selling or buying tickets please contact Janet Jester! We have several chapters that are still interested in having an Abate Campout at Lake Tobesofkee. We will discuss with some of the other chapters at the BOD meeting to see if there is enough interest. Possibly have a campout in September. Kent Winslett announced that since he and his wife Patti became our Membership Directors we had gone from 47 members to 83 members! Let’s keep ABABTE District 7 growing! Leigh said if anyone had any suggestions to please bring it to the attention of the district officers and we would bring the suggestions to the chapter – everyone has a voice. AP’s is the main supporter of District 7 and we need to support Alice. They are currently selling Boston Butt tickets for a fundraiser for Bruce Hutchison who injured both ankles and can not walk or work. There will also be a benefit poker run on May 11 to help raise money for Butch. Also, Alice is making Friday nights “Bike Night’s” at AP’s! Meeting was adjourned at 2:40 PM. We will have our next chapter meeting on June 2 @ 2:00 PM at AP’s Hidden Hideaway, 4274 Broadway, Macon, GA. District 8 I’ve just returned home from the ABATE of Ga Quarterly Board meeting in Macon. I learned some new and interesting info. and I’m passing it on to you because it is IMPORTANT. The motorcycle–only checkpoints are a GDOT issue, NOT a Legislative issue. The GDOT Commission is made up of Regional members. We need to approach the Commissioner(s) who represent our district(s). I went on-line tonight and discovered that Don Grantham is my GDOT rep. Don is the 12th District Rep. They are listed by Congressional Districts. If you’re not sure which district you are represented by, look on your voter registration card – it will tell you. We need to be vocal. We need to approach these people and let them know how we feel! Looks like we might be having a Fall Swap Meet & Rally. If this is the case, D-8 needs to step up to the plate with volunteers! The April event was a huge success and will make life a lot easier (on the financial level) for ABATE of GA.! As soon as we have a date I’ll let you know. As I said last month, I have a blast at these things – good people, good bands, good times. Give it a try. Sadly, there were no 50/50 drawings at the last swap meet due to a shortage of volunteers – this probably cost us a $1000.! I’ve promised enough volunteers from District 8 to man a membership booth at the front gate – all day! I have to apologize for any confusion last month – the Jokers Wild Poker Run Flyer had the wrong date – it said Sunday, May 2 and should’ve been Sunday, June 2nd. I whipped that flyer together right before midnight on the newsletter deadline. Sorry! June 2nd - ABATE Regular Monthly Meeting at NOON at the Road Runner Café on WASHINGTON RD. The 8th annual Jokers Wild Poker Run will be held immediately following. The District needs your participation folks. Jan has planned out a route, come and enjoy it. June 25th - Bike night at the Sno-Cap Drive-In in No. Augusta, SC will be hosted by District 8 – come out and support us. Again, we can always use volunteers to help sell product, 50/50 tickets, etc. Mark your calendars to join District 8 on July 28th for the 6th annual Beat The Heat POKER RUN & Cook-Out. Once again we’ve reserved a private pavilion with a private beach and private paved parking. Besides the poker run and 50/50 drawing, we’re preparing for some of the same games including the now infamous pickle spitting (can you beat 17 feet?) and perhaps some new ones. Plan on joining us for this fun family event!! Watch for a flyer in next months newsletter. 21 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News OLD BUSINESS: Mayor Copenhaver once again was kind enough to proclaim May as Motorcycle Awareness and You Month, however, the April 27th Presentation of such was cancelled due to a mixture of poor weather and a general lack of promotion. The actual Proclamation will be housed at Augusta Harley Davidson for anyone wanting to see it. The Augusta Greenjackets, Augusta Harley-Davidson, Atty. Richard Ingram, and ABATE of Ga. District 8 co-sponsored the 1st annual BIKER AWARENESS NIGHT at the baseball game on May 3rd. I believe we had 11 bikes out on the baseball field as the Proclamation was read aloud over the intercom. Now