The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
ABATE of Colorado State Executive Officers - 2013
State Coordinator Terry Howard 303-789-3264 statecoord@abateofcolo.org Legislative Affairs Officer/Team Stump Haberstumpf stumpandval@msn.com Metro Regional Coordinator Randy Savely 303-909-4599 rpsavely@yahoo.com Mountain Regional Coordinator Tim O’Connor 719-395-8733 Assistant State Coordinator Northeast Regional Coordinator Don Enninga 970-768-5599 denninga@kci.net Board Member at Large Charlie May 719-320-3892 Wingmaster93@aol.com Southwest Regional Coordinator Open State Recording Secretary Lisa Gill recordingsecretary@abateofcolo. org State Treasurer Perrie Ranburger 303-789-3264 treasurer@abateofcolo.org
Office Staff Deb Craig deb@abateofcolo.org Don Gunn dma1966@q.com
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Issue # 01-14
January 2014
Mission Statement
ABATE of Colorado exists to preserve freedom of the road, to unite motorcyclists, to promote fair legislation, safety, and rider education and to provide a network for communication on issues affecting motorcyclists.
ABATE Monthly Meetings District 1
Call Dave Cawley @ 970-380-4232 Jan 5 Leroy Bishop & Penny Vaughn Feb 2 Corral Sports Bar March 2 The Place April 6 Dolittle’s June 1 Main Event Bar & Grill
District 3
2nd Sunday of the month @ 12pm Herradura Bar & Grill 6520 S. College Ave. Ft. Collins, CO 80527 720-938-1149
District 5
2nd Wednesday of the month 7:30pm Micky‘s Steakhouse 6950 N. Broadway, Denver
District 7
2nd Tuesday of the month @ 7pm Steel City Eagles 704 Elmhurst Pueblo, CO
District 10
4th Sunday of the month @ 10am Noonan’s 13525 E. Iliff Ave (I-225 and Iliff ) Aurora, CO 80011
District 11
1st Monday of the month @ 7pm VFW-Johnson Village (2 miles south of Buena Vista)
District 13
2nd Tuesday of the month @ 7pm D’Agostino’s Mugg & Pye 141 5th Street Frederick, CO 80530 303-833-2270
District 14
3rd Wednesday of the month 7 pm Holiday Inn, Frisco, Co
District 16
2nd Sunday of the month @ 9am Bear Creek Restaurant 25940 Hwy 74. Kittredge, CO 80457 303-674-9929
District 17
3rd Tuesday of the month @ 7:30pm The Shack, Littleton NW corner of Mineral & Broadway ABATE OF COLORADO is a non-profit, educational, charitable and safety oriented motorcycle rights organization.
The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
A Word From The State Coordinator Happy New Year! “Another year over and a new one just begun”…in the words of John Lennon. A big thank you to all of the 2013 Officers. To those of you newly elected, and old Officers re-elected, welcome. The first recreational marijuana shops in Colorado will open their doors for the first time in U.S. history on Jan. 1, 2014. By law, adults can possess up to an ounce of pot, can grow as many as six marijuana plants at home (with only three flowering at any given time), but home-grown marijuana can only be for personal use and cannot be sold. However, adults can gift one another up to an ounce of pot. There are several municipalities and counties that have opted out and banned sales in their respective areas. What comes with the new law is more questions on how to implement it. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out over the year. Legislative session begins this month. Here’s hoping the two parties can agree on issues and actually listen to their constituents!! What common thread do we as ABATE members have? (A.J. Gonzales) “FREEDOM”, simple, straightforward, and almost elegant in its simplicity. Discussing freedom with motorcyclists, I realize that this simple word had many different interpretations. Motorcycling represents freedom from the daily grind, from responsibilities of family, work, chores and obligations that come with adulthood. It appears that as we grow older our interpretation of freedom changes and becomes more individualistic. Another common interpretation of freedom was the freedom to be different. To express their uniqueness, their individuality by the very act of riding, the bikes they ride their attire when riding. For others freedom seemed to refer to the sensation and satisfaction derived from riding. Yet for others it is the sense of freedom that comes from getting out of town or just away and riding with no particular destination, or plan, just being able to ride off at a moment’s notice, the freedom to just get on the bike and go. Another interpretation
of freedom, how we feel released or freed from worries, cares or concerns that may have been troubling them at the time, at least for the duration of the ride. Riding is when we find balance and the ability to put things into perspective: problems assume their proper size, which is usually much smaller than we’ve let them become in our imagination. I think this is due in part to the fact that riding takes a great deal of concentration, no matter how long you have ridden, no matter how good of a rider you think you are, or how easy it may appear to others. Riding safely leaves little room for much else in the riders mind. It literally clears the mind of almost everything except the ride, the bike and your surroundings. This is something that most all of us feel very adamant about. If FREEDOM is so important to riders, why are they so apathetic? Folks no one can do this for us. We each must take responsibility to protect our own freedom. ABATE is a great resource and guide to channel the actions that we as riders must take. But ABATE cannot fix it, we as individuals that collectively form ABATE have to take that step. ABATE has a full plate for 2014. There are a number of ABATE events that include getting OSAL presentations and ASMI classes scheduled. Remember the Colorado Motorcycle Expo (formerly known as the Colorado Motorcycle Show and Swap) is the 1st of February; we need help with the booth as always. There are several events taking place this year, remember to support ABATE events charity starts at home.
