A Publication of the Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona July / August 2011
W h a t is H a p p en i n g a t t h e C o p p er D om e ?
Colin’s Benefit Arizona Motorcycle Safety Run Advisory Council (AMSAC) Submitted by Larry Stroud
Submitted by Mick Degn
April 20th, we held an AMSAC meeting. The meeting was called to order by Director Gutier. We have five on the Council and for 2011 we have three new members. In addition, we elected officers for the Council. They are as follows: Submitted by Mick Degn
The 2011 session is over with and Iʼm not sure if you can call this a productive year or not. You tell me. We started out looking at the Distracted bill again and found out that it would not go anywhere because itʼs felt it falls under Reckless and Careless Driving. Four other bills on Distracted were tried and none of them made it. The second bill was the HIPPA bill and going into it we had some challenges with the Insurance companies. We had a stakeholders meeting with them and were able to work out any concerns they had and change some language to satisfy them, which did not affect our bill. We then started it in the Senate with Senator John Nelson as our Sponsor. The first road block was that we had no examples of HIPPA concerns. We have tried for the past two years to get some examples and were not able--but felt it was worth a try--and we found out that they would not hear it further, so it was stopped. So as far as bills, we had no luck this year and a lot of bills didnʼt make it. Budget was a concern again and will be for a few years. As an example, we have the Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (AMSAC) where we put in $1.00 from our Motorcycle Registration into this fund. This fund was swept of $50,000.00 this year. 2012 weʼll see another $30,000.00 and rumor is that it will be worse in 2013. Budget for our State is a huge issue and will continue to be for awhile.
Comment from Arizona Capitol Times: “If this unfortunate legislative session has to be remembered in years to come, it will be recalled as time that politicians put sideshows ahead of seriousness. They do nothing to address the everyday challenges that are facing Arizonans: a struggling economy, a broken public education system and high rates of crime. It is for the inaction on these fronts that this legislature will be remembered.”
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Continued on page 6 - COPPER DOME
Dick Studdard-Chairman Mick Degn-Vice Chairman Lou Borland Jeffrey Rice DeBe Campos All five are motorcycle riders.
We spent time going over a detailed budget which showed dollars Budgeted and Actual Expended. At this time our budget is looking very healthy. We continue to work on the budget each time and determine areas that can best promote Motorcycle Safety and Awareness. We did see some sweeps in a lot of the funds within the state to include AMSAC. Unfortunately the State of the economy is not helping anyone.
In addition, they have done an audit on all inventory items and determined what to order. In some cases they have placed orders for items in need. The one thing that the council would like to ask is that everyone be as conservative on the inventory items, (bumper stickers, pencils, key chains and tri-folds), as possible. If you have inventory items already and donʼt need any more for your function, please donʼt ask for more at this time. We will look at this on a quarterly basis but we want to make sure we have the items for everyone. In the past weʼve had folks trying to get as many as they can and stock-piling. We want to make sure that we have enough for everyone and that we have inventory for important events such as May Motorcycle Awareness and other events to promote Motorcycle Safety and Awareness. Some of the MROs have been getting items for May Motorcycle Awareness, and overall we should be in good shape for the month.
Colinʼs Run was a success, after all the bike smoke cleared we placed into a charity fund $4,356.52 For the High Country District which has done nothing eventwise in the three years I have been District Manager, with just five or so members that attend, and a smaller amount that actually vote, my wife, Lynnette Marshall and I did amazingly well.
We put together a plan, and we executed it on our own. Our emergency meeting for Colin was unattended, except for our Business Member, Lynnette Marshall, my wife and me. At our May meeting we brought forth our plan, showed our flyer, and explained our plan of action. All that did show were all in favor. Thank you, ALR Post #78 M.M.A. members, for helping us. Initially, we did reach out to our fellow M.M.A. members since we had no event experience and the feedback was resounding: Could have heard a pin drop. Continued on page 14 - COLIN
Screw Laughlin
Story and pictures on page 10
Quotes have been received on media buys and will look at that further at the next meeting.
