A publication supporting the rights, safety and freedom of all motorcyclists through education and legislation
October 2015
VOLUME XXIV, ISSUE VI
Nonprofit Org US Postage Paid Permit #1662 Phoenix, AZ
m/c harassment alive & well in az
Reprinted from http://www.motorcycleprofilingproject.com
Arizona Motorcycle Club Surrounded by Police for 3 Days
abateofaz.org
ABATE of AZ. 7509 N. 12th St, #200 Phoenix, AZ 85020
Law enforcement in Winslow, Arizona is guilty of grossly mismanaging public funds by mobilizing a multi-agency patrol and surveillance operation targeting a motorcycle club for absolutely no justifiable reason. This incident is another example of police targeting motorcycle clubs with military like equipment and surveillance, even in instances where there is absolutely no reason or probable cause to believe that a crime has, or will, take place. This incident is a microcosm into an epidemic occurring in Arizona and across America. Fortunately there are possible solutions. A law addressing the issue of motorcycle profiling has proven to be an effective tool in the fight against military policing and discrimination against 1st Amendment protected associations.
I recently received a letter from John Dreyfus, a friend, a member of ALMA MC and the Arizona Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs Designated Lobbyist. The ALMA MC was targeted by surveillance and an outrageous police presence during a 3-day celebration for a new charter held September 5th-7th in Winslow, Arizona The letter reads:
“New problems, we have a new ALMA MC charter in Winslow, AZ….None of the members up there have criminal records. We had a party to celebrate them becoming full patch members and the LE presence was outrageous. Not a single arrest or traffic stop during the three days that people were partying there. More evidence…”
The Department of Public Safety, Gang Task Force, and Winslow PD were all involved in the operation. An operation taking place for absolutely no discernible reason other than to conduct massive and visible surveillance on a club that has no felons, a club committing no crimes, and no reason to believe that a crime would occur.
Dreyfus describes the surveillance. “There were unmarked vehicles. LE in body armor. And a telescoping device that we took pics of. We weren’t sure if it was intercepting phone signals or broadcasting pics they took. There is one pic of a small group of LE at the corner with the statue. It looked like they were doing the tourist thing. Taking pics with the statue at Standing On The Corner Park.” How much does a 3-day, multi-agency, military-style operation that results in zero enforcement of the law cost in public funds? This gross mismanagement of public funds
counter-acts the extremely positive economic benefits of the club’s party on the community. According to Dreyfus, “Every hotel in town was filled. Businesses saw greatly increased sales.”
Independent of economics, the discriminatory mindset driving this operation is concerning. There is no other explanation other than stereotype driving the idea that overwhelming police presence and surveillance of clubs with no criminal records or history of criminal activity is necessary or appropriate.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident in Arizona. Indeed, there has been a long history of motorcycle profiling in Arizona. For example, in 2012, while visiting Phoenix to give a profiling presentation at an Arizona Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs meeting, law enforcement targeted this political gathering with visible presence and surveillance outside the meeting. John Dreyfus immediately went outside, asked them politely what they wanted, took pictures of them, and they went away.
Again, there was absolutely zero reason to believe that a crime was occurring, or would occur, a condition that should reasonably exist
continued page 4
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MASTERLINK OCTOBER 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 2015
Phoenix-Shadow Mountain Chapter
P.O. Box 54041 Phoenix, AZ 85078-4041 Coordinator...........................Mike Schneider Vice Coordinator....................Jim Page Secretary................................Tara Rudometkin Treasurer................................Lyn Peterson 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: Chapter Coordinator Mike Schneider, 602-549-1044, mike@squarepegpromos.com
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.
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
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
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
Yavapai Chapter
P.O. Box 11319 Prescott, AZ 86304 Coordinator............................ OPEN Vice Coordinator....................OPEN Secretary................................ OPEN Treasurer................................ OPEN Membership........................... OPEN Run Coordinator......................OPEN Safety Coordinator..................OPEN Sgt. At Arms...........................OPEN P.A.C...................................... OPEN Communications.................... OPEN Merchandise........................... OPEN
Yavapai monthly chapter meetings have been suspended due to lack of member participation. Anyone interested in re-establishing the chapter should contact Deborah Butitta at deb@mrf.org
Yuma Chapter
11316 S. Glenwood Ave. Yuma, AZ 85367 Coordinator............................ Frank White Vice Coordinator....................Vacant Secretary................................ Mikkie Melanson Treasurer................................ Virginia Nielsen Membership........................... Tyrone (Runt) Gill Run Coordinator.....................Jerry Allison Safety Coordinator..................Ray “PeeWee” Grier Sgt. At Arms...........................Terry “Gunner” Langworty P.A.C...................................... Gilbert Hernandez Communications.................... David "Pastor D" Litts 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.
Arizona MRF Representative Wanted
Through the Motorcycle Riders Foundation State Representative Program, local motorcyclists are kept up to date on the MRF's legislative and training agendas. The MRF State Rep program allows information to pass quickly to the State Motorcyclists' Rights Organizations, as well as allowing information to reach the MRF concerning individual states. The men and women involved in the MRF's State Rep Program are dedicated
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....................Jim “Chiknbone”Mazzone Safety Coordinator.................John Lacey Sgt. At Arms.........................Ray Martinez P.A.C.....................................Woody Phillips 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
President………..............……Mary K Donnay Vice President.....……………Mike Schneider Secretary……………………Jean Cooper Treasurer…………………….Jim Silk Membership…………………Larry Keim Run/Events………………….Vacant Safety Coordinator………….Joel “JR” Rosen Sergeant-at-Arms……………Vic Grady P.A.C………………………...Lynda ‘Handi’ Barnett Communications…………….Vacant Designated Lobbyist...............Vacant ABATE Products……………Vacant MasterLink Editor................ Eric Hampton TheMasterlink@abateofaz.org Office phone: 480-256-9237
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
volunteers from the membership ranks who are willing to give their time and energy to build, maintain and enhance the relationship between the MRF and all motorcyclists within their states. They must work closely with the State Motorcyclists' Rights Organizations, attending their meetings and events, keeping the SMROs abreast of national issues, international issues, and issues affecting motorcylists in other states. MRF State Reps promote the MRF by all
possible means, such as making presentations to SMROs and other groups. Writing articles for newspapers and newsletters, membership recruiting, and speaking to individual motorcyclists are other examples of promoting the MRF.
To become an MRF State Representative, candidates must submit two things to the Director of State Representative Program: (1) An MRF State Representative application, obtained from the Director of State Representative Program. (2) A written
Meeting Minutes
A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona, Inc. Board of Directors and State meeting minutes will no longer be printed and taking up space in THE MASTERLINK. They are available to view 24/7 on-line at www.abateo-
faz.org under the “Communications” tab. Thank you! MK
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.
endorsement from your State Motorcylists' Rights Organization. If your state has more than one SMRO, an endorsement must be obtained from all SMROs in your state.
For additional information regarding the MRF's State Representative Program, please contact Dave Condon, Director of State Representative Program. Dave036@aol.com
How to Reach Us
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) $50.00 $150.00 $500.00 1/4 Page (5-1/2”w x 8”h) $70.00 $210.00 $700.00 1/2 Page (10-1/4”w x 8”h) $100.00 $300.00 $1,000.00 Full Page (10-1/4”w x 16”h) $200.00 $600.00 $2,000.00 Full Color Back Page (10-1/4”w x 16”h) $400.00 $950.00 $3,300.00
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
President’s Report
the State and Chapter budgets for 2016, followed by the State Officers meeting, Then we open up for discussion amongst members. What’s important to you? What topics should be our legislative focus to protect your riding freedom? How can we best increase driver awareness of motorcycles on the road?
By “MK” Mary K. Donnay
Greetings fellow freedom fighters, It’s time for our Annual Member Meeting & State Officer Elections. We moved the location to Tumbleweed Inn Bar & Grill in Eloy. There will be a group ride from the Valley to the meeting, from the Circle K gas station next to Cracker Barrel Restaurant on the N.W. corner of I-10/Chandler Blvd., Chandler, KSU at 9:45 a.m. A.B.A.T.E. ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING/ STATE OFFICER ELECTIONS Sunday, November 8th 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Tumbleweed Inn Bar & Grill, 3815 W. Frontier Street, Eloy, AZ 85131 (520) 466-9972
We will start with the Board of Directors meeting, they’ll be reviewing and approving
We will have ballots available so you can vote at the meeting for the next State Officers. These are 2-year positions (1/1/2016-12/31/2017). Please note there are some positions that still need volunteers, namely: State Vice President State Membership State Communications State Run Coordinator
I’m happy to announce that JIM BUTSBACK accepted nomination for A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona State President (see ballot herein). Jim has been our Southern Arizona Chapter Coordinator for a number of years. He has well-represented ABATE of AZ at various membership, safety & awareness events, attended MRF’s Meeting of the Minds in September, knows lots of the AZ MC’s, has attended So AZ ACMC meetings, works his ass off at TOO BROKE FOR STURGIS, and regularly emails his chapter members with all pertinent info. Thank you Jim for stepping up and ensuring the smooth continuation of this fine organization. I feel at ease knowing it will be in your capable hands.
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We are still looking for; 1) A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona DESIGNATED LOBBYIST 2) M.R.F. (Motorcycle Riders Foundation) STATE REP. Interested candidates, please email president@abateofaz.org
MOTORCYCLE DAY AT THE DOME – We have reserved Monday, April 18th, 2016 as Motorcycle Day at the Dome. We plan to make this an afternoon-early evening event, so that you can come after work, invite your legislators to come down and meet with us.
