May / June

Volume 4, Issue 4
Inside this issue:
May/June 2015
Chairperson Letter…….
Chairperson Letter
1-2
First time at NCOM
3
Motorcycle Safety Tips
4
CNMMRO-COC
5
WNMMRO
6
MFR
7
US Defender’s
8
Distracted Drivers
9
Steve Stucker
10
Paws -Stripes
11
Unsafe Road
12
Calendar of Event-No Colors
13
Event Flyers
14
Advertisements/Announcements
15
THE NMMRO BOARD:
MAY IS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH which draws
attention to serious life and death issues for riders. If you assume others on
the road cannot see you on a motorcycle, you will tend to ride in a hyperaware mindset and notice much more detail in your surroundings. Pretending
you cannot be seen by others will help you take the initiative to ride more
responsibly and defensively. The famous Hurt report on motorcycle accident
causation factors found that two-thirds of multi vehicle motorcycles versus
car collusions were the fault of the automobile driver.
In New Mexico 2015 alone, there have been 47 motorcycle crashes that the
NMMRO has been made aware of; seven of those have been fatal. The day
prior to writing this article, I was at UNM hospital visiting 4 survivors of
motorcycle crashes, two of which had been cut off by another vehicle who
then fled the scene, another crashed when hitting a huge pot hole on I
40.(see article in this newsletter). The most heartbreaking was a woman who
lost her husband and is suffering from a spinal fracture and head injury. She
shared with me that they have two young children and we cried as she
shared her husband’s last words before they took off on their ride as he told
his friend, "I love my wife and will always take care of her".
Chairman………...Annette Torrez
Vice Chairman........Ray Gallegos
Secretary……………..…David Cruz
Treasurer……RockHell Thompson
Sgt at Arms……...Todd Thompson
Editor……….….……..Kitti Gallegos
Webmaster…RockHell Thompson
Public Relations....Lisa Van Druff
Org. Liaison…………...Tom Newell
CNMMRO……….…..….Rod Owens
ENMMRO……..……Dorothy Jouett
WNMMRO……………..….Jim Smith
MEETING SCHEDULE:
NMMRO Monthly Meetings:
American Legion Post 49
11005 Central Ave NE Abq., NM
May 16th at Noon
COC Meetings:
American Legion Post 49
11005 Central Ave NE Abq., NM
June 6th at noon
We contacted New Mexico Department of Transportation and requested the
use of the portable electronic road signs to promote motorcycle safety
awareness. I was contacted by DOT officials, that the signs will be utilize
some during the month of May; they also made the request to the DOT
Traffic Operation Engineer to extend the use of the boards throughout the
summer (keep your fingers crossed). I was also told by DOT they will be
promoting safety awareness messages through the media, TV and radio
stations with a focus on the Memorial Day Weekend and will place spots
thought out the summer. In April several NMMRO officers attended a
distracted driving news conference at Civic Plaza along with the Mayor,
DOT, APD, BCSO MADD, Duke City Wheelman and the media.
Motorcyclists are so vulnerable to drivers who use their cell phone which
significantly impairs driving ability. Distracted drivers are twice as likely to
miss a traffic signal and as we know intersections are deadly for
motorcyclists. Channel 4 Anchorman Steve Stucker invited the NMMRO to
film a segment on motorcycle safety awareness which will air during the
month of May. Education on road safety and sharing the road is the key to
reducing motorcycle crashes, fatalities, and injuries. As motorcyclist we must
also respect the rules of the road.