On a positive side and thinking about Motorcycle Safety and Awareness, the 501(c)3 that MMA has been involved with is totally focused on Motorcycle Safety and Awareness. We’re having some good conversations with folks that want to invest in what we’re doing with the 501(c)3. They are looking at this as more long-term than short-term which says a lot. Mick Degn Member of Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council MMA Lobbyist Lobbyist@mma-az.org
Popsʼ 90th Birthday Party Story and pictures on page 14
Inside This Issue:
MMA of Arizona Listings .....................................2 State Membership Information............................3 From Our Chairman............................................4 Things That a Motorcycle Can Teach Us! ...........4 The Disgruntled Biker .........................................5 District Reports ...................................................6 MMA of Arizona Event Calendar.........................7 Lobbyist Update..................................................8 2011 NCOM Reports ..........................................8 Editorʼs Space.....................................................9 Screw Laughlin 9 ..............................................10 Business Member Listing..................................12 Colin..................................................................14 Popsʼ 90th Birthday Party .................................14 Ride Tips...........................................................15 Why Iʼd Rather Ride..........................................15 NCOM Biker Newsbytes ...................................16 Lady Rider Report.............................................16 Rider Safety & Maintenance Tips .....................17 Pet Corner ........................................................17 Tech Corner ......................................................17 Biker Vittles .......................................................19
Motorcycle
Patriot
Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona Publication
JULY / AUGUST 2011
PUBLISHER / EDITOR / LAYOUT
Joseph Hoodak editor@mma-az.org ADVERTISING
ads@mma-az.org
Tom Corr Ed "Hollywood" Holyoak Michele Osborn Steve “Tuffy” Belzer Glen "Burg" Humbarger John "Saltt" Salter Carlos "Patron" Romero Contract service provider Cindy Gates OPEN Julie Cissne Eric Osborn Steve "Muskrat" Musgrave C.J. Swinford Mick Degn Billy Larson Bobbi Hartmann Joseph "Inspector Gadget" Hoodak Jim “Flip” Boyd Contract service provider
520.252.9675 928.978.1537 602.576.1768 602.399.2325 623.322.9848 928.660.8854 602.999.7777
623.695.5659
602.717.0842 623.329.5831 520.371.1735 602.788.2088 602.312.4554 623.308.0586 602-672-3531 602.625.9777 602.323.7297
chairman@mma-az.org woodnvine@live.com secretary@mma-az.org treasurer@mma-az.org burg216@aol.com salttjohn2000@yahoo.com aztitanic05@hotmail.com membership@mma-az.org cgates0617@yahoo.com communications@mma-az.org quartermaster@mma-az.org eosborn1@cox.net SMUSBLULGT@aol.com cj@mma-az.org lobbyist@mma-az.org alobbyist@mma-az.org alobbyist2@mma-az.org editor@mma-az.org jboyd21@cox.net webmaster@mma-az.org
Casa Grande District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Steve "Muskrat" Musgrave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .520.371.1735. . . . . . . . . SMUSBLULGT@aol.com Fern WIlliams 520.560.6989 fernevar@gmail.com Cochise District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rocky Boatman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .520.803.0124. . . . . . . . . rboatman1@cox.net Tom Roberts 520.266.9016 tom-gabi@cis-broadband.com Eagle District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cherie DeBrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .623.328.7255. . . . . . . . . cheriedubrow@yahoo.com Steve “Tuffy” Belzer 602.399.2325 tuffy_56@hotmail.com Grand Canyon District . . . . . . . . . . . . . .James Klever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .928.220.1396. . . . . . . . . gsrdarkmagic@aol.com Wayne Rottman 928.607.1695 High Country District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Larry Stroud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .928.710.6990. . . . . . . . . stroud.stroud@gmail.com Colin “Cinders” MacDiarmid 928.830.0570 macdiarmid@q.com Leather/Iron Horse/Phoenix District . . .Cindy Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .623.635.5569. . . . . . . . . cgates0617@yahoo.com Lee “Snakebite” Gonzales 623.693.4932 rattlensnake@yahoo.com Northern Arizona District . . . . . . . . . . . .Jim “Redneck” Blair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .928.660.0656. . . . . . . . . redneck@ourranch.com Randy Howard 928.660.1290 firextiger@yahoo.com Red Mountain District . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Donna Woltman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-723-6044 . . . . . . . . donnawoltman@yahoo.com Tom “Teekay” Kartler 480-832-0117 tkartler@cox.net Rim Country District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ed “Hollywood” Holyoak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .928.978.1537. . . . . . . . . woodnvine@live.com Becca “Vine” Holyoak 928.978.2850 woodnvine@live.com Salt River District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rick “Dutch” Hoogestraat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .480.584.4231. . . . . . . . . azricsworld@yahoo.com Teri Kelley 480.288.6389 tolat2date@yahoo.com Verde Valley District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chris Childers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .928.300.6733. . . . . . . . . rebelpridecc@yahoo.com
Cindy Gates calendar@mma-az.org COPY EDITOR
Chimene Hawes
DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR
Joseph Hoodak
AREA DISTRIBUTION
District Volunteers
Westsiders District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jim “Flip” Boyd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602.323.7297. . . . . . . . . jboyd21@cox.net Steve “Duece” Parker 623.386.8565 pack_of5@msn.com White Mountain District . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carlene Hulsey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .928.245.6427. . . . . . . . . carlene4mma@hotmail.com
MAILING & MEMBERSHIP LISTS
Rhonda Holz
PRINTING & MAILING
Valley Newspapers of Phoenix MOTORCYCLE PATRIOT PMB 138 P.O. Box 30280 Phoenix, Arizona 85046 602.625.9777
Motorcycle Patriot is published every two months. All material is copyrighted 2010 and all rights reserved by Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona (MMA of AZ). Reproduction of any kind without permission is prohibited. Motorcycle Patriot is produced solely from freelance and authorized material. All material is compiled from sources believed to be reliable but published without responsibility for errors or omissions. Opinions expressed by authors are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Motorcycle Patriot accepts advertisements from advertisers believed to be of good reputation but cannot guarantee the authenticity or quality of objects or services advertised.
DEADLINE FOR PUBLISHING All materials for consideration in the next issue must be received by August 10th. Any materials received after the deadline will be considered for a future issue.