this is spreading Awareness to the non-riding public!! Thank you to Jan for all of her hard work on this event! The May 5th Regular Monthly Meeting was cancelled for multiple reasons. Thank you to the Red Knights, Waynesboro Chapter, for having us set up at the “Fallen Firefighters Memorial POKER RUN” on May 11th. Also, thanks to them we will have the MRF Intersection kit in the curriculum at Waynesboro High School in the Fall. I look forward to working with this great bunch of guys. A HUGE thank you to SPORTSCUTS OF AUGUSTA for their $100. donation to Look Twice Save A Life (LTSAL). Due to their generosity, we have 2 more MRF Intersection kits in our possession and now we need to get them into some schools. Anyone out there have any pull? By the way, Sportscuts also purchased 10 of our yard signs. Please support this business – give them a try. They are located at 3328 Washington Rd, Suite B, Augusta, GA. (I think that’s in La Pavillon). Give them a call at 706-364-4263. Speaking of yard signs, we still have them for sale ($10.), along with t-shirts ($10.) in various colors, and ladies tank tops ($13.). til next time, be free, be safe, do your part. Support ABATE and your District. District 9-2 May 20, 2013 Meeting Minutes The meeting began at 7:05 p.m. at Los Napales on Monday, May 20, 2013. Al welcomed our visitors. David gave the invocation and Butch led the Pledge of Allegiance. Officer’s Reports: Stephanie read the minutes from the April meeting. Tracie gave the Treasurer’s report. Motion was made and seconded to accept both reports. Tracie had the membership report and stated there were no new members. Tracie also asked that if you are up for renewal please get with her to complete the paperwork. No Legislative report was given. Al asked if anyone had heard from Jimmy, our Sgt. At Arms. Dan made a call and said that Jimmy was unable to attend meetings and that we should accept his resignation. Al asked that the members present think about volunteering to fill empty positions and discuss at next month’s meeting. Al gave a report on the past BOD meeting as well as a report on the Swap Meet. He also stated he will contact Ned Williams to come or send someone to discuss the lack of communication with the state. Sue shared the intersection video with our group. It is a wonderful tool to use not only in schools but in civic and community events to raise awareness of motorcycles. She also stated that the kits we purchased will be put into place for the upcoming school year. We discussed that copies can be made of the test and that material should be copied and given to the schools as well. Upcoming Events: May 25-27 Powers Crossroads Event June 8—Kimberly Clark Ride for United Way June 29-30 Xtreme Rider Swap Meet, Warm Springs 10-5 The Iron Cross MC held a drawing and donated the proceeds to 9-2---Thanks guys!! Motion was made and seconded to adjorn. There were 19 members and 4 guests in attendance. Meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m. Hope to see you next meeting night, Monday, June 17, 2013. 22 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News District 11 Meeting of April 14, 2013 Redleg Saloon & Grill, 2805 FT. Argyle Rd, Bloomingdale, GA 8Officers,28Members and 2 Guests for a total of 38in attendance Meeting called to order at3:00 by Sgt of Arms, Henry “Reaper” Alley Pledge of Allegiance was led by Henry “Reaper” Alley Devotion/Blessing given by Honorary Chaplain, Eddie Sasser of Christian Motorcycle Association Opening statements from District Coordinator, David “Junkyard” Jackson: St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated in Savannah with great weather. I was in the Veterans group and it was good to see the reaction of the crowd as we walked the parade route. It was good to see so many ABATE members enjoying the festivities. Spring Swap Meet 3/22 - 3/24 was wet again this year. The storm that went through was severe but it passed by, then the band started up and the Swap Meet was a great time. The Vendors were inside the 4H building and that worked out well. We will get the building again next year if it is available. The security police were really nice and they gave us a big break on the cost. Reading of the minutes: Waived Officer Reports: Treasurer, Darlene Thornton: Spring Swap Meet was a good time