The Masterlink - March 2015

March 2015

A publication supporting the rights, safety and freedom of all motorcyclists through education and legislation

VOLUME XXIII, ISSUE XI

abateofaz.org

ABATE of AZ. 7509 N. 12th St, #200 Phoenix, AZ 85020

Nonprofit Org US Postage Paid Permit #1662 Phoenix, AZ

motorcycle day at the dome

Motorcycle Day at the Dome was held on Monday, February 23rd. We did not have the turnout from the motorcycle community we have seen in the past. That may have been because it was held on a Monday instead of Wednesday, and it rained a couple of times, but all in all it was still a good day.

I would like to thank all the people who made it a priority and showed up to meet with their legislators. A special Thank You to the members of ALMA MC for their help with traffic control again this year, and thanks to all the other clubs that came out.

As for the legislators, we had 14 from the House, 10 from the Senate, 8 security staff, 4 from the Governor’s office and 32 Staff members. 62 riders signed in and several more who did not sign in. Thank you again to everyone who came out to make this event successful. Your participation is greatly appreciated.

HB2345, the bill to remove the

handlebar shoulder height restriction passed in the House and is now on it's way to the Senate, scheduled to be heard in the Transportation Committee on Tuesday, March 3rd. We need you to contact your State Senators and let them know you want them to vote YES on this bill.

Respectfully,

V M Grady Former Designated Lobbyist A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona, Inc.

Visit us on FaceBook facebook.com/AbateofAZ and facebook.com/pages/Too-Broke-For-Sturgis-Rally

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MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

ABATE OF ARIZONA LOCAL CHAPTERS

A.B.A.T.E. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS FOR 2015 - 2016

Chairman..............................Sean Pinder

East Valley………………….Jack Batty High Country........................Forrest “Woody” Phillips Phx / Shadow Mountain…...Clyde Brooks Southern AZ.........................Sean Pinder Yavapai……………………..Deborah Butitta Yuma....……………………..Rick Breadwell Quarterly Board meetings are held on the first Sunday in January, April, July and October at 1:00pm @ the AZ American-Italian Club, 7509 N. 12th St, Phoenix. Please make sure your Chapter has representation.

A.B.A.T.E. State Officers For 2014

President………..............……Mary K Donnay Vice President.....……………Mike Schneider Secretary……………………Jean Cooper Treasurer…………………….Matt Brown Membership…………………Larry Keim Run/Events………………….Vacant Safety Coordinator………….Jim Silk Sergeant-at-Arms……………Vic Grady P.A.C………………………...Lynda ‘Handi’ Barnett Communications…………….Charity Stuart Designated Lobbyist...............Vic Grady ABATE Products……………Vacant MasterLink Editor................ Eric Hampton TheMasterlink@abateofaz.org Office phone: 480-256-9237

www.abateofaz.org and www.toobrokeforsturgis.com

Mailing address 7509 N. 12th St, #200, Phoenix, AZ 85020. State Officers meetings are held the 1st Sunday of every month, 10:30 am at the AZ American Italian Club, 7509 N. 12th Street Phoenix, AZ.- OR in conjunction with the quarterly BOD meeting.

East Valley Chapter

c/o Jim Silk, 5722 E. Garnet Circle, Mesa, AZ 85206 Coordinator............................Joe Ferrucci Vice Coordinator...................Jack Batty Secretary................................Dawn Steed Treasurer................................Deb Brunko Membership...........................Mike Shearhart Run Coordinator....................Vacant Safety Coordinator.................Jim Silk Sgt. At Arms..........................Richard Dalton P.A.C......................................Dawn Steed Communications....................Dawn Steed Merchandise........................... Donna Batty

EAST VALLEY CHAPTER meetings are held the 4th Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m. at Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.) 1712 W. Broadway Road, Mesa AZ 85202 FMI contact Joe Ferrucci at 480-295-9488

High Country Chapter

209A E. Juniper St. Payson AZ 85541 Coordinator............................Wayne Slocum Vice Coordinator...................Billy Hensler Secretary................................Dee Schultz Treasurer...............................Debra Beda Membership...........................Debra Beda Run Coordinator....................Debbie Smith Safety Coordinator.................Steve Leonard Sgt. At Arms.........................Ray Martinez P.A.C.....................................Mark “Griz” Matthews Communications...................Mark “Griz” Matthews Merchandise..........................Jillian Hawkins

High Country Chapter meetings are held on the 3rd Sunday at 10 a.m. at The Moose Lodge in Star Valley. Contact: azoutlaw66@hotmail.com

Phoenix-Shadow Mountain Chapter

P.O. Box 54041 Phoenix, AZ 85078-4041 Coordinator...........................Mike Schneider Vice Coordinator....................Jim Page Secretary................................Tara Rudometkin Treasurer................................OPEN Membership...........................Dee Grady Run Coordinator....................Joel “JR” Rosen Safety Coordinator.................Trauma Mama Sgt. At Arms..........................Jerry Davis P.A.C......................................John ‘Johnny D’ Dreyfus Communications....................Steve Palmer Merchandise...........................Sandy Hassinger

Phoenix/Shadow Mountain meetings are held on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 10:30am at the AZ American Italian Club, 7509 N. 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020. FMI contact Vic Grady at 602-300-4115 or email hellfireguitarphx@hotmail.com

Southern Arizona Chapter

6888 N De Chelly Loop Tucson, AZ 85741 Coordinator............................Jim Butsback Vice Coordinator....................Don Boule Secretary................................Deborah Strong Treasurer................................Dawn Detelj Membership...........................Art Burke Run Coordinator....................Vacant Safety Coordinator.................Jim DeYoung Sgt. At Arms.........................Robert Guenther P.A.C......................................Sean Pinder Communications....................Vacant Merchandise...........................Vacant

Yavapai Chapter

P.O. Box 11319 Prescott, AZ 86304 Coordinator............................ Paul Pendergast Vice Coordinator....................Steve Beschner Secretary................................ Leslie Butitta Treasurer................................ Jalene Gathman Membership........................... Suni Sommers Run Coordinator......................Don Johnson Safety Coordinator..................Dan “44Dan” Lemond Sgt. At Arms...........................Mike Ruddell P.A.C...................................... OPEN Communications.................... OPEN Merchandise........................... OPEN

Yavapai Chapter Meets 2nd Sunday, 11:00 AM; VFW, 202 N Arizona Street, Prescott AZ 86301.

928-776-1125 FMI, contact Paul Pendergast at wizbangpaul@yahoo.com

Yuma Chapter

11316 S. Glenwood Ave. Yuma, AZ 85367 Coordinator............................ Frank White Vice Coordinator....................Daniel Medina Secretary................................ Mikkie Melanson Treasurer................................ Virginia Nielsen Membership........................... Daniel Aldridge Run Coordinator.....................Jerry Allison Safety Coordinator..................Ray “PeeWee” Grier Sgt. At Arms...........................Terry “Gunner” Langworty P.A.C...................................... Gilbert Hernandez Communications.................... Vacant Merchandise........................... Lisala White

Yuma Chapter meets the second Tuesday evening monthly at 6:30 PM at the pm. The next meeting will be held at the Kountry Kitchen Café located at 11242 S Foothills Blvd, Yuma, AZ. 85365. For additional information contact Frank White (Hound) at 209-327-0814.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

The Southern Arizona Chapter will meet the third Saturday. We will gather at the Kettle Restaurant, 748 W. 22nd St, Tucson. Breakfast will be available at 7:30 a.m. with the meeting beginning at 9 a.m. FMI contact Jim Butsback by phone at 520247-3051 or email abateofazsac@yahoo.com

If any of the Officers are listed here incorrectly, please send corrections to: TheMasterlink@abateofaz.org I will be sure everything is accurate for the next Issue and on the web site.

Accepting Applications for Designated Lobbyist

We are currently accepting applications for Designated Lobbyist of A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona, Inc. This position is appointed by the Board of Directors. The Designated Lobbyist interacts with the state legislature and motorcycle safety

and awareness organizations, develops A.B.A.T.E.’s legislative plans, formulates plans to circumvent negative motorcycle legislation, drafts positive motorcycle legislation, keeps officers informed, and writes an informative article each month

for publication in The Masterlink. This person needs to be personable and have a full understanding of the workings of both state and federal government, be an articulate speaker and writer, familiar with local, state and federal laws, and be

proficient in legal research methods.

Interested applicants may submit their application with background information to president@abateofaz.org

How to Reach Us

Would you like to receive The Masterlink digitally?

It is posted monthly on the ABATE website www.abateofaz.org. Opt out of the receiving the The Masterlink? Please contact the ABATE Office if you would like to no longer receive a hard copy of The Masterlink.

480-256-9237 or keim.larry@gmail.com

Mission Statement

We will lobby and educate the government and the general public to promote

motorcycling in a safe and positive image.

We will endeavor to enlist the cooperation and participation of all organizations and individuals who share

a similar interest in preserving our American tradition of

FREEDOM.

We will involve ourselves in fund raising to achieve our goal.

480-256-9237 For Advertising Rates Email Eric at themasterlink@abateofaz.org Or Mail Your Ads to: MasterLink, ABATE of Arizona 7509 N. 12th St, #200 Phoenix, AZ, 85020 MasterLink Advertising Rates:

Size Monthly Quarterly Yearly Business Card Size (3-1/2”w x 2”h): $20.00 $60.00 $200.00 1/8 Page (5-1/8”w x 4”h)

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MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

February 23rd - Motorcycle Day at the Dome was particularly exciting for me this year because I got to meet with all three of my legislators at the same time.

Pictured above are Legislative Dist. 18 State Representatives Bob Robson & Jill Norgaard, myself, and State Senator Jeff Dial. Both of my House Reps. voted in favor of HB2345, Removal of the handlebar height restriction, and Senator Dial said he’d vote YES for it when it goes through the Senate process.

Senator Dial asked if we would help Support SB1195, Searches; electronic devices; biometrics; warrants. It would require a search warrant to search an electronic device of an arrestee or detainee that requires a biometric identifier for access, which is a fingerprint, palm veins, face recognition, etc. except for exigent circumstances.

As the United States Supreme Court ruled in Riley v. California, cell phones can store massive amounts of data and are protected by the fourth amendment against unreasonable searches. Chief Justice Roberts wrote : "Modern cell phones are not just another technological convenience. With all they contain and all they may reveal, they hold for many Americans “the privacies of life". The fact that technology now allows an indi-

February 1, 2015, 10:30 AM 7509 N. Street, Phoenix AZ 85020

OFFICERS: President – Mary K Donnay Present Vice President – Mike Schneider Present Secretary – Jean Cooper Present Treasurer – Matt Brown Absent PAC – Lynda ‘Handi’ Barnett Absent Run Coordinator – OPEN Membership – Larry Keim Present Merchandise – OPEN Safety Officer – Jim Silk Present Designated Lobbyist – Vic Grady Present Sergeant at Arms – Vic Grady Present Communications – Charity Stuart Absent Guests: Joel ‘JR’ Rosen

Call to order: 10:30 AM Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence led by: Vic Grady Secretary minutes from December 07, 2014: Motion to waive reading of Minutes: Vic 2nd: Larry All in favor: yes __X__no _____ Reading of previous minutes waived; minutes accepted as written. MK reviewed the minutes of December 07,

President’s Report

tect their content.

vidual to carry such information in his hand does not make the information any less worthy of the protection for which the Founders fought."

In addition, cell phones used for work may contain proprietary information, another reason to pro-

Call House of Representatives Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Farnsworth at 602-926-5735 or email at efarnsworth@azleg.gov to let him know you FAVOR SB1195.

When I asked Sen. Dial about SB1102, prohibition of texting while driving, he said he’s opposed to such a bill because we already have enough laws on the books to prosecute such cases, and I agree after reading Matt Brown’s article, which is included in this edition, about the pitfalls of adding another law specifically banning texting while driving and how it further erodes our rights.