Page 2
Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary Treasurer Sergeant at Arms Sergeant at Arms Sergeant at Arms Membership Activites Communications Quartermaster ACMC Represenative NCOM Represenative AIL Represenative Designated Lobbyist Authorized Lobbyist Authorized Lobbyist Patriot Editor Business Member Represenative Webmaster
MMA of Arizona District Contacts
CALENDAR
Submit materials to mmapatriot@mma-az.org
MMA of Arizona State Officers
MMA of Arizona Life Service Mike Bennett Tom and Lynna Buohl Fritz Clapp, Esq Tom Corr Dick “Turtle” Davis* Dave Deckwa Marysia Deckwa Mick Degn Howard Gelman
James and Lee Gonazles Mary Hart Bobbi Hartmann Ed “Hollywood” Holyoak Becca “Vine” Holyoak Joseph Hoodak Ray “Rayman” Huston Tambria Kirk-Huston Teri Kelley
Butch Kirkham Carl Letzin Joanne Letzin “Pipe” Loomis Stony Monday Steve "Muskrat" Musgrave Janie Picciano Tony Picciano Mike Shearhart
Willie Shearhart Edward “Jersey” Smith Betty McDonald-Swinford CJ Swinford
MMA of Arizona Life Membership Casa Grande District Tom Corr Eddie Davis Steve Musgrave Carol Myers Cochise District Jon V. Everett Kresent Gurtler Ernie Harris Thom Ihli David Leabo Phyllis Rimmer Betty Rodriguez
Eagle District Julie Cissne Cherie Dubrow Billy “Desperado” Larson Scot Williamson Grand Canyon District Stephen Briggs High Country District Marlin Kussler Colin MacDiarmid Stony Monday
Leather/Iron Horse District Richard L. Davis* Terry Engelking Cindy Gates James Gonzales Lee Gonzales Larry Griffith Dave “Stiffy” Hill Don Hill Joseph Hoodak Tambria Kirk Dave Kopp Henry “Skip” Mikolajczyk Tony Picciano Jane Picciano Deborah Riggs Gerald Riggs John “Skip” Sims Edward Smith Ron Spirlock Paul Stuart
July/August 2011
Garry Thurston Kris Wall Michael Wendt
Northern Arizona District Larry Evans Joseph Harris Bill Justice Marie Justice Renee Lippert Steve”Limey” Lippert Eddie Lovato Phoenix District Mark Belden Mark Borato Tom Buohl Lynna Buohl Russell G. Cheetham Jr. David Deckwa Sr. Marysia Deckwa Lee Erceg* Tom Erhardt Victor Florio Jack “Yukon Jack” Fry Jeff Gordon Tracy Gruber Mary Hart Bobbi Hartmann Barbara Hatley* Roger Hurm Lee Irvine Judy Kirkham Karen Konley Keven Kullberg Chester Larson Sue Leggett Dean Lott Diane Malone Betty McDonald Larry Myers Fred Pascarelli Forrest Phillips Beverlee Simmons Waldo Stuart* Charles Swinford Red Mountain District Debra Donaldson Mike Shearhart
Willie Shearhart Carl Letzin Joanne Pilger-Letzin Michelle Wirth-Packer
Rim Country District Ed “Hollywood” Holyoak Becca Holyoak Diane Schultz Wayne Slocum Jane Wilcox
Salt River District Michael D. Bennett James Best Mick Degn John Emerson Chuck Franklin Howard Gelman Bill Goodwin Bob Gumfory Sherry Harradence Gay Hayward James Hillyard William Hitze Wade Jackson Larry Jenkins Phyllis Kelley Glen Koepke Elmer Myers Darline Olsen “Lady Jewells” Olson-Lentz Greg Oppedal Don “Sandman” Randolph Catherine “Kate” Rouse Larry Venteicher Tucson District Dennis Beye M. Juaregui Ralph Levon Kathy Marble Martin Minninger The Solano Family
Verde Valley District Jessica Howell Bill Lyons Jr. Michael Mooney Dale Vandermolen
Westsiders District Deborah Blair Kimberley “Sunshiney” Cole George Graham Ray Huston Gene “Gobb” Mummert Wesley “T-Bone” Straight Michael Vigorito White Mountain District Tim Belous Randy Crider John “Oilcan” Fields* Kathy "Chocolate" Fields Bob Kirby Ben McLachlan Robin Pierce Randy Rahn Terry K. Rutherford Rich Tuminello Denise Hunter-Tuminello Buddy Zahnle Other District Mike Revere
MMA State NCOM Bill Bish - Encino, CA Fritz Clapp Esq. Joe Eggleston* Tank Tiger Mike Revere
Motorcycle Club Life Members Sober Riders since 08/2003 Limey Riders since 09/2005 VIIIʼs Society since 11/2006 Life Emeritus Members Roger "Priest" Hurm - Chairman Bill Justice - Chairman CJ Swinford - Chairman Colin “Cinders” MacDiarmid
Co-Founders of MMA-AZ Joe Eggleston, Esq.* AIM Attorney Richard Lester, Esq. AIM Attorney * In Memoriam
m
Casa Grande 1st Sunday at 11 am Silver Bullet Bar 1401 N. Pinal Ave. Casa Grande, AZ
High Country 3rd Sunday at 11 am Smokin Harleyʼs Steakhouse 10456 S. State Rte 69 Mayor, AZ
Rim Country 2nd Sunday at 9 am Legion Tonto Rim Post #69 709 E. Hwy 260 Payson, AZ
Eagle 3rd Sunday at 9:30 am Chuyʼs 5134 N. 95th Ave. Glendale, AZ
Northern Arizona 2nd Saturday at 9 am Glen Canyon Steakhouse 201 N. Lake Powell Page, AZ
Verde Valley 2nd Sunday at 11 am Page Springs Restaurant 1975 N. Page Springs Rd. Cornville, AZ
Cochise 3rd Sunday at 11 am Oct, Jan, Apr, Jul VFW Post 9972 549 Veterans Drive Sierra Vista, AZ
Grand Canyon 1st Sunday at 10 am Hog's Restaurant 2200 E. Butler Ave. Flagstaff, AZ
Leather/Iron Horse 2nd Saturday at 10 am Charleyʼs Place 4324 W. Thunderbird Rd. Glendale, AZ
White Mountain 1st Sunday at 1 pm V.F.W. Eager, AZ
Salt River 2nd Sunday at 10 am Sundance Restaurant 1535 E. Old West Hwy Apache Junction, AZ
Westsiders 4th Sunday at 9 am - breakfast meeting Avondale Moose Lodge 1572 S. Cotton Lane Goodyear, AZ
Red Mountain 3rd Saturday at 10 am Wild Hogs Bar & Grill 3731 E Main St Chandler, AZ
Bring a friend to your meeting
MMA of Arizona Membership Information
Join and support the Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona
Use the membership form and mail it together with your check or money order. Make payable to MMA of Arizona and send to the address below. You may also fill out and print our membership form online or use our electronic registration service and a credit card at www.mma-az.org.