If you have time you can donate to our worth cause, please consider stepping up and taking one of these positions. We can’t exist without YOUR participation and dedication.
NCOM REP – Since the passing of Muskrat, Richard Lester (AIM - Aid to Injured Motorcyclists) asked A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona to endorse a qualified candidate to replace him. At the October 4th B.O.D. meeting, after receiving many letters of support, we endorsed Johnny D. There will be a November NCOM meeting where they will officially accept Johnny D. THANK YOU JOHNNY D for taking on this position.
At the October 4th B.O.D. meeting, they approved the purchase of a 50” Smart LED TV and Conference Call Sound Station, for a maximum cost of $700. This will make it easier to attend meetings from out of town. You need not live in or around the Phoenix Valley to be a State Officer, or physically attend. You can call into the meetings and participate.
UPDATED BY LAWS - We have made several revisions to our By Laws, which require the majority of voting members approval. Since there were changes to almost every page, we didn’t publish them in this paper, but ask that you review them on-line at www.abateofaz.org prior to the meeting. You’ll find a link on the home page. Copies will also be available at the meeting. On the bottom of the ballot, we ask that you check Approve OR Disapprove of the By Law changes.
ON-LINE STORE – Have you checked out the A.B.A.T.E. of AZ products available through the on-line store? We will have some of these products available for purchase at the Annual Member Meeting. We’re printing the State logo’d shirt (biker heading at you with high handle bars and AZ flag colors in background) in longsleeve and will have them at the Annual Member Meeting too.
It’s time for me to pack up my motorcycle and head to ACMC’s RIOT ON THE RIVER, Oct. 16-18, at Winkleman Flats. Until next month ~ UNITED WE RIDE, DIVIDED WE DRIVE!
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
State Officers Election Ballot
Please, review the proposed revised By-Laws on the ABATE Website. The language was updated throughout the document to more accurately reflect today's business practices, such as using email and other techology. ABATE of Arizona membership approval is needed for the revisions to be adopted. So, please take this opportunity review the By-Laws as they have been revised by the ByLaw Committee and vote your approval or disapproval on the annual election ballot. Please contact the State Secretary with any comments. Thankyou.
Your ABATE Membership Number ________
Chapter Reports
PAGE 4
East Valley Chapter
A month in review for the ABATE of Arizona East Valley chapter. Things were a little mellow after the Biker’s Mall grand opening.
I must admit it was interesting to watch the 4 conference virgins at Meeting of the Minds. I could see the glow of absorbing the awesomeness of the experience by Larry, Tami, Teresa (Trauma Mama), and Ben. Having Jim there as our unofficial leader was just the way it needed to be.
I must admit we were thrown off when the awards were presented and stumbled over who was going up to get them. The impromptu speech that Larry gave about ABATE of Arizona’s achievements couldn’t have been improved on. It was awesome, you go Larry.
Tami and I were standing there as “Mr. Kilt” went down during the tug of war. Witnessing Teresa spring into action to help him was incredible. Can you imagine the stories around that E.R.? They brought in a gentleman with his face half painted blue in a fur cape and a kilt. Now this maybe pure rumor but it was really cool so screw it I am going to repeat it. I was told “Mr. Kilt” told the hospital something along the lines of Get me out of here I have a banquet to go to. Now that is dedication! He was walking gently but made it back for the banquet.
I got to enjoy several eye opening seminars. Auntie ABATE is always perfect. I do believe my favorites were by Matt Danielson, Your Rights During a Traffic Stop (OR How Not to be the Next Rodney King) and Fact or Fiction. I emailed him and got us copies of the presentations but honestly the way he presents just can’t be duplicated. The Harley Museum is beyond being able to simply be explained. It must be experienced.
Do to my being at Meeting of the Minds I was not present for our monthly meeting. Many chapter officer nominations were made.
I managed to pick up an ever so lovely nastiness of a cold as we got back. So I was grounded by my husband from the October 2nd Motorcycles on Main and the State meeting. Therefore I was told that Motorcycles on Main went well with a good turnout.
On October 11th we had a booth at the 11 mile Swap Meet thanks to Myron. It was pretty successful and the swap meet itself was interesting. We had Muskrat’s protégé Zen set up his booth right next to us. It was awesome. Our next meeting will be on October 25th, 2015 at 11 am.
Until we meet again, be safe out there. Enjoy the ride and as always keep it rubber side down. Here’s to Wind Knots in My Hair, Dawn P Steed Secretary, PAC, and Communications.
High Country Chapter
Hello Brothers and Sisters.
Up here in the High Country the weather is turning cold. Be sure to bundle up and dress in layers, cause that can change quickly. We have been in the 70s during the day, but the low 40s at night, so be prepared.
During last months meeting we held nominations for all positions. We had a good turn out and good participation, It looks like we may fill all officer positions. That being said, our next meeting we will be holding elections. So you will have to tune in next months issue for the results. I am happy to see that other members are stepping up.
Another order of business that will have come and gone by the time you read this is our 10th Annual Chili Cook-off. Sorry to say but, that too will happen after this goes to print, so tune in next month to
find out how much fun we had.
As I mentioned last month, H.C.C. has been attending Bike Night, which is put on and organized by the Old Bastards MC of Payson. Each time it seems to get bigger and better. They held a fund raiser this last week so they could buy turkey dinners to help out needy families up here in Payson. Once they reached a modest goal the fun began. With cream pies in hand, everyone who donated stepped up and put them in the faces of the OB's. Now I ask you, is this any way to treat a bunch of great guys just tryin to feed needy families? Yes, yes it is. They enjoyed it as much as we did. These are the lengths that our H.C.C. members (OBMC) will go, to help and support our community. Great job Brothers.
You are once again invited to attend our meeting, to be held on the 3rd Sun of every month, 10:00 am at the Moose Lodge 852 in Star Valley. Prior to the meeting, a delicious breakfast is served at the Spur Bar 8:30am. Come see what we are all about. 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
First off, I would like to remind everyone in our chapter or any guests who may wish to attend, there will be no Phoenix - Shadow Mountain Chapter meeting in November.
This is due to the conflict with the state elections being held in Eloy on the dame date. Several members will be meeting up in the parking lot at the American Italian Club at 8:30 AM on Nov, 8 for the ride down to Eloy. Our chapter elections will be held on December 13th.
As usual, this time of year, one of the top subjects was chapter nominations. Several of our newer and younger members have accepted nominations this year. It will be good to see some new blood in the officer roles.
Contrary to one of my earlier reports, it looks like there will be a Motorcycle Day at the Dome next year, however it will not be until mid April. Since this will be toward the end of the session, Jonny D. suggests members make an appearance at the capital or contact their state representatives at the beginning of the session in January.
MASTERLINK OCTOBER2015
pressure is correct. He had a couple hand out that he gave out to those in attendance.
Sean updated everyone on the issues that are on the survey that seem to be of the most importance to ABATE members. The Annual A.B.A.T.E. general membership meeting/officers elections will be held November 8th, and this year it will be held in Eloy, AZ. This will make it much more convenient for all Southern Arizona members to attend. It will be held Sunday Nov. 8th, at 11:00AM – 3:00 PM at the Tumbleweed Inn Bar & Grill, 3815 W Frontier Street, Eloy, AZ 85131.
As always please keep promoting our Business Memberships to those you do business with. We have been doing Great on this so let’s keep up the good work. 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
YAVAPAI CHAPTER has been deactivated due to lack of member participation. Anyone interested in reviving the chapter, please contact Deborah Butitta, ABATE of Arizona Board of Directors representative for Yavapai County. The chapter is required to have a Chapter Coordinator, Secretary and Treasurer. You may contact Deborah at deb@mrf.org or the State President at president@abateofaz.org
Yuma Chapter
rant to conduct our monthly business meeting. The meeting was called to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and normal reports were addressed, and an election was held. The Yuma chapter voted in a new Chapter ViceCoordinator during the October ABATE meeting and I, Pastor D, was elected to the office.
There are several upcoming events in the Yuma are in November. The Rough Riders MC Prison Chapter will be hosting their 22nd Annual Veteran’s Day Run on November 7th and sign ups will be at Bobby’s Territorial Harley Davidson from 8:00 to 10:00. T-shirt will be given to the first 100 sign ups and the cost is $20 singles and $30 per couple. The last stop will be at VFW Post #8242 with food, beverages, music, and raffle prizes.
The Yuma County Biker Fund (YCBF) will be holding their 9th Annual Biker Ball on November 14th from 6 p.m. to midnight at the American Legion Post 19, 2575 S. Virginia Drive Yuma, AZ. At the Biker Ball there will be live music by Blues Persuasion, door prizes, raffles; food will be provided by Hapa’s Hawaiian Cuisine with choice of kahlua pork, guava chicken, teriyaki beef or a combo of two meats; all meals include rice, macaroni salad and dessert; ticket price includes entry into ball, dinner and dancing. The cost is $15 for singles, $25 per couple, and raffle tickets will be $5 per ticket or 5 tickets for $20.
A Biker Church service will be held on November 15th at 10:45 at Grace Bible Fellowship located at 300 S. 4th Ave Yuma, AZ. Commission 28 will be preforming live at the service.