Even though this years’ attendance at MDATD was less than last year, I believe we still made the key contacts needed to ensure passage of HB2345 in the Senate.

We issue Action Alerts via email to the ABATE Discussion List when we need to you make the phone calls or write emails to influence our legislators. Sign up to get these Alerts at www.abateofaz.org, click on the “SIGN UP” button on the left column to subscribe/unsubscribe, it’s super easy and we promise to send only motorcycle-related news. We also strongly encourage you to use the AZ

Legislative Request To Speak (RTS) system. You can sign up using kiosks at the State Capitol, then you can favor, oppose and enter comments on-line 24/7 from any computer on ANY pending legislation that’s been assigned to be heard in a committee.

Handi’s P.A.C. article this month explains the process that proposed bills go through to become law or fail. We keep track of those that effect freedom of the road, and let you know via email when to act, so make sure you’re on the Discussion elist!

Did you know that we squashed an AZ motorcycle helmet bill this month before it even got off the ground? Thanks to Kat Grover who found HB2607, a “helmet fee” bill had been introduced by Randall Friese, MD from Leg. Dist. 9, a Tucson Representative. He thought we should pay to ride lidless or pay a fine if we’re caught riding lidless. Either way, ½ of the fee or fine would go to the State and ½ to a spinal & brain injury fund not necessarily motorcycle-related. Within 24hours of discovering the bill, Action Alerts were sent out on the ABATE, ACMC and MMA e-lists. Freedom fighters flooded the office of Rick Gray, House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman with calls and emails. Rep. Gray quickly stated that he would not allow the bill to be heard in his committee, thus killing it. YEA!!!

Arizona Bike Week will be held at West World-Scottsdale March 25-29, and Phoenix BikeFest will be held at West Gate Entertainment District-Glendale March 26-28. These are great places to circulate and hand out TBFS flyers and ABATE membership applications.

State Meeting Minutes

2015 without request.

OFFICER REPORTS:

Treasurer – Matt Brown Bank statements will be forwarded to Officers during the coming week.

PAC - Lynda ‘Handi’ Barnett – Role of PAC officer was reviewed; it is her job to coordinate information regarding political activities of the organization. She should be included in Lobbyist communications.

Membership – Larry Keim Individual Members 571 Business Members 36 Total Members 643 Renewals 13 Renewals 13 1. Patches are OK, but the workmanship is a little sloppy, stitching could be neater.

Currently, looking for different vendor.

2. Renewal notices are going out in a timely manner. Larry has encouraged email membership renewals get sent by chapter membership officers whenever possible. Chapter officers are encouraged to communicate with their memberships.

3. Chapter membership officers are encouraged to hand deliver Masterlinks and membership materials to local business members.

Safety – Jim Silk 1. Several East Valley chapter members are planning to attend the Accident Scene Management course next weekend.

2. MAP – high school classes have been postponed until April.

3. ARA – Still no response regarding the scholarship program.

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Maintaining and growing our member base is everyone’s job and critical to our continued existence. Reach out to expired members, ask family members to join, gift a membership to someone who might not be able to afford it. Check out the features and benefits of membership in ABATE on the membership form in this edition. Did you know ABATE members get a FREE $3500 Accidental Death or Dismemberment (AD&D) policy from American Income Life Insurance Co. (AIL) as well as vision and pharmaceutical plans at no charge? The AIL AD&D benefit is “stackable” meaning you can collect in the event of loss from all organizations offering this benefit that you maintain a current membership in, i.e.: ABATE, ACMC, MMA and the MRF (and more).

TOO BROKE FOR STURGIS planning is on track to be held June 11-14, 2015 at Mormon Lake Lodge. Only 100 days away!! (see flyer in this edition, visit www.toobrokeforsturgis.com) We’ve contracted with PHAT BASTARD to play Friday & Saturday nights this year.

We’re changing some of the people games, but will be keeping the wienie bite contest and tug-o-war! We’re planning on showing vintage biker movies Thursday night under the big tent, so come up early! Chapter gate and registration duty schedules remain unchanged.

See your Chapter Coordinator for more info. We’ll need help setting up registration and merchandise late Wednesday/early Thursday and again tearing down early Sunday. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

The weather’s great, get out and ride!!

Mary K. “MK” Donnay

Designated Lobbyist – Vic Grady 1. Motorcycle Day at the Dome (MDATD) is on scheduled for 2/23/2015.

Volunteers are needed for set-up and teardown.

2. Vic has provided his written resignation as Designated Lobbyist, effective directly following the Motorcycle Day at the Dome.

deadline for February Masterlink is 2/25/15 so that Vic has time to write an article regarding the event for the March issue of the Masterlink. MK wanted to know who was taking pictures for the Masterlink at the event. Vic was asked to develop a list of those legislators who attend the event. b. Action: ongoing. c. Responsibility: Officers.

OLD BUSINESS:

3. Topic: Run Coordinator Vacancy Discussion: This position is still open.

Action: Ongoing Responsibility: All Officers

Communications – Charity Stuart – No report.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Upcoming RUNS/Events: 2/8/2015 East Valley Valentine party 2/21/2015 MMA Beach party 2/23/2015 Motorcycle Day at the Dome 3/21/2015 Sunshine Acres Children’s Home “Miracle in the Desert” (East Valley does food prep/service.)

Stand Up For Stand Down – bike games Sat., 3/21/2015 at Chopper John’s-Phx. 3/25-3/29/2015 AZ Bike Week. Will share booth with AIM rep – Steve Musgrave.

3/27 – 3/29/2015 Phx Bike Fest. Booth will be paid for by Ron Davis.

5/2/2015 MMA Verde Valley 20th annual Jester Run 5/16/2015 American Legion National Armed Forces Freedom Ride AZ (2 Gal Events assisting, Chester’s H-D sponsors)

1. Topic: Motorcycle Day at the Dome

a. Discussion: Planning is on track. MK asked for outline of responsibilities for ABATE. The

2. Topic: Membership Database a. Discussion: It has been 18 months since the project was started. The project to have the membership on the Cloud providing access to make changes to Chapter membership officers has not yet reached conclusion. The delay in completion of the project was discussed. An automated membership database is needed now. There is a need to seek a provider that can move the project along.

The current efforts regarding development of web-based list will stop immediately. Service provided by Go Daddy will be investigated. b. Action: Larry will contact Go Daddy to ascertain cost for placing membership on a Cloud-based (or similar) website. c. Responsibility: Larry Keim, State Membership Officer

4. Topic: TBFS 2015

continued page 19

Chapter Reports

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East Valley Chapter

East Valley Chapter met on January 25, 2015 at 11:05 am at Fraternal Order of Eagles 1712 W Broadway Mesa in Richard’s absence Joe called the meeting to order. Officers in attendance were Joe Ferrucci, Deb Brunko, Jack Batty, Donna Batty, Dawn Steed, and Jim Silk.

We had some awesome guests Mark Breyer and Darcy from The Husband and Wife Law Team Breyer Law Offices visited and gave a very informative presentation on Uninsured and Underinsured Motorcyclist coverage that I am sure had everyone double checking their motorcycle coverage. They also talked about “The Helmet Lie”. I would suggest if you get a chance to have Mark Breyer come do a presentation for you do it.

Deb let us know that at Skin and Steel we collected $165 for state shirts and $47 for chapter shirts.

At Skin & Steel Nolan won the 50/50. It was brought up to have the booth outside next year. With Mary K needing to leave I spoke on behalf of ABATE about the current issues.

Jim drew for the Dollar jar which went to Deb totaling $358. Joel won $15.50 from the 50/50 jar

In Mike’s absence Larry reported on membership. Larry encourages everyone to support our active business members.

I reported on several bills including HR704 concerning ethanol blends, S.127 concerning “Motorcycle only checkpoints”, HB2345 concerning eliminating handlebar height and removing hand grips for passenger requirement, HB2370 and SB1102 concerning prohibiting texting while driving.

It was brought up by Mary K that once a bill is at committee you can file comments online. We are encouraged to flood it with comments. Please be careful about commenting and requesting to speak.

Jim is looking at the end of March beginning of April for the MAP program. He is still trying to get in contact with Mesa High. So if anyone knows anybody that can get us a foot in the door to Mesa High School.

The following upcoming events were discussed:

The FOE is having the MRO appreciation party on Jan 31st. Those that made it got to hang out with some wonderful people.

Mike Turngren won first place car. Nolan won Runner up motorcycle. Valentine Party February 7th, MMA Beach Party Feb 21st, Motorcycle Day at the Dome on Feb 23rd, and the FOE is having a scavenger hunt on Feb 28th Lady Jewells brought up that Phoenix Heels having an event on Feb 7th

The date of June 6th was agreed for the Annual Spaghetti Feed.

Jim will head the committee for the Hard Ass run.

It was agreed to pass out flyers at Motorcycles on Main on Feb 6th instead of getting a booth.

The topic of Bike fest was raised we need to confirm when and where it is being held. Phoenix Chapter AIM will have a booth that ABATE can work out of at Bike Week at West world Deb brought the idea of doing standalone chapter flags instead of a banner. The suggestion of finding a sponsor for the flags was made. Any sponsor volunteers?

It was discussed to bring back the red Support Our Troops shirts both shorts and long sleeves.

A motion to send Jim, Ron, Nolan, and Lady Jewells to Trauma Mama’s “A Crash Course for the Motorcyclist” Scene management class, they will be required to do a presentation for the rest of us.

Our nest meeting will be Mar 8 at 10:30 AM

Mark Breyer will visit quarterly with different subjects.

The January meeting was held at the Kettle Restaurant on January 17th. The meeting started at 9:05 AM with the Pledge of Allegiance and Prayer for fallen Brothers and Sisters and those in harm’s way.

An additional drawing was done for chapter shirts Nolan, Joe, and Patty won.

Mike Meyers will be visiting and doing a Ride Smart presentation at the February meeting.

Next meeting is February 22, 2015 until then be safe out there enjoying the ride and as always keep it rubber side down.

Everyone is always welcome, the more the merrier.

Here’s to wind knots in my hair Sec, PAC, and Comm.

Dawn P Steed

High Country Chapter

Hello Brothers and Sisters. The weather up here has been beautiful for riding and and there have been many motorcycles on the road. It looks as though everyone is taking advantage of it and enjoying life. Just practice safe riding, and if you are driving be aware and lookout for your fellow riders.

Well up here in the High Country we have been very busy planning for Wild in the Weeds. We are moving to a new location; "PUNKIN CENTER BAR" in Tonto Basin. We are pretty excited because we'll have a little more room for bike games. We also have more camping area and motel rooms available. We will also have more space for RV parking with easier access and within site of the event.

See the flyer in this issue of the Masterlink for motel reservation phone number. I will keep everyone posted on the event.

Speaking of events, Dee Schultz and I attended East Valley Chapter's Valentine party. I was glad to see they had such a great turn out. The place was packed and good times were had by all. It was good to see some old friends and our extended ABATE family.

You are all invited to join us for our meetings, which are held the 3rd Sunday of the month at the Moose Lodge in Star Valley, Az 10:00am. We usually meet at The Spur Bar an hour prior to the meeting for a delicious breakfast. hope to see you there.

Keep wind in your face, sun on your back,

fuel in the tank, and rubber on the road.

Wayne Slocum Coordinator, H.C.C. ABATE

Phoenix/Shadow Mountain Chapter

It was a very active meeting as a lot is going on this month. Congress is back in session and there are l lot of motorcycle bills on the table.

Our PAC officer highlighted some of the important bills, including a bill regarding helmet laws and handlebar height.

Our safety officer reported the great turnout at the Accident Management class which 20 were in attendance. She also reminded us that s is Heart Month and gave blood pressure tests during the break.

We also covered the plans for the upcoming Motorcycle Day at the Dome.