Ride safe and keep warm….
Till next month Terry
www.abateofcolo.org
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
THANK YOU TO OUR $100 SPONSOR MEMBERS Stuart Boulter – Castle Rock, Dec 1998 “Torch” & Sue Barr – Littleton, June 1999 Craig Wandrey – Idaho Springs, Feb 2002 Dave “Preacher” Pohlman – Arvada, Feb 2002 Bradley Thompson – Arvada, April 2002 Laura Greene – Brush, June 2003 Colorado Motorcycle Show & Swap Denver, CO May 2004 John Chaney – Denver, CO Aug 2004 Graydon Wheeler - Huntley, WY April 2006 Fran & Shawn Hannifin – Denver, CO July 2006 Fred Stonebraker – Silverthorne, CO Aug 2007 Wendell & Kristina Burden – Castle Rock, CO Oct 2007 Will Rutledge – Aspen, CO October 2008 David Alderman – Erie, CO March 2009 Al & Karen Hirth – Pueblo, CO October 2009 Papa Lew & Lisa Vaughan – Franktown, CO December 2009 Dale “Bear” Meade - Lafayette, CO March 2010 Ed Koler – Buena Vista, CO July 2010 Carl & Trina Brockwell – Denver, CO July 2010 Eric & Rose Strotman – Golden, CO January 2011 Toby Schmidt & Willa Mandziuk Westminster, CO Aug 2011 Don & Kristi Enninga – Ft Morgan, CO January 2012 Christi Little – Arvada, CO January 2012 Sam Torno – Englewood, CO April 2012 Mina Douglas – Reno, NV October 2012 Jerry Olson- Littleton, CO October 2012 Duane & Bonnie Roller – Firestone, CO February 2013
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The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
TOYS FOR KIDS! ABATE, District 1, would like to thank all who donated toys as well as cash to purchase toys again this year. All your efforts are very much appreciated.
District 1
Toy
Distribution
For
the 10th year, ABATE of Colorado; District 1 recently donated toys received from their October Toy Run to several entities in Northeastern Colorado. Recipients of the toys included the Caring Ministries of Morgan County, the Morgan Community College Magic of Christmas Tree to assist needy families of MCC students, and the Mo≠≠rgan County Sheriff’s Office Santa’s Golden Stars along with the Caring Ministries in Yuma.
ABATE which stands for “A Brotherhood Active Towards Education”, is a non-profit, educational, charitable and safety oriented motorcycle rights organization. ABATE, District 1 holds monthly meetings to inform the members about issues that affect them and plan events. Membership in ABATE includes motorcyclists from all walks of life who are interested in the rights of motorcyclists and education of motorcyclists and the public.
Anyone interested in joining ABATE of
Giving toys to Caring Ministries of Fort Morgan Gisela Mendez from Morgan Community College stated that the families being helped by the ABATE Toy Run will be very appreciative. A special gift to the MCC program that will benefit two children was bicycles donated by individuals who attended the ABATE Toy Run in October. Morgan County Sheriff Jim Crone also indicated that the assistance of about 12 bags of toys will make Christmas brighter for a lot of kids as well. ABATE of Colorado District 1 members delivered the toys to Yuma after their monthly meeting on December 1 and stated that many kids there will have a much happier Christmas morning as well. In addition to the toys, Caring Ministries of Morgan County was also the recipient of several gift cards, courtesy of the generous donations from ABATE District 1 members and those who attended the ABATE Toy Run on October 20th as well as ABATE accepting donations of toys and cash at the local Walmart in November.