2
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
In May I was privileged to attend The National Coalition of Motorcyclist Convention NCOM in Denver, Colorado. I
had the pleasure to attend the convention with Retired Representative Rick Miera who also sits on the NCOM
Legislative Task Force with me. NMMRO officer RockHell Thompson, WNMMRO officers Jim Smith and Barbara
Candelaria and NNMCOC officer Street Kings Spaniard and Streets Kings Tee also attended. I am honored to
have a position on the NCOM board and was privileged to give a seminar on Women and Motorcycling to
empower other women to ride, step up and get involved in the fight for motorcycle rights and promoting safety. I
meet so many awesome and strong women from other states. It was so cool because Rick, Spaniard and Tee
went to the seminar to support me. In many states woman are not allowed in the states COC's and are not
allowed to get involved. We are fortunate that in our state woman have officer’s positions in the organizations
and play a role in addressing issues we face as a motorcycle community. Congratulations to Richard M. Lester
on his recent induction into the Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame. Lester, a California attorney who founded AIM &
NCOM 3 decades ago & numerous subsequent motorcycle outreach groups, is the first national bikers' rights
attorney to be inducted. Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & the Hall of Fame has announced their 2015 inductees
into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame & one into the Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame. The Sturgis
Motorcycle Hall of Fame is designed to recognize individuals or groups who have made a long term positive
impact on the motorcycle community.
The Legislative Task Force, the US Defenders seminar and the Social Media Seminar all discussed our victory
in New Mexico defeating the two helmet bills and the impact the US Defenders and social media made to unite
all motorcyclist in our state and obtain support from other states. Our fallen biker program received praise and I
was asked a lot of questions on how we follow through at the time of the crash and after in support of the crash
victims and families. Many wanted to know how we get people to respond and report to us when a crash has
occurred. While I was at the NCOM Seminar I received a Facebook post that a non-rider who sees our post on
fallen biker said that it has made her more aware of motorcycles on the road. By posting all the accidents my
hope is to bring support, prayer and encouragement to the victims and families also to bring awareness that too
many crashes are occurring and we all need to Share the Road. If we can save even one life it will all be worth it.
The overwhelming topic for the NCOM weekend was "Save the Patch" and the status of the cases against the
Mongols MC, Devil's Disciples MC and Outlaws MC. All three cases have potential trademark implications but
vary slightly in the government's approach (see article in newsletter for more information).
An important subject discussed at NCOM was the Patriot Act, there is a split in congress in the renewal of the
Patriot Act with what they consider fighting terrorism vs. protecting privacy with a renewal deadline of June 1.
We should say NO to renewing the Patriot Act. The most controversial elements of the Patriot Act have to do
with those that directly impact the privacy and civil liberties of Americans. These include provisions that allow
government law enforcement agencies to wiretap and otherwise electronically survey suspected terrorists with
very loose warrant requirements relative to what was in effect before. The Act allows the government to gather
information related to foreign intelligence from US citizens, which many civil libertarians find overly invasive and
without real benefit, as well as rife with potential for abuse. The sneak and peak provisions allow law
enforcement agencies to get warrants that allow them to break and enter into the private residences and other
properties of suspected terrorists, to engage in surveillance and to leave without notifying the suspect that they
have been searched. Normally, law enforcement has to present a warrant to anyone against whom one is
issued. What makes this controversial is that the warrants can be used against those who are accused of federal
crimes at any level; not necessarily only terrorism and down to the level of misdemeanor crimes. The ability of
the government to search library records, business records and all manner of other private information has made
the Patriot Act one of the most controversial and hotly-contested pieces of legislation in US history.
We have had a lot of support and a new interest in the NMMRO as other motorcyclists in the state saw the
impact our organization can make as we face and address issues that affect all motorcyclist in our state and on
a national level. The unification factor is important, we hope the build the organization, our Facebook page and
website to help inform all motorcyclist. As a great leader, friend, mentor and US Defenders National Lt.
Commander Paul Landers said "We must leave our egos aside and work together as our preservation and
perspiration will prevail. Our greatest asset is manpower when we unite. It is not that we have the want to, we
have to learn the need to."