and we had a good turnout. We had 240 Visitors which brought in $2157. We paid for the venue, the 4H building, the band, the security, port a potties, the state’s portionand made a net profit of $153.79. This is the first time this event has made a profit. The Vendors were great and we all had fun. Membership, Betsy Haddock: Spring Swap Meet went great and we signed up 9New Members , 6 Renews, &1 Jr. Abate. We finally got a new membership list from the state this week and the date on the top of it is November, 2012. If you have been a member at least 90 days and have not received your card or newsletters, please let me know and I will call the State Membership Hotline at 678-753-6018 for you. Please remember to sign in and be counted. The sign in sheet is at the front door, if you are not a member sign in as our guest. Legislation/Webmaster, RexWilliams: ABATE District 11 Facebook333 likes with a direct reach of 682. Most activity was Spring Swap Meet, Rick Crowder and Rags dad. Google had 175 Hits, 69% new . Senate Bill 116 which is bill that changes the sentence for serious or malicious injury to a motorcyclist from a 2nd degree misdemeanor to a high and aggravated misdemeanor. Witha penaltyof $1000 to $5000 and one year in jail. This sentence doubles the current jail time as it does not get the two for one credit for days served. The website calendar is updated through May so check the website information about upcoming events. I have made a list of all the House Members in our district for you. Downed biker page has 3 new listed this month and one more down today. We need help in keeping up with the downed biker page. If you hear of a downed biker please contact one of the officers so we can add them to the downed biker page. Secretary, Pat Hardin: May is Motorcycle Awareness Month and I have been working on a sticker/magnet design.I saw something similar at the State Meeting and my brother helped me put it together. I think we should buy some and have something to hand out putting both ABATE name and awareness out there. My friend Bobbi is an instructor of the Motorcycle safety course for the State of GA, Ft. Stewart/ Hunter AAF, & the Harley-Davidson Shop. She picked up the last box of calendars yesterday and was happy to announce that she had distributed the first box to her students. On the first day of class they receive a packet with their paperwork and class material and our calendar. It would be very cool to add a magnet and sticker to all the classes. The reach would be incredible. I would like to propose that we purchase 500 of each of the small (about the size of the inside yellow oval) magnets and stickers now and in December purchase enough supply for the Safety Courses and our events for the entire year of 2014 including some large ones for trucks, vans, garages, workshops, refrigerators and such. We have the means to get our name out there and increasemotorcycle awareness, ABATE awareness and perhaps save a life or two. GA Dept. of transportation is offering 500 free brochures and pamphlets about motorcycle safety if we will set up a booth in May on our INTERSTATE HIGHWAY system such as rest areas, weigh station etc. I think we should set up a booth at the rest area southbound on I-95 on Saturday May 18, 2013 from 9 and give out the States pamphlets and either a sticker or magnet for ABATE and hang out for a great day of friendship and perhaps save a life. 23 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER District News What are you doing on May 18, 2013 from 9-5? State Swap Meet had between 2400 and 2800 visitors. It was a fantastic turn out so try to make this event next year if you can. I went to Mitchell’s Hatchery yesterday and restocked my pond so the Jr. Abate Fishing Derby will be back at my house next year Saturday, May 10, 2014. Don’t forget I told you first so you can’t say you already had plans. This is the Saturday, Mother’s Day Eve. We will have fishing, food, water slide, face painting, at least one clown, popcorn machine, and much more. Bring your kids and grandkids. Activities Director, Jimbop Roberson: 4/15 Long County Wingmen Pimp & Ho Ball (Girls are Pimps and Guys are the Ho’s) 4/20 Savannah Harley Davidson Customer Appreciation Day 4/20 In County Vets 3rd Annual Freedom Honor Flight Run 4/27 Jr. ABATE Fishing