What is the MMA
MMA is a Motorcyclists Rights Organization (MRO) comprised of motorcyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts who are concerned with the future, safety, and welfare of motorcycling. We are a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to improving the social atmosphere that surrounds motorcyclists, and protecting the individual freedoms of citizens.
We are an association that lobbies and educates the government and the general public to promote motorcycling in a safe and positive image. When you become a member of the MMA of Arizona, you make a difference in the ongoing mission to protect your right to ride and enjoy the motorcycle of your choice, your choice of riding apparel, and when and where you can ride a motorcycle. These issues are real and present in todayʼs “protect yourself from yourself” political environment. This holds true for all levels of government. At the state level we have a lobbyist who regularly visits our state capital to lobby our legislators on the issues concerning the motorcyclists in Arizona. On the national level we are aligned with the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and several other motorcycle rights organizations.
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MMA of Arizona District Meeting Times & Locations
of Arizona
Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona MMA MMA of of Arizona Arizona MMA of Arizona PMB 138 PMB 138 PMB 138 P.O. Box 30280 P.O. Box 30280 P.O. Box 30280 Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85046-0280 Phoenix,AZ AZ 85046-0280 85046-0280
Please Please print print clearly clearly and and completly. completly. Mail Mail this this form form along along with with payment payment to to address address above. above.
Individual Individual Annual: Annual: Business Business Annual: Annual: New New to to MMA-AZ: MMA-AZ:
($20) Lifetime: ($250) Couple: ($40) ($20.00)Individual Individual Lifetime: ($250.00) Cash:2 forms required ($120) Lifetime: Check #: Check _______ Cash: ($120.00)Business Business Lifetime:($500) ($500.00) #: _______ other members name Renewal: Update/Transfer: Update/Transfer Couple Name:Membership: ______________ Renew a Membership:
optional optional First First Name: Name: _____________ _____________ Last Last Name: Name: ________________ ________________ Road Road Name: Name: _____________ _____________ Phone Phone 1: 1: _____________ _____________ Phone Phone 2: 2: ____________ ____________ Email: Email: _________________________ _________________________
Business Business Category: Category: Real Real Estate Estate
Bar Bar and/or and/or Restaurant Restaurant
Clothing Clothing
Lodging Lodging
Motorcycle Motorcycle Repair/Parts/Accessories Repair/Parts/Accessories
Services Services & & Miscellaneous Miscellaneous
Organizations Organizations or or Clubs Clubs
name name required required ifif business business membership membership Business Business Business Name: Name: _______________________ _______________________ Business Website: Website: ____________________ ____________________
Check You may may join join any any one one district district of of your your choice choice Check the the district district you you wish wish to to join join -- You Casa Casa Grande Grande
Cochise Cochise
Verde Verde Valley Valley
Westsiders Westsiders
Northern Phoenix Leather Arizona Northern Arizona
Eagle Eagle
Grand Grand Canyon Canyon
High Country
Leather Iron Horse
Rim Country Salt River Salt River Phoenix Red MountainRim Country
White White Mountain Mountain
Other: Other: _____________________ _____________________
required required Mailing AZ MC Endorsement: Yes Mailing Address: Address: ____________________________________ ______________________________________________ required required required required required required City: State: Zip: City: _____________________________ _____________________________ State: ______ ______ Zip: ____________ ____________ address of business location for newspaper business listing Business Business Address: Address: ________________________________________________ ______________________________________________ City: City: _____________________________ _____________________________ State: State: ______ ______ Zip: Zip: ____________ ____________ required required Todays Registered Volunteer: Todays Date: Date: ____________ ____________ Registered Voter: Voter: Yes Volunteer: Yes Yes No No Yes No No required name required ifif business business membership membership Business Business ____________________ Business Contact Contact 1: 1:name ____________________ Business Contact Contact 2: 2: ___________________ ___________________
required required Signature: Signature: _______________________________________ _______________________________________ name name of of MMA MMA member member recruiting recruiting you you -- for for new new memberships memberships only only Recruited Recruited By: By: _____________________________________ _____________________________________ name name of of MMA MMA member member reviewing reviewing and and accepting accepting this this form form Received Received By: By: _____________________________________ _____________________________________
of Arizona Choose to receive ChooseMMA to not not receive aa
PMB 138 copy Patriot paper copy of of the the Patriot paper Memberships are open to anyone P.O. Box 30280 regardless of what type of motorcycle Phoenix, AZ 85046-0280 Yes No Yes No you ride, if any. All memberships Form:MF MF7.15.10 4.1.11 Form: include: The Motorcycle Patriot This This portion portion may may be be retained retained by by member member as as aa receipt receipt for for payment payment Newsletter, Membership Card, $2500 Accidental Death & Dismemberment Benefit, Event Updates, Voting Guides, and the ability to interact with some of the most politically active motorcyclists in the state of Arizona. of of Arizona Arizona
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Receipt for Membership
The MMA of Arizona needs the support of all motorcycle riders and we hope you will consider joining this dedicated organization.