We also elected a new treasurer this month.

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

Steve Palmer Phoenix-Shadow Mountain ABATE Communications Officer

Southern Arizona Chapter

Officers Present were Coordinator Jim Butsback, Treasurer Dawn Detelj, Run/Events Officer Steve Spear and our BOD/PAC Officer Sean Pinder.

The minutes of last month’s meeting were approved.

The Treasurer’s report was read and approved.

Membership was reported that we were at a total of 83 members, 71 regular and 6 Business w/ two members each.

Dawn, Steve, Sean and Jim attended the officers training meeting in Phoenix. The State passed out T-shirts from TBFS 2011 which they brought back. The State had these left so they distributed they to Chapters to use as they saw fit. They were added to the 50/50 drawing as additional prizes. There was also additional material to promote this year’s TBFS which was distributed to the members to spread the word.

Sean Pinder is our B.O.D. rep and our P.A.C. rep. The new member survey was passed out to those attending and will be emailed to the Chapter members. There were a couple of legislations that needed everyone to respond to the call for action.

These were also emailed out.

Yavapai Chapter is up and running again!

Congrats to all the Brothers & Sisters who made this happen. This is Great news for all of ABATE of AZ.

MDATD is coming fast PLEASE contact your Reps and Senators!!! Even if you cannot make it up to Phoenix, invite them out to the lawn to meet with those in attendance. Email, telephone them and send notes & letters. Remember that the squeaky wheel gets the grease! We have to make a lot of noise to be heard.

Motorcycle Day at the Dome is set for February 23rd, 2015. This is a Monday so mark your calendars. This event is put on

by A.C.M.C, A.B.A.T.E., and M.M.A. It has usually been held on a Wednesday in the past but was changed to try and accommodate the Reps & Sens. Bring you families to let the politicians know we are families that ride together.

Our Road Clean-Up will be held after the February meeting on the 2-12-2015. John will have all the equipment etc. ready and all those participating will ride down to Whetstone after the meeting.

Breakfast with the Bones is held the 3rd Sunday of the month at Pappy’s Diner so everyone come out and support the Bones!!

Radar from the Sacred Bones Society MC has been in contact with KLPX/KMFA regarding promoting ABATE in conjunction with their radio stations. Tina has been in touch with Sean and the public affairs contact will be following up.

We are looking for ideas for a Motorcycle Awareness event to be held in May which is motorcycle awareness month. Jim is in touch with the City of Tucson regarding getting a Proclamation from the Mayor.

Hopefully this will be done soon enough so we can get a photo op. that we can use to promote ABATE.

The membership drawing was held and Bob Glassgow was drawn but he was not in attendance so it rolled over to next month. Remember you have to be at the meeting to win.

The 50/50 was won By Herman.

Congrats Herman.

Anyone who is not getting emails from the Chapter to please send your email address to abateofazsac@yahoo.com.

There is also a group page at Yahoo Groups. All Chapter members can sign up there and receive all emails from the Chapter through the group.

It is abateofazsac@yahoogroups.com.

We are trying to save the Chapter some money by cutting down on postage.

Please make sure the State Membership Officer has all your current information as well, this includes phone numbers, email addresses, address changes etc. You can email him at membershipofficer@abateofaz.org.

Ride Free, Ride Safe

Yavapai Chapter

The days have been beautiful here lately and the bikes are out! It was almost too hot for our Chili Potluck at our February Meeting...

All the usual logistics of the meeting took place. We had some great Officer reports.

Our membership is up! Safety was discussed in regards to visibility, lane positioning and riding defensively. Our Run Officer Don Johnson, has concermed the Membership Run details in March. Next, we highlighted some old business with new business updates. Then we took a dive into the House Bills, with which we have all been getting bombarded in emails over. We discussed the verbage and stance on each Bill. Then explained what to do to take Action. Meeting closed. Off to ride in the much appreciated SUN! March 14th 2015 Membership Drive Run & Poker Run, bring a friend: 9AM Registration@ Billy Jack's Saloon St Rt 69 Humbolt AZ. 10AM Kickstands up to Jack Ass Saloon Prescott Valley AZ, onto Outpost Saloon PV AZ, across the mountain to Cleopatra Hill Jerome AZ, back to Barefoot Bob's PV AZ to finish. Hope to see some new faces out there.

We welcome all members and any visitors!

Same time, same place...

2nd Sunday 11am Meetings @VFW Post #541 202 N Arizona Prescott

Yuma Chapter

The Yuma chapter met on February 10th at 6:00 pm at the Kountry Kitchen Café in the foothills to conduct our monthly business meeting. The meeting was called to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and normal reports were addressed. The Yuma chapter is currently is planning a fundraiser for ABATE on Saturday March 28th, 2015 and the majority of this meeting was spent on this event. HB2607 was also discussed.

The Yuma ABATE chapter meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm.

The next meeting will be held on February 10th, 2015 at the Kountry Kitchen Café located at 11242 S Foothills Blvd, Yuma, AZ. We would love to see you there.

For the love of freedom,

Pastor D Communications Officer Yuma ABATE Chapter

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015 NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)

MINNESOTA ANTI-PROFILING MEASURE INTRODUCED A proposed anti-profiling bill before the Minnesota House would create rules to reduce perceived profiling of motorcycle riders and would require several law enforcement groups to draft anti-profiling practices when dealing with the riders.

Once drafted, law enforcement agencies would then have to train every officer and verify that with the state.

House File 59, “Motorcycle Profiling,” was filed on January 12, 2015 in the state House of Representatives and referred to the Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance Committee, and the bill stems from claims that police have been pulling over motorcyclists without reasonable cause: “Purpose. The legislature finds that the reality or public perception of motorcycle profiling alienates people from police, hinders community policing efforts, and causes law enforcement to lose credibility and trust among the people law enforcement is sworn to

ABATE IS:

· A Motorcycle Rights Organization (MRO) · For Bikes & Riders, regardless of Race, Creed, color, sex, age, machine or gear · For all Motorcycles regardless of Fraternal or club affiliation, as well as Independents · For people interested in motorcycle safety · For People interested in rider education · For people interested in motorcycle awareness PSAs directed to non-Riders · For people interested in protecting and promoting motorcycling · A volunteer, not-for-profit grass-roots organization · For Motorcyclist who enjoy the ride $50 $8-20 $3,500 $3,000 $10 $3 $1,000 Priceless Priceless Priceless

$7,583 Value

Masterlink, Patch, Memb card TBFS Disc Entry, RV, Cabins AD&D Benefit 60% Discount Health Child Safe Kits White Bandana Leadership Training Motorcycle Awareness Rights Rider Education

ABATE of Arizona Serves to:

· Collaborate with other organizations to

Coast to Coast

protect and serve. No stop initiated by a peace officer should be made without a legitimate reason; the fact that someone rides a motorcycle or wears motorcycle paraphernalia is not a legitimate reason.

Law enforcement policies and training programs must emphasize the need to respect the balance between the rights of all persons to be free from unreasonable governmental intrusions and law enforcement's need to enforce the law.”

The measure defines “motorcycle profiling” as “(T)he illegal use of the fact that a person rides a motorcycle or wears motorcycle-related accouterments as a factor in deciding to stop and question, take enforcement action, arrest, or search a person or vehicle with or without a legal basis under the United States Constitution or Minnesota Constitution.”

HF 59 is co-sponsored by Rep. John Petersburg (R-Waseca) who said that he signed on to the bill in part because he heard claims of profiling on the campaign trail. In October, he attended a forum hosted by American Bikers for Awareness, Training and Education, or ABATE. “Because they’re riding motorcycles and wearing motorcycle gear, they’re getting stopped,” Petersburg said.

A representative for ABATE of Minnesota told the Owatonna People’s Press that an anti-profiling bill was among the group’s top legislative priorities. Minnesota was the first and only state in the country to enact a biker antidiscrimination law; Minnesota Statute Section 604.12, enacted in 1998 states in part: “A place of public accommodation may not restrict access, admission, or usage to a person solely because the person operates a motorcycle or is wearing clothing that displays the name of an organization or association.”

S.C. Bill AIMS TO Require Child Safety Seats And Belts On Motorcycles A bill that would require babies and small children to be secured to a motorcycle with seat belts is under consideration by South Carolina lawmakers.

S.C. state Rep. Joseph Daning (R-Berkely Co.) filed legislation (H. 3040) that would require a standard, rear-facing child safety seat to be used for motorcycle passengers from birth up to 1 year of age, and for a belt-positioning booster seat with both lap and shoulder belts for children younger than 7 and weighing 4080 pounds. “We take care of our children

Join A.B.A.T.E.

monitor and support funding for practices that do not discriminate against motorcycling. · Encourage political involvement of its membership. · Promote and present motorcyclists and motorcycling in a positive and safe manner. · Help prevent motorcycle crashes and promote crash survival through rider education, and · · · · · Public awareness campaigns. · Encourage ongoing federal research programs such as use of E15 fuel in motorcycles, inclusion of motorcycles in ongoing transportation emerging technologies, and improvements in safer roadway design strategies. · Promote rider skills training through ABATE’s · Rider Advantage (ARA) scholarship program and tax-deductible entity ABATE accomplishments:

· Motorcycle Lobbyist at the State Legislature · 2013 Eliminated yearly motorcycle emissions testing in Maricopa County · 2007 Remove Motorcycle Safety Fund cap · 2007 Eliminated yearly motorcycle emissions testing in Pima County · 2004 Veteran’s plates for motorcycles · 2002 Arizona Motorcycle Safety Council established · 2001 Motorcycle Safety Fund established · 1997 Handlebar height raised to shoulder · 1993 Helped prevent mandatory helmet legislation in Arizona · 1992 Opened HOV lanes to motorcycles

PAGE 5 in cars, but they’re so unprotected on the back of motorcycles” said Daning, who added that the bill was prompted by constituents who feared an ex-spouse would ride their children on a motorcycle.

Rep. Bill Taylor called Daning’s proposal “government overreach” and said motorcyclists are a safety-conscious community, but child-safety advocates support Daning’s efforts. Only a handful of states impose a minimum age for riders, and South Carolina is not one of them according to the Children’s Trust of South Carolina, pointing out that 25 children required emergency medical attention due to motorcycle injuries in the state from 2007 through 2009.

ABATE of SC state coordinator, Ralph Bell, emphasized that there have been no fatalities of passengers under 7, and said changing the law would hinder charity events. Dennis Welborn, the state legislative coordinator for ABATE told the Morris News Service that “Its passage would cause much more harm than good," and in particular, mounting a child

continued page 6

Motorcycle Awareness Program (MAP)

ABATE of Arizona has developed a program with the mission to provide motorcycle awareness training to all drivers and soonto-be drivers on the road in Arizona.

Instructors provide a one hour program to students in driver education classes throughout the state.

MAP is available to be presented to civic organizations as well as most businesses that hold safety meetings. FMI: map@abateoJOIN ABATE NOW! faz.org ABATE Of Arizona provides a unified voice for all motorcyclists in Arizona.

Please Tell us What Your Top Five Add your voice to ours. Join ABATE Motorcycle Issues, Matter to You: now, for the preservation of your abili· Distracted Driving – Motorcycle, Bicycle, Pedestrian ty to ride a motorcycle with the freeare Vulnerable Roadway Users dom that's your right!! · Right of Way Violations resulting in Injury/Fatality · Insurance Discrimination and claim denial · SAFETEA-LU Safety/Highway Funds ~2010 MSF · Discriminatory Profiling by Law Enforcement · Anti-tampering Regulations – Right to Modify · State/National Mandatory Helmet/Equipment · Transportation Exclusion of Intelligent Technology (IT), New Vehicle, Highway, Taxes and Fuel regarding Motorcycle Safety and Use · Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints · Accurate Stats & Research Study regarding Motorcycle Safety & Accidents · Off Road Trail Closing and Access · Tar Snakes & Median Cable wire · Intersection Engineering – Lights to Speed Limit, Leading Left Only, Increase Yellow & All Clear Red

© 2015 ABATE Of Arizona

7509 N. 12th St, #200 Phoenix, AZ. 85020

Website: www.abateofaz.org To join our discussion group, send email to Abate-request@abateofaz.org

PAGE 6

safety seat on a motorcycle would change its center of gravity, making it unwieldy, affecting its handling and braking abilities.