The Yuma ABATE chapter meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm. The next meeting will be held on November 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
The Yuma chapter met on October 13th at 6:00 pm the Kountry Kitchen restau-
Our next meeting will be on December 13th at 10:30.
Steve Palmer Phoenix-Shadow Mountain ABATE Communications Officer
Southern Arizona Chapter
The September meeting, as always, was held at the Kettle Restaurant. The meeting started at 9:00 AM with the Pledge of Allegiance and Prayer for those in harm’s way and fallen Brothers and Sisters. Officers Present were Coordinator Jim Butsback, ViceCoordinator Don Boule’, Secretary Debbie Strong, Treasurer Dawn Detelj, Safety Officer Jim DeYoung, PAC/BOD Sean Pinder, Sgt-at-Arms Robert Guenther.
The minutes of last month’s meeting were approved as written, and the Treasurer’s report was accepted.
As for membership, we now stand at a total membership of 128. There are 96 regular members and 16 business members with two memberships each. PLEASE support our Business Members! Please make sure that your email address is correct and current on the State records. All renewal notices will now be sent out via email from the state. Safety Officer Jim went over the importance of checking your tires for excessive wear and to also make sure your tire
M/C Harassment Alive and Well in AZ (continued)
before law enforcement targets a political meeting. The only reason for law enforcement presence is a discriminatory profile of motorcycle clubs generally.
Confederation meetings are attended by Christian clubs, Veterans clubs, Woman’s clubs, 1% clubs, and plain old riding clubs. Confederation meetings are solely confined to legal and legislative issues that impact the motorcycle community. There is an attorney present at every meeting. There is no justification to tar-
get these constitutionally protected political gatherings. The virtually cost-free solution is within grasp. The pattern of evidence proves that profiling is widespread, unconstitutional, and a gross misuse of public funds. This pattern of evidence creates an irrefutable argument for a law requiring all law enforcement in Arizona to adopt a written policy condemning motorcycle profiling and integrating the issue into basic training.
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015 NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)
MONGOLS MC PATCH FORFEITURE CASE DISMISSED
In a long-awaited decision with ramifications that could affect all patch-wearing clubs, on September 16, 2015 Federal District Judge David O. Carter issued a dismissal of the government’s most recent attempt to seize the Mongols Motorcycle Club’s name and patch.
In the case titled United States of America versus Mongols Nation, Judge Carter saw the key legal question in the case as the “distinctness” between a “person” and “an ‘enterprise’ that is not simply the same ‘person’ referred to by a different name.”
In layman’s terms, the good news is that the government’s indictment is hereby dismissed pending appeal, which appears unlikely.
“We won,” said Richard Lester, a California-based attorney who has rallied support for defense of the patch forfeiture case through various Confederations of Clubs around the country and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists, organizations he helped to establish. “We didn’t win the day on key legal points, and the court’s decision didn’t make the
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 $4,000 $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
statement we wanted to make in defending the patch, but we won.”
The protracted litigation against the Mongols MC on racketeering charges began October 21, 2013 when the indictment against the club was unsealed. Although the club won its first trial, the judge’s ruling was poorly written and welcomed the charges to be properly refiled.
While the constitutionality of seizing the Mongols insignia -- or the insignia of any motorcycle club -- remains unresolved under the dismissal, Judge Carter did rule that the government cannot indict a club as an “enterprise” for racketeering without also indicting a group who can be actually punished; noting that the indictment makes “no meaningful distinction between the association Mongol Nation and the enterprise of the Mongols Gang,” which is good news for all motorcycle clubs.
The prosecution, and subsequent persecution, of the club as a whole was designed to bankrupt the Mongols with mounting legal fees, but money has been raised by both the Mongols club and through the “Save the Patch” effort launched by the COCs and NCOM, and the Trademark Defense Fund I will continue to accept donations until the enormous debt is retired or if needed for a governmental appeal.
CONGRESSIONAL MEASURE ADDRESSES MOTORCYCLIST SAFETY
NTSB CALLS FOR COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEMS FOR ALL VEHICLES
On September 10, the Subcommittee on Research and Technology of the U.S. House Science, Space and Technology Committee passed the two amendments to the “Surface Transportation Research and Development Act of 2015” to be incorporated in the House version of the surface transportation authorization bill.
“You don’t pay extra for your seatbelt,” said Chairman Christopher A. Hart. “And you shouldn’t have to pay extra for technology that can help prevent a collision altogether.”
A Congressional sub-committee has approved two motorcycle safety measures for inclusion in the federal highway bill; one to de-fund motorcycle-only checkpoints, and another to prohibit the DOT from lobbying on any pending legislation.
Amendment No. 036 directs a study to be conducted to determine the most effective methods of preventing motorcycle crashes, and further bars federal funding to states to conduct motorcycle-only checkpoints until the research is completed.
Amendment No. 037 prohibits the Department of Transportation from lobbying on any pending federal, state or local legislation. The current “NHTSA Lobby Ban” only prevents the federal DOT from lobbying at the state level.
The U.S. Senate’s version of the highway funding bill already contains language to prohibit federal funding of motorcycleonly checkpoints.
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
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In a report released June 8, the National Transportation Safety Board outlined the life-saving benefits of currently available collision avoidance systems, and recommends that the technology become standard on all new passenger and commercial vehicles.
NTSB’s Special Investigation Report, “The Use of Forward Collision Avoidance Systems to Prevent and Mitigate RearEnd Crashes,” stresses that collision avoidance systems can prevent or lessen the severity of rear-end crashes, thus saving lives and reducing injuries.
According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end crashes kill about 1,700 people every year and injure half a million more. More than 80% of these deaths and injuries might have been mitigated had the vehicles been equipped with a collision avoidance system.
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
Citing slow progress as a major safety issue, the report notes that a lack of incentives and limited public awareness has stunted the wide adoption of collision avoidance technology.
Only 4 out of 684 passenger vehicle models in 2014 included a complete forward collision avoidance system as a standard feature. In the report, the NTSB recommends that manufacturers make collision avoidance systems standard equipment in newly manufactured vehicles. MISSOURI MOUNTED PLATES
In a measure signed into law on July 13 by Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, SB254 modifies provisions relating to motor vehicle license plates, allowing trailer and motorcycle license plates to be mounted horizontally or vertically on the left rear of the motor vehicle. NEW YORK ADVENTURE LICENSE PLATES
The New York State DMV has unveiled the 9 new “I LOVE NY Adventure Custom Plates” designed especially for motorcycles. There are three themes (hunting, fishing, and parks) for a total of nine new designs that are available to anyone holding a valid Department of Environmental Conservation sporting license or Parks Empire Passport.
The NY DMV also offers custom motorcycle plates for military and veterans, police organizations, medical doctors, the AMA and HOG. Historical and vintage motorcycle plates are also available.
PAINTED MESSAGES AT ACCIDENT SCENES TO SPARK AWARENESS
Coroners in six counties in North Carolina will soon use a stencil to spray paint on the road a cross and message that says; “Look Twice Save A Life” at the scene of all deadly motorcycle accidents.
Anderson County Deputy Coroner Don McCown said he hopes this warning message prominently displayed at fatal accident sites will increase awareness and decrease the number of accidents involving motorcycles.
November
11/5-6 {Th-Fr} Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale 2.0’s Grand Opening. Festivities include live entertainment, food concessions, & facility tours. Store opens 9am. {10a on Sundays}. HDOS is located @ 15600 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ. FMI: 480- 905-1903 | http://hdofscottsdale.com
11/6 {Fri} Motorcycles on Main Bike Night in Downtown Mesa from 6-10pm. Beer Garden, Vendors, & more. Live Music by ‘Hillbilly BarBQue Band’. Park & show your bike. Eateries open. Vendors call Cori 480-890-2613 https://facebook.com/MotorcyclesOnMain
11/7 4th annual Bob’s Biker Blast at HarleyDavidson of Scottsdale. 9a-11pm. Music headliner Doobie Brothers w/ Michael McDonald. Proceeds benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Free entry w/ motorcycle endorsement. All others $20/pp. HDOS is located @ 15600 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ. FMI: 480- 905-1903 | http://hdofscottsdale.com | https://www.facebook.com/events/887805261285133/
11/7 ‘I Ride For PCH’ benefit ride for Phoenix
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
Coast to Coast (continued)
“We’re hoping it will remind the public that someone died at this location, and more than likely they died of distracted driving or someone not being aware of their surroundings,” explained McCown, adding that the number one reason given for most deadly motorcycle accidents is that the driver never saw the rider. “There are a lot of motorcycle riders out this time of year and we have to share the road.”
ALLSTATE DONATES WARNING SIGNS AT DANGEROUS INTERSECTIONS
Allstate insurance company and its engineering partners are working closely with local traffic authorities to review available crash data and to identify intersections with a high number of multi-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles. Allstate then donates warning signs to be installed at the site with the intent of elevating awareness of motorcycle incidents that would not be readily apparent to a driver.
The warning signs used in the campaign are yellow diamond warning signs that read “Watch For Motorcycles.” Allstate worked in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration to design the current sign to ensure compliance with section 2A.06 paragraph 13 of the M.U.T.C.D.
The NHTSA (National Highway Safety Administration), in their Fatality Analysis Reporting System, supports the Hurt Report’s findings, showing 46% of all multi-vehicle motorcycle crash fatalities (8,107 out of 17,470 fatalities from 20062012) occurred at intersections. This data shows that, on average, three motorcyclists are killed every day from multivehicle crashes at intersections in the US.