Ride safe all
Annette
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
3
NMMRO Membership





Single Membership
$20.00
Couples Membership $30.00
Corporate Membership
$100.00
Renewals: Single
$15.00
Couple
$20.00
Please send info & checks to:
NMMRO
PO Box 27673
Albuquerque NM 87125-7673
--------------------------------------------------Name:_____________________________________________________________________
Address:___________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
City:_______________________________________________________________________
State and Zip :_______________________________________________________________
NMMRO dues due in July
Input on NCOM from a First Timer:
I had the pleasure of going to the 30th NCOM this year with Annette Torrez and I also represented the
SNMCOC. I would of like to have attended all the seminars but, a few were held at the same time. I particular
enjoyed the Social Media & Public Relations seminar. They were putting out items that we here in New Mexico
have been working on improving over this past year so any information
in this area I felt particular important. I was touching on the importance of new technology but, also the
dangers of it. There was also discussion on Biker Communication Network (BCN). Working on as a whole our
communication and trust so we can better gather news on what is happening and getting connected to share
information. I would like to thank the NMMRO & SNMCOC for allowing me to represent them it was and honor
and a pleasure. I would definitely recommend to anyone thinking of it to attend as you will not only learn a lot
in the seminars but you also get to meet a lot of people from around the country.
Rachael M. Thompson
4
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Tips
.
But let’s not be too hasty! We know you want to ride but let’s not forget: Safety First For just that reason.
People are anxious to get out of their cooped up houses and get on the road but they may get too excited to
remember some basic motorcycle safety practices.
Here are ten motorcycle safety tips to keep you alive and well this season:
1. Make eye contact
Never assume others see you. Always try to make eye contact with drivers who may be about to pull into your
path.
2. Read “vehicle language”
Even when drivers, cyclists and pedestrians do see you approaching, they often misjudge your distance and
speed. Don’t rely on them.
3. Watch out for left-turning vehicles at intersections
Getting hit by an oncoming vehicle that’s turning left is the most common type of motorcycle crash.
4. Check behind when turning left from a highway
Watch your mirrors and make sure you have plenty of space behind. The drivers behind might not slow down for
you.
5. Look out for hazardous road conditions
Wet roads, fluid spills, sand, gravel, highway sealant, railroad tracks, potholes and other road-surface hazards
reduce your traction. They cause many falls.
6. Take it easy on the curves
Many crashes happen there. You might overshoot the road or cross the center line and get hit by oncoming
traffic. Watch the road ahead, slow down and choose the correct lane position-before entering a curve.
7. Wear a good helmet
Helmets prevent head injuries in 67 per cent of crashes and deaths in 29 per cent. Make sure your helmet has
a sticker showing that it meets current safety standards. Avoid buying a used helmet. It may have been in a
crash, and the damage may not be obvious.
8. Wear protective clothing designed for motorcycle riders
It can provide some protection during a crash, as well as shield you from the weather and flying debris. Keeping
warm and dry will help you stay alert and maintain coordination. Wear your riding gear in layers so you can
adjust to changing conditions. Jeans give little protection. Never ride in lightweight pants or shorts.
9. Protect your eyes and face
Constant wind can make your eyes water, preventing you from spotting hazards. Flying insects, dust and debris
can hurt your eyes and face. The best protection is a full-face helmet with a built-in face shield.
10. Be visible
Wear bright, reflective clothing. Add extra reflective material to it or wear a reflective vest. Likewise, buy a
bright-colored helmet and stick reflective tape to the back and sides. Always keep your headlight on. Ride in the
lane position where other drivers can easily see you and you’ve got room to move. Avoid all other vehicles’ blind
spots.
Raymond Gallegos
Vice-Chair NMMRO
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
CNMMRO
We delivered 4- watch for motorcycle signs to the city of Rio Rancho in
April. They will place one on eastbound Northern Blvd. as you approach
Highway 528 in remembrance of a fatality that occurred there. The other
signs will be placed on Unser Blvd. near Highway 550 and other
prominent locations. We are not able to place signs on Hwy 528 or 550
as that is state highway. We are also considering more signs in the
future.
Rod Owens CNMMRO Chair
COC of Northern New Mexico
Save the Date
2nd Annual Duke City Motorcycle Swap Meet
August 22, 2015
All Proceeds from this event will benefit
Wounded Warriors of New Mexico
Caravan East Night Club
We are hoping that more of the clubs will participate.
If you’re interested in renting a space
Contact Scarlet (Kitti) at [email protected]
Don’t mess out on the music, food and fun and
Help those that have given us our freedom!
5
6
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
WNMMRO
Hello NM.