MSF CONTRACTED TO MANAGE INDIANA MOTORCYCLIST SAFETY PROGRAM The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has been awarded a four-year contract by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles to provide motorcycle training, beginning March 1, 2015. The contract award marks the end of the state’s training relationship with ABATE of Indiana, which had been training riders since the 1970s.

According to Jay Jackson, ABATE executive director, more than 125,000 students completed its courses during that time.

The ABATE board of directors voted not to renew its contract.

The MSF will oversee Indiana’s statewide training locations, provide an Indiana-dedicated website and online class enrollment function and administer all aspects of training, including MSF’s extensive quality control program.

Indiana law requires would-be motorcycle riders to first obtain a learner’s permit, and then pass a motorcycle skills test or present a certificate of completion from a BMV-approved motorcycle safety course. After March 1, Hoosiers who pass the MSF Basic RiderCourse will not need to take Indiana’s on-cycle skills exam.

“We’d like to recognize ABATE of

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

Coast to Coast (continued)

Indiana for their achievements in providing motorcycle training over the past several years through the state’s network of training sites and trainers,” said MSF Vice President Robert Gladden.

More than 7.5 million riders internationally have completed motorcycle training using MSF’s curricula in the foundation’s 40-plus year history.

Vehicle data privacy concerns VOICEd in montana A Montana House panel recently heard a bill to give vehicle owners more control over the large stores of information now accumulated by newer cars and trucks, and motorcycles. House Bill 78, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Lynch (D-Butte), would give vehicle owners more control of that data by codifying provisions stating that only owners, lessees and authorized representatives can gain access to recorded data in the event of a crash.

Insurance companies already make use of telemetrics -- the many pieces of data that reflect driving habits -- but insurance lobbyists say they're willing to sit down with supporters and hammer out a bill that's agreeable to everyone.

This is just one of several privacy bills the Montana Legislature will consider this session and, if enacted, the law would become the nation’s strongest driver-privacy act.

GLOBAL MOTORCYCLE MARKET PROJECTED TO EXPAND

The worldwide demand for motorcycles is forecasted to grow by 6% annually to over 132 million units by 2018, valued at $120 billion, according to a 502-page study released this past December by Freedonia Market Research.

Four major trends will drive growth through 2018: 1- An increasing number of households in industrializing countries will be able to afford motorcycles as personal incomes rise. 2- Sales of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and other electric models are projected to rise sharply outside of China from what are currently very modest levels of demand. 3- Motorcycle sales in a number of countries will be spurred by government programs aimed at reducing environmental pollution caused by automobiles. 4- Market advances will accelerate in a number of important markets such as Brazil, Indonesia, Thailand, the U.S., and Vietnam.

However, further gains will be restrained by slowing growth in China, the world’s leading market for motorcycles, because of the large number of motorcycles already in use there. Market gains will also be dampened due to substitution by consumers of light vehicles for motorcycles in China and other industrializing countries.

MOTORCYCLE INJURIES & FATALITIES ON DECLINE The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced that motorcycle fatalities have dropped for the second year in a row, representing

the largest drop in fatalities for any road user. According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, motorcycle fatalities for 2013 dropped from 4,986 to 4,668; and the 6.4% decrease was the largest percentage drop of all vehicle categories.

Fatal motorcycle crashes involving alcohol dropped by 117 deaths, or 8.3%, also the largest decrease in the category.

NHTSA also reported a drop in the number of injured motorcyclists from 93,000 to 88,000, a 5.4% drop, again the largest decrease in the category.

Motor vehicle fatalities overall decreased by 3.1% from 2012-2013 and injuries declined 2.1%.

FEDERAL LEGISLATION REINTRODUCED TO CURB MOTORCYCLEONLY CHECKPOINTS Motorcycle-only checkpoints would be discouraged under a bipartisan bill reintroduced January 8, 2015 by a group of senators in the new 114th Congress. The bill would prohibit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from issuing grants to states to fund motorcycleonly checkpoints.

Sponsoring senators say such roadblocks are discriminatory, where riders are specifically targeted by police to check that their vehicles meet state standards for

continued page 10

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015 AZ Differential Specialists Phoenix 602-462-5367

Barefoot Bob’s Billiards Prescott Valley 928-759-9590

Bill Alexander Flight-Line Mazda Yuma, AZ (928) 314-3400 Bob’s House of Hair Marana 520-797-6566

Brown & Little, P.L.C., Attorneys at Law 480-299-2093 Buchanan Construction 928-978-3291 Buffalo Bar & Grill Payson 928-474-3900 Butcher Hook Tonto Basin

CCA Scottsdale 480-985-6764 Cleopatra Hill Jerome 928-634-6701

PAGE 7

ABATE of Arizona Business Members Coyote Auto Payson 928-472-1100 Desert Thunder MC

Distant Peaks Inc. Anthem 623-551-9467

Dr. Gear Phoenix 602-263-8484 Payson 928978-4027 Eclectic Café Tucson 520-885-2842

Joeta’s Leather Mesa 480-827-1868

Renegade Classics Tucson 520-400-8463

La Gitana Cantina Arivaca 520-398-0810

Sidewinders Tavern and Grill Pine 928-476-6434

Kitty For Tax Camp Verde 928-567-0224

Law Tigers 888-529-8443

Marc Victor, P.C., Attorney Chandler 480-455-5229

El Rancho Restaurant Payson 928-474-3111

Monkey Butt Radio Scottsdale 602-399-7787

Greater Payson Moose Lodge #852 Payson 928-474-6212

Outpost Saloon Prescott Valley 928-759-0377

Evil Twin Custom Cycles Mesa 480-784-0040

Herman’s Automatic Transmissions Tucson 520-294-8717 Jakes Corner Bar Payson 928-474-0679

Mormon Lake Lodge Mormon Lake 928-354-2227

Phoenix Vulcan Riders www.phoenixvulcanriders.com Punkin Center Bar Tonto Basin 928-479-2627

Sacred Bones Society M/C http://www.sacredbones.org/

Sons of Hell MC Yuma

Spur Bar Star Valley 928-472-7787 Square Peg Promotions Phoenix 602-549-1044

Steel Horse Motorsports Rio Rico 520-281-1962

The Historical Journigan House Payson 928-474-2900 The Maverick Saloon Phoenix 602-943-5680

Tonto Silkscreen & Embroidery Payson 928-474-4207

ABATE of Arizona Chapter Meeting Times and Locations

East Valley Chapter EAST VALLEY CHAPTER meetings are held the 4th Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m. at Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.) 1712 W. Broadway Road, Mesa AZ 85202 FMI contact Joe Ferrucci at 480-295-9488

High Country Chapter High Country Chapter meetings are held on the 3rd Sunday at 10 a.m. at The Moose Lodge in Star Valley. Contact: chicknbone@live .com or 928-970-1134

Phoenix / Shadow Mountain Chapter Phoenix/Shadow Mountain meetings are held on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 10:30am at the AZ American Italian Club, 7509 N. 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020.

FMI contact Vic Grady at 602-300-4115 or email hellfireguitarphx@hotmail.com

Southern Arizona Chapter The Southern Arizona Chapter will meet the third Saturday. We will gather at the Kettle Restaurant, 748 W. 22nd St, Tucson.

Breakfast will be available at 7:30 a.m. with the meeting beginning at 9 a.m. FMI contact Jim Butsback by phone at 520-2473051 or email abateofazsac@yahoo.com Yavapai Chapter Yavapai Chapter Meets 2nd Sunday, 11:00 AM; VFW, 202 N Arizona Street, Prescott AZ 86301. 928-776-1125 FMI, contact Paul Pendergast at wizbangpaul@yahoo.com

Yuma Chapter Yuma Chapter meets the second Tuesday evening monthly at 6:30 PM at the pm. The next meeting will be held at the Kountry Kitchen Café located at 11242 S Foothills Blvd, Yuma, AZ. 85365. For additional information contact Frank White (Hound) at 209-327-0814.

ABATE of Arizona

PAGE 8

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

By Handi, S.R.M.C. & A.B.A.T.E. State PAC

MOTORCYCLE DAY AT THE DOME----ANOTHER SUCCESS STORY, HOWEVER, 2015 IS OFF AND RUNNING, AND SO MUCH IS GOING ON…. THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING OF LEGESLATIVE SESSION AND SO MANY ISSUES ARE ON THE HORIZON!!

According to today’s statistics there are 8.4 million registered motorcycles nationwide (that’s MILLIONs). WITHIN THAT statistic is the 178,890 thousand bikes (and growing) are registered here in Arizona. We have the numbers and we can make a difference but we have to get to know our representatives and not be reserved in our communication with them. They are people like you and me that we have elected to propose the laws by which we are governed. I HOPE I ALWAYS REMAIN TEACHABLE AND REALIZE THERE IS SO MUCH TO LEARN, BUT BASICALLY, HERE’S HOW IT WORKS: Potential Bills in Introspect format get 'dropped' in a hopper after first day of session and then they get a Bill # assigned to them. Any House Bills will be prefixed with a HB and Senate Bills with a SB.

* Bills are then FIRST READ and SECOND READ (meaningless to us) and ASSIGNED to the Committees that they will be going through, by the Speaker of the House. Bills are usually assigned to 1-2 Committees and all Bills are also assigned to RULES Committee. * As soon as A Bill is 'SCHEDULED' in its assigned committee, example TRANSPORTATION, we put out a LEGISLATIVE ALERT with all 9 committee members emails and phones and ask that members call/email them to VOTE YES on our Bill in committee that day it is heard. It will only be voted on by those 9 members.

PAC Report

* Next the Bill goes to RULES Committee - this is NOT a 'voting' committee, but simply a committee that looks at the Constitutionality of all Bills. Simple Bills are lumped together and a large number of Bill numbers are read off at once and given a “Do Pass” recommendation. Those with issues or questions are gone through one at a time and the committee members speak with the lawyers available to answer them. You can attend the Rules Committee, but NOT SPEAK, just listen. Once it passes Rules, it goes to CAUCUS which is NOT a 'voting process.' The Democrats and Republicans each hold their own CAUCUS. Again, this is something you can attend and listen to BUT not SPEAK. This is not about voting either. Each party discusses what they are going to do about all Bills scheduled to go to “COW” the next day.

Committee of the Whole (COW) is where any AMENDMENTS that are going to be put on a Bill are executed and agreed upon by both parties.

“COW” is held on the 'Floor' and you may observe from the gallery. There is no voting on the Bill as far as passing it for its purpose, only voting on which Bills will go on to the next and final step which is “THIRD READ”. * THIRD & FINAL READ - This is essentially the Floor Vote that moves our Bill forward out of the House and onto the Senate to go through this very same process.

The following is a brief overview of the legislative process, (another version), Every session, AzCDL brings proposed laws to legislators willing to sponsor them. Once a bill is formally filed, AzCDL’s lobbyists work with legislators in both “chambers” (House and Senate) to get co-sponsors. Generally, the greater the number of co-sponsors, the greater the likelihood the bill will succeed.

Once a bill is filed, it is “read” by the full chamber before being assigned to one or more committees. Over a thousand bills are introduced every session, and some may not receive committee assignments. Only those assigned to a committee may proceed.

Bills must be heard by, and pass out of, their assigned committees to progress further. The committee chair determines if a bill will get a hearing. If a bill does not get heard before the session deadline, or does not pass out of committee, it cannot proceed.