Derby 4/28 Chatham County Sheriff’s Poker Run 5/3–5/5 Effingham Wingmen Cinco De Mayo/Anniversary Party 5/4 CMA Run for the Son 5/18 Harley vs. Hooters 5/18 7th Annual Armed Forces Day Poker Run 5/19 ABATE Meeting Sgt. Of Arms, Henry “Reaper” Alley: Thank everyone who volunteered at the Spring Swap Meet. Jr. ABATE, Tricia Cantaline: Stephanie Maas won the 50/50 at the Swap Meet and donated $25 to Jr. ABATE. Jr. Abate has $394 in the bank and is looking forward to the Fishing Derby on April 27th from 10-2. There will be hot dogs for bait and a fish fry. There will be lots of fun things for all the kids. June 2nd and 3rd will be the Jr. ABATE June Jamboree Campout at Shady Oaks Campground. All meals will be provided as well as games and a water slide. District Coordinator, Junkyard Jackson Old Business: Try to watch the calendar when you are planning your events. Last weekend there were some events on the calendar that scheduled way in advance and by the end of the week there were seven events going on. Rides for Smiles is a great cause where Veterans get to ride in race cars at OSP in Pooler. Next year we need more security for the Spring Swap Meet. We will need 6 or 7 volunteers. Try to support the other clubs. They support us. New Business: We need a septic tank at Big Roy’s. We also need to set up the bathrooms. If you or someone you know can help us with that please let us know. May is motorcycle awareness month. I have been working with the state through Tom Crosby and the overhead signs on the highway will be flashing motorcycle awareness messages unless there is an active amber alert. Col. Welcher, Sonny Dixon and Q-tip are working on an ad that has an automobile next to a bike and asks if you know who’s on the bike, then they reveal who it is. Look Twice, Save a Life. (voted, passed) We will purchase 500 stickers for now and will get more after the Toy Run in December. Open Floor: Col. Welcher, Chatham County Sherriff’s Office: 13th year of Sherriff’s Run. 17 Clubs participate. Last year they had 426 bikes sign in and raised $23,000. Some of the money was used to send 60 underprivileged kids to Disney World. The run is $15/25 couple which includes meal, drinks and there are already 225 door prizes. Harold, Christian Motorcycle Association: Pembroke Baptist Church is holding their first Biker Sunday. Afterwards a meal will be served. May 4, 2013 is the Annual Run for the Son. This is the only run that CMA sponsors and all funds go toward the overseas missions. Richard, SavannahChristian Motorcycle Association: Please make sure you check your mirrors, tire pressure, and look around you constantly. Be safe out there. Crank, In County Vets: Honor Flight will be April 21 starting at the Mighty 8th Museum and ending at the VFW Post 660 on Hwy 17. There are very few WWII veterans left and they are escorted to Washington DC to see their monument. The bus has medical staff and escorts provided. Grip, Effingham Wingmen: May 5, 2013 is Cinco De Mayo/Anniversary party. Ya’ll come! Closing Comments by Junkyard: State ABATE meeting is May 11, 2013. All members are invited to attend. Thanks for coming to the meeting Meeting was adjourned at 4:20 Next Meetings May 19, 2013, June 9, 2013 24 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Tar Snakes, Georgia’s roads and GDOT Last year, ABATE of Georgia officers met with representatives of the Georgia Department of Transportation when discussing the road audits for 2012. While walking one of the roads to be audited, an ABATE member pointed out the tar snakes on the road and the dangerous nature of them. The GDOT engineer walking the road with him shook his head and said, that there was no other “cost effective solution”. The trouble with that statement is one word, solution, as it was in fact false. Tar Snakes are not a solution, they are in fact a problem. Tar Snakes are made of a substance called Asphalt sealer. Asphalt sealer works like glue for the road surface, it fills cranks and prevents water from working down into the road surface which leads to cracking and destruction of the road surface. The resulting sealing operating leaves the all to familiar strings of slippery rubbery material all over Georgia’s roads. When that GDOT engineer classified Tar Snakes as a solution his might have been right if every vehicle