“Freedom freeloaders”!
A quote by Paul Landers at the 30th NCOM Conference in Denver last weekend. If you think about the majority of
American Citizens it really makes sense. Folks just hanging out enjoying what is left of our freedoms in a country
based on freedom. Every time I go to NCOM I see a lot of clubs, motorcycle ministries and a few ABATE or
SMRO members but the majorities of involvement are club members. For some time now I have been trying to
figure out how do you get the independent riders involved? I constantly hear the independents talking about they
don’t join that is why they are independents but simple fact 1 voice is a whisper and 1000 a roar! I have folks that
just don’t or won’t understand why we all need to stand together to Save the Patch and now with the Devils
Disciples newest trademark case it is more evident than ever! Yes at this time the big brother is going after clubs
and trying to take their trademark(patch) but what happens when they achieve that big brother will then continue
on down the line to any group that bands together. There are already legislators and many others that feel
motorcycles are just too dangerous and have the overwhelming need to protect us all. If they had their way we
would all be wrapped in a bubble and spoon fed. Have you heard about Net Zero yet? NHTSA’s new idea to have
zero fatalities on our highways. Take a minute and look it up and while you’re looking note that motorcycles don’t
really fit into the big picture. With the new technology of cars talking to each other for crash avoidance and such
do you want your bike to apply the brakes all by itself? It will take all of us that ride working side by side to keep
our ability to make our own choice of transportation. If you really look at the big picture the America that our
founders envisioned is has been pretty much taken away by the folks mentioned above the supposed elected
officials and the nanny state folks. We are in the fight of our lives to save the freedom the Constitution of the
United States and the Bill of Rights guaranteed!
So stand up and join the fight with everything you have and don’t be a “Freedom freeloader”!
WNMMRO meeting are the 3rd Saturday each month at Veterans helping Veterans building 205 W. Maloney (old
GFD Sta. 2) in Gallup.
www.wnmmro.webs.com/
DON’T FORGET TO THANK A VET!
Ride Free!
Jim
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
7
Harley Davidson Recall
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/harley-recalls-46000-motorcycles-30559287
Harley-Davidson is recalling nearly 46,000 motorcycles in the U.S. because they could stay in gear
due to clutches that won't fully disengage. The recall covers certain Electra Glide, Ultra Limited,
Police Electra Glide, Street Glide, Road Glide and Road King models from the 2014 and 2015 model
years.
Harley-Davidson Motor Co. said in documents that gas bubbles can cause the clutch master cylinder
to lose its ability to fully disengage the clutch, especially if the bike has been parked for a long time.
This could cause a rider to lose control of the motorcycle if it's started in gear. The problem was
found through customer complaints. Harley reported 27 crashes and four minor injuries. Dealers will
flush the clutch and rebuild the master cylinder. The recall
Was to start April 23
.
Jeff Hennie
Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs Motorcycle Riders Foundation
1325 G street NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 www.mrf.org
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
US Defenders
With another successful NCOM behind US, I wanted to provide a brief recap of the highlights from the weekend for those
that were unable to attend. As always, Texas was well represented but we can do better. I encourage each of you to
make it an annual goal to have someone from your region in attendance for NCOM. It is an invaluable opportunity to gain
and share information with other Freedom Fighters around the country that are facing the very same issues we are
confronting here in Texas. With that being said, start making plans now for the 2016 NCOM in Atlantic City!
The overwhelming topic for this weekend was “Save the Patch” and the status of the cases against the Mongols MC,
Devil's Disciple’s MC and Outlaws MC. All three cases have potential trademark implications but vary slightly in the
government’s approach.
The Mongols MC case, which goes to court in June, names the entity as the defendant making it the first such case
against a club in history. The case is seeking to seize the club’s trademark and name. The Devil's Disciple’s case
involves indictments against individuals in leadership roles under RICO in District Court and is based on an historic
pattern of evidence spanning a period of 21 years. This case has already been lost in court with sentencing scheduled for
June where the government is requesting control of the Devil’s Disciple’s name and trademark. Both cases attempt to
prevent any members from displaying or benefiting from a collective mark and represent a “top down” strategy.