Colorado, District 1 can contact Dave Cawley at 542-0902 or visit the ABATE website at www.abateofcolo.org .
Fort Morgan Sheriff ’s Dept. 8 www.abateofcolo.org
Brenda Peterson made her own outfit to wear in 14-degree weather on Dec. 7th, for the parade in Fort Morgan
Caring Ministries of Yuma
January 2014
CAMPOUT
Fort Morgan Community College
Issue # 01-14
2012
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
ALL ABATE
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The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
When Motor Vehicle Insurance Companies
CANNOT Increase Your Premium surcharge, or reduce coverage. The regulation states in pertinent part, “Insurers shall not . . . increase the premium for any complying policy based upon . . . claims made under medical payments or uninsured motorist coverage.” (Emphasis added)
I
received a call recently from a chiropractor’s office with the following question about med pay coverage: A patient was receiving chiropractic care and had been told by his car insurance adjustor that if he used his med pay to pay for that care, his premium would increase. The chiropractor called me to find out whether that was accurate. The answer is, no, a car insurance company cannot increase your premium for payment made under med pay coverage. Although I instinctively knew this to be correct, the question prompted me to look up the regulation. The regulation can be found at 3 CCR 702-5:5-2-12 titled “Concerning Automobile Insurance Consumer Protections”. It describes specific instances when a motor vehicle insurer cannot increase your premium, refuse to write coverage, cancel an existing policy, refuse to renew an existing policy, add a
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The regulation also describes that premiums cannot be increased for claims made under comprehensive coverage unless the insurer can demonstrate that the loss was the result of the insured’s actions and motor vehicle citations which do not result in convictions. Insurers are further not allowed to increase premiums (other than a general increase filed with the Commissioner of Insurance) or refuse to renew a policy based upon, among other things, “The use of a single accident resulting in payment of less than $1,000, unless the insurer has elected to file with the Division of Insurance a rating plan. . .” The chiropractor’s office described above relayed that its patient was so nervous about a premium increase, the office could not convince the patient that the adjustor was simply wrong. I have had similar experiences where clients do not want to bring underinsured motorist claims out of fear that their premiums
will increase due to an incorrect statement made by an insurance representative. In these instances, it is important to direct consumers to the Division of Insurance so that these practices will be stopped. I tested the Division of Insurance by calling and asking whether it was true that a motor vehicle insurer could increase my premium for using med pay coverage. The person who answered correctly assured me that the insurer could not do so and told me that if that was happening, a complaint should be filed. The lesson is that consumers can and do rely to their detriment upon statements made by representatives of their insurance companies when sometimes these representatives do not know the law. Please pass this article along to any of your patients who have questions about their automobile insurance coverage. Melissa Winthers and Angela McGraw are attorneys at Fleishman & Shapiro P.C. They represent people who have been injured in collisions and can be reached at 303-861-1000 or mwinthers@colorado-law.net, amcgraw@colorado-law.net. Our website is: www.colorado-law.net.
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
ABATE Business Sustaining Memberships Please support these businesses that support us!!!