MOTORCYCLE HELMET CAMERAS “ILLEGAL” DOWN UNDER
A motorcycle rider “down under” unsuccessfully challenged a citation for using a camera attached to his helmet, setting an important legal precedent for riders in the Australian state of Victoria. Victorian police cited a technicality within the rules to argue the camera was an "unauthorised alteration" to an otherwise
Australian Standards-approved helmet. Items that protrude more than 5mm from the helmet surface are deemed illegal attachments, the police argue, and therefore render the helmet non-compliant with the Australian Standards.
In other words, as far as Victoria Police were concerned, it’s as if the rider wasn’t wearing an Australian Standardsapproved helmet at all. In all Australian states and territories, motorcycle riders must wear a helmet approved by Australian Standards while riding.
As a landmark ruling by a Victorian court, the decision effectively bans motorcycle riders in that state from wearing helmets with cameras attached, but meanwhile police in other states enforce the laws much differently.
So while riders in Victoria are now fair game and have even reportedly been fined for attaching tinted visors to their helmets, and New South Wales police have already been targeting riders for wearing cameras, police in Western Australia and Queensland wear helmet cameras themselves -- the very act that has seen motorcyclists fined in NSW and, now, Victoria.
“Riders tell us they wear helmet cameras to improve their safety while on the roads and that drivers and other road users show more care when there is a camera in use,” said the rider’s lawyer, who is considering an appeal. “Riders should not be penalized for trying to improve the safety of their riding,” he said, adding that cameras are also ideal for capturing evidence during a collision. CIVIL FORFEITURE LAWS LEGALIZE PROPERTY SEIZURES
The recent attempt by the government to seize the patches of motorcycle clubs has focused attention in the motorcycle world on civil forfeiture laws. What started off as a measure to cripple drug kingpins and crush their criminal empires by confiscation of their property has morphed into an often abused law enforcement tactic that harms blameless citizens.
“Civil forfeiture” is the legal procedure which allows police to seize property sus-
Events Calendar
Children’s Hospital. Pre-reg for $20/pilot, $35/2up includes lunch & festivities. Sign-in 11:30am @ PCH, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, 85016. Last bike out by 2pm. Self-paced ride ends at Bob’s Biker Blast @ HDOS. FMI: 480- 9051903 | hdofscottsdale.com | https://www.facebook.com/events/505836662924249/
11/7 Shake, Rattle & Roll for Parkinson’s. Register 9am at Desert Wind Harley-Davidson {formerly Chester’s HD}, 922 S. Country Club Drive, Mesa. $25/sgl, $45/cpl. Riders receive b’fast, lunch, ride bag, & pin. Benefits Banner Neuro Wellness Center. Luis "Gonzo" Gonzales will kickstart the ride for us again this year! FMI: 480-318-6182, TwoGalsAmy@hotmail.com
11/11-15 {Wed-Sun} Rocky Point Rally in Puerto Peñasco Mexico. Sponsors include Law Tigers. FMI: http://rockypointrally.com
11/14 {Sat} Hard Ass Run hosted by ABATE of AZ East Valley Chapter. This is a 300 +/- mile ride with a Mystery Destination. The meeting place this year is Joeta’s Leathers & Evil Twin Custom Cycles, 433 W Main St; Mesa 85201.
Sign-in between 7-9am. $20/sgl, $30/2-up. There will be coffee & munchies. Evil Twin will be doing free air pressure checks. The first 75 riders who arrive at the final destination will receive a commemorative tee-shirt. FMI: Jim jpsilk2264@gmail.com, 602-312-1927, https://www.facebook.com/events/880147828748 564/ 11/14 Rip’s BAD Ride XI at EagleRider 1000 N. McClintock Dr, Tempe from noon-5pm. Benefits American Diabetes Ass’n. Minimum donation per pilot=$30, Min Donation per passenger=$20. Sponsors include Law Tigers. FMI: Thomas Donohue TDonohue@diabetes.org | 602-861-4731 ext. 7097 11/20 {Fri} Bike Night at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park - 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler 85226. In conjunction with Friday Night Drags. Bikes of all types Welcome to Run. Gates open at 5p, Racing starts at 7pm. Spectators $15, Racer Tech Card $40. Bring three cans of food to benefit local shelters and receive $5 off admission. Sponsored by San Tan Ford. www.racewildhorse.net | 520-796-5601
pected of being related to a crime, and in testimony given before a citizen commission, one police chief was surprisingly frank in referring to assets seized as “pennies from heaven,” and said the money acquired was sometimes used to buy “toys” that the department could not usually afford. Under state and federal law, police departments can seize and keep property that is suspected of involvement in criminal activity. Unlike criminal asset forfeiture, however, with civil forfeiture, a property owner need not be found guilty of a crime -- or even charged -- to permanently lose their cash, car, home, or other personal property merely on suspicion that a crime might have been committed. No hearing is held prior to seizure, which occurs abruptly without any notice or warning whatsoever. Although civil forfeiture doesn’t draw criminal charges against the owner, it does deprive him of his property without due process based solely on an officer’s “reasonable suspicion,” and a portion of the assets seized typically is retained by the police departments who seized the property in the first place. In 2012, $4.5 billion was acquired via civil forfeitures in tens of thousands of instances nationwide, and in most cases the value of the assets seized was less than what it would cost to hire an attorney to go to court to win it back.
Asset forfeitures have been abused by many police departments, but like the Mongols MC and other motorcycle clubs, citizens are starting to fight back. Americans from all sides of the political spectrum have started to expose the dangers of civil forfeiture, and members of Congress from both sides of the aisle have introduced legislation to reform the federal civil forfeiture laws. Reforms of state laws have also been called for. QUOTABLE QUOTE: "If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools." ~ Plato (428-347 BC) Greek philosopher, student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle
11/21 {Sat} Brat’s Arizona Marines Toys for Tots Ride. Sign-in & b’fast 9-11am @ HarleyDavidson of Scottsdale. $15/pp w/toy, $20/pp w/out. Ride ends at American Legion Post 2 in Tempe, AZ. Party includes Santa's Helpers, Live Music by The Unknown Associates, food, & more! First 150 pre-reg will receive a 2015 Ride Pin & goody bag. All toys collected & money raised stays n AZ to help our kids have a brighter Christmas Holiday! Sponsors include MobileAccountantAZ. FMI: bratstoysfortots@gmail.com | Amy 2galsevents@gmail.com | www.twogalsevents.com 11/28 {Sat} 9th Annual AZ Original Marines Toys for Tots Ride, sponsored by American Legion Riders Post 35. Register & b’fast 8-10am at Chandler Harley Davidson. Ride’s last stop at American Legion Post 35 in Chandler; w/ vendors, great food, & great music by 74th Street Band. $15 pp w/ Toy, $20 pp w/out toy. 1st 200 to register receive a 2015 Pin & goody bag. Sponsors include Law Tigers. FMI: Jim Yilek – jimwesternskyelectric@yahoo.com or 480-6003734 or Susie 480-252-2066, Sbenton26@q.com
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015 A to Z Mobile Repair Services of Tucson 520-304-6078 AZ Differential Specialists Phoenix 602-462-5367 Big Sky Motorcycles Tucson 520-886-7388
Biker’s Mall Mesa 623-335-1000
Bill Alexander Flight-Line Mazda Yuma, AZ 928-314-3400 Bob’s House of Hair Marana 520-797-6566
Bobby’s Territorial Harley-Davidson Yuma 928-782-1931 Boston’s Common House Payson 928-474-2900
Brewer’s Truck Repair, Inc Willcox 520-384-2846
Brown & Little, P.L.C., Attorneys at Law Tempe 480-299-2093 Breyer Law Offices, P.C. Phoenix 480-505-2160
Brothers, Sons and Pop Motorcycle Shop Tucson 520-370-7788
Buchanan Construction 928-978-3291 Buffalo Bar & Grill Payson 928-474-3900
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ABATE of Arizona Business Members Butcher Hook Tonto Basin
Independent Motorcycles Chandler 480-785-4888
The Bashful Bandit Tucson 520-881-9706
The Chaparral Bar Cottonwood 928-634-2131
Joeta’s Leather Mesa 480-827-1868
Punkin Center Bar Tonto Basin 928-479-2627
Coyote Auto Payson 928-472-1100
La Gitana Cantina Arivaca 520-398-0810
CCA Scottsdale 480-985-6764
Cowpony Bar Tucson 528-721-2781
D & G Paint & Body Willcox 520-384-2933 Desert Thunder MC
Dr. Gear Phoenix 602-263-8484 Payson 928-978-4027 Eclectic Cafe Tucson 520-885-2842 El Rancho Restaurant Payson 928-474-3111
Evil Twin Custom Cycles Mesa 480-784-0040 Great Lakes Properties Tucson 520 203-2323
Greater Payson Moose Lodge #852 Payson 928-474-6212 HDBitchin http://hdbitchin.com
Herman’s Automatic Transmissions Tucson 520-294-8717
Jakes Corner Bar Payson 928-474-0679
Kitty For Tax Camp Verde 928-567-0224
Law Tigers 888-529-8443
Lucky 13 Synthetics Sahuarita 619-647-4895 Maaco Tucson 520-495-5411
Marc Victor, P.C., Attorney Chandler 480-455-5229 Monkey Butt Radio Scottsdale 602-399-7787
Mormon Lake Lodge Mormon Lake 928-354-2227
Motorcycle Safari Online www.motorcyclesafari.com Old Bastards MC
The Pour House Star Valley 928-478-6979
Renegade Classics Tucson 520-647-9312
Sacred Bones Society M/C http://www.sacredbones.org/
Sidewinders Tavern and Grill Pine 928-476-6434 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 Maverick Saloon Phoenix 602-943-5680
Tonto Silkscreen & Embroidery Payson 928-474-4207
Phoenix Vulcan Riders www.phoenixvulcanriders.com
The Back Alley Chiropractic & Massage Oro Valley 520-877-2666
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: Chapter Coordinator Mike Schneider, 602-549-1044, mike@squarepegpromos.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 monthly chapter meetings have been suspended due to lack of member participation. Anyone interested in re-establishing the chapter should contact Deborah Butitta at deb@mrf.org
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
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MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
Meeting of the Minds 2015
First off, thank you ABATE of AZ and East Valley ABATE for sending Tami and me to Meeting of the Minds. It was not only educational, but inspiring, as well. The spirit of camaraderie between passionate bikers fighting for freedom of lifestyle was palpable. Thank you to Dawn Steed, Ben Martinez, Teresa McClelland, and Jim Butsback for your company and friendship throughout the conference - and a big thank you to Jim Silk for being our fearless leader and mentor from start to finish.