Once a bill passes out of its committees, it must survive a Committee of the Whole (COW) hearing, where all the legislators in the chamber can debate the merits of the legislation, offer amendments and decide its fate. Bills passing a COW vote (typically an unrecorded voice vote) must then survive a formal, recorded vote of the entire chamber known as a “Third Read”. If the bill passes the Third Read vote by a majority of the body (16 votes in the Senate, 31 in the House, regardless of the actual number

PAGE 9 of legislators in attendance), it can proceed.

This is only half the battle. Once a bill passes out of the originating chamber (e.g., House) it is sent to the other chamber (e.g., Senate) where the entire process is repeated.

Bills making it through both chambers unchanged are sent to the Governor.

Amended bills must undergo a reconciliation process by both chambers before going to the Governor.

AzCDL lobbyists work daily at the Capitol to monitor legislation, testify at hearings, promote bills we support and call attention to bills we oppose.

However, it is your participation that has the biggest impact on the fate of legislation. Pressure from you can help the Legislature’s Leadership “remember” to assign a bill to a committee; remind a committee chair to “remember” to schedule a hearing; get committee members to realize that there is tremendous grassroots support for a bill; and enable your legislators and the Governor to understand that you want them to support a bill.

(The above was taken in part from AZCDL web.)

SO I HOPE THESE TWO PERSPECTIVES ANSWERS QUESTIONS AND WILL CLARIFY HOW WE CAN AND WHEN TO GET INVOLVED WITH “CALL TO ACTION” ALERTS AND HOPEFULLY GET YOU ALL TO RESPOND TO YOU REPECTIVE REPRESENTATIVES, SENATORS AND CONGRESSMEN OR WOMEN.

State Senate: LD 1 Steve Pierce spierce @azleg.gov 926-5584 LD 2 Andrea Dalessandro adalessandro@azleg.gov 926-5342 LD 3 Olivia Cajero Bedford ocajerobedford@azleg.gov 926-5835 LD 4 Lynne Pancrazi pancreas@azleg.gov 926-3004 LD 5 Kelli Ward kward@azleg.gov 9264138 LD 6 Sylvia Allen sallen@azleg.gov 926-5409 LD 7 Carlyle Begay cbegay@azleg.gov 926-5862 LD 8 Barbara McGuire McGuire@azleg.gov 926-5836 LD 9 Steve Farley sfarley@azleg.gov 926-3022 LD 10 David Bradley dbradley@azleg.gov 926-5262 LD 11 Steve Smith ssmith@azleg.gov 926-5685 LD 12 Andy Biggs abiggs@azleg.gov 926-4371 LD 13 Don Shooter dshooter@azleg.gov 926-4139 LD 14 Gail Griffin ggriffin@azleg.gov 926-5895 LD 15 Nancy Barto nbarto@azleg.gov 926-5766LD 16 David Farnsworth Farnsworth@azleg.gov 926-3020 LD 17 Steve Yarbrough syarbrough@azleg.gov 926-5863 LD 18 Jeff Dial jdial@azleg.gov 9265550 LD 19 Lupe Chavira Contreras Contreras@azleg.gov 926-5284 LD 20 Kimberlee Yee kyee@azleg.gov 926-3024 LD 21 Debbie Lesko dlesko@azleg.gov 926-5413 LD 22 Judy Burges jburges@azleg.gov 926-5861 LD 23 John Kavanaugh jkavanaugh@azleg.gov 926-5170

Motorcycle Riders Foundation Awareness & Education (MRFA&E) was established to promote motorcycle awareness and education due to an everincreasing rider population.

No one is more concerned with rider safety than riders themselves, and obviously those best suited to educate newer riders are veteran riders.

Promote awareness and education in the motorcycle community to improve rider’s safety.

Please donate, we are a 501C3 Corporation. Your donation is tax deductible. To donate go to our web site listed at the bottom.

Motorcycle Riders Foundation Awareness & Education (MRFA&E) 1325 G Street NW, Suite 500 Washington, D.C. 20005 (202) 546-0983

LD 24 Katie Hobbs khobbs@azleg.gov 926-5325 LD 25 Bob Worsley bworsley@azleg.gov 926-5760 LD 26 Ed Ableser eableser@azleg.gov 926-4118 LD 27 Catherine Miranda Miranda@azleg.gov 926-4893 LD 28 Adam Driggs adriggs@azleg.gov 926-3016 LD 29 Martin Quezada mquezada@azleg.gov 926-5911 LD 30 Robert Meza rmeza@azleg.gov 926-3425

WE HAVE TO STAY PRO-ACTIVE, UNITED AND PREEMTIVE IN OUR EFFORTS. I BELIEVE EVERYONE IS DOING A GOOD JOB IN STAYING ON TOP OF THE LATEST ISSUES.

I WILL CONTINUE TO STAY OPEN TO ALL, AND MAKE STATEMENTS AND RECCOMENDATIONS AS NECESSARY TO CONTINUE OUR MISSION BOTH AS A SOBER RIDER PATCHHOLDER AND A REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE AMERICAN BROTHERHOOD AIMED TOWARDS EDUCATION. NEXT MONTH I WILL BE DISCUSSING MORE ISSUES, ONE OF WHICH IS HOW MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FUNDS ARE BEING USED TO BALANCE BUDGETS ACROSS THE STATES. UNTIL THEN, RIDE MORE HANDI

PAGE 10 noise, handlebar height, tire condition and other requirements, including helmet compliance.

The states of California, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Illinois, New Hampshire and Virginia have all passed legislation to prohibit motorcycle-only checkpoints.

CONGRESSIONAL BILL CALLS FOR ETHANOL STUDY Once again, on January 6, 2015, U.S. Rep. James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) reintroduced a bill in the new Congress calling for further study of ethanol and its effect on internal combustion engines.

Coast to Coast (continued)

er decision related to E15 fuel and the authority of the agency to grant further decisions in the matter, until the EPA seeks an independent scientific analysis of the effects of gasoline containing up to 15% ethanol.

Sensenbrenner said, “Our constituents use boats, motorcycles, snowmobiles, cars, lawnmowers and tractors. They deserve to definitively know what E15 will do to the engines they rely upon.”

No motorcycles or ATVs are currently on the approved EPA list for E15 use, and the use of E15 can void manufacturers’ warranties.

H.R. 21 would repeal the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s waiv-

WEIRD NEWS: YOUTUBE VIDEO LEADS TO STUNT RIDER ARREST

As you read this, the legislature is halfway to the optimal end date of April 25. We have been working on HB 2345, which would end the limit on handle height and eliminate the requirement for “ “grab bars” whatever those are.

of law enforcement who see easy marks for harassment. We are conspicuous in public. We ride loud motorcycles. We tend to stick to our own kind and are generally self policing. We are called “outlaws” and we actually are, in that we don’t conform to society’s rules. We generally don’t call the police when someone wrongs us, we deal with it on our own.

We have clubhouses and private parties where we raise money for our own causes.

South Dakota is doing this also which would bring to 18 the number of states that have abandoned this ridiculous law.

Rep. Karen Fann has been working with us since late 2013 to get this done. It was through the combined effort of a number of individuals working to achieve relief for the motorcycle community. This session, we saw our first helmet law introduced in a number of years. All of the SMRO members rose up along with many in our community to tell the legislature we would not stand for that type of legislation. The author of that bill also tried to pass an oppressive firearm transfer law that will never see a hearing and has relegated himself to the unenviable position of being too partisan to propose any legislation that will ever be heard.

There is still some conflict at the capitol over what our state prioritizes. The Governor submitted a budget that allocates more money for prisons than education. This is the first time ever this has happened. I was speaking to a state rep. and she said that fully 48% of our state budget is dedicated to education. When the proposal is to add 3,000 prison beds in Arizona, I question just who will fill those beds. I look around me often and see that I am surrounded by wonderful people, bikers. But we are also the targets

I received a phone call last week that my father had passed away. His girlfriend/companion of over 30 years called to tell me. You see, he and I were not on speaking terms for many years so I was shocked to hear the news. I really don’t remember what the rift was originally about but it caused us to not speak since.

I really didn’t know the man and he probably wouldn’t have recognized me if I was standing in front of him. But for some reason there is sadness in my heart.

I’m going to share with you a little of what I know about him now.

From his obit: “Frank graduated from Half Hollow Hills High School in 1964. He was a retired electrician from Southern California Edison, a member of the Utility Workers Union of America Local 246 and a past

A cop couldn’t corral dozens of reckless riders who took over a California highway, performing dangerous stunts and taunting the officer, but the marauders left an obvious trail on social media.

One stunter, armed with cameras mounted on the front of his motorcycle and helmet, filmed what turned out to be incriminating evidence that later led to his arrest.

The video, posted to YouTube and garnering over 1.5 million views, shows several brazen bikers popping high speed wheelies and buzzing a California Highway Patrolman, who is also on a motorcycle and attempting to pull over one or more riders before giving up due to safety concerns. As the officer backs off, bikers are seen exuberantly pumping their fists in

Thoughts from JohnnyD

I just attended Sueanne’s Save The Boobies Run where we raised several thousand dollars for a young woman with stage three breast cancer. We didn’t create a 501c3, report the contributions, or list all of the donors. We just gave her a pile of cash so that she won’t have to stress over money for a couple of months. We do this for each other all the time. You all did this for me. The regular citizen would have gotten a receipt and demanded a tax exemption. While the RC would support the symphony or the ballet, we attend bike games and wet t-shirt contests.

There is a thing called the East Valley Gang & Criminal Information Fusion Center. This was created by a funding mechanism of the Patriot Act. In it are

kept all the files and information about gang activity occurring in the state. Since the state has declared that all motorcycle clubs save the GWRRA are gangs, everyone who associates with those clubs are also suspect. If you are a member of an SMRO you are probably suspected of being involved in gang activity. We don’t know as their files are not open to public scrutiny since they are considered part of an ongoing investigation.

Those 3,000 beds are not intended to be for overflow only. The intent is to fill them and maximize profits for Corrections Corporation of America. The corporation that is growing by leaps and bounds by offering cash strapped states large amounts of money to take over their prison operations. Their only requirement is that the states maintain a 90% fill rate for twenty years. This will lead to increased sentences, overcharging by prosecutors, and increased LE intrusion into our lives.

One legislator dropped a bill to increase the wage for prisoners to $1.50 an hour for those working at municipalities so that prisoners will agree to work on those crews. Prison employment is becoming a lucrative industry, in some states prison labor is creating competition with regularly staffed companies. And we thought

Leaving a Legacy

officer of ABATE of California. He was a member of the Bettsville Cemetery Committee, helping to maintain and improve Bettsville's cemetery and mausoleum. Motorcycling was Frank's lifelong passion. Frank loved being in the wind and rode to all four corners of the country and everywhere in between.”

I do know he was a biker long before it was cool to be one.

One story my mother told me was that they took a trip from Long Island NY to the Laconia rally before I was born on the back of his bike. I guess I’ll have to make that rally one day.

I remember him never wearing white

socks; always black ones. I asked him about that once and he said that back in the 50’s and early 60’s, greasers and bikers wore black socks. Only the dorky kids and jocks wore white socks and he laughed. He continued with that was the initial reason but it kept his feet cooler while riding because of the thinner socks. Made sense. What I remember about the guy is that everything was for a reason. “Carry your wallet in your right hip pocket.” Why? “Because you can carry a Buck 110 folding knife next to it and no one will know you have it on you. You should ALWAYS carry a knife on you.” I still do everyday.

Is this the legacy the man will leave

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015 the air in a short-lived victory celebration.

Three weeks later, following an internet trail including personal information posted in social forums, police busted the 32year old stunt rider who recorded -- and shared -- video of the wild ride and arrested him at his house in Brentwood on felony accessory and obstruction charges, as well as a marijuana grow operation in his home.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “The highest patriotism is not a blind acceptance of official policy, but a love of one's country deep enough to call her to a higher plain.”