on the road had four or more tires, tires with a flat surface for contacting the road way, a flat surface that produces a nice square “contact patch” when that vehicle goes around a curve that patch stays the same shape as the wheels them selves turn in one plane, the horizontal. However when a motorcycle turns (or shifts positions in a lane) the motorcycle’s tires’ contact patches shrink. Why you ask? Because when the motorcycle turns, its tires move two planes, the horizontal and vertical, that’s right, non-riders, motorcycles lean. That means the contact patch size gets smaller. This is why when your motorcycle goes over a Tar Snake in a corner you might feel a little (or A LOT of ) “slip” as your tires lose contact with the asphalt and slide over the Tar Snake until the tires comes back into contact with the asphalt’s surface. Add in temperature changes, rain, wet leaves and other road debris and you have an even slippery tar snake, a recipe for a motorcycle crash. There are alternative solutions out there, there are sealers that use “grit” in them to make them provide better friction. There is also always the question of repaving roads as well. This month ABATE of Georgia is asking all of its districts to go out and meet their GDOT State Transportation board member. When you do meet them, let’s ask them to stop making road repairs that are a “solution” for cars and a possible death “sentence” for Bikers. We sent photographers out last month to shoot a few pictures of some of Georgia’s roads. Do you think they look safe for your motorcycle? What about your loved one’s motorcycles? Can we really call this dangerous practice a “solution” ? Tell your State Transportation Board member, they are not, tell them to please push GDOT to find a new safe solution. 25 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Georgia’s Tar Snakes, Do you think they look safe? Photos courtesy of Wayne Davis and Chris Patterson A few photographs from Georgia 141 right outside of Duluth, Georgia (District 4 East), a safe road in the rain for metro Atlanta bikers? Georgia 140 the road that connects District 4 East with District 3, between Roswell and Canton 26 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Georgia’s Tar Snakes, Do you think they look safe? The S curve that makes up the county line between Bartow and Cherokee on Georgia 140, a popular road of Georgia Motorcyclists. To the right of the road is the drop off that plunges 100 feet into a creek, Is the blatant risk of a Tar Snake induced low side crash here acceptable to save a few state dollars? Georgia 108 between Georgia 20 and Georgia 140, the sweeping curves of this road and the beautiful scenery draws riders from all over the state, the pictures here are less than 1 mile apart. Would you ride this road on a dark misty night? 27 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER Look Twice Save a Life, Inc. Motorcycle Safety Foundation “Intersection” DVD Kits • • • • • • $50.00 to purchase a kit for your district or multiple kits for the counties your district encompasses. Georgia’s Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Motorcycle Division endorses the “Intersection” DVD Kit Look Twice Save a Life, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) Not For Profit Corporation All donations to this cause tax deductible. Send your check today to Look Twice Save a Life Inc., P.O. Box 184, Austell, Georgia, 30168. In the memo portion of your check, write the word EDUCATION. Please support this very important first step in raising awareness in our schools and in our communities. 28 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER 29 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER 30 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER The Supporters Program Business Support Member Program Any business that wishes to offer a discount on goods or services to an ABATE of Georgia member may have a listing in the monthly newsletter in the Supporter section. This listing will show business name, address, phone number, web site, district Number and discount amount offered. No Logos or other info. The cost to be listed is $25.00 per year. The Business Support member will receive an ABATE membership Easel and 2 Decals showing they offer a discount along with one full year of