FREE!! - ABATE of North Idaho
Transcription
FREE!! - ABATE of North Idaho
A.B.A.T.E. of North Idaho November-December ! ! E American Bikers Aiming Toward Education F E R 2 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 A.B.A.T.E of North Idaho Chapter Information Be Informed Kootenai Chapter PO Box 2511 Hayden, Idaho 83835 Dale Ohrt 208-762-2364 [email protected] Meeting 1st Thursday Coordinator Chuck Gilmore 208-476-0189 [email protected] Motorcyclists Rights Organizations Know Yo ur Rights Protect Your Rights Deputy Coordinator Paul Riess 208-769-7048 [email protected] Secretary Julia Merkel 509-442-2487 [email protected] Motorcycle Riders Foundation www.mrf.org Local Rep: Dave Cazel www.legislative.idaho.gov St. Joe Chapter PO Box 173 St. Maries, Idaho 83861 Moose Wittrock 208-245-2320 Meeting 1st Sunday LC Valley Chapter PO Box 1867 Lewiston, Idaho 83501 Jim Davis 208-790-2297 [email protected] Meeting 2nd Week of Month A.B.A.T.E of North Idaho State Information State Officers: Be Involved Clearwater Chapter PO Box 2042 Orofino, Idaho 83544 Pauline Durst 208-476-7677 [email protected] Meeting 1st Saturday Hoodoo Chapter PO Box 912 Spirit Lake, Idaho 83869-0912 Rod Haux 208-699-4716 rodhaux@hotmail com Meeting 1st Saturday SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE Treasurer Dee Hutchinson 208-476-4805 [email protected] Membership Sec Dave Cazel 208-765-3527 [email protected] American Motorcyclist Associationn www.ama-cycle.org Local Rep: Tom McLaughlin 928-580-7957 Ambassador at Large Tom Taylor 208-773-9512 tomandsuetaylort@peoplepc. net Idaho Coalition of Motorcycle Safety www.idahobikerrights.com National Coalition of Motorcyclist www.aimncom.com The Hells Canyon Chapter PO Box 2096 Lewiston, Idaho 83501 Dave Bremenour 208-827-0396 [email protected] Meeting 1st Saturday Sergeant-at-arms ANI Editor & State Chaplin Ernie Crocker 208-691-5008 [email protected] : Idaho STAR Motorcycle Riders Training www.idahostar.org Disclaimer: The Eagle is a bimonthly publication of ABATE of North Idaho. The views expressed by advertisers, or correspondents may not necessarily reflect those of ABATE of North Idaho. The content of the Eagle is based upon source material, beli eved to be accurate, however; no liability is assumed for accuracy or completeness. All input is welcomed. Facts and statistics should include sources and references. Credit will be given to all writers. The Newsletter Editor reserves the right to edi t all submissions for space, clarity, and content. Material will be printed as space permits. ABATE of North Idaho, its officers and staff of the Eagle issue no warranty of safety in any event described herein or guarantee any product or service advertised herein. The above named parties accept no liability or responsibility for death, injury, or other losses due to participation in event, or use of advice, products or services offered or advertised in this publication. A.B.A.T.E. Of North Idaho Eagle Newsletter A direct ‘TARGET MARKET” of the motorcycle industry and all related subjects. Circulation of 2000 and growing. Direct mail to 300 ABATE members Throughout Northern Idaho and Northeast Washington. Bi MONTHLY Advertising Ad Rates Number of Insertions 1X 3X JUMBO Ad (9.3” x 10.2” = 94 sq.in.) $135 $125 6X $115 LARGE Ad (7.5” x 10” = 75 sq.in) $105 $95.00 $90.00 MEDIUM Ad (7.5” x 4.88” =36.6 sq.in.) $55.00 $50.00 $45.00 MUSTANG Ad (3.63” x 4.88” = 17.7 sq.in.) $30.00 $25.00 $25.00 Business Card Ad (3.25” x 2.00” = 6.5 sq. in.) $15.00 $15.00 $10.00 Prices effective 09-01-2009 and subject to charge without Notice Ad dimensions may vary, but area will be equal or greater than the areas shown above Distributed and available for FREE at various locations through N. Idaho, including motorcycle dealerships and repair & accessory shops. All motorcycling places of interest, rallies & events. Choose ad size then send copy of your ad to address belo w, or Email to [email protected]. We do have design staff if you need help with designing your ad. Send Payment Check to: . . Please send ads in pdf or jpg format; high resolution (300 dpi at actual Size). Send camera ready copy (sized as above) or copy for original creation of an ad for you to the address shown Call Catherine Salomone with questions at 509-446-2285. ABATE of North Idaho C/O Catherine Salomone PO Box 306 Metaline, WA 99152 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE 3 ANI Coordinator’s Report Chuck Gilmore State Coordinator. Julia's Farewell Abate of Idaho Members and Officers; Let me start out by thanking you for allowing me to sit in as your State Secretary during some extraordinary times for ANI, in the past two years. Having never been an Abate member before 2006, it has been one of the best learning experiences of my life. Fears of the unknown were replaced with great pride, in realizing my abilities I had no prior knowledge of. I met some pretty amazing motorcycle enthusiasts, and bikers! And attending the M.R.F. STEAM Seminars in 2008 opened my eyes to the power we have as Americans involving any Legislative issues! Don’t just voteAnswer the “call to action!” Write or call your Legislative Representatives .The Business of Freedom Fighters……Get involved! Julia’s Opportunities during her three years ………………PRICELESS! See ya’ll in the winds of change Julia Merkel ANI State Chaplin Let me start offby saying it is good to see you all here. I k now that with the elections today we will be setting the organization up with a great se t of officers for the next year and I hope that we can continue to go in a forward direction as we have done this year. Our membership took a slight blow during this year but we have managed to overcome some issues and grow. M ost of our chapters have come together and set aside personal feelings to ac complish what I believe is an excellent start at cooperating. We managed to change a few of our dates on our events so we were not overlapping all the time and I hope it allowed chapters to get involved .with each other. W e do have one problem I would like to see us work on in the next year. If I am reelected I will make this one of my priorities. I would like to see more involvement with all of the chapters at the state functions. Putting on the state functions takes a lot of ha rd work and I am seeing only a couple of chapters stepping up to help with the w ork load that needs to be done to kick off the events and make them a success. At Spring Opener there is always the same faces showing up to set up fencing and take turns on the gate. We need each chapter to get involved and show a unity. We all enjoy the festivities but, we should not leave all the work to be done, up to the select few who always seem to be the ones doing the work. I would appreciate the returning coordinators and the newly elected coordinators to make this one of their priorities next year. Let's see how many of our members we can get involved next year to tnake the Spring Opener even more of a success. Another state function that is held each year is the Friendship Run. To say the least I was very disappointed with the turn out we had this year. With the exception of a hand full of members (Dave Cazel our State Membership Secretary, Paul Reiss our State Deputy Coordinator and his wife Susan, Norm and Bev Burch) the only turnout ANI had, was from the Clearwater Chapter. The Clearwate r Chapter has members from the Boise area and they managed to make it to the Run so why does the remaining chapters, who are closer, seem to not have an attendance at this function? Let me remind you this is a STATE Function and I would like to see more involvement from the other chapters. ICMS comes all the way from down in the Boise area and they had more of a turnout than ANI had. That is just down right unacceptable. The Friendship Run is just that FRIENDSHIP and the showing that other chapters from ANI had, was disgusting. Are we just an Organization that let's everyone else does the job or are we a group of people that are tired of watching the world go by? So I put this challenge up to all returning and new Coordinators and Deputy Coordinators: How many of your members can you get from your chapter to attend the Friendship Run next year. Pastor Ernie I have been involved with ABATE of North Idaho since April of 1997 when I attended a State meeting and have been a member of the Kootenai Chapter