Bronze Memberships BuckMoors Sports Lounge 119 LaBonte St Dillon, CO 80435 970-468-2006 www.buckmoors.com Colorado Motorcycle Show & Swap Denver, CO 719-269-1721 www.comotorcycleshowandswap.com Fun Center Inc 29603 US Hwy 160 E Durango, CO 970-259-1070 www.funcentercycles.com
Silver Memberships EM Leather 14016 E. Mississippi Ave, Aurora, CO www.em-leather.com 303-337-6690 FED MOD CO – Rich Barclay Denver – 303-917-8622 - Colorado Springs 719-541-5224 www.fedmodco.com Tenderfoot Tavern 109 N. “F” St Salida, CO 719-539-4030 Bikers Always Welcome
HoltHammer Cycles LLC Eagle, Colorado 970-328-2544 www.HoltHammerCycles.com
Trike Toys Inc. 22285 E. Alameda Aurora, CO – 303-478-7880 www.triketoysinc.com
First Street Café 137 E. First St, Salida, CO Biker friendly 719-539-4759
Gold Memberships
Casey’s Motorsport Independent Amsoil Dealer CSPCASEY@GMAIL.COM
Fleishman & Shapiro P.C. 2000 S. Colorado Blvd Tower One, Suite 9000 Denver, CO 80222 303-861-1000
Motobreck 16135 Highway 9 Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-0353 www.motobreck.com
Grand Prix Guns & Ammo 3105 W. County Line Rd Littleton, CO www.grandprixmotorsports.com 303-761-2471
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1071 - Denver, CO (303) 870-2428 www.vva1071.org www.abateofcolo.org
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
LEGISLATIVE Hello Concerned Motorcyclists, I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a great start to a joyous 2014. My resolution for 2014 is to build a stronger presence down at State Capitol. Actually that’s not really a good resolution, because it’s not specific enough (such as: lose weight vs. lose 10 pounds) and it’s something I can’t do by myself. So I guess my “goal” should be to personally work as hard as I can to build a stronger ABATE influence at the State Capitol. To accomplish this, I’m trying to build 2 teams to assist me – the LegTeam and “Stump’s Army”. The LegTeam is comprised mostly of ABATE District Reps. and Legislative Affairs Officers (LAO). Welcome to new members of the LegTeam and thanks to those that helped out in 2013. I’ll try to get weekly updates to the LegTeam so they can pass this information on to their district members, either by forwarding the update or communicating it at the district meeting. “Stump’s Army” (and that title wasn’t my idea) is a much larger team, comprised of all ABATE District Officers (I haven’t confirmed that with everyone yet) and an ABATE member who’s a constituent from each of the 35 Colorado Senate Districts and the 65 House Districts. The reason for forming this “Army” is so we can send letters to our Colorado Legislators from actual constituents (which carry more clout than from a lobbyist). It really shouldn’t be that much work involved, maybe 5 - 10 minutes a month, unless we get “blindsided” with some unforeseen legislation. I’ll send out an “Action Alert” when the time arises with easy to follow instructions on how to forward to your Legislators. So if anyone reading this wants to assist with our “grass-roots” effort, even if I haven’t contacted you personally (which I had to do for some D-99 constituents in areas where we don’t have ABATE districts) please contact me to join the “Army”. (stumpandval@msn.com or 303-816-0909). So what can we look forward to with the 2014 Colorado General Assembly? Session starts on January 8th. Terry and I have been talking with a few Legislators already on another MOST Bill. Last year HR13-1083 (MOST Bill) didn’t quite achieve the results we were hoping for, so this year we plan to “spell things out in a more detailed manner”. A rough draft has already been drawn, but I’ll give you more details when the bill actually gets introduced. Last year there were 845 bills introduced. I’ll continue to monitor all legislation again this year so anything concerning motorcyclists gets ABATE’s input. We already have Friday, March 28th scheduled as ABATE’s Lobby Day down at the Capitol, so mark your calendars now and plan on coming down – you just might have some fun!!! Meanwhile on the National Level: •
HR 1861 (Motorcycle Only Checkpoints) – 40 cosponsors
•
HR 2414 (Black Box Privacy Protection Act) – 13 cosponsors
•
HR 875 (E-15) – 21 co-sponsors
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Issue # 01-14
January 2014
The latest news alert about E-15 fuel from the MRF is: Motorcycle Riders Foundation Testifies Before Environmental Protection Agency The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) held a field hearing on the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) in northern Virginia where the MRF had the opportunity to testify. There were over 140 panelists that represented a variety of concerned parties. The majority of the panelists were very pro-ethanol, with most of them coming from corn growers and biofuel associations. There were only a handful of people from vehicle-based associations. The hearing was open to general public. The reason for the hearing was unclear, as the EPA does not have to adhere to any of the panelist’s suggestions. One possible reason for the hearing could be to give the pro-ethanol types a forum to vent after the EPA announced that it is considering lowering the amount of ethanol to be produced according to the RFS in 2014. The EPA specifically said that one of the reasons for the drop in production is a shrinking market place and customer base for the higher blends of ethanol, like E-15. MRF Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs, Jeff Hennie, had this to say, “Our message to the EPA is simple, first halt the sale of E-15 then conduct a comprehensive, independent, scientific study on the full effects of E-15 on all types of vehicles.” To date the only study that has been conducted by the EPA on E-15 is on the tail pipe emissions. The purpose of the study was to make sure the higher ethanol blend did not pollute more than E-10. Prior to October 2010 the EPA had not allowed the sale of the higher blend according to the Clean Air Act (CAA). When they issued the waiver the motorcycling community at large approached the EPA and told them we are opposed to E-15 for various reasons, one of which is the possibility of voiding any warranty work if the higher blend was used in the motorcycle. They tried to make various assurances that the pumps would be clearly labeled and that new pump technology will reduce the in line fuel from the previous customer. Currently blender pumps can hold 2-3 gallons and the new technology will reduce this to just a fraction of a gallon. The proprietor of the gas station must purchase the new pumps so that solution seems unlikely to happen anytime soon. This is the perfect time to contact your Federal Representatives and ask them to cosponsor H.R. 875, a bill that would stop the sale of E-15 until a trustworthy study of E-15 is complete.