Passion for Riding One of the truly great talks was given by Kirk Hardtail Willard. He spoke about his childhood love of riding. It was a great story about boyhood mischief and that deep passion that we share for 2 wheels and a motor. It really brought home the need to be a part of an MRO so that we can help preserve our way of life. Ultimately, we all support MRO’s because we love to ride, and we want to
keep on riding - and unfortunately, there are folks out there that want to limit our way of life so drastically, that being a biker would be virtually unrecognizable.
What Successful People Do Slider Gilmore - creator of the nationally esteemed accident scene management course - gave a very inspirational presentation about how to be successful in life. He covered powerful topics from goal setting to time management to focus and life balance. It was fantastic to see a true biker, and an authentic bikers’ advocate, lay out a plan that would be helpful to just about anybody that wanted to optimize their life.
MRF Legislative Agenda I was honored to be the voting member from Arizona that helped establish the legislative agenda for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. It was fascinating to see how many issues that affect our lifestyle are being addressed in
Washington DC. Some of the issues on the agenda deal with opposing national sound test standards and exhaust stamping, opposing federal apparel standards and fighting for fair tolling for motorcycles. Other issues deal with black box data ownership, lane splitting, anti-profiling and discrimination, Ethanol (no higher than E-10), motorcycle only check points, monitoring of crash studies, as well as monitoring government and non-government entities that oppose the MRF’s agenda.
There is a clear threat to the freedom of riding motorcycles the way we like to ride - and the MRF, along with other state and federal motorcycle rights organizations are fighting the good fight - both at the state level, as well as in our nation’s capital. Thank you all for doing your part to keep us free. Thanks again for the opportunity! Larry Keim
PAGE 9
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
State Safety Article
By Joel “JR” Rosen State Safety Officer
The following information was written in the "Ask a Cop" section of the Arizona Republic by Officer Toby Ehrler. A biker wrote in with this question: "I frequently ride a motorcycle in and around Phoenix and adjoining cities. Occasionally I'll approach a red light but the location/weight of the bike does not trigger the light to change. If there are no other vehicles around to trip the signal, I have to sit there until another vehicle
does come along, which could be a very long time. If there is no other traffic around and would it be safe to cross, would it be illegal? If so, what would be my options? Thanks in advance." Since we have all dealt with this problem, I thought it appropriate to bring this article to ABATE's attention. Here is the Phoenix polices official answer: "Riding a motorcycle can be frustrating at times. You are exposed to the elements, and as a motorcycle officer myself, I know people often don't see us. It is important to realize that when you pull up to a signalized intersection with a red light for your direction, you are obligated to stop and wait for the signal to change to green. If one encounters an intersection where the weight of the motorcycle does not trigger the sensor and the driver proceeds through the red light, the operator of the
motorcycle could be cited.
There is a safe way to navigate this type of problem at an intersection if you encounter it. When approaching the intersection in question try to do so in the curb lane, making a complete stop at the red signal light.
When it is clear to do so, make a right turn (if not prohibited by sign) and then travel a short distance in the new direction. When safe to do so, make a U-turn in the roadway and proceed back to the intersection, again making another right turn on your intended path of travel. This is referred to as "Clover Leafing" the intersection, and it is legal if not prohibited by any signs." ABATE has tried to collect data about troubled lights in Phoenix. We, the members of ABATE, need to voice our opinions it we want laws in place to help with these problems. In the meantime, it is best to follow Officer Toby Ehrler's advice. Until we speak again, ride safe. J.R.
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MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
Road Clean-Up September 19th, 2015
The Southern Arizona Chapter has been taking care of a one mile stretch of Highway 82 near Whetstone Arizona for years. This involves cleaning up all the waste paper and various pieces of trash along that highway three times a year. John Hanusch has been leading this effort for the past several YEARS, and
has always done an exceptional job coordinating with the Highway Department and keeping track of the supplies and making sure lunch is provided for all who work.
This year’s third outing to clean our highway was scheduled for Saturday
September 19th, after our monthly meeting.
We arrived at Buddy’s to find John ready and all the supplies on hand. We had10 members in attendance so we broke into groups each taking a section and the entire project only took less than an
What are We Fighting For?
jeopardy of losing? Are we just banging a loud gong because we like the sound or are we really making a difference in this country? I know that sounds so philosophical but as we celebrate Veteran’s Day this year I want to challenge each one of you reading this to do a self-check on what you are fighting for.
The Beastie Boys sang “You have to fight … for your right ...” What are we fighting for? What rights to we really have or in
We have members in our community fighting just to survive on a daily basis. I spoke to a young father recently who works 2 jobs, is raising his son by himself with no help from anyone. He is fighting for survival and the future of his son. We
have those who are fighting health issues. My own mother fought breast cancer for over 6 years. Then there are others who are fighting amongst each other. We see it by shootings on our local news.
What are YOU fighting?
I speak not for myself but for those without voice... those who have fought for their rights... their right to live in peace, their right to be treated with dignity, their right to equality of opportunity, their right to be educated.
hour. Once again thanks to John for organizing everything and thanks to those who took time out to do something good for the community! Jim Butsback - Coordinator Southern Arizona Chapter
I don’t care who you are or what you ride. I will fight for your right to ride and have the freedom of the road. Isn’t that what ABATE is all about? Freedom of the road? It says it right there on the website.
Let’s focus on what we need to fight for. Let’s all do our part. Support the cause with your time and resources. WE can win this fight. Be good to one another. -Thanks Mike Infanzon
MASTERLINK OCTOBER2015
Thoughts from JohnnyD
not cross anyone’s mind.
Now it is autumn. We are coming into the best eight months to live in Arizona. The rain will be minimal, the days will be mostly sunny. The nights may require some extra clothing. The one thing for sure, our friends and relatives in the colder climates will be hating us furiously for being able to ride as we please. As I write this the outside temperature is still 100° today. I believe it will be the last of the year in triple digits.
Recently we have been discussing what are the most pressing issues to bikers in Arizona. Surveys have gone out and come back with some interesting priorities. Near the top is always the profiling issue, we are preparing legislation to address that. There is no guarantee that we will achieve our goal this next session, but the thought of giving up should
Havoc — A New Motorcycle Company Hits The Road
Havoc Motorcycles just released details of its line-up of heavyweight motorcycles to be available for the 2016 model year.
The flagship model, “Iron Flight: Mike Tyson Special Edition,” is a special edition produced under trademark license from iconic boxer and entertainer Mike Tyson. It features a 124 ci engine, and Mike Tyson’s iconic tattoo incorporated into an airbrushed paint scheme, with matching machined wheels and accessories.
Another is motorcycle only checkpoints. While this is not really an issue in Arizona, it is in several other states. A US Senate highway bill has language in it to forbid federal funds to be used for that purpose. An amendment proposed for the House highway bill has similar language. The only problem is that the US House of Representatives is unable to perform simple functions let alone pass a comprehensive spending bill that encompasses five years of funding. The Speaker, John Boehner, is resigning from congress and the fight to replace him is not over who wants the job, but who wants to be as far away from that seat as possible. It seems that there are factions within the majority party that are ready to let the nation crumble rather than allow any form of compromise to enter the discussion. This is truly a sad state of affairs. But it is nothing new. At one point in the mid 1800s a congressman beat another with his cane on the floor of the house. Aaron Burr shot Alexander Hamilton in a duel. At the time this was accepted behavior. Now, however, it is the people who suffer from the conflict. South Carolina was just nearly washed off the map with flooding. The governor and the congressional representatives ran to the federal government begging for disaster aid as the state simply cannot afford the massive costs incurred. Many noted that the entire congressional delegation voted against giving aid to New Jersey after a massive winter blizzard followed by a huge flood from a
hurricane. Colorado, Utah, and California fought tooth and nail against the Central Arizona Project which is the only reason most Arizonans aren’t dying of thirst at this moment.