since 1998. I have attended every Spring Opener since 1997 and have served as Spring Opener Vendor Coordinator for 9 years and served as Spring Opener Coordinator for 4. I was Chapter Secretary for 3 years and Chapter Coordinator for 4 years. I was appointed State Chaplin at the Friendship Run in 2002 at the Big Eddy. Lot of years and lots of events. I am proud to be a member of ABATE of North Idaho. There are many rights in this country that are being taken away and ABATE is one the organizations trying to protect our rights as Bikers. I am also a member of MRF, ICMS, AMA and the Hoodoo Chapter. Other rights I try to protect are our right for freedom of religion and our right to keep and bear arms. That is why I am a member and support the American Center for Law and Justice and NRA. Whether big or small someone is always trying to take away our rights and freedoms. As a Christian I stand up for my rights to believe and worship as I want and agree with the founding fathers that this is one of our most basic rights. In spite of what any government or law says we all have the right to believe in God and worship him. To this day thousands of Christian lose their lives, homes families and everything else because they believe and refuse to denounce their faith. Here in America there are those who would have religious freedom taken away as well. It is an ongoing battle to keep this freedom. This country was founded on Christian Principals and on the teaching of the bible. Most of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were Christians. Our public school system started out teaching the Bible. That same bible is the one the Supreme Court said couldn’t be in our schools, the same bible that has the Ten Commandments in it. The Federally owned building that the Supreme Court is in has the Ten Commandments Craved in the stone steps and walls and craved in the doors. How did we get so far away for truth left us by our founding fathers? People weren’t standing up and fighting for their rights. Whether it is the rights bikers, gun owners or Christians we all need to be involved, stand up and defend our rights. It has been proven that it is easier to keep rights than to try and get them back. I thank everyone for letting me be your State Chaplin of ABATE of North Idaho. Looking forward to many more ABATE events. Ride safe and ride free, Know that God loves you, Pastor Ernie. SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 4 all rW ge is h tT Pa on u Yo North Idaho Legislative Contacts email addresses: First initial followed by the last name (without separation or punctuation) @house.idaho.gov s Po OR @senate.idaho.gov North Idaho State Representatives Eric Anderson (R) District 1 33 Match Bay Rd., Priest Lake, 83856-5049 Home (208) 265-6316 Committees: State Affairs - Vice Chair Environment, Energy & Technology R. J. Harwood (R) District 2 81527 Hwy. 3 South, St. Maries, 83861 Home (208) 245-4446 Committees: Environment, Energy & Tech - Vice Resources & Conservation Chair Revenue & Taxation Phil Hart (R) District 3 P.O. Box 1988, Hayden, 83835 Home (208) 683-0456 Committees: Transportation & Defense - Vice Chair Judiciary, Rules & Administration Revenue & Taxation George C. Sayler (D) District 4 1102 Ash Ave., Coeur d'Alene, 83814 Home (208) 664-2787 Committees: Health & Welfare Resources & Conservation Revenue & Taxation George E. Eskridge (R) District 1 P.O. Box 112, Dover, 83825 Home (208) 265-0123 Committees: Appropriations Environment, Energy & Technology Resources & Conservation Mary Lou Shepherd (D) District 2 273 Crescent Dr., Wallace, 83873 Home (208) 682-4771 Committees: State Affairs Transportation & Defense Jim Clark (R) District 3 8798 N. Clarkview Pl., Hayden Lake, 83835 Home (208) 772-5992 Committees: Judiciary, Rules & Administration - Chair Local Government Revenue & Taxation Marge Chadderdon (R) District 4 109 Lakeview Dr., Coeur d'Alene, 83814 Home (208) 769-9309 Committees: Business Education Local Government Frank N. Henderson (R) District 5 362 S. Ponderosa Loop, Post Falls, 83854 Home (208) 773-2269 Committees: Business - Vice Chair Appropriations Local Government Bob Nonini (R) District 5 5875 W. Harbor Dr., Coeur d'Alene, 83814 Home (208) 765-1904 Committees: Education - Chair Transportation & Defense Shirley G. Ringo (D) District 6 1021 Herrington Rd., Moscow, 83843 Home (208) 883-1005 Committees: Appropriations Commerce & Human Resources Transportation & Defense Tom Trail (R) District 6 1375 Mountain View Rd., Moscow, 83843 Home (208) 882-6077 Committees: Agricultural Affairs - Chair Commerce & Human Resources Education Liz Chavez (D) District 7 1521 15th Ave., Lewiston, 83501 Home (208) 746-1169 Committees: Agricultural Affairs Education Resources & Conservation Paul E. Shepherd (R) District 8 P.O. Box 277, Riggins, 83549 Home (208) 628-3695 Committees: Resources & Conservation - Vice Chair Education Health & Welfare North Idaho State Senators Shawn Keough (R) District 1 P.O. Box 101, Sandpoint, 83864 Home (208) 263-1839 Committees: Finance - Vice Chair Transportation Joyce M. Broadsword (R) District 2 590 Heath Lake Rd., Sagle, 83860 Home (208) 263-7735 Committees: Health & Welfare - Vice Chair Finance Transportation Mike Jorgenson (R) District 3 2953 Point Hayden Dr., Hayden Lake, 83835 Home (208) 762-5514 Committees: Judiciary & Rules - Vice Chair Local Government & Taxation John W. Goedde (R) District 4 1010 E. Mullan, Unit 203, Coeur d'Alene, 83814 Home (208) 664-4652 Property/Casualty Insurance Sales Committees: Education - Chair Commerce & Human Resources James C. Hammond (R) District 5 4757 W. Foothill Dr., Coeur d'Alene, 83814 Home (208) 773-5748 Committees: Transportation - Vice Chair Finance Health & Welfare Gary J. Schroeder (R) District 6 1289 Highland, Moscow, 83843 Bus (208) 882-0601 Committees: Resources & Environment - Chair Agricultural Affairs Education Joe Stegner (R) Assistant Majority Leader District 7 216 Prospect Blvd., Lewiston, 83501 Home (208) 743-3032 Committees: Commerce & Human Resources Local Government & Taxation State Affairs United States Representative & Senators Congressman Walt Minnick (202) 225-6611 1517 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 Senator Mike Crapo - (R - ID) Class III 239 DIRKSEN SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON DC 20510 (202) 224-6142 Web Form: crapo.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm Senator James E. Risch - (R - ID) Class II 483 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE WASHINGTON DC 20510 (202) 224-2752 Web Form: risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=Email ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 Abate of North Idaho State Board of Directors Meeting October 04, 2009 Coordinator specified, “No Quorum”. Pledge of Allegiance said by all Attendees Roll Call shows; State Coordinator-Present State Deputy Coordinator-Present State Secretary-Present State Treasurer-Present State Membership Man-Present State Ambassador @ Large-Absent State Sergeant @ Arms-Open Clearwater Coordinator-Present Clearwater Deputy Coordinator-Present Hells Canyon Coordinator-Present Hells Canyon Deputy Coordinator-Present Hoodoo Hippies Coordinator-Absent Hoodoo Hippies Deputy Coordinator-Absent Kootenai Road Dogs Coordinator-Present Kootenai Road Dogs Deputy Coordinator-Absent St. Joe River Riders Coordinator-Absent St. Joe River Riders Deputy Coordinator-Absent Two Chapter Members present: James Hutchinson, & Bob Merkel (Let it be recorded that Hoodoo Hippies, St. Joe, & Kootenai all had Officers not in Attendance for today’s meeting.) Should the same Chapters not have representatives at the following meeting; letters go out as per ByLaws 4.7.1 to inform the perspective Chapters they had no representation. (excluding Kootenai) Although we could not proceed with Business @ Hand today, we did appoint a three person tally crew to count the Ballots for Annual Elections, and our new Coordinator is Mr. Chuck Gilmore. All other Officer Positions are being filled by the same people except the State Secretary position. Julia Merkel resigned her Office and we had one Chapter come forward with an interested person. That person will present qualifications at the next meeting for Board approval, please attend. We accepted reports from attending Chapters; Whats been Happenin’ in Idaho SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE Clearwater Reported: Don Grahams Daughter Amber sent a Thank you card for the $ we donated; she placed it into an account for “Halli” Don’s new Grandbaby. Kudo’s go to Dee, James, Mike Thacker, & Chuck for their efforts @ our highway clean-up. And a special thank you to Michelle Gilmore for the Banners that read “this highway being cleaned today by bikers”. We’re attracting the right attention. A nice chunk of change was made @ “Too broke”, which we donated to our own, “Forrest & Deanna” who lost their home July 4th to a fire. Clearwater has 57 members. This meeting got “Tabled” not enough present. Our November meeting is scheduled for Nov. 7th @ Marty & Carol Cranes home @ 312 West North 2 nd In Grangeville. (208) 983-0478. Chapter requests State to reimburse cost of the port-a-potties @ the Friendship Run. Also Chapter members would like to express their dissatisfaction @ the low turn out from Abate of North Idaho at this year’s event. It appears Clearwater has become the sponsor instead of all ANI as it should be. “Pauline Durst” Hells Canyon Reported: We now have 71 members. Getting ready for Halloween Party And Poker Run. We went 18 strong on the Unknown Ride for the Children’s home. We rode to Ramble Inn in Montana the end of July, to see our Montana members. Great time had by all! “Big Dave” Kootenai Reported: We have 47 members. Our finances are consistent with previous years @ this time. Meeting Attendance has been good despite many members taking extended rides this year. In August we approved the By-Laws proposed Amendments. October 3rd we had our fall highway clean-up in conjunction with Hoodoo and 8-10 people p/u 18 bags of trash. Toys 4 Tots is coming, this year we are offering a “Henry 22 Mag. Rifle” for Raffle. $10.00/Ticket. Last yr. we bought over $5300.00 in toys! We hope to do well this year with this Rifle Raffle. “Dale Ohrt” St. Joe –Not Present Hoodoo – Not Present L C Valley – Not Present Reports Given, Election Tally Taken, ANI Files returned from Julia Merkel in full, and as we had no quorum, this gathering ended around 1:50PM. Dave Cazel,_MRF Rep-Idaho Over the Labor Day weekend Abate of North Idaho (ANI) and Idaho Coalition for Motorcycle Safety (ICMS) met for the annual Friendship Run in Pierce, Idaho. This beautiful logging town in the Nez Perce area of Idaho hosted the weekend event by opening up their town to the bikers. The run sponsored by the Clearwater Chapter of ANI in conjunction with ICMS was a success, as usual. The bikers had a great iron horse rodeo and even managed to have their annual meeting of the two SMROs that are normally 425 miles apart. They try to inform members and set common causes for these two SMROs in order to insure that total vigilance is exercised at the state capitol. The Kootenai Chapter and the Hoodoo Hippies of ANI will hold their semi-annual highway clean up of 2 miles of Highway US 95 just north of Coeur d’Alene on October 3rd, rain or shine. All this activity is followed by a big BBQ for all the volunteers followed by the monthly meeting to the Hoodoo Hippies. November 7th the Kootenai Chapter of ANI will hold its 19th Toys for Tots Run in conjunction with Toys for Tots sponsored by the US Marines. In each of the last three years every child that has requested a toy (in excess of 2000 each year) has received at least one toy from a biker. The ride has 7 stops and ends with a free potluck meal for the riders, along with raffles and a fund raising auction. Santa and Mrs. Clause lead the ride in the Santa Trike with hundreds of bikers following on. Its cold on a scooter in November but ABATE, HOG and the Clubs support the children. The biggest story to tell is that the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has received three grants totaling $1.5 million for future transportation efforts in Idaho. The funds are scheduled to be spent on traffic record systems (data collection), MOTORCYCLE SAFETY focused on reducing fatalities and injuries, and reducing impaired driving on the Idaho highways. The Idaho Office of Highway Safety Idaho continues to partner with the SMROs in Idaho to emphasize motorcycle safety. Also, ABATE in Idaho is growing for the benefit of all the riders. During this past month ABATE of Southwest Idaho incorporated. Motorcycle freedom fighters always welcome more activists to put forth the message of motorcycling safety, education, rights and freedoms. Both riders and freedom fighters in Idaho say “ Welcome to the fold we’re glad to have you with us.” to all the members of ABATE of Southwest Idaho. RIDE FREE and wear a helmet when you choose to. 5 NEXT ANI BOD State Meeting January 10th @ Noon Sandpiper Grille Conference Room Moscow, Idaho North Highway 95 Submitted by Julia Merkel TOYS 4 TOTS RIFLE RAFFLE Presented by Kootenai Chapter ABATE of North Idaho HENRY GOLDEN BOY 22 MAGNUM RIFLE $10 Donation Per Ticket Raffle Proceeds Go to buying TOYS for TOTS. Raffle presented by Kootenai Chapter A.B.A.T.E. of North Idaho inc, a motorcycle rider rights organization. P.O. Box 2511 Hayden, Idaho 83835 Drawing to be held on November 7, 2009 at the End-of-Run event at the ‘Grail Grill’ 4720 W Seltice Way . Coeurd' Alene, ID Raffle Winner need not be present to win. Winner will be notified by telephone if not present. Winner Required to compl ete Federal Firearms Purchase a uthorization requirements. For more info, call Denise Mills at 208-964 -4494 6 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 Runs & Events ABATE of NE. Washington Halloween Party Kootenai "Toy for Tots" run October 31, 2009 November 7, 2009 Hells Canyon November 14, 2009 Food collection run for the NW Childrens Home. Hoodoo Christmas Party Lawrence's "First to Freeze" ride December 5, 2009 January 1, 2010 ABATE of North Idaho State Meeting January 10, 2010 2010 ANI ELECTION RESULTS Chuck Gilmore was re-elected ANI Coordinator. All other positions were uncontested. 2010 ANI Officers are: Deputy Coordinator - Paul Riess Secretary - OPEN Treasurer - Dee Hutchinson Membership Secretary - Dave Cazel Ambassador-at Large - Tom Taylor Kootenai-Hoodoo Highway 95 Clean up Ten members of Hoodoo and Kootenai Chapters of ANI came together on October, 7 to pick up trash along a 2-mile stretch of Hwy 95, north of Silverwood Park. The team collected 18 bags of trash during the 16th semi-annual clean up. Following the trash pick up, the members enjoyed a pot-luck lunch at the Linger Longer in Spirit Lake. SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE ABATE of North Idaho Clearwater Chapter Meeting Minutes Dee, Secretary Clearwater Chapter September 12, 2009 Chapter Coordinator Pauline Durst called the meeting to order at12:30 am. The meeting was held at the Royal Room in Cottonwood. The Pledge of Allegiance was given to the American flag. There were 5 Officers, 7 members and 5 guests in attendance. August minutes were read and approved. Coordinator report: Pauline explained that she doesn’t have a report at this time because she ends up talking for most of the meeting anyway so she waits for when the opportunity arises o t say what she has to say. Deputy Coordinator report: Mike Thacker said after some confusion over the music, the Friendship Run didn’t turn out so bad and everyone had a good time. There was no poker run this year due to the weather and we hope to see and do more next year. He reminded everyone about the event put on by Juice in Lewiston next weekend at South Fork Station. Starts Friday with camping available all weekend. Roadhouz will be playing live music and this event benefits the North West children’s home. Secretary report: Dee let the members know that she is going to be ordering the VNV patches and asked if anyone who wanted one would pay for them up front as to save some money in the chapter acct. The patches are $4 each. If you are interested in purchasing let her know. She again noted that Oct. is nominations and we need members to step up for the vacant positions the chapter has now like Treasurer, Secretary and Membership Secretary. If you want your minutes by snail mail please let her know. For now we are trying to get to everyone by e-mail and only mailing the minutes to members that don’t have a computer. Membership Secretary report: We had 2 people sign up as members at the meeting, a big biker welcome to Marty and Carol Crane! That brings this chapter up to 56 members. Ambassador