The Colorado Spokesman
D1
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
DISTRICT NEWS
Dave Cawley District Representative 728 Diana St. Ft. Morgan, CO 80701 970-380-4232 madd_dogdave@yahoo.com
Hello D1 Wow when I think it can’t get any better D1 proves me wrong. Dec 4th we gave our toys away to Caring Ministries, the Morgan Co. Sheriffs Dept. Ft. Morgan Community college and Caring minsteries of Yuma we did very well this year special thanks to everyone who donated. Dec 7th the Ft. Morgan Christmas Parade with the temp @10 degrees and the wind blowing 25 miles a hour. 13 of us braved the weather it was to sucking cold but we did it thanks to Bill, Belva, Rebel, Terry, Roy, Brenda, Tom, Patty, Kyle, Felicity, Zach, Carolyn and myself who were brave enough to been out there in that cold weather. That evening D1 had there Christmas Party Special thanks to Westside Customs for hosting this great party we had 57 people show had tons of food Special thanks to Patty Brainard for making the main meat plates all the food was very good. And the highlight of the party was the gift exchange with 48 people involved and we had a great time with this thank you all for bringing gifts. The membership contest winner went to Carolyn Cawley this year and she donated the $100.00 gift card back for Christmas for Kids in 2014. We raffled off a special gift and the winner was Steph Bower and that 20 www.abateofcolo.org
$400.00 went to Christmas for Kids in 2014, so as you can see D1 finished off the end of the year with a BIG BANG. In 2014 District 1 is going to the next level I’m not sure how we are going to do this, but it’s going to be fun. Jan 5th we will be having our meeting at Leroy and Penny’s house 266 Birch St. Akron, Colo. (970) 5541671 starting @1pm going to be a fun meeting with something special see u all there. Feb. 2nd D1 meeting @ The Corral Sports Bar 101 Clayton Brush, Colo. (970) 842-9874 @ 1pm. Feb 22nd D1 Chili Cook Off @ The Corral Sports Bar this starts a brand year with 3 winners Best Red, Best Green and Best overall always a great time hope to see you all there look for the flyer in the Spokesman. I hope you all had a great 2013, because 2014 will be better yet. That’s all for now. HAPPY NEW YEAR! MADDDOG DAVE
D3 Dave Kingery 812 E. 8th St. Loveland, CO 80537 303-882-5829 snakekingery@hotmail.com
No Report Submitted Ask your District Rep. why?