We in ABATE have a similar problem. As of this writing we do not have any candidates for President, Vice President, membership coordinator, run coordinator, communications, and merchandise coordinator. In the more than three years I have been a member, I have watched people explode out of positions never to be heard from again. When this article is read I hope these positions have candidates. Unlike the federal government, if we don’t have officers we have to pack up and go away. We will have lost a SMRO in Arizona. MMA is down to less members statewide than Phoenix/ Shadow Mountain chapter has. They are not going away. We are also looking for a lobbyist. As of yet no candidate has entered their name for consideration. If our rights are so damn important, why is no one willing to stand on their hind legs and fight for them? All the surveys and questionnaires are just make-work projects unless we can implement the actions needed to address the problems. I am probably going to be the state PAC officer but who will I report to with my information is there are no state officers to hold a meeting? We are a volunteer organization. I realize
News from the Net
Displaying the first “Iron Flight” motorcycle to a packed house in Charlottetown, President of Havoc Motorcycles, Dr Jarrod Wiener, said, “We are passionately committed to making motorcycles that enable riders to symbolize their individuality, the source of their strength and freedom. We’re thrilled to be working with Mike Tyson and look forward to introducing riders to the Havoc Motorcycles lineup.” Havoc motorcycles will offer three models initially, all of the heavyweight cruiser type. All feature large displacement engines (113ci to 124ci). Each motorcycle
is hand-crafted, featuring sculpted and molded bodywork of the ‘custom bagger’ style to offer enthusiasts a custominspired motorcycle right from the assembly floor. ===========================
Sturgis —Full Throttle Saloon A Total Loss After Overnight Fire
According to Keloland, Flames early Tuesday morning engulfed a popular Sturgis saloon that bills itself as the “world’s largest biker bar.”
PAGE 11 that not everyone has the time and energy to invest. It will be a sad day if we become a group of independent chapters with no central organization. I’m not sure what would happen at that point.
In the mean time we are working to address the issues of importance to our community. Among those are the red light problems and insurance companies trying to reduce settlements for not wearing helmets. We do have a lane sharing bill in the works which also eliminates a number of other motorcycle related issues.
GOHS has yet to set up a meeting of AMSAC as they are moving into the executive tower and we need to get Alberto Gutier on board with the legislation and may need to use some of our safety and awareness money for advertising any changes. We have a tentative Day At The Dome date of April 18. If the legislative session ends before that we will make it an afternoon event to allow people who work to attend when they are off. It should be a decent turnout and hopefully we can get some media attention. So until next month, keep safe.
John P Dreyfus Johnny D ALMA MC Arizona Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs Designated Lobbyist American Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education / Phoenix-Shadow Mountain PAC Officer
The Full Throttle Saloon is a total loss after crews battled the blaze throughout the morning.
Sturgis Assistant Fire Chief Sean Barrows says crews tried to get inside but heat and smoke forced firefighters to battle the blaze from the outside in heavy winds. The building was completely on the ground by 3 a.m.
Barrows says there were no injuries.
continued page 17
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3870 E. Highway 260 Star Valley, AZ 85541 928-478-6979
PAGE 12
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
You’re Getting Pulled Over and You Didn't Know This? anything wrong. Sounds unlikely, but it’s more common than you might think.
I’m afraid to report to those of you reading this from within the United States that we may now be living in a police state.
And if you think this doesn’t concern you because you don’t live in the U.S., it certainly does it you ever plan to visit; we treat foreigners even worse.
By Jim Silk State Treasurer
One of the best work shops we attend at this years meeting of the minds was what to do if you get pulled over.I highly encourage all of us to attend next years event it was
a learning experience that words cannot describe. A big thank you to Matt Danielson from the Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclist for your outstanding presentation. This could happen to you,what would you do? I don’t know a single person who’s never been pulled over by the police.
Most of the time, the infraction is minor— speeding or a broken tail light or something similar—and the consequences are no more than a warning and a little inconvenience.
But that’s not how it goes every time. You see, a routine traffic stop is really nothing more than an opportunity for the police to search and find other reasons to cite and even arrest you.
A simple traffic stop that turns into more could ruin your life, even if you did not do
Since being stopped by the police while driving is very normal, you should know the right way to handle it when it happens to you. I am afraid to tell yah,the police are NOT your friends,
It’s sad to say that, these days, unless you’ve called and asked for help, the police are likely not your friends, and they are not there to help you. They are there to decide if you’ve done something wrong and whether they can arrest you to “maintain order.”
Exercising your rights, in my view, is not being a pain in the ass. It’s being patriotic. Even more, it’s being a very smart and savvy biker and not exposing yourself to unnecessary risk.
This is especially important for the risktakers among us who live by a moral or ethical code that does not always match up with existing laws. This is the only way to deal with cops if you get stopped
To have a successful, low-risk interaction with the police when you’re pulled over, you really only need to remember three rules:
Always be courteous and polite. A bit of class and respect will take you far in life, and it will make the next steps easier for you. Resist every request of the police until you’re forced to oblige. Never, ever resist
physically, but do resist verbally and respectfully until it becomes clear you’ll be arrested if you don’t comply. Don’t worry. You don’t get in trouble for being arrested. You only get in trouble for being convicted of the crime you’re arrested for. This is explained in more detail further on. Do not answer questions. No matter what an officer tells you, you are never compelled to speak to the police or answer their questions without a lawyer present. You may think that being helpful and answering questions (even friendly ones) can help your cause. You’re wrong. SHUT the fuck up!
Learning these rules is simple; there’s not much to remember. But actually practicing them can prove incredibly difficult because being stopped by the police is stressful, and it can feel scary to stand up to an authority figure. In fact, many times an officer will tell you that you have to do something when, actually, you do not. Hard to believe, but it’s perfectly legal for the police to lie to you. That’s why it’s so important to your safety and well-being that you know what your rights are and exercise these four rules!
Let’s go over how to respond to different situations during a traffic stop in ways that will keep your rights protected and lower your risk of getting in trouble for something you weren’t stopped for. When you see lights behind you…
A traffic stop almost always begins with a police car flashing its lights at you and, perhaps, giving you a short siren blast. Even if you’ve never been pulled over before, you should know how to respond to this: Pull over to the curb and stop immediately. Even if you’re not being pulled over, you should always do this so that the officer can easily go around you and get to where they actually need to be. If you are being
pulled over, stay there even if it seems unsafe to park. If the officer doesn’t like where you’re parked, he’ll instruct you where to move.
It’s always better to pull over too soon than too late. I learned this the hard way in college when a routine traffic stop turned into an officer foaming at the mouth and spitting in my face about how he was going to drag me out of my car and haul me off to jail for “evading the police” because I spent an extra two blocks looking for a safe place to pull over. Once it’s obvious that you’re the one being pulled over, here’s what to do:
Turn off the car/bike and put on the emergency brake. This shows the officer that you understand what’s going on and that you’re not planning to run away. If you’re very nervous, it also keeps you from accidentally doing something stupid like bumping your shifter into drive as you reach for papers in your glove box. Turn on the dome light. If it’s dark out, turn on your overhead lamp so the officer can see a bit into your car. This is for your own safety because it puts the officer at ease knowing that he can see what you’re doing. Roll your window down 1/4 of the way. Roll it down just far enough to pass documents and communicate clearly with the officer. Do not roll your window all the way down. This is very important. A very common way for the police to escalate a traffic stop is to place their head into an open window and claim that they smell marijuana or alcohol or something else illegal even if they didn’t. This gives them the reasoning they need to invade more of your personal space. If you don’t roll your window very far down, it will be hard for the officer’s “I smelled marijuana” argument to hold up in court if it came to that. Place your hands on the wheel. This is another tactic that will put the officer at ease. She should always be able to see where your hands are at any given time.
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
You’re Getting Pulled Over (continued)
When the officer approaches the car and greets you…
Once the officer has approached your car, this is where even the best laid plans start to fall apart. Why? Because this is where the questioning starts.
Your heart starts to race a bit. You’re getting nervous and a bit sweaty. You want to do anything you can just to make the whole interaction end as soon as possible. And that’s when the officer asks, with a smile on his face, “Do you know why I pulled you over?”
You the smart and savvy biker must answers with another completely honest answer: “No, sir/ma’am. I don’t.”
If you answer this question, it’s already game over. You’ve admitted your guilt. At the very least, you’re getting a ticket. More likely, you invite another line of questioning that you now feel obligated to answer because you already admitted you were doing something wrong.
Remember the 4 rules! When an officer asks you if you know why they pulled you over, respectfully decline to answer. A simple “no” will suffice.
Stop! It’s a trap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If at any time during your stop you feel pressured to answer a question, don’t. You
Washington Weekly Updates September 18, 2015
to reinstate the federal motorcycle advisory council. It is way too early to determine if it will be address in full committee or perhaps on the House floor. If my crystal ball were not so cloudy, I would know the answer. So we wait.
From Jeff Hennie Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs
Highway Bill Holds Potential Wins for Motorcyclists
This week the House began to do some substantial work on the highway bill. If you have been playing along at home you already know that elimination of motorcycle-only checkpoints and tougher new rules for NHTSA are already in the bill under its Science Committee portion. The checkpoint language even got an upgrade, as it now contains an additional provision that calls for a study from the National Academies to determine the most successful tactics for avoiding a motorcycle crash. This is all from the good work of the honorable James Sensenbrenner and his fellow committee member Randy Hultgren. There’s even more good news: the lobby ban also got an improvement in the bill. Currently, the Department of Transportation is prohibited by law from lobbying state governments. The new ban would include federal and local governments as well, effectively cutting off the DOT at the knees!
Additionally, an amendment is at the ready
are protected by The Constitution’s 5th Amendment from testifying against or incriminating yourself. You cannot get in trouble for refusing to answer a question.