at Large: ‘W’ said he stopped by Juice’s to discuss the NW Children’s home benefit (information above). He put the pictures from the Friendship Run on the chapter Myspace.com, 154 pictures or more. Safety report: Pauline said at the Friendship Run, Christical discussed the up coming DVD for the Motorcycle Awareness Program. Said he would get one out to all chapters. Mike Thacker said he would like to head up the MAP in our local schools and will get a hold of the Driver Ed teachers. Pauline encouraged all who have not, to take advantage of the STAR classes available. Other states are discussing mandatory motorcycle training for anyone trying to get a MC endorsement. Why make it mandatory? Let’s just use what we have voluntarily. My Space report: “W’ Reported there have been over 2451 hits on our site and over 574 friends including the over 60 ABATE Organizations from around the world (he lost count after 60). Also one Shooter Jennings, son of the notorious Waylon Jennings. Tim Reynolds, Dave Cazel, & Susan Riess stand by the road sign. Old Business: Pauline said she talked to Lane and Chuck from ICMS and they would be happy to help us find a place to crash when we go down for their Can Dance in November. We just need a head count on how many are interested in going. This is an ICMS annual event and for every canned food you bring you will receive a raffle ticket. More information will be forth coming. Pauline passed a card around to be signed by members for Geda, a Pierce resident and friend, to thank her for helping out at every Friendship Run by making some kind of food for our potluck BBQ after the Rodeo. This year she made the German tater salad and baked beans. rd Roadside clean up has been scheduled for Oct. 3 . Meet at the turn out at 10am and we will have the chapter meeting afterwards at Mike Thacker’s house in Greer with potluck of spaghetti and sides. I think Dee is taking care of a roaster full of spaghetti. State meeting is October 4th in Moscow. This is the meeting we elect our State Officers. Make sure you fill out and send back your ballots before it is too late. New Business: November meeting was scheduled for November 7th. It will be held at new members nd Marty and Carol Crane’s home in Grangeville. 312 West North 2 if you get lost their phone # is 208983-0478. Correspondence: MRF Report and ICMS Newsletter for anyone who wants to see. Announcements: Chapter Officer Nominations will be at the October meeting. PLEASE Plan to attend. If you have not received your ballots for the state elections contact our State Membership Secretary, Dave Cazel. His phone # is 208-765-9527. Pauline made a motion that the meeting come to an end,Mike seconded the motion and the meeting ended at 1:50 pm. SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE at M e r G enu...Awesome Fo od Linger Longer Lounge Down town Spirit Lake 6262 N. Maine Spirit Lake Biker ! iendly 208-623-2211 Fr Open Jam Every Sunday 4 – 8 pm Special Occasion Live Music Ka raoke Every T hursday & Frida 8pm - M y idnight & Saturda y 9pm 1am ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 Tell Me Something I Already Know! By Paul Riess Life was simpler 35 years ago. Riders (and drivers) pretty well knew there was much less car traffic on the roads during nighttime riding, but the wildlife and drunks posed the ever present threats. Avoiding or minimizing rural, night riding in favor of daytime riding has long been the safer bet. In the electronic age, we have a challenging combination of hazards lurking in the bushes, two of which are congested daytime traffic and distracted cell phone drivers. An article in the July, 21 New York Times reported on a recently released report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers using cell phones are 4 times more likely to have accidents. According to the Times: “Extensive research shows the dangers of distracted driving. Studies say that drivers using phones are four times as likely to cause a crash as other drivers, and the likelihood that they will crash is equal to that of someone with a .08 percent blood alcohol level, the point at which drivers are generally considered intoxicated. Research also shows that hands-free devices do not eliminate the risks, and may worsen them by suggesting that the behavior is safe.” And further: “A 2003 Harvard study estimated that cell phone distractions caused 2,600 traffic deaths every year, and 330,000 accidents that result in moderate or severe injuries.” Several years ago, the Discovery channel program “Myth Busters” did a segment on driving a test course with the driver talking on a cell phone. Myth Busters got about the same results. What is even scarier is drivers using message texting. A CNN report showed that when drivers text message, they are distracted from the road for a minimum of 6 seconds. If traffic is rolling at 60 mph and assuming a ‘panic stop’ distance from 60 takes 140 ft, then they safe separation difference for vehicles is 668ft. That’s 37 car lengths! Texting was reported to be done by 50% of younger drivers, where their crash rate was 8 times higher than the norm. Texting truck drivers are 23 times more likely to crash. For motorcycle riders, clearly, no driver phone use is the best. Seeing a driver with a hand-held phone pressed against their ear can at least alert the rider to an immediate hazard announcing “Caution, intoxicated diver at the wheel, RED ALERT!!” Precautions may include covering controls, tooting the horn, revving the motor, flashing high beams, or some combination to gain the driver’s attention. Washington State and some other legislatures have banned the use of hand-held cell phones and texting when driving, while permitting hands-free devices. By legitimizing hands-free phone use, drivers believe their distracted driving is perfectly acceptable and safe, because their state law says so. Unfortunately, various studies show there is NO Difference in driver distraction between handheld and hands-free cell phone use Any phone conversation causes the same “no-brainengaged” distraction to a driver’s attention. Several state legislatures, although well meaning, have raised the ante by banning hand-held phones and legitimizing only hands-free devices. Phone using drivers are now invisible. Every car becomes a potential stealth cruise missile operated by a pilot with an equivalent blood alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08. Motorcycle riders don’t really want to deny other citizens of their rights and freedoms, like using cell phones. In many cases, a car is a person’s livelihood, their rolling office. On the other hand, motorists with an equivalent BAC of 0.08 are not entitled to endanger other motorists, except, of course, it’s legal if they are talking on the phone. In crashes between motorcycles and cars, the car wins. The moral to the story for riders is: STAY AWAY FROM EVERYONE. BE PARANOID! Keep careful check on traffic in your rear view mirror. They really are out to get you. What we can do is petition our State Legislators to make distracted driving a primary offense with serious penalties similar to DUI. And, require police to investigate and record if cell phone use or other distractions were involved in a bodily injury collision. On second thought, that night riding, dodging deer and drunks, may not be no so bad after all. 7 8 SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 ITD WORKS FOR MOTORCYCLISTS by Lane Triplett reprinted from ICMS Two Wheel Advocate In our last issue of the “Two Wheel Advocate”, ICMS commented that the Office of Highway Safety, Idaho 6242 Main Street Spirit Lake, ID (208) 623-2142 Open 6am to 3pm Daily Transportation Department was not willing to support the May awareness rallies. ICMS recently met with ITD and found that we indeed have much the same goals and we plan to work together toward those common goals in the future. I would like to highlight some of the efforts made by ITD to reduce motorcycle fatalities and serious injuries in Idaho. On my annual trip to Montana with friends over Memorial weekend, some of ITD’s work was readily apparent. In areas where center line rumble strips (in double yellow corners) have been installed, not once did I observe an oncoming vehicle crossing the center line into our lane. We all know how frightful that situation can be. I also believe that it keeps motorcyclists from