D5
Gary Davis District Representative PO Box 211277 Denver, CO 80221 720-635-2897 revgcitwdvr@aol.com
ABATE District 5 News for January 2014 To help freshen things up for a district report, District 5 has given the attending meeting members the volunteer option (arm-twisting) of authoring this column instead of the district rep. This month it’s ‘my turn’; it’s been awhile, for sure, since I’ve put some words down for print in the Spokesman. Call it a hiatus if you will, whatever – but I’ll jabber atcha a bit, maybe you’ll even recognize me… I’m writing this more than a week before Christmas, thinking about now but projecting toward 2014 – which is now January as you’re reading this. I’ve had my ear to the ground for many years, absorbing (informationally) the shifts, transitions, and trends of our society, culture, political winds, government (at all levels) and more. From a personal, verifiable viewpoint, I see liberty and freedom under constant assault and erosion; add in the Big Kahuna of personal economics (under duress) in these uncertain times – yeah, the one aspect of life that gets everyone’s attention (money) - and it’s no wonder folks are disappearing into themselves. People are absorbing & putting up with bad laws, more taxes and fees, infringement and rampant government control, all kinds of stuff. Do they like it? Mostly, no. Are they doing much
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about it? Again, mostly no… It’s easier to find or have some fun, get diverted in front of the TV/computer/handheld miniature telephone-textingmessaging-television-gaming-internetcloud-earphones hypnosis device, etc. than actually communicating face-toface and being engaged in some human interaction rather than the electronic kind. In spite of our so-called communications culture, I think I have not before in this life seen the degree of self-absorption I’m witnessing now. How about you? My brief diatribe (above) brings us to involvement in the freedom and rights organizations that, for the most part, are working diligently on behalf of their members and supporters – ABATE of Colorado being one. Yes, ABATE’s efforts are focused on motorcycling and the many facets of that expression of liberty – the freedom of movement. Likewise, the similar state organizations around the country, and the ‘nationals’ have done a fine job of maintaining and advancing the cause in the face of tyranny. Branching outward from the motorcycling world, one will find many worthwhile freedom and liberty-minded organizations asking for your help, support and a few bucks. Expanding a membership base/ support in these groups is a challenge for them; heck, even maintaining support is a challenge, as numbers are waning among these groups. There’s about two reasons I can come up with for that: 1) Apathy, and 2) Economics (as in the personal kind). In explanation, I’ll venture some thoughts on #1… Some folks might reckon that the state of affairs in any given area isn’t going to improve no matter what group/organization they’re part of, so they won’t be a part of it at all, therefore #2… they won’t venture a few bucks in annual financial support or membership either (but they would
spend the same dollar amount on ONE night out…) I challenge the thinking that says these organizations don’t accomplish much. Prove it. Think what/how things might be without them. I’ll gladly put up my annual dues for the many organizations I’m a member of. It’s money well spent advancing the causes of liberty vs. other expenditures that provide no political or legislative capital. The Year 2014 being upon us now brings new opportunities. There’s an inherent and intuitive awareness among a fair number of people that corrective action is needed to right the good ship U.S.A. It starts in each of the states, with people being involved at the local levels. Sitting on the sidelines, in the shadows, does nothing. Grousing about things does nothing. A person can run but they can’t hide. Engage with likeminded people, because there’s no going it alone… Dave Christy
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
Curtis Hubbell (D-7 Chaplain) is also the Colorado run for the wall representative and at our last meeting he said pueblo would be a new fuel and lunch stop on the run for the wall. For those of you who do not know what run for the wall is here is a link http:// www.rftw.org/index. to their website. I would like to ask anyone who can come down and help on May 17th. 2014 to get in touch with me. We need people to help stop and direct traffic as the riders come through. This time of year, I suffer from a little depression brought on by parked motorcycle syndrome and I have to keep reminding myself spring will be here before I know it, so for those of you that suffer from that syndrome also you are not alone and in the mean time stay warm and keep the bike on the tender so when spring arrives you will be ready to ride.
D7
Andy “Short Run” Haning 103 W. Abriendo Pueblo, Co. 81004 719-778-3092 akmcapparel@gmail.com
Well the holidays are over and a new year has begun. D-7’s Christmas party was great, always fun to share a little piece of the holidays with friends’ want to say thanks to the Christmas party committee for all their hard work.
Andy “short-run” Haning
D10
Larry Montgomery District 10 Representative 1590 Elkhart St Aurora, CO 80012 303.263.9412 l Montgomery@live.com
No Report Submitted Ask your District Rep. why? www.abateofcolo.org
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D11
Gary Meier 10795 CR197 A Lot 132 Nathrop CO 81236 402-440-3917 b1biker@aol.com
District 11 - ABATE of Colorado At our regular meeting on December 2 at the VFW in Johnson Village we finalized plans for our Annual Christmas Party and the food and toy drive. We also discussed how to increase our membership and get more of our areas riders involved with ABATE. We discussed the possibility of giving the district a name, I suggested Arkansas Valley Riders as a possibility, in the hope of attracting new faces into the group. We also discussed changing our tactics; having fewer fund raising events but adding a number of ‘Fun Raising events. Some of the members present said that they felt like we always have our hand out and that in these tough economic times that might be a real turnoff for folks. One of our newer members said that he really didn’t know most of the people who show up at meetings, to say nothing of thoswe members who don’t attend the meetings. He suggested that we start with some social events to get our current members better acquainted; suggestions included pot-luck dinners, poker nights, group rides, etc. We will continue this discussion at subsequent meetings.