George McGovern (1922 - 2012) American politician, historian & author

slavery was dead. When I defended myself against a dope fiend with a baseball bat they charged me with a class three felony and offered me 7.85 years as a plea offer. If I had survived that I would have been able to earn nearly $25,000 during my incarceration. Of course I would have spent much of that buying palatable food.

We are right to suspect our government of activity that is against our best interests.

We must be vigilant or we may become state property. I look around me and see people that I wouldn’t mind being locked up with. Except that I don’t want to be locked up. I want to see my grandchildren grow. I want to ride with the wind in my face. I want to see my family and friends prosper. I want to be free to live my life as I am sure you all do as well. We need to keep an eye on these people and find out who is giving them money and what those donors want. They are trying to close their meetings to the public and hide the addresses of those running for election. If we are not careful we could end up with representatives who don’t even live in our area. I will keep you all posted with any more surprises.

John P Dreyfus Johnny D ALMA MC Arizona Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs Designated Lobbyist American Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education / Phoenix-Shadow Mountain PAC Officer

behind? What legacy will you leave? This is an opportunity for you, as a motorcyclist, to leave a lasting legacy for the riders in the future. There is a great fight for freedom here in Arizona and in Washington. Freedoms for motorcyclists.

Freedoms for all Americans. Will you leave a legacy that shows those following that you believed in something bigger than yourself? Or will you just be remembered?

It is my hope and dream that I leave a legacy supporting our love of the wind.

My father passed in on to me, and I am passing it on to my kids.

Be good to one another.

Grumpy Mike

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

Accident Scene Management Class

Please, use the survey to engage your chapter members and could even be used as topics to be used a talking points with legislators for MDatD.

PAGE 11

Legislative Survey

I did deliberately leave off most the Federal issues that the MRF and AMA handle, except for Checkpoints and Trail Closings. Checkpoints have had some success at the State level and Trail Closing are impacted in part by State public lands and appeal to the Off Road community that is severely under-represented within ABATE along with Sport-Bikes.

Sean Pinder Southern AZ Chapter | PAC & Board (Chair) ABATE, MMA, MMAA Member | MRF & AMA Member

Would you like to receive The Masterlink digitally? It is posted monthly on the ABATE website - www.abateofaz.org. Opt out of the receiving the The Masterlink? Please contact the ABATE Office if you would like to no longer receive a hard copy of The Masterlink.

480-256-9237 or keim.larry@gmail.com

PAGE 12 March 2015

March 1st 2015, Star Touring & riding chapter 523 2nd annual show and shine at the Gilbert Water Tower Park in Gilbert. The Star Touring & Riding Chapter 523 Second Annual Show & Shine will be meet at the Gilbert Water Tower Park - 45 W Page Ave, Gilbert, AZ 85296. Raffles, vendors, and motorcycles all in Historic Downtown Gilbert, Arizona. Take a few minutes to browse our site for more details at http://523prez.wix.com/showandshine2015

March 1st 2015 Bikers for Boxes, Benefit, Charity for Boxers. Location Chester’s Harley Davidson. $25 for Single Rider - $35 for Double. Boxer Luv Rescue currently has more than 150 Boxers in their care and the numbers grow every day. They are a non-profit organization that saves hundreds of dogs each year with the help of its volunteers and your donations. Adopt a Boxer today! www.boxerluv.org/info/display?PageID=1 1592

March 7th 2015 - The Phoenix Wounded Vets Run ll, Start if event is at Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale, Ok everyone here we go again, the 2nd Annual Phoenix Wounded Vets Run 2015! This year we are hoping to top our first event that was an unbelievable and emotional experience from riding in the pouring rain to a Purple Heart presentation to an all around awesome party. The event will be held on March 7th 2015 starting at The Haymaker restaurant and ending at Harley Davidson of Scottsdale. Our honoree is a young man that grew of in Glendale AZ named Brad Ivanchan, Brad is a double amputee Marine Corps Vet that we could not be happier or more honored to be supporting for our ride. All of the proceeds for the days event will be going to help Brad or to a charity of his

Events Calendar

choosing. Please share this will all of your friends and family, we would like to see everyone out to enjoy the experience of such a great event. Even if you don't ride we encourage that you come to our end point at Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale and enjoy the day with a great American Hero. All event details and up dates will be here on this page, or official facebook page Phoenix Wounded Vets Run or at www.theyfoughtweridenational.com.

March 7 {Sat} 4th Annual Ride Against Suicide hosted by McCarthy Bldg Co. Benefits Suicide Prevention Programs in AZ. Check in 9-11a at Chester's HarleyDavidson 922 S. Country Club Dr; Mesa. $20/sgl, $40/cpl. Last Bike in at Greasewood Flat by 3pm. FMI: www.twogalsevents.com March 20 {Fri} Backstage Biker Bash at Chester’s Harley Davidson 922 S. Country Club Dr. Mesa. FMI: 480-8940404, www.chestershd.com

March 21st 2015 - Tillman's Ride 2015, Tillman’s Ride will start at Chandler Harley-Davidson - 6895 West Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, AZ 85226. Starts at 9:00 A.M. the cost is $20 Singles / $30 Couples. End party at the Tap Haus in Cave Creek. This is an annual charity event that honors not only Pat Tillman but all of our military heroes; past, present and future as well as our law enforcement officers and firefighters. The charities that will benefit from this event are: Military Assistance Mission and The 100 Club of Arizona.

Tillman’s Ride is a 100% volunteer effort by members of the American Legion Riders from the Pat Tillman American Legion Post 117 in North Phoenix. The inaugural ride raised more than $13,000 for charities with over 430 ride participants from the Phoenix area. The second

annual event raised $22,000 with over 600 ride participants. Funds for the event were donated to Military Assistance Mission, The 100 Club of Arizona and Pat Tillman Foundation.

Tillman’s Ride Team expects to have more than 800 motorcycles and vehicles participate in 2015. The event begins at Chandler Harley-Davidson. Ride participants will travel from Chandler and ending the event at Tap Haus with live music, raffle prize opportunities, and custom “Tillman themed” choppers on display.

This fundraiser is open to the public and we welcome any media attention that will help us increase attendance on March 21, 2015! For more information contact Lars Peterson at 602-405-0750 or Robin Gordon at 602-391-4353 for additional information or to schedule media coverage.

March 21{Sat} 20th Annual Miracle in the Desert Benefit for & at Sunshine Acres Children’s Home 3405 N Higley Rd, Mesa from 10a-2pm. $10/sgl, $15/cpl includes entry, meal by ABATE’s food dude Redbone & the Bonettes, ride-in bike show entry. Kids Choice for Best of Show. Bike Blessing, rides for kids [plz bring helmet], baked goods auction, & more. FMI: Roger 480-221-2728

March 21st 2015 SAT, Saddle Up for Kids, 7:00 AM, Harley Davidson of Scottsdale, HOGZ United Charities, Inc. (HOGZ UC) has once again teamed up with Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale to present the Saddle Up for Kids Ride on Friday March 27th, 2015 during ARIZONA BIKE WEEK 2015. The Saddle Up will start at Harley Davidson of Scottsdale 15600 N. Hayden Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260. The ride will be through some of the most breathtaking northern roads of Arizona. Registration is

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015 from 7-9:00 AM. Proceeds benefit Arizona Camp Courage, which is a burn camp for burn survivors, and is exclusively for kids. The ride fee of $35 which includes entrance into West World Saturday for all of those great activities and Concert that night, T-Shirt to those pre-registered, Free Breakfast provided

by Waffle House, Cash for best two top hands and other raffle prizes.

Preregistration at www.hogzuc.com March 22 {Sun} Trifecta at Steel Horse Saloon. 1818 W. Bell Rd, Phx. Sponsors include Law Tigers. http://steelhorsesaloon.com March 25 Peace Out, Prostate Cancer Ride begins at HD of Scottsdale, 15600 N Hayden Rd. Ends at WestWorld. $25/pp includes B’fast, day pass, & the concert that night. An AZ Bike Week event. FMI: www.twogalsevents.com March 25 - March 29, 2015 - The Arizona Bike Week 2015

DIRECTIONS 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ Locate Arizona Bike Week 2015 Get a Google Map of the Area.

CITY / STATE Scottsdale, Arizona (AZ) DESCRIPTION

The Arizona Bike Week 2015 will be held at the WestWorld of Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona from March 25, 2015 to Sunday, March 29, 2015.

Location: -WestWorld of Scottsdale 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona Bike Week is a rider’s dream.

Whether you prefer organized runs and events or carving out your own path, there’s plenty of options for everyone.

Our scenic terrain and amazing spring

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015 weather make for some of the best riding in the country. Spend a few days exploring the Arizona desert and mountain roads and checking out the pre-rally days’ events at some of our favorite local watering hole...s. Then it’s time to really rev it up at the biggest party of all, Cyclefest at Westworld! One low admission price gets you into all the festivities.

Top name builders and vendors, with the latest parts, accessories and apparel.

Major manufacturers such as Harley Davison, Yamaha & Kawasaki will be there with their demo fleets. Also included with your general admission pass;

Events Calendar

nightly concerts, featuring national headliners. Previous bands include Foreigner, Cheap Trick, Bret Michaels, Gin Blossoms, George Thorogood, Dierks Bentley, Heart, Buck Cherry, Puddle of Mudd and REO Speedwagon, just to name a few. Check out our website for this year’s lineup www.azbikeweek.com.

There you’ll find links to reserve on-site RV spaces, camp sites or nearby hotel rooms at discounted rates. See you at Arizona Bike Week, the rally that gives you more bang for your buck!

March 26-29 {Th-Sun} Phoenix

BikeFest 2015, held at Westgate in Glendale. Sponsors include Chester’s HD, Mesa & Law Tigers. FMI: http://www.phoenixbikefest.com

March 26 Helping with Horsepower Ride & Drive w/ Team Diva, [Official AZ Bike Week Ride]. Sign-in 12-2pm at Chester's Harley-Davidson, 922 S. Country Club Dr, Mesa. $30/pp includes lunch, entry into West World, VIP TuneUp Tent w/ Buffet dinner, massages, Hair & Make-Up girls, a Cigar Lounge, VIP area cash bar, & more! New ride route this year. Helping with Horsepower is a

PAGE 13 vocational program helping girls & boys learn life’s lessons, while using their hands, minds, & spirits; while working on motorcycle projects. FMI: www.twogalsevents.com | Amy 480-3186182 | twogalsamy@hotmail.com

March 28 18th Torch Ride for AZ Special Olympics. Sign-in 8am at Chester’s Harley Davidson 922 S. Country Club Dr. Mesa. B’fast starts 9a.

KSU 12:30p. Destination AZ Bike Week. $25/sgl, $45/2-up includes pin, b’fast, & entry into WestWorld & concert. FMI: 480-894-0404, www.chestershd.com

Would you like to receive The Masterlink digitally? It is posted monthly on the ABATE website - www.abateofaz.org. Opt out of the receiving the The Masterlink? Please contact the ABATE Office if you would like to no longer receive a hard copy of The Masterlink.

480-256-9237 or keim.larry@gmail.com

PAGE 14 Washington Weekly Updates January 19, 2015

The first half of my week was dominated by the Transportation Research Board, or TRB. For those of you that are not familiar with TRB, it is a global organization that conducts studies, gathers information, and acts as a huge clearing house for any and everything that has to do with transportation and any research conducted. They have an annual meeting every January in D.C. The Board has many committees dedicated to very specific areas of transportation. I am a full member of the Motorcycle and Moped subcommittee, or as they call it ANF30.

The committee meetings cover a large swath of things relating to motorcycles, including crash stats, naturalistic study, automated vehicles, rider impairment, high risk behaviors like stunting, rider gear, conspicuity, hazard perception, awareness, training, human factors/cultural influence, motorcycle traffic flow/lane splitting, and international issues. As you can see, we deal with a wide variety of issues and those change every year based on new research.