over-riding corners as well. These strips can be somewhat unnerving when crossed in an extreme lean. And while it scares me to think of what might happen if I were to cross one that had fresh paint and rainwater on it, ultimately it is still my responsibility to keep my bike under control and on my side of the road in any and all conditions. I haven’t been everywhere in our state since these have been installed, but I have seen them on U.S. 95 near Bonners Ferry, state highways 55 &21, and on U.S.12 a sign has been installed just east of Kooskia warning of 99 miles of center line rumble strips to the Montana border. On the same trip another pleasant surprise was observed. At places on U.S. 12 where new drainage culverts were being installed and on U.S. 93 north of Challis where a bridge is being replaced, a big orange sign stating “MOTORCYCLES USE CAUTION” was prominently displayed. Not only do these signs keep us from being surprised by current road conditions it also alerts other vehicles that we may be taking extra caution and hopefully we NEW!! Tuesday Night Specials – 5pm to 9pm Spaghetti and Meatballs: $5.95 Or “Cook’s Choice” Special: $6.95 can get a break from them as well. I have also seen these signs posted on various construction projects around the Treasure Valley. These signs and their frequent use should not go unrecognized, especially in these times when funding is difficult. Three years ago, in cooperation with STAR, ITD produced and ran a television spot promoting motorists awareness of motorcyclists. This spot was nationally recognized as one of the best of its kind ever produced. Though it was originally run in the month of May in saturation, it is now being run throughout the riding season. It will most likely be used in ICMS’s proposal to driver education department for the improvement of motorcycle awareness in classroom studies. Recently billboards have started popping up at various locations. I took the photo, right, at the intersection of Eagle Road and Pine in Meridian on July 13th. These are but a few of the contributions the Idaho Transportation Department has made toward motorcycle safety in recent years. While ITD and the ICMS may not always agree on every issue, we at ICMS are grateful for ITD’s accomplishments and the continuing dialogue between our organizations through various councils and personal meetings. Motorcycle safety, education, and awareness are the common thread of our efforts. MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FUNDS As many of you are aware, for the past few years Idaho has received monies from the Federal Highway funding legislation. Annually, our state receives $100,000.00 to be used primarily for raising motorcycle awareness on the streets and highways. That fund of m oney, and more for larger states, has been available to states that can meet the required criteria. Most states, and Idaho, have met those each year. A total of 47 states have consistently received these funds, for a total of 2.5 million dollars. In 2010 the highway funding legislation is due for renewal and work has already begun on the new bill. Along with that work is the continuing efforts of our Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) to renew this motorcycle safety funding. The current proposal includes the possibility of enhancing that fund as well as better defining the purposes for which those funds can be used to promote motorcycle safety. After the MRF proposal is submitted to Congress, motorcyclists across the United States will be asked to support th is by contacting their Representatives and Senators. Be prepared and ICMS will keep you posted. ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE 9 What actions are you taking to stay safe? Motorcycle Safety Tips by Stacey “Ax” Axmaker www.idahostar.org Training Man ager – Idaho STAR Motorcycle Safety Program Crashes involving motorcycles happen. It’s just a fact. Some are just the motorcycle, some are motorcycle s and cars, and some (far too many) involve riders who has been drinking. Many of these crashes result in the rider being hurt or killed. Most of us know riders who have been hurt or killed. It happens and it’s real. But there are things we can do to redu ce the odds of us getting hurt. What it comes down to is two things: avoiding the crash and minimizing injury if there is a crash. Take the quiz below and see how you score on keeping yourself safe. Avoiding the Crash Minimizing Injury 1. Hazard Perception a. I look well ahead and see hazards long before I get to them b. I look as far ahead as the vehicle in front of me so I can respond when it does c. I look at the road right in front of me 2. Riding Skills a. I have taken professional training to improve my riding skills and I practice them b. I read a book or magazine article about riding skills c. I figure I’ll just know what to do when the emergency happens 3. Being Seen a. I have bright colors and retro-reflective material on my clothing, bike, and helmet to help me be seen b. My jacket is black, but I wear a light colored helmet c. I dress all in black and I ride a black bike 4. Drinking and Riding a. I have a zero tolerance for alcohol when I’m riding b. I often have a drink or two and then ride home c. Drinking and riding is just part of what we do 1. Protective Gear a. I wear all the gear all the time (boots, sturdy pants, jacket with armor, gloves, helmet, and eye protection) b. I wear a jacket and helmet c. I only wear gear for long rides; around town I just wear a t-shirt and sneakers Scoring: a = 2 points, b = 1 point, c = 0 points If you scored 0 – 3 points: You are probably leaving a lot of your safety to chance, and the odds have a way of catching up with you. Look through the questions above for suggestions on how to reduce your risk of being in a crash. If you scored 4 – 7 points: You are off to a good start. You seem to be aware that much of your safety is up to you and that there are steps you can take. Keep on that track and look for more ways to reduce your crash risk. If you scored 8 – 10 points: Great job! You understand that what happens to you when you ride is your responsibility and you are taking action. Keep up those good riding habits – you never know when you will really need them 10 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE ANI Secretary Position Offering I, Jeni, of Hells Canyon Have offered to take on the place of secretary for A.N.I. I would like to tell those that don't know me a little bit about myself. I have lived in the valley for most of my life. My father was a biker and I have all ways loved the road from 2 wheels. I have been married for all most 15 years and have 3 tweenage kids. The friends i have made thru A.B.A.T.E. are good unique people. I wish to help A.N.I.'s vision and goals of keeping our rights to our votes. Not the government choosing for us. Also helping everyone to have the skills and drive to keep us all safe with wheels down and shiny side on the road. I would like to see A.N.I. get the recognition, respect and support it deserves. I have been amazed in my travels as to how many folk I have came across who do not know of A.B.A.T.E., what we stand for that and we aren't just some bike "club". The only way we can do this is for every chapter to help get our misson out to the people. 10better than just some group that share a view. Power We need to work together to get this done or we will be no is in numbers and for Idaho votes on Idaho rules we need Idaho people following us. I have had various jobs in office work in my life. Currently I work as a Developmental Therapist. This position requires exact documentation, reports, billing and communication with many other companies and state facilities. My Husband (Ralph) and I owned our own Karaoke and DJ business. I cared for all contracts, billing and scheduling for our company. We were successful and decided to leave the industry simply because places were getting their own equipment and it wasn't as profitable to only do parties and weddings. I hope to do A.B.A.T.E. proud and help to see us progress further to reach our goals together. ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE 11 ANI HOODOO HIPPIES CHAPTER REPORT Our Sept, 12th Hoodoo meeting, was held at the Merkel Ranch in Ione Washington. Many of the Hoodoo members met to go and enjoy the beautiful ride up the Pend Orielle River. Bob and Julia Merkel were gracious hosts for the meeting and made us all very comfortable with plent y of great FREE food and 'beverages'.It was awesome and a great time was had by all who attended. (see photos) After the meeting and fabulous lunch, we all took a ride around Sullivan Lake. It was nice to get in a ride toget her on such a beautiful day, in such a beautiful area. All those who came, reported they had a great day and enjoyed the ride back as well.Many of us would like to get more rides in, combined with meetings, like this, more often. Afterall, 'riding' is what it's all about! Thank you Bob & Julia and to all those who attended. September 12 th, 2009 Hoodoo Hippies Meeting Minutes Merkel’s Mnt. View Ione, Washington Meeting called to order @ 1:45PM Twelve Hoodoo in attendance. August minutes read by Julia, and accepted. Lori Wilkins letter of resignation was received after the August meeting. We have no Secretary/Treasurer at this time. Rod Haux said we’ll wait for the October meeting to see who might volunteer, or be nominated. He says his time as Coordinator is coming to an end, and he must decline any new nomination as his work has him living in Oregon, 85% of the time. Treasury balance was given, and will be brought up to speed for the next meeting. Membership was @ 60 last time we tallied it. New Legislation has been introduced to “the right to repair act”. All Motorcyclists are encouraged to visit www.righttorepair.org to send a letter to each of our congressional representatives, urging them to support the right to repair act by adding their names to the growing list of cosponsors. OLD BUSINESS: The “Malibu Rum Car Wash had a dismal turnout”. Nothing else was reported on it. Hoodoo Blood drive August 29 th had 18 people give the Gift. A large thank you to you all! We received a letter from the CEO with a story about a woman who you may have saved by giving that day! Please remember to give support where it is given in regards to the “Eagle” newsletter. Patronize those advertisers, and let them know you saw their ad in the “Eagle!” Beth Miller sent in an inventory sheet for the products she is storing in her bus storage, for Hoodoo. She’s gone, but Curt has access. In her letter she released any responsibility for animal damage to said produc ts. Chatty received the beautiful new tye dye Hoodoo Abate Banner for our functions. Truly one of a kind! Photos coming in the “Eagle”, it’s a sunny color! NEW BUSINESS: A food drive at the Linger Sept. 20 th, bring it. October 3 rd is our highway cleanup with the Kootenai Chapter. Meet at Son Shine Rd. around 9:30AM, across from Silverwood. Begin clean -up @ 10:00AM. Dinner afterward @ the Linger. We‘ll need to nominate a new Secretary/Treasurer @ the October meeting, which is October 3 rd some time after the highway clean up. - (Before, or after dinner.) The Hub Bar and Grill 406 Main St. Kamiah,Idaho 208-935-2211 Good Food, Good friends, Good times 12 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 Friendship Run Rodeo, Labor Day Weekend 2009, Pierce Idaho SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE We actually had a nice turn out. About 64 bikes rode up to Pierce this year from around the state. Only 2 bikes went down one went down twice in the baseball field and 1 in the parking lot of the park, so no damage and no injuries (other than prides and egos). Everyone so enjoy this rodeo every year. Some say it was the best rodeo so far. The people that come out and participate in the games are awesome! It shows that they are not there for thefame and fortune cause with $ store prizes everyone did a great job and received their plastic tiaras well. I apologize now I didn’t get all the ladies’ names. Weenie Bite Slow Race Pauly beat 'em all out Get a Grip Paddle Joust All around Cowboy hands down 1st - Mark and Partner 1st - Mark and partner Plank Run went to Pacman 1st - Matt and Riki had to go to Pacman 2nd - Jay and Partner 2nd - Jay and Partner 2nd - Jay and Partner 2nd - Matt and Riki 3rd - Styx and Midge Keg Roll was all for the Kid 3rd – Mr. and Mrs.Pacman Good sportsmanship and great attitudes by all! 208-276-3093 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE MRO/SMRO MEMBERS GIVEN THE KEYS TO THE VAULT TO HELP END THE CARNAGE ON OUR HIGHWAYS 13 By Dave Cazel Idaho State rep MRF States Motorcycle Rights and MRF members were introduced to the form and substance of how to create, to fund and to implement a Motorcycle Safety Program, which up until now, was shown primarily to states’ employees. On August 4 and 5, 2009, region 10 of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in conjunction with the Transportation Safety Institute’s (TSI) Traffic Safety Division (NTSD) held its Regional Motorcycle Safety Program Course in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. All states in Region 10 with the exception of Oregon were in attendance. Class participants represented Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Utah. The course was designed and implemented in 2008 in response to the increase in the number of motorcycle accidents throughout the United States. The target participants were state highway safety program managers and their staff, highway safety engineers, law enforcement safety administrators and personnel, state motorcycle safety administrators, their staff and instructors. All categories of the aforementioned groups participated in the two day course. However, there was one group of stakeholders that was missing from this targeted list and they were, the people most effected by Motorcycle Safety Programs, the beneficiaries of all this effort, THE MOTORCYCLE RIDER. Well, not to be denied, MROs and SMROs actually did attend this program. According to the NHTSA headquarters in D.C. this was the first time since the implementation of this program that the SMROs were in attendance. The class is designed for a group of less than 20 participants and, as far as I know, this was the last region to hold the seminar. Thus over 200 public employees from throughout the country have attended the program and not until this course were motorcycle riders included. Five SMRO members in attendance were, Chuc Coulter, ex-officio Board member of the MRF and director of the MRF A&E, Lane Triplett, chairman of the Idaho Coalition for Motorcycle Safety, Dave Cazel, MRF Idaho State Rep, Boyd McFail and Blue Breshears both of the Alaska Motorcycle Safety Advisory. Through networking and relationship building these freedom fighters were offered seats at the table by the Idaho Office of Highway Safety and Operations. I would like to thank the Idaho Office of Highway Safety and Operations, NHTSA–Region 10, NHTSA HQ, Traffic Safety Institute and the Maryland Department of Transportation for the opportunity to have our voices heard. The course, Motorcycle Safety Program Coordination (MSPC) was designed with five primary objectives in mind, among which was to explain the creation of motorcycle safety programs at the state level with partners from all facets of the States’ Departments of Transportation and Traffic Safety, how and where to go to fund these programs through the use of public funds, (of which most of us are at least somewhat familiar with, USC 23 sections 402,408,410,2010) and lastly to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the program plan. The point of all this is the fact that there is the opportunity to go shoulder to shoulder with SMROs and in the future compete for public funds for motorcycle education, safety and awareness. There are no limits to the types of uses for these sources as long as they are applied either to your safety, education, awareness, data collection or impaired riding programs. One item that stood out is that there is a fund (NAMS Grant Progra m) explicitly for non-motorcycle industry program managers of which SMROs are a part. There is money out there just for the asking, as much as $10,000, for state and local chapters. It may take some pressure off the fund raising efforts throughout the coun try. Identify the Safety Coordinator that works in your state’s Highway Safety Office, (every state is required to have a safety office) identify and introduce yourself to your state’s Governor’s Advisory Council representatives and lobby to become a more active participant in motorcycle safety, education and awareness. Through