Received Received By: By: ________________________ ________________________ Amount: Amount: $$ ________ ________ Date: Date: _________ _________ Cash: Cash: Yes Check #: #: ______ ______ Note: Note: _______________________________________ _______________________________________ Yes Check
Please join us in the cause to protect your rights. Check out our website at www.mma-az.org
May May We WeAlways Always Ride Ride Free! Free!
July/August 2011
Page 3
From Our Chairman Chairmanʼs comments relative to motorcycle rights and the MMA of Arizona. Tom Corr MMA of AZ Chairman Casa Grande District
Although I have not been able to do any riding due to employment obligations, I hope most of you have been able to enjoy the great riding weather in the last few months. It has been surprisingly nice. I have an update on Colin from Larry Stroud: Larry told me that Colin's sons saw him on Saturday morning (6/4/2011 the same day as the High Country District benefit for Colin). My understanding is Colin has had a pretty rough go of it these last few weeks; the hospital has him hooked up to a kidney machine, as he has had kidney problems. Both his kidneys are still functioning, they just need some help.
His heart has gone into fibrillation a few times but the hospital believes they now have it under control. He is also suffering from pneumonia, which they are treating and believe is controllable. Colin has had to have partial amputations of some fingers due to the severity of his burns, but the skin and grafts are doing okay. At the time of this writing all surgeries have been stopped due to mounting health issues. The doctors are optimistic they will continue sometime soon and warn there are many more to follow in the future. From what Larry related to me, the benefit that he and his district put on for Colin had a great turn-out and they raised about $4,500. Way to go people! Wish I could have been there.
Some sad news: James Marion Dewey, former Casa Grande District Manager, died June 8, 2011. James, (“Jimmy,” as he was known to most), succumbed to the many health issues he had been dealing with in the past year or so. I knew that Jimmy had no family to speak of and asked the hospice nurse what was planned in the way of services. She said no services were planned. Jimmy had requested he be cremated and his remains be sent to a distant relative in Oklahoma for burial with his parents. He went by Jimmy James because he hated his middle name, and is most likely really pissed that I just revealed to every one his middle name was Marion. Just think, Jimmy, now you owe me one and get to smack the crap out of me the next time we meet. Rest in peace my friend. On to some happier news the 501(c)3 we have been working on is progressing nicely we have a board in place. They are as follows: Chairman - Mick Degn, (MMA Lobbyist); Vice Chairman - Ron Arieli, (Team AZ – MMA Life business member); Board Members - Jerry Weiers, (State Rep - AZ, MMA Member), Warren Levenbaum (Law Tigers, MMA Life Business Member), Joseph Hoodak, (Patriot Editor), Michele Osborn, (MMA Secretary/Interim Secretary), and Thomas Corr, (Current MMA Chairman).
We still do not have a Treasurer in place but will soon. Our first priorities are to get the Treasurer in place, re-define the Mission Statement and Bylaws, as the ones we have now are the same as the 501(c)4 and will not work for us long-term. Just to recap, the primary role of this new 501(c)3 is to make motorcycling safer and more enjoyable by advocating for safer riding environments. Our clear intent is to decrease crash-incident rates for motorcycle riders statewide through automobile operator education programs. We are a resource to provide, and ensure access to, quality education and training for current and prospective riders.
This can only be accomplished through the efficient use of the seed funds from the MMA and the pursuit of additional funding from both the Federal government and the private sector. This priority is paramount to provide the widest range of benefits to motorcycle riders throughout the state.
Things That A Motorcycle Can Teach Us! Submitted by Tom “Teekay” Kartler
1. The only good view of a thunderstorm is in your rear view mirror. 2. Four wheels might move the body, but two wheels move the soul.
3. I'd rather be riding my motorcycle and thinking about God, than sitting in Church and thinking about my motorcycle.
4. Life may begin at 30, but it doesn't get really interesting until about 95 mph. 5. Midnight bugs taste just as bad as noontime bugs.
6. Sometimes it takes a whole tank of gas before you can think straight. 7. A bike on the road is worth two in the shed.
8. Young riders pick a destination and go, old riders pick a direction and go. 9. When you are riding lead, don't spit.
10. Catching a yellowjacket in your shirt at 75 mph can double your vocabulary 11. I've never seen a motorcycle parked outside a psychiatrist's office.