The Outlaws MC – Illinois court case is more indicative of the “bottom up” strategy where after being found guilty of
assault in a bar fight, the court granted seizure requests for club related colors from four individuals based on the
argument that they were tools of the crime. This strategy allows for club property containing the collective trademark to be
seized from individuals involved in criminal activity while displaying the mark. While this is not a direct attack on the club’s
trademark, the implications of this case could have a direct impact on trademark cases both current and future.
We are actively working to appeal the court's decision and will need the collective commitment and effort of every
Confederation of Club, US Defenders, COIR, ABATE, MRO and MRF organization across the country to defend each
one. Each region within Texas is encouraged to organize a "Save the Patch" fundraiser in support of the effort. As you
plan your events, please pass this information along so we can promote the event using all our resources statewide.
There are now two trademark funds; one for the expenses associated with the case against the Mongols MC and a
second one for the expenses related to the case against the Devil's Disciple’s MC. If the funds raised within your region
are not specific to either case, simply send in the funds to the "Trademark Defense Fund" and it will be evenly distributed.
If the funds are in support of a specific court case, this must be noted at the time the donations are submitted. All
donations should be sent to the following location:
Trademark Defense Fund
7334 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Suite 200
Canoga Park, Los Angeles, California 91303
Another hot topic of discussion during this year’s conference was the progress of the motorcycle profiling project. Five
states have profiling bills sponsored this year (CA, MN, NY, MD & MO) and Oklahoma and North Carolina have drafts in
place. During the coming year, seventeen states will be pursuing motorcycle profiling legislation with a strategy for a
federal profiling in progress. This is the single most important legislative issue to date.
The other resounding message from leaders across the country was the importance of engaging the local independent
community. This is vital! Please continue to work closely and support the COIR in your respective regions. Plan to hold
awareness events and fundraisers at independent friendly establishments where the message is not distorted by the
overwhelming presence of patch holders and an intimidation factor. Emphasize that these issues are not patch holder
issues but motorcyclist issues that affect anyone riding a bike. As a community, we cannot afford to be divided in our
efforts.
Continue to work with the local officials and legislators in your respective areas to foster relationships. Let them know the
issues we are supporting and how they can help us. Often, expressing your support for another bill or initiative they are
attempting to get done will prove productive. That’s how it works....know it and use it to your advantage
Please let me know if I or any of the State Lt. Commanders can be of assistance.
US Defender Commander Mojo-Texas- CC: US Defenders National
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
9
Distracted Driving
April was Distracted Driving Awareness Month. NMMRO board members and Jennifer Buntz from the bicycling
community attended a Department of Transportation news conference at Civic Plaza along with the mayor, DOT officials,
APD, Bernalillo Sheriff’s department and MADD along with the media, we’re all presently bring awareness to distracted
driving and the impact it has on our roads. Nearly half of all people who say they feel less safe than they did five years
ago; distracted driving is a deadly behavior and contributes to 16% of all fatal crashes.
“Fender-benders are rare in collisions involving motorcycles,” said MSF President Tim Buche. “When two cars collide, the
result is often minor damage that’s repaired a few weeks later once insurance kicks in. However, when a car hits a
motorcyclist, there is often direct vehicle-to-human contact. I can’t imagine the lasting guilt of doing harm to a person
who has a life and a family who loves them, especially if that harm is the result of a momentary lapse of attention. This
can all be avoided by making a conscious effort to drive fully engaged and undistracted.”
The MSF has created a collection of insightful tips for car and truck drivers. In this publication (Quick Tips: Ten Things All
Car & Truck Drivers Should Know about Motorcycles), the first tip has to do with drivers actually looking for and seeing
motorcyclists. Over half of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle. Most of the time, the car or truck driver, not
the motorcyclist, is at fault. There are a lot more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers don’t
“recognize” a motorcycle – they ignore it (usually unintentionally).