being listed. Any Business that is owned by an ABATE of Georgia member will receive this for $15.00 Business Sponsor Member Program Any Business that wishes to be a Sponsor and offer a discount on goods or services to an ABATE of Georgia members may have a listing in the monthly newsletter in the Sponsor Section. This listing will show the business name, address, phone number, web site, district number and discount amount offered in large bold type. No Logos etc. The cost for this is $100.00 per year. The Sponsor will receive an ABATE membership easel, 2 decals showing membership, a discount of 5% on any additional advertising in the newsletter. Any business owned by an ABATE of Georgia member will receive this for $75.00. As a thank you to those business’s that allow us to meet there we will run their info in the Sponsor section FREE for as long as a district meets there. An individual or Business that provides more than $100.00 in goods or services to ABATE of Georgia will be listed in the Honor Roll section 31 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER The Supporters Program American Bikers Active Toward Education Post Office Box 116 Austell GA, 30168 Tel 770-884-7138 Fax 770-234-4177 www.abatega.org Business Program for Supporters or Sponsors Supporter_____ Sponsor_____ Name of Business_____________________________________ Address_____________________________________________ City,State, Zip_________________________________________ Business Phone_______________________________________ Business web site______________________________________ Discount Percent offered________________________________ District located in_______ Application taken by ___________________ Date of Application _________________ Years of Term____ Notes______________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ______________________________________ Please turn in to your DC with a Check made out to ABATE of Georgia. 32 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER A.B.A.T.E. Of Georgia Sponsors and Supporters These Businesses contribute to ABATE and offer discounts to ABATE members Stone Mountain Harley Davidson 900 Dogwood Drive Southeast Conyers, GA 30012 (770) 979-7999 www.stonemountainhd.com/ Horizon Motorsports 858 Davis Drive Southeast Conyers, GA 30094 (770) 785-7253 www.horizonsmotorsports.com/ Mitchell’s Automotive and Truck Repair 4281 Interstate Drive, Macon, Ga 31210 (478) 477-6403 Weathers Honda 1808 Vernon Road LaGrange GA 30240 Phone: 706.884.7327 Fax: 706.884.3827 http://www.weathershonda.com Mountain Motorsports 899 Iris Dr. S.E. Conyers GA 30094 Phone: 770.761.4800 Fax: 770.761.4900 http://www.mtn-motorsportsnorth.com/ 20% off on Parts and Accessories Town Creek Food Shop 3061 Upper River Rd, Macon, Ga, 31211 (478) 751-9393 Clothing to Fit People 5415 Austell-Powder Springs Rd, Austell, Ga, 30106 (770) 941-1142 Rat Rodz Custom Cycles 3695 Broadway, Macon, Georgia 30216 (478) 784-8484 Tom’s Place 461 Old Mill Place, Cartersville, Ga, 30120 (770) 386-7755 Al’s Appliance and Refrigeration 600 Ridly Avenue, Lagrange, Ga, 30240 Katies’ Too Southern FBuffet Restaurant 614 Lincoln St, Lagrange, Ga, 30240 (706) 882-1222 www.katiestoo.com Free Drink with Buffet Auto Tek Customs 6041 North Henry Blvd Suite A, Stockbridge, Ga 30281 (770) 474-4636 Your Leather Loft 968 Hiram—Douglasville Hwy, Hiram Ga, 30141 (770) 439-0550 Cycle World of Athens 4225 Atlanta Highway Bogart, GA 30622 (706) 548-3300 www.cycleworldathens.com Freedom Powersports Kennesaw 3102 Cobb Parkway NW, Kennesaw, Ga, 30152 (770) 974 - 6000 www.freedompowersports.net ProLeather & Associates 411 Maxham Road, Suite 1600 (770) 948-1285 www.Proleather&Team.com Stone Mountain Cycle Service (404) 573-0159 Holly’s Hometown Insurance 2955 Buford Hwy Duluth, Ga 30096 (770) 476 - 9300 10% discount on Insurance to ABATE of Ga. Members Blueberry Hill 1550 C Dean Forrest Rd. Garden City, Ga (912) 964-8401 www.blueberryhillbar.com Helmet Hairdoos 678-227-8861 [email protected] Connie Zbikowski, American Family Insurance 4930 Bill Gardner Pkwy Ste 4930, Locust Grove, GA 30248 (678) 734-3210 http://insurance-agency.amfam.com/GA/connie-zbikowski/ Patricia Cantaline—Avon Representative (912) 748-5266 www.youravon.com/pcantaline Free Shipping on orders over $30.00, order online only Cycle Nation of Mcdonough 