• Create an atmosphere of camaraderie among individuals where motorcycling can be enjoyed in a free and responsible manner • Educate individuals and organizations regarding issues and activities in the legislative and judicial branches of the government, at both State and Federal levels
• Encourage interest in and promote the protection of our nation's Constitution and Bill of Rights • Encourage and support involvement in the legislative process
• Educate automobile drivers and motorcycle pilots regarding motorcycle awareness and safety
• Promote a positive image for motorcycling by being pro-active in our individual communities • Conduct fund-raising activities to support these objectives.
12. Bikers know why dogs stick their heads out car windows.
13. Look where you want to go, otherwise you may end up someplace you don't wanna be. 14. Always leave yourself an exit strategy. 15. Know your limits.
16. Never be too busy to practice. It's what separates the really good riders from the average ones. 17. Always start the ride with a full tank and an empty bladder.
18. Think of the map as a canvas on which you will paint your dreams. 19. Always ask the cops where to eat. They know all the good places. 20. The reward is in the journey!
21. Don't be in such a hurry to get there that you don't enjoy the ride. 22. Leave enough room for someone else's mistake. 23. Never pass gas. Always top off.
Rim Country District Attends Jester Run
Motorcycle Riders Motorcycle Riders F oundation Aw A wareness & Foundation Awareness Education (MRF A&E) Education (MRFA&E) w as established to to pr omote was promote motorcycle aawareness wareness and motorcycle educa tion due to to an ev ereducation everincreasing rrider ider popula tion. increasing population. more cconcerned oncerned No one is more rider safet saf ety than rriders iders with rider safety themselves, and ob viously themselves, obviously suited to to educa te those best suited educate newer rriders iders are are vveteran eteran rriders. iders. newer
As most of you know, we lost our beloved Barbie last year. Barbie was very involved in ABATE and MMA of Arizona here in Payson. We had one of the best rides we've had in a long time. We had 25 riders, and it was a beautiful day for a ride.
Thank you Verde Valley District for holding this event. We wish we didn't have to have an event like this, but it helps a lot of us with closure. Becca - Rim Country Pictures by Joystick
The 501(c)3 will target the most important areas to truly make a difference in rider safety, promoting motorist awareness of motorcycles through dissemination of Public Service Announcements on billboards and on-air media. We're motorcyclists working for motorcyclists. As individuals concerned with traffic safety, we want to see a significant reduction in motorcycle/motor vehicle crashes. Thank you to all of the MMA districts that have committed to supporting this endeavor. Tom Corr Chairman MMA AZ
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MMA Objectives
July/August 2011
Promote awareness Promote awareness and a educ ation in the motorcycle motorcycle education ccommunity ommunity tto o improve improve rider ’s saf ety. rider’s safety. Please donate, Please donate, we we are are a Corporation. 501C3 C orporation. Your Your donation donation deductible. is tax deduc tible. To To donate dona donatte go to to our web web site site listed listed at at the bottom. bottom.
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The Disgruntled Biker
Also, you say you have “been riding for more than 35 years.” Have you really?
Submitted by a disgruntled biker
If I had a beer for everyone who said he had “been riding” for X number of years, I could drink for free the rest of my life. However, if I gave back a beer everytime it turned out they meant they had been an owner for X years, or they meant that was how long ago they bought their first bike, I could barely get through the weekend without having to buy.
CHROME – man I love chrome. I donʼt have much on my bike but I like it on yours. The fact that you spend $20,000 more on your bike and raise the valve of it by nothing is cool! You still have a stock bike but itʼs shiny. Cool…..
When you pull into Hooters once a month at least youʼll blend in with everyone else. Just remember that bike wonʼt look cool without your half gloves and dealership tshirt. “Bunch of Jackasses.” Until next time, have a bright sunshiny day! The Disgruntled Demigod Biker
May 13, 2011
Dear D.D.B.
35 years – that's a long time. I got my first bike in 1969 at the tender age of 24, (a sweet little chopped Triumph 650 – pretty big for back then). Seems that a bunch of us "CShifters” on the fire department wanted to do something fun together off duty as an offset to the "stuff" we saw on shift. So my roots are in the brotherhood and camaraderie aspects of “the life.” That 30-year career taught me one thing: life is too fleeting to spend it in negativity.
True, there are those old-school dudes out there that cling to the 70s image of the outlaw biker, just like there are those that don cowboy garb and mentally live in the 1800s. Hey, whatever floats your boat! I may not get it but I certainly wonʼt call any of them a jackass, or judge their behavior. So the point is, if I see you on the road be prepared for a wave. If I see you at a bar, I'll probably buy you a shot and a beer. If that makes you irate and me a jackass so be it. Try to lighten up, neither one of us has an unlimited supply of years remaining. Fred Frederick
June 8, 2011
Disgruntled Biker,
How do you expect anyone to respect your opinions when you hide in anonymity? Obviously you aren't nearly as "old-school" as you like to think. Old-schoolers, while being opinionated, stand up for what they believe, and don't hide behind a pseudonym.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND ATTEND YOUR DISTRICTS MEETING
After 35 years of "been riding" you should have at LEAST a half-million miles under your butt on bikes. That isn't even 300 miles a week – barely a Sunday breakfast ride for someone who has bikes as a way of life.
Bottom line, if you reach the point you can stand up for your own opinions, and if you really have "been riding" for 35 years, and you have ridden more than a half-million miles, look me up. I'll buy the first round and we can swap road stories. I have no doubt that if you have ridden as much as you say, we will find some things in common. Maybe we can each learn of places we may have missed but need to see.