It makes for an interesting meeting when the europeans that are allowed to lane split in their country, gasp at the fact that we are trying to repeal helmet laws across our country. Keep in mind the committee is made up of riders from around the world.

We had attendance from every continent, except Antarctica!

I have also been making the rounds visiting the 74 new members of the House and Senate. A high point this week was my meeting with Joni Ernst, the newest Senator from Iowa. She’s a conservative Republican, which is odd, because she is replacing one of the most liberal and crazy Senators of all time. She was chosen this week to deliver the Republican response to this year's State of the Union. She rides a Harley Davidson, likes to shoot guns, believes in smaller government and less taxes, and she’s the first female elected to the Senate from Iowa. She is not on any of the main committees that we deal with, but she should be a strong ally for us.

Something else of interest: the ethanol bill in the House that we are supporting, H.R. 21, has the distinction of being the very first bill introduced into the U.S. House for the 114th Congress. How cool is that? Having a low bill number doesn’t prioritize the legislation necessarily but it can add some serious cache. The Speaker reserves bill numbers 1-20 for his own personal projects he deems important. For instance when Pelosi was speaker she gave the bailout bill H.R. 1. What was Boehner’s H.R. 1 last Congress? To overhaul the IRS. This gives us a full Congress to get this bill done!

Please bring it up in your newsletters and meetings.

I am off this weekend to attend the Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists legislative weekend in Richmond, and next weekend I will

News from the MRF

be in Harrisburg , Pennsylvania for their legislative weekend.

==========================

Washington Weekly Updates January 25, 2015

Jeff Hennie, Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs Motorcycle Riders Foundation

The talks about a comprehensive transportation bill have begun, but it is almost pointless. The funding model for the highway trust fund is broken. With Americans driving less and driving more fuel-efficient vehicles, we are buying less gas, which directly equates to less cash in the trust fund. What is really needed is a slight increase in the gas tax that right now is 18.4 cents a gallon. Your state gas tax is likely nearly double the federal, and that money goes to Medicare bills and school lunches, not roads and bridges. Not sure if you saw the news, but a bridge collapsed in Cincinnati a few days ago. Our infrastructure is falling down around us and the Congress won’t raise the gas tax a nickel a gallon, which would solve all problems.

Those against a fast tax say we should first look at where we can cut out non-essential spending in the current form. Mass transit does not pay into the trust fund whatsoever yet they get about 20 percent of the money right off the top. Then there are ludicrous programs such as the one that gives money to roadside museums; largest ball of dirt anyone? The problem is when you start cutting, why stop there? Some will say that the motorcycle safety money deserves to be cut.

If it’s not building roads, bridges, or tunnels, it must go. Also reality dictates that the Congress is not going to strip mass transit funding; it’s just not going to happen.

Mass transit makes the argument that they help alleviate congestion by keeping cars off the roads.

Your friends over at the Advocates for Highway Safety released their annual report this week. Entitled “Lethal Loopholes,” the report takes aim at what State Legislatures are up to. Concerning motorcycles, they say "no mandatory helmet laws (were) adopted, but none (were) repealed." So they know that we have the power to repeal laws, and they will do everything in there power to stop us. Success can invite opposition with strength. The report parades out the usual nonsense like referencing the 1997 low point of fatalities, which was the lowest fatal year in history (and also the lowest year of registrations) as well as how much money would be saved if we had all rider helmet laws. Don't take my word for it, read the report here: http://saferoads.org/files/2015%20Roadmap %20Report%20FINAL_0.pdf

Have a great week! Jeff

============================

Washington Weekly Updates February 9, 2015

Your tax dollars are hard at work! NHTSA released a study titled “Motorcycle Helmet Use in 2014-overall results.” NOPUS, or National Occupant Protection Use Survey conducted the study. The survey claims to be “the only nationwide probability based observed data on motorcycle helmet use in the Untied States.”

The study observed certain stretches of road, at 1581 sites. They did the observing over 3.5 weeks last June. Over that time they ended up observing 684 motorcycles carrying 806 motorcyclists. So the survey isn’t really a survey, it’s a snapshot; a brief capture of bikes and bikers on the road.

“Probability based” means they take the snapshot and enlarge it. They account for riding season length and so on before they extrapolate the numbers.

Our government needs to get on the same page when it comes to statistics. In NHTSA’s last issue of their periodic “Traffic Safety Facts” series they identified that motorcycle fatalities had dropped 6.4 percent and injuries dropped 8.3 percent the report called the drops “not statistically significant.” Well this new report claims that use of non-compliant motorcycle helmets “decreased significantly from 7 percent to 5 percent”. Just another example of how government is biased against the most affordable and energy efficient modes of transportation Americans can use.

The survey goes into some detail about helmet use during different riding conditions, solo riders versus two up riders. You can read more here:

http://wwwnrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/812110.pdf

H.R. 21, the bill that would study the effects of ethanol on vehicles, is up to seven cosponsors. Keep the pressure on to cosponsor this important legislation.

Net Neutrality was a big issue this week with the FCC chairman Tom Wheeler circulating his proposed rules to regulate the internet like any other telecommunications utility such as cable, TV, telephones and other common carriers. The chairman summed up his proposal with this statement: “An open Internet allows consumers to access the legal content and applications that they choose online, without interference from their broadband network provider. It fosters innovation and competition by ensuring that new products and services developed by entrepreneurs aren’t blocked or throttled by internet service providers putting their own profits above the public interest. An open internet allows free expression to blossom without fear of an Internet provider acting as a gatekeeper.

And it gives innovators predictable rules of the road to deliver new products and services online.”

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015 It’s a complicated issue but the simplest explanation is this. The government wants to be able to ensure the American public that their providers of internet access do not block or throttle access to lawful content and services. It also prohibits internet service providers (ISP) from allowing content providers to pay to get speedier delivery of their content, a practice known as “paid prioritization”. The ISP’s claim that the heavy regulation will only drive up costs that will be passed on to you, the user.

The commission should vote on regulation on February 26th. ===========================

United States House of Representatives Address Motorcycle Checkpoints February 13, 2015

For Immediate Release - Action Needed

Today, February 12th, Congressman James F Sensenbrenner (R-WI) circulated a “dear colleague” letter to inform his fellow members of the House of Representatives that he will be soon introducing legislation to end the federal funding of motorcycle only roadside checkpoints.

Currently the federal government can and has supplied cash to states to conduct mandatory motorcycle only checkpoints.

This legislation, which will be known as H.R. 1861, would put an end to that. In the letter Sensenbrenner states, “I will be reintroducing H.R. 1861, the Stop Motorcycle Checkpoint Funding Act, to protect motorcyclists’ rights and promote crash prevention as the most effective use of taxpayer money to save motorcyclists’ lives.”

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), along with ABATE of Wisconsin met with Sensenbrenner earlier this week to discuss this important matter. The MRF obviously strongly opposes this sort of motorcyclist discrimination. “Pulling law abiding motorcyclists off the road does not make anyone safer is a waste of taxpayer money and is law enforcement harassment at its worst,” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs for the MRF.

The MRF urges you to contact your Representative in Congress and ask them to join in support of this important legislation as an original cosponsor. You can reach the capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 and you can find the name of your Representative here: http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/.

It is important to gather as many cosponsors as possible to ensure passage of H.R. 1861.

The MRF will keep you informed on this matter so you can engage your member of congress on this important matter impacting motorcyclists on a national level.

East Valley Valentine's Day Party Almost a Love Shack Baby

Can you say you missed the best time ever at the EV ABATE's Valentines Day Party that was held at the What the Hell Bar and Grill in Mesa Feb7th?

Hosted by the lovely Michele Peltier, who did a fantastic job organizing and setting up this event . She went way out of her way to coordinate the bar set up,get the decorations and door prizes.

You made this party rock Michelle!!

Collecting the entry fee donations was our own Deb Brunko and her hot date kick Joe Ferruci set the door meeting and

greeting all the partiers.

I sorta helped sell the 50/50 tickets and the rest of the night the band Horns Up rocked the place.

What a night what a party. Don't miss it next year!! Thank you all for attending too!

-Jim Silk

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

PAGE 15

East Valley Valentine's Day Party

Learning What to do in a Motorcycle Accident put on locally by Mt Shadows Safety Officer Teresa McClelland at Paradise Valley Hospital The idea behind the class is that the first people on the scene of a motorcycle crash will likely be fellow motorcyclists, and that what happens between the time of the crash and the time professional help arrives (EMS, Life Flight, etc.) can make a huge difference in survival and degree of injury. An additional consideration is that many of us ride in desert areas where emergency services (or even cell phone coverage) may not be close by.

By Jim Silk State Safety Officer

Crashing – and the injury that often

- How do I prevent further injury?

- How do I secure the scene?

- When should I remove the rider’s helmet? When should I leave it on?

- If I do need to remove their helmet, how do I do that?

- What first aid supplies should I carry on my bike?

I recently attended (and highly recommend) “A Crash Course for the Motorcyclist” that answered these questions and more. This course is one of several by Accident Scene Management USA (www.accidentscene.org) and was

been injured in a crash or know someone who has. This class helped me to feel

are they to assist you?

Using the acronym, PACT, Teresa(aka Trama Mama) and her helper Ben Martinez .We learned P is for prevent further injury.A is for assess the situation.C is contact EMS or 911. T is for treat injuries.

We also learned about CPR,controlling bleeding,spinal immobilization,shock,and helmet removal.

more confident and capable to care for a fellow rider in the event of a crash. Just as important, some of the people I ride with also took that class and knowing that THEY know what to do is also a plus. I hope we never have to use these skills, but I’m glad that we have them.

I could never be able to say in this article how important it is for all riders to go to a class. Teresa and Ben did a fantastic job it was rewarding as well as entertaining to learn. Thank you again.

This class is appropriate for all riders and is ideal for riding groups and clubs. It was well attended by east Valley ABATE members Nolan Steed,Ron Davis and myself.

accompanies crashing – is not something that most riders like to dwell on. But the reality is that crashes and injuries DO happen to riders – most of us have either

None of us want to or plan to crash – and it is our hope that it doesn’t happen. But we know that it could happen – either to us, or to one of our fellow riders. If it does happen, how prepared are you to assist your fellow riders? How prepared

Ride safe – Ride lots, Don't look so scared Vic Grady!!