755 Industrial Blvd, McDonough, GA 30253 http://www.cyclenationofmcdonough.com 770-957-7404 Brown’s Camping Sales 9726 Tara Boulevard, Jonesboro, Georgia 30236 http://www.brownscamping.com 770-477-7718 Motorhead’s Bar and Grill 650 Macon Steet, McDonough, GA 30253 http://www.motorheadsbarandgrill.com (770) 898-0008 33 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER “ Please visit our District Sponsors 1W: Dari Dip 302 West Villanow Street, LaFayette, GA 5N: Cycle World 4225 Atlanta Highway, Athens, Ga 1: Logan’s Roadhouse 2140 East Walnut Avenue Dalton, GA 30721 6/2: Jekyll and Hyde's, HWY 29 North, Newnan, Ga 2: El Jinete Mexican Restaurant 345 W. Louise Street (Historic Hwy 441) Clarkesville, GA 30523 6/3: Big Daddy's Oyster Bar & Pub 101 Crossings E # 3, Peachtree City, GA 3 The Watering hole in Villa Rica 123 Tri County Plaza, Villa Rica, GA 4E: Confetti’s Bar and Grill, 6470 Spalding Dr., Norcross, GA 20% Discount with your ABATE card 4S: Solutions Bar and Grill 2040 Sylvan Rd, Atlanta Ga. 7: AP's Hidden Hideaway 4274 Broadway, Macon, GA 8: Road Runner Cafe, 2508 Peach Orchard Rd. (Rt. 25), Augusta, Ga 9: Player’s 1500 54th Street, Columbus, GA 9/2: Los Nopales Restauarnt 382 South Davis Road, LaGrange, GA 4W: Red’s Timbers 730 Concord Road Southeast, Smyrna, GA (770) 434-2432 jwkickerz.com 10: Dairy Queen Mcrae, GA 42 E Oak St, McRae, GA 31055 6: The Grove Bar and Grill 4681 Bill Gardner Pkwy., Locust Grove. 11: The Redleg Saloon 2805 Fort Argyle Road, Bloomingdale, GA 5: 5 O’Clock Somewhere 7189 Turner Lake Rd, Covington Ga 13: Henry Elrod Center US41 at Georgia 112 15: Toucan’s Ale house 2450 Perry Lane Road Brunswick, GA 31525 Members, Districts, Businesses & Supporters with your donation of $100 or more you become an Honor Roll Member of A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia! As always your generosity and support is appreciated. Steve Murrin 34 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER 35 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U. S. POSTAGE PAID AUSTELL, GA PERMIT NO. 15 IF YOU ARE A MOTORCYCLE ENTHUSIAST—JOIN TODAY! Your membership entitles you to our monthly newsletter, admission discounts at most A.B.A.T.E. events, discounts at bike shops throughout the state who support our ideals, a patch and pin for new members, and a year pin for renewals. Help protect your right to ride! Fill out the application below and New Card # New Card # A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia, Inc. Membership Application 0209 Membership Dues: Single $30, Couple $50, Junior $10 (Juniors must be 15 years old or younger) Make check or money order payable to A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia, Inc., or enter credit card information under your signature. Send to A.B.A.T.E. of Georgia, Inc., PO Box 116 Austell, GA 30168 __________ NAME____________________________________________________DOB____/____/____ NEW OR RENEW NAME____________________________________________________DOB____/____/____ NEW OR RENEW __________ How Paid __________ Amount Paid ADDRESS__________________________________________________________________________________ __________ CITY_________________________________________________ STATE__________ ZIP__________________ Expiration Date COUNTY_________________________________DISTRICT________PHONE (______) ___________________ __________ OCCUPATION_____________________________REFERRED BY_____________________________________ Date Received E-MAIL ADDRESS_____________________________________________________________________________ __________ Pin ( )Patch ( ) __________ __/__/__ Registered Voter Y or N (OPTIONAL) LEGISLATIVE DONATION ___________ $10 _____________ OTHER ____________ MAIL PIN (S) $3 I agree to comply with A.B.A.T.E. rules for sanctioned motorcycle activities. I understand that all benefits become effective upon receipt of my membership card. I agree not to hold A.B.A.T.E. responsible for accidents that may occur at sanctioned events. Membership dues and donations are NOT tax deductible for federal income tax purposes. APPLICANT SIGNATURE___________________________________________________________________ Prefer to register and pay online? PAY BY CREDIT CARD ON WWW.ABATEGA.ORG http://www.abatega.org/join.htm 36 June 2013 A.B.A.T.E. OF GEORGIA, INC. NEWSLETTER