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Issue # 01-14
January 2014
The District 11 Christmas Party, Food and Toy Drive was held at the VFW in Johnson Village on Saturday, December 7th. Attendance was moderate but quite good for a very cold, snowy night. We started the evening with a potluck followed by live music and dancing. By all accounts everyone had a great time.
yourself and enjoy the good music and company. We will have a booth at the Colorado Motorcycle Expo (the old Denver Show and Swap) so drop on by and say hi or donate a little time to work the booth. I hope everybody had a great Christmas and a happy new year and are looking forward to another year of riding in our great state.
Keep Warm, Stay Safe and Enjoy Life
See ya on down the road, Bear
Gary Meier, Assistant District Rep District 11 – ABATE of Colorado
D13 Dale “Bear” Meade District Representative 101067 Arapahoe Rd. Lafayette, CO 80026 303-642-7118 dcbear1985@aol.com
D14 Jerry “Mac” McFarland District Representative PO Box 5661 Frisco, CO 80443-5661 970.418.0341 JerryMcfarland@Centura.org
Hey D-13,
ABATE D-14 Report
After speaking with the people who are taking over the old D’Agostino’s building and presenting a synopsis to our Dec. D-13 meeting, we feel that our meetings will continue to be at Pepperjack’s at I-25 & Hwy 52.Pepperjack’s has a good variety of food and have allowed us to use their “back room” for our meetings. The wait staff is always friendly and appreciate our business. We will be having our D-13 SWEETHEART’S DANCE at the Rockin’ Ranch Tavern, 110 Monmouth Ave in Firestone on Feb.8.We decided to do a “potluck” this time so bring some grub, come on out and party with us. Please RSVP to me at 303-642-7118 by Feb.1,but you are always welcome to just drop on by and dance the night away with your significant other, or by
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. We had a good year but not a great year in terms of riding. It rained almost every day up here in D-14 land. But all in all it was not bad. A great Poker run led by the one and only, Mickey. Who will lead this year? 2014 holds much promise for us. If I learned anything on our poker walk I learned we have a great group up here. I hope to spend more time with all of you in 2014 We’ve got a year’s worth of events to start planning. Annual Poker Run, BOTW, Sturgis Ride Committee to name a few. Breckenridge D-14 Poker Walk Dec 7 was a great success. It was nice being out together, enjoying the evening in Breckenridge. Everyone had a great time. It seems we do enjoy one another’s company. Some Lucky SOB won with 4-9’s. Thank you.
The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
2014 Calendar Thank you Denny and Cheryl Parkinson, and Mike and Mickey Young, Have finalized the 2014 D-14 Calendar. Get your order in. Send to: dpc@colorado.net and/or mlyoung60@comcast.net
D16
Stump Haberstumpf PO Box 487 Pine, CO 80470 303-816-0909 stumpandval@msn.com
No Report Submitted Ask your District Rep. why?
It’s Official the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s Best of the West will be in Frisco this year. June 6, 7 & 8, 2014. We’ll need to organize a GREAT Hospitality Room and get the local establishments involved. ABATE 30 year medallions will be available soon let me know if you are interested in purchasing one for $10 ABATE District 14 and Old Chicago Pizza Pals is a great fund raiser for our District, every quarter we will be purchasing 100 Pizza Pal cards. That is, a large Old Chicago pizza for 11$ each It is good for our District it’s a great pizza for a bargain Price. WinWin. Please buy and sell as many as possible. These make great gifts. Next meeting January, 15, 7 PM at the Frisco Holiday Inn
D17 Mal Sikes 7119 S Reed CT Littleton, CO 80128 303-972-1175 malsikes@comcast.net
Welcome to 2014, Happy New Year.