PAGE 16

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

PAGE 17

House Roster

Senate Roster

PAGE 18

Rider Ed Courses in AZ

Locations Zip County Email Phone Site Website City Motorcycle Rider PHOENIX 85012 MARICOPA Click Here (623) 979-1839 View Training RIDE SMART M/C PHOENIX 85023 MARICOPA Click Here (623) 877-5425 View TRAINING T.E.A.M. Arizona GILBERT 85233 MARICOPA Click Here (480) 998-9888 View Chandler/Gilbert GILBERT PUBLIC View GILBERT 85234 MARICOPA (480) 894-0404 SCHOOLS (PARKING LOT) T.E.A.M. Arizona View SCOTTSDALE 85260 MARICOPA Click Here (480) 998-9888 Scottsdale CHANDLER View TEMPE 85283 MARICOPA (480) 496-6800 HARLEYDAVIDSON T.E.A.M. Arizona View GLENDALE 85302 MARICOPA Click Here (623) 939-9888 Glendale DEER VALLEY View GLENDALE 85308 MARICOPA (623) 247-5542 HIGH SCHOOL LUKE AIR FORCE LUKE AFB 85309 MARICOPA (623) 975-6264 BASE Motorcycle Rider PEORIA 85345 MARICOPA Click Here (623) 979-1839 View Training VEHICLE SAFETY View YUMA 85367 YUMA Click Here (928) 376-7489 INSTITUE T.E.A.M. Arizona FT 85613 COCHISE Click Here (520) 733-9888 View HUACHUCA Sierra Vista Pima Community View TUCSON 85707 PIMA (520) 206-3981 College T.E.A.M. Arizona View TUCSON 85714 PIMA Click Here (520) 733-9888 Tucson RIDE NAZ -View BELLEMONT 86015 COCONINO (928) 443-0111 FLAGSTAFF Ride Northern PRESCOTT 86301 YAVAPAI Click Here (928) 443-0111 View Arizona - Prescott T.E.A.M. Arizona View PRESCOTT 86301 YAVAPAI Click Here (928) 771-2500 Prescott MOHAVE View KINGMAN 86401 MOHAVE (928) 757-0825 COMMUNITY COLLEGE MOHAVE LAKE View (928) 505-3321 COMMUNITY HAVASU 86403 MOHAVE COLLEGE CITY MOHAVE JB'S 86440 MOHAVE Click Here (866) 668-6462 View VALLEY RESTAURANT

ATTENTION - ALL RIDERS: =======================

It has come to our attention that business establishments in Arizona may still be discriminating against motorcyclists. Please carry copies of this form with you at all times. Discrimination can range from a sign stating "No Colors" or "No Motorcycle Parking" or "No Motorcycle Attire" etc., to simply being asked to leave a place of business, just because you are on a motorcycle or because of your riding apparel. If anything like this happens to you, PLEASE fill out this form in its entirety and send it to the address noted. Your lobbyists cannot get sponsorship for "equal access" legislation, without evidence of this type of discrimination.

Documentation of Discrimination DATE: ______________

Business Phone _______________

NAME OF ESTABLISHMENT: __________________________________ BUSINESS PHONE (with area code): __________________________________ BUSINESS - FULL ADDRESS: ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ NAME / POSITION OF PERSON ENFORCING POLICY: ________________ ________________________________________________________ WRITTEN STATEMENT OF DISCRIMINATION (use back if needed): _____ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ YOUR NAME (please print): ______________________________________ YOUR PHONE (with area code): __________________________________ YOUR SIGNATURE: ____________________________________________ *** INCLUDE ANY PICTURES OF DISCRIMINATING SIGNS POSTED *** Mail To: Ray Fitzgerald 1634 West Pine Cone Way Prescott, Arizona 86303

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

Important Phone Numbers

Aid to Injured Motorcyclists - A.I.M. - (800) 521-2425 24-Hr. Legal Assistance for all accidents

Aid to Incarcerated Motorcyclists A.I.M. - (800) 235-2424 24-Hr. Legal Criminal Defense

National Legislative Hot Line - (800) 300-NCOM 24-Hr. Motorcycle Legislative Alerts

National Coalition of Motorcyclists NCOM- (800) 525-5355 Fighting for Bikers Rights

Confederation of Clubs. - (800) 531-2424 Motorcycle Clubs Fighting Against Discrimination

Motorcycle Riders Foundation Washington D.C. Office (202) 546-0983

California Helmet Law Fight

Brothers and Sisters,

Once again the helmet law battle rages again in California. A law suit is pending which may just make helmet laws everywhere unconstitutional. Attached you will find an article from Cycle Source written by Robert Keller and as the article says, “ Whether or not you wear a helmet this fight and the court cases are important because Freedom of Choice is a serious issue just like many of the other laws and actions that single out motorcyclist and its wrong.”

This fight needs your support and I am asking just that. Please help! If you and your organization can contribute $1.00 per member or just pass the hat around at every chapter meeting it would be a monumental help in this fight for everyone’s freedom.

If you go to http://boltofca.com/ you can find out any and all of the information you need including the court filings.

Additionally you can send your funds via the Blue PayPal Donate link at the same location which would be so much appreciated.

I cannot stress the importance of this struggle to you. Since the inception of ABATE in the early 1970 we have always fought to change the law in every state. Now is the time to defeat the law in the courts!

In solidarity,

Gary K. Hilderbrand “Hildy” State Legislative Coordinator ABATE of Delaware Director BOLT of Delaware

MASTERLINK MARCH 2015

State Officers Meeting Minutes (continued)

Discussion: planning continues and is on track. Committee meets regularly.

Action: Ongoing Responsibility: Mike

5. Topic: Online ABATE of Arizona Store Discussion: Commissions for 2013 were minimal. A check was mailed to a past treasurer by Café Press, but was not cashed. A check will be re-issued and sent to the State Office. The link to Café Press on our website has been removed.

Quotes for managing an online store are needed from Square Peg Promos and two others. A State Merchandise Coordinator is needed to manage the program; fill orders, maintain inventory, etc.

Action: MK will seek quotes. Mike will assist with coordination until a merchandise office is found.

Responsibility: Mike and MK

6. Topic: Intra-organizational communication Discussion: Officer Contacts will be updated on website and in Masterlink.

The communication e-list abateofaz@googlegroups.com also needs

updating. All chapter secretaries have been asked to send updated information to the State Secretary. The list has been updated.

Action: Communication lists and contacts will be updated.

Responsibility: MK will contact webmaster to make all necessary updates.

NEW BUSINESS:

1. Topic: By-Law Update Discussion: Matt Brown reviewed the By-Laws and found they are inconsistent and antiquate. He has made recommendations for change. The recommended changes will be reviewed by the rest of the officer group. Any agreed upon changes will be presented to the BOD at the next meeting.

Action: All Officers will review By-laws Responsibility: All Officers.

2. Topic: Resignation of Designated Lobbyist Discussion: ABATE must have a Designated Lobbyist. Notification should be made to the public. It is not necessary

TBFS Special Motorhome for sale.

1981 Dodge Sportsman, C Class, 22', sleeps 6 440 cu. in. fresh top end, good gas mileage everything works, 86000 miles, $3500 call Jerry D. 602-459-4302

PAGE 19

for the Lobbyist to be a member of ABATE, but it helps to be connected to the organization for awareness of mission and vision, as well as desires of the membership. The position continues to be an un-paid volunteer position.

Action: Vacancy notice will be placed in Masterlink.

Responsible: Jean

Discussion: Meeting of the Minds and NCOM are available to ABATE members. Planning and budgeting is encouraged.

Action: ongoing

4. Topic: Bikers Inside the Beltway Discussion: there is no information regarding the event on the MRF website yet. MK voiced interest in attending the event in Washington, DC, especially since ABATE may not have found a Lobbyist by then. ABATE of AZ should have representation at the event.

Action: none

CRITICAL TIME FRAMES: None in February and March

3. Topic: Open Officer Positions Discussion: as mentioned earlier, Merchandise and Run/Events Coordinator positions need to be filled.

Action: none

5. Topic: Attendance of other annual motorcycle conferences

Classifieds

6. Topic: Arizona Rider Life Discussion: AZ Rider Life produces maps of motorcycle rides throughout Arizona. The publication is seeking sponsors. Perhaps ABATE should consider sponsorship to increase exposure.

Action: Sponsorship will be investigated.

Responsible: Mike

Next State Meeting: March 01, 2015 @ 10:30 AM at the ABATE State Office Motion to adjourn: Jim 2nd Larry.

All in favor: yes _X_ no ___ Time: __1:10 PM___ Respectfully Submitted, Jean Cooper, Secretary

2009 HD Sportster 1200 Low style.

like new with 5000 miles, kept in AC garage, Stage 1 kit with Vance and Hines shorties, forward foot controls, all service down by Chester's in Mesa. Limited HD factory root beer brown color. $8950 obo. call or text 480-338-1965 in Gilbert AZ. For pictures email to; steve@arcasmachine.com 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan Classic

Super nice 800cc V-twin cruiser. brand new black cherry paint. 43K miles, Lowered 1-1/2 inches in the rear, K&N air intake kit, Vance & Hines Straightshot exhaust, very loud, jetted for such performance upgrades, 60 HP and 50LBS torque, lots of tread left on Metzler tires, lots of chrome, custom headlight, drag bars and custom forward controls, no leaks, Also includes bike cover, windshield and mounting hardware, service manual, extra saddlebag, lots of extra parts, one half-helmet, Has won first place in six bike shows and trophies are included.. $3000. 602.367.9524

Your Classified Ad

could be here...

It’s Free to ABATE Members. submit your ad online at www.abateofaz.org 2004 Waltz Hardcore special constructed soft tail Custom Chopper, Vin # AZ262741, Vehicle is garage kept, and customized. Chopper has a 145 Horse Power TP polished Engine, a 3" Primary and 6 speed Transmission. The Vehicle is built on a Waltz Hardcore Soft Tail Frame. All sheet metal work, paint job is Custom.

Custom Chrome wheels and brand new Tires. All Mechanical components are in good working order. Engine runs awesome. Has less than 4000 miles.

This baby is worth way more than I'm asking! Just need money now!

Waltz Hardcore Frame $6,500, TP 124" Cubic Inch Polished Engine $7,500 3" Open Primary and 6 speed Transmission $3,000, Custom Sheet metal Work $3,000 Custom Paint $3,000, Wheels & Tires $2,500, Progressive Airtail Suspension, Brakes, Starter, Charging System, $4,000, Labor $4,500 Asking $18,999 obo, For more information call or text @ (480) 385-8947

ATTENTION ALL 30 YEAR OLDS!!

I have your year Softail-- 1984.1 owner, 1st yr. Softail, 1st yr. Evolution Kick and electric start PLUS all orginal parts. $9,500 Call 970-420-6675

One-Piece DayTripper motorcycle seat

New - never used - In box Retails for $359 model 76189 fits Honda VT 750 Spirit 2001-2006 & VT 750DC 2007-2009. The detailed stitch work in the highly durable, synthetic glove-leather makes the DayTripper a show winner. $150.00 Call Bob @ 602-463-0544

AzTech Flatbed Trailer (Car/ATV Hauler) $2200 obo 2008 STS Cadillac for sale, 23K miles $28,000 obo Call 928-718-6296 Cell 928-716-7289

FINALLY!! A motorcycle themed paperback book for the young reader. The Adventures of Olive Pearl and Hammy Davidson features Olive Pearl; a green and black motorcycle and Hamrietta (Hammy) Davidson her stuffed piggy passenger. They experience the joy of motorcycling on a 1700-mile road trip to meet new people, see new things, and learn life lessons along the way. Their adventures are wrapped inside the love story of husband and wife characters, “The Man” and “The Lady”. Sprinkled throughout with pictures, social observations, and humor, adults will also enjoy reading this story to younger children and are sure to get a laugh or two themselves. Get more info and place an order at: www.OliveandHammy.com Let’s Ride!!

2000 HD Custom (623) 374-5510 $15K OBO Motorcycle Hearse

COPD diagnosis forces SALE! $50,000.00 www.eagleswingscarriages.com visit this website to view complete set of equipment.

Equipment included: 1999 Harley Davidson Road King Trike (6045 miles) modified with reverse gear & fifth wheel hitch, detachable 18th Century styled Hearse Carriage, full size casket with full cover flag, cherry wood Urn Ark with panoramic glass & folding stand, Encased Memorial Flag, 2007 22ft. flatbed transportation trailer with winds/bug shield, Honor Flags, pre-printed magnetic Carriage name plates & misc office supplies. Call Bill or Phyllis 623-386-8281

2006 H-D Dyna Street Bob 11,000 miles, $22,000 invested, selling for $16,000.

Contact Pete @ (602) 315-6950 FOR SALE:

2008 Harley Davidson Road Glide- 6,240 miles-lowering kit-travel packageAM/FM/WB/CD- 6 speed-Dark Blue Pearl-Corbin Solo and Stock Seat- asking $17,000. e-mail serious inquiries to: momac99@yahoo.com.

HIGH COUNTRY CHAPTER ABAT TEE OF ARIZONA

NEW LOCAT ATION

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WK/END ADMISSION $15 PER SINGLE $25 PER COUPLE

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