Driving Cell Free: According to the National Safety Council, “Hands-free is not risk-free.” A full 80 percent of American
drivers believe that hands-free devices are safer to use than their hand-held counterparts. “But that’s just not true,” said
MSF’s Vice President of Training Systems Dr. Ray Ochs. “Distraction happens in the mind, and the mind can become
distracted by the conversation itself, whether that conversation is hands-free or while holding a phone. The goal should be
to completely free up the mind to focus on the task at hand – driving and watching for others, and doing so safely.” To do
just that, the NSC recommends driving “cell free.”
The National Safety Council has created a list of strategies to avoid cell phone distractions while driving. They include:
•Turn off your cell phone, or put it on silent, before driving.
•Toss your cell phone in the trunk or glove box to avoid temptation.
•Pre-set your navigation system and music playlists before driving.
•Schedule stops to check voicemails, emails and texts.
•Tell coworkers, family and friends not to call or text you when they know you are driving
Ride safe all Share the road Annette
10
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Happy Anniversay Steve Stucker
See article below 25 years in the Media for anchorman Steve Stucker who is a great supporter of our
community. Congratulations Steve we also filmed a safety awareness clip this will show this month for
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Click on link to see video.
http://www.kob.com/article/stories/s3793654.shtml
Created: 05/12/2015 9:30 AM
By: Nikki Ibarra, KOB Eyewitness News 4
Of Steve Stucker's many passions, motorcycles are definitely up there, and so is helping those in the
motorcycle community.
"He's one of us," said Annette Torrez with the New Mexico Motorcycle Rights Organization. She's
gotten a lot of support from Steve over the past few years.
"Anytime that I have something going on he'll talk about it in our newscast, he'll talk about events that
we have going on," Torrez added.
She said Steve has really come to the forefront on many issues, including motorcycle safety. Earlier
this month, Steve did an entire story on the topic, educating viewers along the way.
He's been active in the Fallen Biker Program, offering a lot of spiritual support for those who really
need it.
"He helps reach out to the families whether it's with prayer or just a phone call," Torrez said.
Of the many motorcycle events Steve takes part in, the Run for the Wall event is one of the biggest.
Steve leads veterans and their supporters on a ride through Albuquerque.
"By having Steve involved in that it, it just shows that our community cares," added Torrez.
Steve's Rally in the Valley event is coming up on May 23 in Red River. Proceeds go to the Make-AWish Foundation.
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
11
PAWS AND STRIPES
HELPING DOGS, HELPING HEROES
In 2009 The Army Medical Research Center put out a study that reported an 82% reduction of PTSD
symptoms for veterans with service animals. Another 40% decreased prescription medication use.
Paws and Stripes is the only organization in the country coupling assistance dog training with an
individual eight to twelve month mental health care program customized to each family’s needs. The
program uses an integrative approach to a complex, misunderstood problem. As a result of their
integrative therapeutic program, Paws and Stripes graduates report the following changes in their
overall quality of life:
Veterans have reported a 43% decrease in alcohol consumption, 86% see an increase in going out in
public, 71% get better sleep, 57% drive more and 85% spend more time with family and friends.
They also provide customized mental health services for veterans and their families throughout the
duration of the program.
They have a unique and extensive approach to training service dogs. The program is structured so
that the veteran participates in every element of the training with the dog from day one.
The program is funded entirely through donations, grants, sponsors, fundraisers and merchandise
sales.
Information from the NCOM Veterans Rights Seminar
About Justice for Vets
Our Mission: Veterans fought for our freedom, now it’s our turn to fight for theirs. We enable the
creation of a nationwide network of Veterans Treatment Courts that is transforming the way veterans
are handled in the criminal justice system. In doing so we will keep veterans out of jail and prison;
saving their lives, their families, and their futures, while saving tax dollars for the American public.
Justice for Vets is a professional services division of the National Association of Drug Court
professionals, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization based in Alexandria, VA. Justice for Vets believes
that no veteran or military service member should suffer from gaps in service, or the judicial system
when they return to their communities. As the stewards of the Veterans Treatment Court movement,
we keep veterans out of jail and connect them to the benefits and treatment they have earned; saving
their lives, families, and futures, and saving tax dollars for the American public. Justice For Vets will
ensure that the criminal justice system effectively identifies, assesses, and responds to all justiceinvolved veterans appropriately, and will lead the national effort to establish Veterans Treatment
Courts within reach of every veteran in need. As the national leader, Justice for Vets will aggressively
advocate for Veterans Treatment Courts and mobilize the public to take action to join us in ensuring
that no veteran is left behind.