perseverance and tenacity we will have a louder and clearer voice with which to be heard on the subject of motorcycle freedoms. As long as we as motorcycle riders are experiencing the volume of carnage on the highways and by-ways of this great country there will continue to be the need for us to be represented in the planning, implementation and dissemination of safety measures. NHTSA Headquarters in Washington D.C. has indicated that now and in the future that THE USERS AND BENEFICIARIES, MRO/SMRO MEMBERS, THE MOTORCYCLE RIDER will have a seat at the table for motorcycle safety program seminars. Who knows better where to spend motorcycle safety program money than the rider? LET THOSE THAT RIDE DECIDE! Hells Canyon Report As the cold weather comes our rides get fewer and we start looking like stuffed animals on two wheels. But for those of us who don't make our bikes hibernate for the winter this is normal. Remember every time we are on the road to be more careful in the winter season on the road as our hazards grow. With everyone helping each other A.B.A.T.E. can show we are strong in being safe and still having fun on the road in any season. We had a Boville ride over labor day weekend. As all ways we had lots of fun a big thanks to Bill Hartman for his hospitality. Hells Canyon recently helped some fellow bikers in our community on a fund-raising poker run to Elk City. September 19th we went on a great over niter ride in south fork gateway out of Elk City with the unknowns who were raising money for the Childrens Home. The Unknowns asked us to join them on this run and they have all ways been willing to help in our runs and ventures. The run went off great. There was good food and entertainment all night. We thank them for the invite and for showing us a great time. Not a Whole lot of runs in the next couple months. We will have a couple community runs where all the bikers in the valley no matter who they run with and some lone wolves all get together as friends to support our community. Tho our community is not huge, every community has needs and I am proud of the outpouring of support our valley bikers give. Upcoming events for this winter are: Hells Canyon Chapter meeting November 7th @ 2pm at the wrangler and new officers will be announced. Broomstick pool to follow. November 14th.. a Food collection run for the NW Childrens Home. co. sponsored with HD Custom Motorcylces and Hells Canyon Chapter of A.B.A.T.E. Please call Big Dave for more information on when the ride will be or where you can drop off your non perishable food, frozen turkey or ham. Big Dave, 208-827-0396 E-mail [email protected]. Please we need all the donations we can get to make this a great day for the children. 14 ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 25th Annual Meeting of the Minds “From the eyes of your Rep” Minneapolis, Minnesota Sept 24th-27th The annual Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s Meeting of the Minds 25 th conference was held during the fourth weekend in September. Thirty-nine of the 50 states’ representatives were among the 465 activists who attended. As this was one of the most successfully attended conferences and marked a milestone in the motorcycle rights movement, a rather thorough history was told to the attendees over the course of the weekend. Many of the original founders, charter members and eventual statesmen from the motorcycle rights movement were there. It was quite an impressive list of names and their accomplishments in furthering the freedoms we all cherish. (Just as a side note I might mention that the prevalent hair color there was gray.) The issues that were brought to the table by the states, many of which were mentioned as concerns by more than one state, were brought to the attention of the participants as items in those states which needed to be addressed and offered as solutions to other States Motorcycle Rights Organizations, (SMROs) with similar problems: National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, (NHTSA), involvement with the states’ governments and the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB’s), lobbying the states on behalf of the NHTSA to skirt the Federal rules regarding departmental lobbying; license plate rules; rider education and motorist awareness; Right of Way violations and future legislation and prosecutions; public relations and Public Service Announcements, (PSAs); sport bike regulations, issues and future legislation; 2010 funds; highway furniture and signage; insurance issues; developing coalitions with pedestrians and bicyclists; lobbying; developing political relationships for the benefit of the motorcycling community and VOTING. The many accomplishments of the MRF over the past 25 years were highlighted and the one that stood out the loudest was the total repeal of the federal universal helmet law in 1994 which had originally been enacted in 1966 and was on and of until 1991. Also presented were the accomplishments of the MRF over the past year. The MRF actually met with the Republican National Committee for the very first time (this isn’t about donkeys or elephants, its about motorcycle rights and freedoms). The ” Bikes in the Beltway” ride was established for motorcycle awareness and was the first time motorcycles were parked en masse on the grounds of the United States Capital. This was an enormous effort and the brainchild of our recently deceased MRF Vice President, ”Boz” Kerr. This past year marked the formation of the Motorcycle Advisory Council, (MAC), made up of industry leaders, MROs, factories and transportation / safety officials. Also there was focus on federal legislation; the HIPPA amendment; the Right to Repair Bill and the National Highway Transportation Bill with regards to motorcycling. (It should be noted that the Highway Bill will not be renewed by the time of this article 9/30/09, or has it ever been renewed on time since the inception of the Act. Further it is estimated by NHTSA that the bill will not be passed within 18 months of its expiration.) Also, not the least of which is the MRF’s involvement with the motorcycle crash study as one of the organization/ agencies that will be able to review and comment upon its implementation and findings. The MRF met with a cabinet official for the very first time this past year to discuss the concerns and positions of the MRF and that was with the Secretary of Transportation, Ray La Hood of Illinois. Mr. LaHood has been named a “Champion of the MRF” in the past and as such he is sympathetic to the causes of the MRF and motorcycling freedoms as he was while serving in the State of Illinois. The MRF was able to secure a seat on the Distracted Driver Summit to be held in D.C. this October and a passionate plea was made to the attendees of the conference by the son of a motorcyclist who was killed by a driver who was distracted from driving her car while applying nail polish. The car driver rear-ended the motorcycle that was stopped at a red light and the motorist NEVER SLOWED DOWN. Jay Jackson, Vice President of the MRF was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame this year. Jay is the 4th member of the MRF to have been inducted into the Hall during the past 2 years. The MRF established and fully activated the MRF Awareness & Education, a 501-C3, enabling the MRF to accept tax-deductible contributions from the general public. Current legislation was discussed by our lobbyist in D.C., Jeff Hennie, and he made mention of the fact that although there has been no health reform bill passed in either the House or the Senate. The comments by President Obama that HEALTHY life- styles should be encouraged and addressed in the legislation, may be the beginning of the end to motorcycling as we know it because motorcycling has SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE been referenced as a risky endeavor by the insurance industry. Also the Federal Highway Bill or the lack of one was addressed by our legislative liaison. A guest speaker at one of the sessions was “Gimmy Jimmy” Graves of Texas. He is the President of the Coalition of Clubs,(COC), in Texas and the founder of the U.S. Defenders program. He mentioned that 19 of the 50 states have signed on to the Defenders program which is a process by which citizen motorcyclists throughout the country can, when called to arms, e-mail to, write