I hope each person reading this attended the Last Brass Monkey Run You don’t stop riding because you get old, and supported ABATE of Colorado to the fullest extent possible. We really do you get old because you stop riding need all of the help we can get. Jerry Mc
jerrymcfarland@centura.org 970-418-0341 (cell)
January 2014
Please join us for our next District meeting on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at the Shack, Mineral and Broadway – 7:30 pm. We all look forward to seeing a few new faces. Ride Well, Mike Ride Well, Mike
JUST RIDE
John and Bridget for organizing, and Denny and Cheryl for running the Poker Walk
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The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
NORTHEAST REGIONAL REPORT
2014
is almost here! (It will be when you read this.) It doesn’t seem that long ago when we were on the doorstep of 2000 and everyone was worried about computers crashing. When one considers what all has happened in 14 years, it’s pretty amazing. One thing that is tragic is the number of motorcyclists that do not belong to a motorcycle rights organization. While the number of registered motorcycles has risen drastically, it appears that not many of the riders are looking at the political issues that affect us and our rights.
You might remember the story about how to boil frogs. The premise is that if a frog is placed in boiling water, it will jump out, but if it is placed in cold water that is slowly heated, it will not perceive the danger and will be cooked to death. The story is often used as a metaphor for the inability or unwillingness of people to react to significant changes that occur gradually. Even though the many issues facing all of us on a daily basis are important, I think we tend to get into the “boiling frog” mentality when it comes to our rights in this country. Although we could have a long drawn out discussion about the many rights that are being trampled today, we, as motorcyclists, need to band together and concentrate on the freedoms and rights we all have that might be taken away or limited. We don’t want to let our rights slowly boil away without recognizing what is happening and doing something about it. That is what ABATE of Colorado is for, to help protect your rights as motorcyclists. Now, there may not be any immediate threats in Colorado but that can change in a hurry. All it takes is one nanny state type legislator to think we need a law to require helmets or we can’t put aftermarket pipes on our bikes or anything that will affect our freedoms and we have a battle on our hands. Considering what we can do about that, we look to membership in ABATE. We can each do something, that is to bring new members into ABATE. If you haven’t asked anyone to join in awhile, please think about doing so. Many times people just need to be asked to join. That is all it may take. You also need to keep yourself informed about the mission and purpose of ABATE so you can let the motorcyclists you meet, know what ABATE is about and how it can benefit them. 26 www.abateofcolo.org
We ARE ABATE of Colorado! Each one of us! Ok, enough membership soap box for now. Hopefully you will have all participated in the Last Brass Monkey Run on December 31st. Then, it will be time to get started on 2014. ABATE has a lot planned, both through the State office and the District events. Consider how you want to help for 2014. Can you be on a committee? A committee chair? Or help with events? Let’s all work to make this a banner year for ABATE events. Remember, they should all be geared to raising funds to further the mission and ideals of ABATE. As always, ASMI, a really great program, is available and will be put on the ABATE schedule soon. If you want to have one in your area, let us know and we will get something scheduled. Being prepared in case of an emergency is important! Both the Basic and Advanced courses will be offered this next year.
Have a great 2014! Be safe and ride often! Don Enninga
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same. Ronald Reagan
The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed. cavett robert
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The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT RIDER SAFETY TRAINING The Following Dealerships Support Rider Education Through Our Dealer Referral Program: Apex Sports Inc http://www.apexsportsinc.com Aurora Honda http://aurorahonda.hondamcdealers.com Beemers & More http://www.beemersandmore.com Colorado Powersports http://www.copowersports.com Cycle Central http://www.cyclecentralinc.com Freemont Motorsports http://www.fremontmotorsports.com Grand Prix Motorsports http://www.grandprixmotorsports.com High Country Harley http://highcountryharley.com Mountain Tech Yamaha http://www.mountaintechbv.com Outpost Harley Davidson http://www.outposthd.com Powersports Unlimited http://www.powersportsunlimited.com Sun Harley Davidson http://www.sunharleydavidson.com/ Timme Honda http://www.powersportstv.com/dealers Vickery Motorsports http://www.vickerymotorsports.com
* Dealers: Want to see your name on this list? Join our Dealer Referral Program!
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The Colorado Spokesman
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ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
The Colorado Spokesman
ABATE of Colorado - www.abateofcolo.org
Issue # 01-14
January 2014
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