Early in your interaction would be a good time to tell the officer you respectfully choose not to answer questions today. He’ll probably be annoyed, but that’s life!
After the first few moments with you at the car, this is also a common time for the officer to start asking other “friendly” or seemingly harmless questions. “Where are you coming from?” “Where are you headed?” “What are you up to tonight?”
These kinds of questions seem like friendly
News from the MRF
Possible Government Shutdown on the Horizon Another month, another serious threat of a Federal Government shutdown. The beginning of the fiscal year—October 1—is rapidly approaching, and there is little agreement on how to set funding levels for next year. A raucous faction within the Republican Party on the House side of Capitol Hill has vowed to vote against any spending measure that keeps Planned Parenthood’s funding intact. Planned Parenthood, a healthcare provider for women, has been embroiled in controversy ever since video surfaced reportedly showing Planned Parenthood leadership negotiating the sale price for body parts harvested from fetal tissue. The abortion issue is a top-tier issue for many conservative Republicans, and often just as important to Democrats is the issue of keeping as much availability to the procedure as possible. All that’s to say that we could be marching into a government shutdown, again. Hope to see you at Meeting of the Minds next weekend September 24 – 26 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. ============================
Washington Weekly Updates October 19, 2015
From Jeff Hennie Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs Much Ado About Nothing
Not a lot of transportation work was done this week. Actually, not a lot of any kind of actual legislative business got done this week at all, but that doesn't mean there wasn’t action. In fact, it was quite the blustery week indeed.
By now you have heard about the fractured Republican Party, the rise and fall of Kevin McCarthy and the future of the House of Representatives. Much ado about nothing is what we really have here. I have some personal friends in Speaker Boehner’s office. I can assure every one that Boehner is just sick of the BS. As a devout Catholic, his one lasting desire was to host the Pope in his chambers and he did that. One could make the argument that being in charge of running the House right now is the single worst job in America. McCarthy’s meteoric rise as the heir apparent is not some strange succession. Being Majority Leader often turns into being the Speaker—it’s a natural succession. McCarthy of course has dropped out now, but succeeding Boehner would
PAGE 13
small talk to you, but they are actually probing questions. The officer is gathering any information she can to build a case against you.
It’s very important that you do not ever lie to a police officer, so the best option is to always politely decline to answer. I cannot stress enough how awkward this will feel. You may be made to think that you’re digging yourself into a lot of trouble, but you aren’t. Not answering is the safest and smartest way for you to handle questions from the police.
continued page 14
have been a pretty normal move. As for the shape of the Republican Party, it has suffered a blow but it is not as bad as the news makes it out to be. The Republicans will find a new Speaker, and that person will have their own style that will surely anger some while delighting others. That’s the nature of being Speaker: you can’t be all things to all people. I think this week was more about media madness than anything else.
Highway Bill Progress Getting back to transportation stuff. The House continues to work on their version of the highway bill, and I expect a markup near the end of the month. The motorcycle language has drawn the ire of the Governors Highway Safety Association, and their lobbyist told a group at the State Motorcycle Safety Association that the helmet language in the bill was “a pain in the ass.” Guess what, folks? When the GHSA calls you a pain in the ass, all that means to me is that we are doing it right! So all this action is inching the highway bill forward, but no one is actually talking about how we’re going to pay for this bill. In order to fully fund it, we need to generate about $43 billion dollars in new money. Considering how much of your GDP is being shorted and the condition of the infrastructure, we need to start looking really hard for revenue.
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
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
You’re Getting Pulled Over (continued)
Think about the case that could be built against you by making just two simple mistakes: rolling your window all the way down and answering a question you shouldn’t have. The police report might read something like this:
“I pulled the suspect over because her driver side tail light was out. When I approached the car, the window was rolled down and I smelled alcohol. The suspect admitted she’d been drinking and had “just one beer about 3 hours ago.”
I asked her out of the car and performed a field sobriety test. I also performed an inspection of the vehicle interior for open containers and asked if she had anything illegal in the car. The suspect lied when she said she did not. No alcohol was present, but hidden under the seat was a bottle of illegal prescription pain killers belonging to an unrelated person.”
All you were ever guilty of was not realizing your tail light was out. But, since your window was rolled down, the officer had an open invitation to “smell something” which allowed him to further his interrogation. Pretty soon, you’re outside the car, he’s inside, and he just found the bottle of pills your friend dropped between the seats while giving her a ride home from the hospital.
Congratulations. You’re now a drug offender. Enjoy your incarceration and rehabilitation. You are no longer smart and savvy! All of this could have been avoided by following the three cardinal rules: Be polite and respectful. Resist requests until forced to oblige. Never answer questions. SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
At the beginning of the traffic stop, it’s also very common for the officer to ask you to roll your window down farther. (Respectfully) don’t do it!
If your officer is in a good mood or recognizes that you know your rights, this will likely be the end of your interaction. She’ll return to her cruiser and either write you a ticket for your original infraction or send you on your way.
Hooray! You just survived your encounter! Back to business as usual. But sometimes it goes further. If you’re asked to step out of your car…
If you’ve been following the four cardinal rules and your officer is on a bit of a power trip and really has it out for you, he may ask you to step out of your car.
Do not comply on the first request! Instead, politely ask why he wants you to get out. He will likely continue to insist. At this point, there is little chance you’re going to get to stay in your car, but by continuing to respectfully decline his request, you’ll show him that you’re not going to do every single thing he asks without questions.
Again, we’re lucky that we also have the 4th Amendment on our side—the right to freedom from unnecessary search and seizure. But it can only protect you if you exercise it!
Once you leave your car, there are a few very important steps to take to protect and clearly communicate your rights:
Roll your window all the way up. Lock the doors. As you exit, say very clearly to the officer: “I do not consent to any searches of me or my property.”
These three steps are the way that you can effectively tell the officer that he’s not allowed to touch you or your stuff. That doesn’t mean he isn’t going to do it anyway, but it’s important to clearly set your expectation so that it cannot be said in court that you were okay with what was happening.
Why is this important? Because many times, an officer will know that she doesn’t have the legal authority to search your vehicle without your permission or a warrant. For common traffic stops, a judge would not issue a warrant, so the officer knows she must, instead, get your permission to search your car.
She may say things like, “I’m going to take a look in your car, okay?” or “Is it alright if I check around inside your vehicle?”
In the moment, these might sound like commands, but they aren’t. They’re actually requests. It’s important that you don’t grant them! Stating ahead of time that you do not consent to any searches makes that clear.
Hopefully, if you stay calm and polite, the officer will, after a little pat down and more questioning that goes nowhere, realize he’s reached the end of his investigative rope, and send you on your way.
If your traffic stop reaches this point, there’s about a 0% chance you’re leaving without a ticket but, as long as you behave properly, you’ll leave without a much more severe ticket or a criminal record. “ ASK!!!!! Am I being detained, or am I free to go?”
This phrase is this most important one that you will need to remember any time you’re
being stopped by the police:
“Officer, am I being detained, or am I free to go?”
Hopefully, any traffic stop you’re involved in will not require it, but this simple question can make everything a lot more clear for you, and will force the officer to get to the point rather than continue to ask probing and escalating questions.
Why does this work? Because for an officer to legally detain you, he must have probable cause that you have committed or are about to commit a crime. Granted, “probable cause” is a pretty vague requirement and easy for a determined cop to get around, but asking the question, “Am I being detained?” can save you time and trouble. In any interaction with the police, you are either in one state or the other: being detained or free to go. There is no in between.
The reason asking this is important is because the officer will avoid addressing whether you’re detained or free to go until as late as possible, hoping that he can keep you talking long enough to build probable cause for detention (knowing that you were free to go all along and never had to say anything).
Ask this question regularly in a respectful way to prevent unnecessary questioning. If, at any time, the officer responds “no” and that you’re not detained, it means just that: You’re free to go on your way. Your safest bet, though, is to ask, “Am I free to go?” You wouldn’t want to drive off only to find 20 cops chasing you down because you took off after the officer said you weren’t being detained. Afraid to use these tactics? Don't worry
trust me, you’re not alone.
Most people fear authority. They’d prefer to do anything asked of them to avoid any kind of punishment. But that’s not the way it’s supposed to be. Instead, authority is supposed to fear you. They should know that any power they have comes from you agreeing to give it to them. And, if they want to keep it, they have to follow the rules and treat you with dignity and respect. Most of the time, that’s how it goes. But when it doesn’t, don’t be afraid to assert your rights.
Remember be polite at all times, it’s up to you to decide when and when not to use the different tactics described in this article.
For best results, you should always follow the four cardinal rules: Be polite and respectful. Verbally resist demands. Do not answer questions. SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!