letters to and visit, in person, with their state legislators. He was very passionate about the effort and the direction that our country was headed and said that the time for asking for change has passed and now the time has come to demand accountability of our public servants. Later in the session was a panel discussion with one current State Senator, one former State Senator and one former State Representative, “Two Million Mile” Dave Zien of Wisconsin, member of the motorcycle Hall of Fame, Tom Workman of Minnesota, and Bob Letourneau of New Hampshire. The panel was moderated by “Radio” Wayne Curtain discussing Biker’s Rights from the Eyes of an Elected Official. Another session encompassed recognizing state reps for their outstanding effort in recruiting new and renewed memberships. The most outstanding recruiting rep was from Illinois with 69 memberships. The Young Activists Awards were presented to Jonathon Propson of Wisconsin and Ben Vincent of Arkansas, both twentysomethings who had the darkest brown hair at the conference. Ben Vincent is the President of his ABATE chapter. The legislative direction of the MRF was discussed among the executive officers of the SMROs who were present. It was noted that the MRF is a bottom up organization with the direction set by the members through the state reps to the board of the MRF. There are over 8,000,000 registered motorcycles in the U.S., 255,000 SMRO members, an unknown number of club members, 5,000 + MRF members, 39 MRF State Reps and 13 or so MRF board members. It is the MRF that is carrying the water for the motorcycling community’s 8,000,000 registered motorcycles and getting their direction from the SMROs and their 255,000 member riders with regard to Federal legislation and is building coalitions with all the MROs and COCs. The focus for the next year will be on the Health Care Bill, insofar as it impacts motorcycling, (it’s a risky lifestyle; unhealthy?). The committees and subcommittees that will be writing the bill will be monitored for specific language. A position paper will be written and presented to encourage the legislators to leave out any mention of motorcycling from the legislation. The Transportation Bill will be watched for any “blackmail” that may appear and to see that the allocation of monies from the national highway trust fund continue to be allocated to motorcycling in the states. A watchful eye will continue to look at the NTSB to ensure that it does no further lobbying of state legislatures at the direction and urging of the NHTSA. (Lobbying of state legislatures by the NHTSA is illegal.) The Right to Repair legislation will be urged especially in light of the current economic environment where some riders are forced to cross state lines to have their bikes serviced because of the closures of dealerships. Riders are denied the opportunity to choose the service of their choice, whether it be themselves or their local shop which are denied the adequate tools to perform the necessary service. Impaired riding will be a focus of the motorcycling industry, the department of transportation and the MRF and its members. We are killing our own and until we’re able to bring down the number of fatalities from alcohol, prescription, non-perscription and illegal drugs while riding we will continue to be the ever growing larger target of law enforcement. The state representatives to the MRF held their own meeting during the conference and a few of the items discussed were whether attorneys should be allowed to advertise in the MRF REPORTS. It is currently written in the by-laws of the MRF that lawyers cannot advertise in the publication. The issue was brought up that we are spending our freedom funds on this publication rather than on motorcycle rights thus we should accept the ads in a fashion that would ensure no favoritism and not be influenced by dollars. The policy will be studied in committee during the coming months. Also listing the sustaining membership in the MRF REPORTS was discussed and the election of Member Reps to the Board of Directors was held. Awards were presented during the banquet on Saturday evening, not the least of which, was the Farmer award. It is presented to the member who has never been and is not currently serving on the Board of Directors, and who, in the estimation of the Board, has made the most significant contributions to the MRF. This year the award was given to a member who is a charter member of the MRF and has attended ALL twenty-five Meetings of the Minds and is the State Rep of Michigan, Mike “Fiz” Przybylo. All in all, this was the best Meeting of the Minds that I have had the opportunity to attend. The number of members present was outstanding and the information flowed. After three days of intense meetings, networking and rubbing shoulders with members old and older, I was exhausted. Oh, and by the way, “the Bibs” beat “the Kilts” in the tug-ofwar, two in a row from a best of three. Thank you for giving me the financial support and opportunity to represent the great state of Idaho in such an important organization supporting our rights to ride motorcycles and live the lifestyle of our choosing. Ride free and wear a helmet when you choose to, Dave Cazel – MRF Rep Idaho SUPPORT THE EAGLE ADVERTISERS WHO SUPPORT ABATE ABATE of North Idaho EAGLE November - December 2009 15 ABATE of North Idaho Membership Application I wish to Join: O New Idaho State Membership……............…$20.00 O State Renewal ……………………..................$15.00 Must be a State member to join a Chapter, below: Kootenai Chapter, Coeur d’Alene …... .$5.00 Hoodoo Chapter, Spirit Lake ……… .…$5.00 St Joe Chapter, St. Maries ….. ……....$5.00 Clearwater Chapter, Orofino ………….$5.00 Hells Canyon Chapter, Lewiston .…….$5.00 L C Valley, Lewiston-Clarkston …....…$5.00 TOTAL: $____________ Name: _________________________ Address: _______________________ ___________________ State_______________ ZIP________ Phone: ________________________ Email: ________________________ PLEASE READ: In consideration of acceptance of this application, I hereby agree to waive any and all claims against the American Bikers Aiming Toward Education of North Idaho, State Officers, State Committee Members, and general members for discrimination, possible loss or damage which may occur to any person or thing as a result of ABATE activities. Furthermore, I understand and agree to be fully responsible for the actions of myself, my children, and my guests which I bring to any ABATE activity. I further agree not to hold anyone responsible for the actions whatsoever, on whose land ABATE may be holding activities. Signature: _________________________ Date: _____________________________ Kootenai A.B.A.T.E Toys for Tots Run Nov 7th,Kootenai Road Dogs and the United States Marine Corp are working together again this year to raise money to buy gifts for all our area kids who are in need through our toys for tots campaign. Our ride this year is November 7th,we will all meet at Lawrence's Motorcycle s at 10 am and leave at 11 am. All motorcyclists are welcome to join in on our ride and fun that day. We will all ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus to all our area motorcycle shops and end at the grail bar and grill on Seltice way for a potluck and lots of nice raffle prizes and door prizes. We want to thank all our great sponsors, including all our other sponsors that have helped us out tremulously this year: Lone Wolf H.D Easy Rider Roadhouse Cycles Lawrence's MC Wal-mart Helmet Outlet Grail Bar and Grill CDA Honda Whiteman Lumber We have a super nice Rifle Raffle this year, is a 22 mag Henry Golden Boy rifle. Please purchase a ticket or two from any of our bike shops all proceeds go directly to buying gifts for all our area children. We thank all members of A.B.A.T.E , who have helped out this year. There are also toy boxes at all our area bike shops were you can drop off a unwrapped gift for children. Please join us on our 21st annual toy run on Nov 7th to help raise money for the toys for tots program.Hope to see you all there and have a nice holiday season. Tim Reynolds and Denise Mills Toys for Tots Team Captains, Kootenai Chapter Road Dogs A.B.A.T.E. of North Idaho, Inc. P.O. Box 2989 CDA, Idaho 83816 www.abateofnorthidahobikers.org WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES , Costume Sales & Rentals Cordura V-Twin & 9:30