Many organizations exist to provide programs and services to veterans, however service duplication
and lack of coordination have created wide gaps in access. Often, justice-involved veteran are
excluded entirely from accessing this help. Justice for Vets helps communities bring together local,
state and federal resources to directly serve veterans involved in the justice system due to substance
abuse, mental illness, or trauma. Website: justiceforvets.org
Rachael Thompson
NMMRO Treasury
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
Investigators are trying to figure out if a pothole is the reason a New Mexico man
lost control of his motorcycle and crashed.
As reported on Channel 7 KOAT News May 11, 2015
The crash happened about noon at Interstate 40 Tijeras exit. Two men were riding their bikes
when one of them lost control and slammed into the pavement, according to the Bernalillo County
Sheriff’s Office. He was wearing a jacket that said Navy SEAL, but was not wearing a helmet. He
was taken to University of New Mexico Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Deputies said speed
and alcohol do not appear to be factors.
The state’s Department of Transportation confirms there was a 6-inch-deep, 1-foot-wide pothole
near the crash. It has since been repaired. Deputies said potholes like that can be disastrous for
bikers.
"A car with four wheels, you might get a blown-out tire, get a little bit of damage to a vehicle. But
with a motorcycle, if you hit a pothole like that -- especially at highway speeds, it can be
devastating to a motorcyclist," said Sheriff's Office Sgt. Aaron Williamson. Williamson said the
same spot was repaired less than a month ago. During this time of year, the constantly changing
weather causes roads to expand, creating potholes, NMDOT said. Officials are asking residents to
contact NMDOT if they see a pothole. NMDOT has 800 workers who travel the state looking for
and fixing potholes. It spends $200 million each year fixing roads.
I did visit Joe Fitzpatrick at the hospital on the day of the crash. He did state felt the pot hole was
the reason for the crash. Slow Joe as he is called had a head injury, bumps and bruises at the
time of the visit. He was going to obtain a lawyer to see what legal issue he could pursue
. Annette
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
13
NO-COLORS Welcome …
Establishments as reported by NMMRO members who:
 Welcome Bikers and provide friendly service or
Do not allow Colors or have refused service to a
Motorcyclist.
 High Noon Restaurant
 Leo’s Nightclub
 American Legion Post 49
 Twin Peaks Bar & Grill
 Rt 66 Casino
 Malarkeys
 Smokehouse BBQ
 Kelly’s
Billy’s Long Bar
Santa Ana Casino
Burt’s Tikki Lounge
Silva’s in Bernalillo
Cottonwood Mall
Slate Street – Rio Rancho
Hooters
Stone Face Tavern
Horse & Angel Tavern
T.D.'s Showclub
The Library Bar-Grill
Ojos Locos
Ned’s on the Rio Grande
Uptown Sports Bar
Sandia Casino
Sidelines
The Damn Bar-RR
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…
May 16th12:00pm
NMMRO Meeting
Post 49,11005 Central Ave, Albuq
May 22-25
2015
Red River Rally
Red River, NM
May 23rd
Join Steve Stucker in Red River for the Rally in
the Valley to benefit Make a Wish of New Mexico.
Red River, NM
June 6th12:00pm
COC Meeting
Post 49,11005 Central Ave, Albuq
Jun 9th7:00pm
CNMMRO Meeting
Cazuela’s Mexican Grill 4501 Sara Rd, RR
87124
June 20th10am
Survivors Clean & Sober MC
See attached flyer
June 27, 2015
Paws & Stripes and The NM Freedom Riders
Flyer will be out soon
July 18th
12:00 pm
NMMRO Meeting
French's Mortuary in Rio Rancho
Aug 15th
Disciples MC School Supply Run
More Information to come
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THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER
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