But it’s up to you to decide to what degree you employ the rules. These are decisions you’ll need to make as you go, based on the interaction you’re having. You don’t want to take a friendly officer who’s about to let you go after five minutes and turn him into your worst enemy who puts you in a holding cell for 48 hours while he decides whether to charge you with something. Use your emotional intelligence and be courteous, but also never forget: It’s not against the law for the police to lie to you, and the U.S. sends a lot of people to jail who never expect to end up there. -Jim
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
PAGE 15
ABATE Election Campaign Speches
Vic Grady running for State Sgt. at Arms
Hello, my name is Vic Grady I am currently the state Sgt. at Arms, and I would like to nominate myself for the position of Sgt. at Arms for the 2016-2017 term. I was the chapter Sgt. at Arm for 2years,chapter coordinator for 2years,designated lobbyist for 2years and to date the state Sgt at Arms, I would like to continue serving A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona for the next 2 years as Sgt at Arms. V.M.Grady State Sgt at Arms
John P Dreyfus running for State PAC Officer
To the members of A.B.A.T.E. of Arizona ,
As many of you know I have been the PAC officer of the Phoenix Shadow Mountain chapter for nearly two years. Except for the several months I was in the hospital I have endeavored to report dutifully on political events affecting motorcycle riders. I believe my strongest asset is my ability to interact with elected officials of all levels and persuasions. I can evaluate legislative movements and report in a comprehensible manner to the membership. I am a member of the MRF, ABATE, the ACMC, and will soon restart my membership in MMA. I am not intimidated by law enforcement or politicians. I count many state and federal representatives and senators as friends. I am well acquainted with mayors, councilpersons, county supervisors, and municipal department heads. A PAC officer is supposed to keep the members aware of issues with government officials affecting the motorcycle community, I spend a great deal of time researching the many actions that all levels of government devise that affects us. I have the time to do this. It is actually something that I enjoy doing. I have been to Washington DC twice to lobby for motorcycle related issues. I am regularly at the capitol in Arizona lobbying for biker freedom. In the aftermath of the Waco Massacre, someone who is able to compile and sift through all of the information coming from the many sources is valuable to the biker world. Having communicated with people all over the nation and around the world since May 17, I am in constant communication with MRO representatives. I have had my picture on a police training video that all law enforcement officers in Arizona are required to watch and discuss. I have worked with the director of Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training bureau to rewrite the organized crime and gang criteria to de-emphasize motorcycle clubs. Our recent handlebar height limit repeal was an idea I pursued starting in 2013. The Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety are giving money for motorcycle safety scholarships since 2014 and that was partly due to my efforts. I work well with nearly every lobbyist that represents the interests of the biker community. As we see many great freedom fighter who are tiring of the constant battle and trying to keep their lives on track, I believe it is time for me to step up and serve the membership of ABATE in this position. I hope you will have the confidence to vote for me to be your State PAC officer for the next two years. Thank you, John P Dreyfus Johnny D ALMA MC Arizona Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs Designated Lobbyist American Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education / Phoenix-Shadow Mountain PAC Officer
Hello ABATE members,
National Motorcycle Profiling and Safety Survey
You are being asked to participate in a motorcycle profiling survey. You’re input is valuable. Everyone has different exposures and experiences. Let’s all get our experiences counted. It took me only 5 minutes.
In appreciation, Mary K. ABATE of AZ State President
=========================
The Florida Confederation of Clubs, Florida Coalition of Independent Riders, and the Law Office of Jerry Theophilopoulos has joined with the
Motorcycle Profiling Project, and announces the launch of the National Motorcycling Profiling Survey ( https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/?sm= nFhBGtZx2K9m3xbn3pkZtA%3d%3d ) aimed at collecting data that will assist motorcyclist rights advocates throughout the country by gathering the information that is needed to build an effective argument in the request for legislative relief in protecting all aspects of the motorcyclist’s lifestyle.
Moreover, this survey will provide quantifiable up-to-date data from a national perspective, as well as a state and local perspective. This information will help identify the geographical areas that have a higher propensity of motorcycle profiling and discriminatory
acts directed towards bikers. This survey will also help identify the core issues and support legislative relief efforts on a state and national level. We would also like to identify the biker friendly areas and share this information with the communities so they can look into the best practices and what is working, and help build a better social environment for all.
This survey will take about 15 minutes to complete. HOWEVER, it will provide a lifetime of benefits. In its entirety, this survey will run no less than 12 months with quarterly updates published through the sponsors' websites, the first quarterly update will be released around 1 January 2016. We are seeking cosponsors for the FY2, FY3,
and FY4 quarterly update releases. If you or your organization is interested in cosponsoring this survey, please contact David "Double D" Devereaux at: doubled@motorcycleprofilingproject.com or Bobby "C" Colella at: bfcbobby386@gmail.com RIDE FREE OR DIE!!! Bobby C
Bikers for Christ M/M South East Regional Elder (TN, GA, MS, AL, FL) NFLCOC Secretary
Daytona Beach
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MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
MASTERLINK OCTOBER 2015
PAGE 17
News from the Net (continued)
The bar on South Dakota Highway 34 has been the subject of a reality television series. Its amenities include zip lines, musical stages and rental cabins.The fire remains under investigation. ==========================
The oldest bike shop in America?
How do you boost shop inventory when money is tight? For William “Bill” Cottom, a young bike shop owner with a penchant for riding fast but who was short on cash, the solution came naturally: He raced other riders for pink slips and fortunately—for him—he won most of the time!
That was in the 1950’s and Bill’s shop, Century Motorcycles, is alive and well today in San Pedro, CA. Bill’s grandson and the current proprietor, Tim Rutherford, is the third generation of the family to handle day-to-day operations at the shop.
When his grandfather first started Century in San Pedro in 1953 the storefront served several purposes. It was the location of his sign company, a motorcycle shop and the clubhouse of The Centurions Motorcycle Club, a group formed by Bill and a couple of his riding buddies. It didn’t take long till they outgrew the space, partly due to Bill’s continued racing wins aboard his Vincent Black Lightning. As inventory grew and filled the small shop, it became necessary to split off from the sign company. That’s when Century moved to its current location and it hasn’t budged since 1962.
Bill raised a son and a daughter, William, Jr. and Cindy. Sadly, Bill’s son was killed in action serving in Korea so in the mid70’s Cindy Cottom Rutherford stepped in to fill her brother’s shoes. By all accounts, Cindy came to be a fixture in the local motorcycle community, known to many and beloved by all. Her friendship with Kenny Howard, a.k.a. Von Dutch, was well known and it helped cement both brands as part of mid-century motorcycle culture.
According to Century’s website, Cindy’s ability to learn quickly and her talent for dealing with people were exactly what the motorcycle industry thirsted for. Over the years she became known as the Queen of Classic Motorcycles and welcomed bike riders to the shop, meeting and becoming friends with people from all over the world. Cindy made Century the gathering place for bikers of all stripes and for decades the shop was know as the place to be in SoCal. It still is.
Tim Rutherford, the current proprietor, is Cindy’s son and he’s proud to carry on the family heritage. “My brother went on to do other things and I stayed on here at the motorcycle shop,” he said. If Tim’s welcoming ways and pleasant presence reveal even a glint of his mother’s charm, she was indeed quite a gem.
Over the years Century Motorcycles has been a dealership for BSA, Triumph, Norton, Vincent and BMW. Today they service all brands of vintage and modern bikes, specializing in classic British bikes. Ground-up restorations are also a specialty.
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 (623) 975-6264 LUKE AFB 85309 MARICOPA 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 FT T.E.A.M. Arizona 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 View PRESCOTT 86301 YAVAPAI Click Here (928) 443-0111 Arizona - Prescott T.E.A.M. Arizona PRESCOTT 86301 YAVAPAI Click Here (928) 771-2500 View Prescott MOHAVE View KINGMAN 86401 MOHAVE (928) 757-0825 COMMUNITY COLLEGE LAKE MOHAVE (928) 505-3321 View HAVASU 86403 MOHAVE COMMUNITY CITY COLLEGE 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 OCTOBER 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
MASTERLINK SOCTOBER 2015
More from Meeting of the Minds
Classifieds
PAGE 19
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. $8750 obo. call or text 480-338-1965 in Gilbert AZ. For pictures email to; steve@arcasmachine.com My bike is one of the only STAMPED limited edition bikes that Harley ever made. There were 2800 made. It is a 1993 celebrating their 90th year. Some facts and features: Odometer reading 10,543. 5.1 gallon gas tank and is a softail, ported heads, oversized pistons, adjustable lifters, Andrews E-27 low duration cam, converted to SINGLE FIRE ignition, S & S Carb, Deluxe Saddleman saddle, New HD Battery, Almost new wide whitewall tires. This Harley is a 'head turner.' Loaded with performance extras: ported heads, oversized oistons, Andreqs 27 high torque cam. Fishtail dual exhaust. LOUD and FAST.. PLUS new battery, brakes and wide whitewall tires. Under 11,000 miles. First $11,759 drives her home .
Call Jim at 480-600-9449
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
For sale 2012 Subculture hard tail
93 Soft tail engine and transmission in rigid frame, big cam, S&S super E carb, 8mm 1 3/4belt primary, chain final drive. 200-17 rear wheel , 21 front, wide glide front end, black lowers. Much more - 602-300-4115
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.
Wreaths Across America Ceremony
*Sponsored wreaths are placed on the grave markers at state, national veterans cemeteries as well as local cemeteries each December. Wreaths may be purchased online at www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org
Name:_________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ City:___________________________________________________ State:___________________________ Zip:___________________ Phone:_________________________________________________ Email:__________________________________________________
On behalf of Wreaths Across America and the Old Guard Riders Phoenix please join us at the Phoenix National Memorial Cemetery on Saturday, December 12th 2015 at 10am for the Wreaths Across America ceremony, a beautiful, live bough wreath laying event and ceremony, held simultaneously all across America, and coordinated to be held at the same date/time as the ceremony held in Arlington. The Old Guard Riders Phoenix are very excited to be the location hosts once again and to honor our veterans at this special time of year. Be sure to mark your calendar!
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For more info: Tarra 602.487.0970 or tarramatyas2@gmail.com 7