Check time & location on page 2
While I bought my first bike in 1969, I don't say I've “been riding” since then. I didn't start "been riding" until the late seventies. And yes, I most definitely have "been riding" since then. And....wait for it....I sign my own name to my opinions. Dave Rollins
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July/August 2011
Page 5
COPPER DOME Continued from page 1
This year the Senate had 196 bills signed into law for 2011, while the House had 161. The Senate sponsored 706 bills, and the House had 801. Thatʼs a total of 1,507 bills sponsored and only 357 signed into law. As you look at the voting record for our Legislators, we had some folks that missed 0 floor votes, while others missed up to 100 or more.
As we look at 2012 and the bills weʼre watching, we continue to ask for examples on HIPPA. If youʼve been denied insurance coverage due to motorcycle accidents, please get us some examples. In addition, weʼre looking at the following:
• Right-of-way regarding left hand turn lights • MVD outsourcing • Handlebar height, (i.e. is this a safety issue and how many examples do we have?)
The other area that we will focus on is how to make Motorcycle Safety and Awareness more of a priority in our State. This year we have seen far too many accidents and deaths due to motorcycle versus automobile factors. Kirk Adams, the Speaker of the House in 2011, has stepped down, and Andy Tobin was elected to fill the position. As we move into 2012, we will have Legislators looking ahead to the end of the year and elections. Are they going to run again, is their term up, or is there a redistricting challenge for them? Who will be the supporters of the Motorcycle Community?
We will see a lot of activity in the political arena over the next couple of years. Stay close to those representing your District. It becomes more and more critical that you are involved and get to know your Legislators. If you have District meetings, invite them to your meetings to talk. As they meet you, donʼt hesitate to put them on the spot regarding their support for the motorcycle community and our issues. You have two Members of the House and one Senator in your District. Thatʼs three guests for three different meetings. A great opportunity for you to tell them what MMA is all about, while discovering what your District does to promote Motorcycle Safety and Awareness and how they can help us. Donʼt forget to tell them that we have three lobbyists out there working with them: yours truly, Billy Larson and Bobbi Hartman. Thanks again and have a great summer. Ride safe. Mick Degn Designated Lobbyist Lobbyist@mma-az.org
Eagle District Report Submitted by Jay Duett
Another couple of months has passed by already and the good riding weather is coming to a head very soon. We all have been scattered here and there these past weeks doing different activities with the local businesses and riders alike. We had a couple people on the Jester Run which worked out great, for they picked up the plaques of the fallen brothers for the M.C.ʼs who could not make it down there. We went to their open house and were very grateful that we did; we were welcomed with open arms. I would like to thank A.L.M.A for making us feel at home that night. We also hosted Sage and Sands 1st Annual Blessing of the Bikes bike show that was held on May 22nd and had a really good turn out for what little advertising they did. They had vendors, live music, and a whole lot of raffle items to give away. We, the MMA Eagle District, were honored to have hosted your bike show with zero problems whatsoever and contributed to the success that it was! Would also like to give a special thanks to Black Sheep for giving their blessings for our bikes to have a safe journey on the miles ahead.
basis for now. Communications will call the week of the meeting and let everyone know where it will be held. Our Thursday Bike Nights are held at Antars on 95th Avenue and Camelback at 6PM. We need to put our heads together and think of something fun and exciting to base a run on – we need to start receiving some income for the MMA to go on fighting for our rights to be free and ride. I know the summer months are very hot and itʼs hard to get people out, so Iʼm thinking maybe an overnighter to Sedona... Slide Rock Lodge is one of our business members and they would love to have us all up there! Something to think about – just putting it out there – see if it sparks up any other ideas. I would like to end this on a safety note. Iʼm not as good as our Road Captain Buzzard, but here are some thoughts to keep in mind. Itʼs very hot outside and the sun is coming down hard on us. All cagers are very comfortable in their air conditioned rides, not paying attention sun glaring on their windshield, and one must assume they are messing around on the phone or playing with radio etc…. Try to use some foresight and trust your gut feelings in these situations. Assume that truck will pull out or the car next to you will turn into you. Lead the pack, donʼt get stuck in the middle of it. We hear stories every summer about road rage. Just be careful out there and donʼt forget to check on tire pressure! Jay Duett Eagle District Communications
White Mountain District Report Submitted by Rich Tuminello
The Hon-Dah Hotel and Casino will be holding a rally on July 4th weekend. The WMD has voted to send $70 to the Eagar Fire Department for a fire safety class for 30 local children.
A reminder that we will be returning to our summer meeting schedule time of 10AM, to allow for a road trip after the meeting, beginning June 5th at the VFW in Eagar. All are welcome. Rich Tuminello Corresponding Secretary White Mountain
Verde Valley District Report Submitted by Chris “Rebel” Childers
Just a quick note - the 15th JESTER RUN was a great time for all who came out. We had a sweet ride through the Verde Valley. The customer service was good, and the turn-out for the run was too. We had a terrific time at the end party. It was great to see so many MMA members from the other districts up here. Hoping to have more runs up this way. We have a new ADM, Billy Storms, and a new Activities Officer, Pat Rogers, on board. Things in the Verde Valley are starting to look up! Till next time, RIDE HARD, RIDE FREE, AND BE SAFE
Casa Grande Presents Plaque Submitted by Mick Degn
Steve “Muskrat” Musgrave was presented with a plaque in appreciation for his MMA Lobbyist work over the years. Tom Corr and I presented it to him at the Casa Grande District Meeting.
We cannot forget the NCOM rally that was in our district held in New Mexico we were very fortunate to have had four members, all officers, to have gone and represented us to the full extent. They all went to different seminars and brought back full reports on what they had learned, and shared the information with us. Mojo even brought back a DVD on topic of some discrimination issues we come across on a day-to-day basis. Mojo, Cheri, Buzzard, and Billy – thank you for the time you all took to give us an insight to what is happening on a national level. Enough on where weʼve been! Now letʼs focus on where weʼre going! We are all aware that Chuyʼs is closed down and we no longer have our meetings there. We still meet on the third Sunday at 9AM. The location is not permanent right now, for we voted to support our restaurant business members and visit them on a rotating
Page 6
July/August 2011
Bring a friend to your district meeting
Look Twice For Motorcycles Submitted by Smokn Joe T
Arizona Federal Credit Union started carrying a public service announcement for motorcycle awareness and safety. LOOK TWICE FOR MOTORCYCLES, three slide with a powerful message.
I want to give a special thank you to Arizona Federal Credit Union's marketing director, Patty H. and SVP/Chief Marketing Officer, Jason P.. Patty took several suggestive samples from friends who are involved in motorcycle rights, Joseph "Inspector Gadget" Hoodak, MMA Patriot Editor, Big Rich of AZBIKERINFO.COM, and Michelle Osborn, MMA State Secretary. This was an Idea that turned into a reality by just asking! We can all do this! Ask your branch manager who the contact person for the monitors is in your bank or credit union then ask them what it takes to get the message displayed. Ride Safe
MMA of Arizona Calendar of Events Saturday, August 20th
2nd Annual "Bikers for Biofuel" Poker/Casino Run. Biodiesel U.S., Inc. presents the 2nd Annual Bikers for Biofuel Poker/Casino Run. Starts at the Grasshopper Grille, (Page Springs Road and Cornville Road), in Cornville. Ride through Jerome, Prescott, then back to the Old Corral Bar in Cornville, (11375 E. Cornville Road), for beer, free food, Keg Toss contest, car bash, Vintage Vixen bike wash, vendors and casino tables, (craps, Texas Holdʼem, Black Jack, Roulette, etc.). High- and low-hand cash prizes, and many casino prizes! Sign up at 9AM, kick stands up at 10:30AM. $20 per rider, $10 per passenger. All proceeds help the Cottonwood/Oakcreek, Jerome/Clarkdale, and Mingus School Districts maintain their biodiesel program and scholarships. This program saves the schools thousands of dollars a year. Free lunch, live bands and $500 in play chips included. Come scrub your soul clean from your evil deeds by helping these schools save GREEN. www.Biodieselus.org.
JULY
Saturday, July 9th — Phoenix Brotherhood RC Second Anniversary Party. Brotherhood RC would like to invite you to join us for our Second Anniversary Party. Starting at 7PM on July 9th at Wild Bill's, located on 27th Avenue just south of Glendale. We have two great bands starting at 8PM. Nurse Rachet and Power Steering. There will be drink specials, vendor promos, and a good time to be had by all. So come party with the brotherhood!
Saturday, July 16th — Phoenix
MMA Leather District 4th Annual Brotherly Love-In. Spuds Bar and Grill, 3558 W. Northern. Bring out your tiedye and fringe and join us for a night of brotherly love to raise donations for a worthy cause. $5 per person, or a donation of dog food, towels, blankets or anything else a dog looking for a home might need. We will also have some dogs on site for adoption. The rescue this year is right in our back yard: Animal Rescue in Glendale, located 51st Avenue and Northern. Hula-hoop contest, paddle ball contest, best tie-dye costume contest – win prizes! Come in out of the summer heat and hang loose with your extended biker family. Call Val at 602-487-8317 for more information.
Due to the Wallow Fire in Springerville, the Run With The Wolf Rally that was to be held on June 17 & 18 was rescheduled for October 7th & 8th. Update provided by Rich Tuminello
Corresponding Secretary White Mountain District
To submit event information please contact MMA of AZ State Event Officer by phone at 623.695.5659 or Email cgates0617@yahoo.com.
October 7th & 8th
J O IN US AT THESE EVEN TS
Friday, July 22nd - Sunday, July 24th — Mormon Lake.
Too Broke for Sturgis. Hosted by ABATE of Arizona as a yearly fund-raising event, Too Broke is a blast for everyone that attends. The money raised goes to a great cause: fighting for your motorcycling freedoms. Old school biker event, must be 18 and older. Everyone who attends is made to feel like family.
Saturday, July 23rd — Meyer
Veterans Appreciation Day at Grand Canyon HarleyDavidson in Mayer. Noon to 4PM. Free BBQ, music and prizes. We are located 8 miles west of I-17 on North State Route 89A. See www.grandcanyonhd.com.
Saturday, July 23 — Glendale
Spartan Riders open house, Glendale Club House, 6002 W. Maryland. Starts at 7PM. Food, drinks and a good time.
AUGUST
Friday, August 19th — Glendale
Rough Riders M/C (Papago Chapter) 10th Anniversary Pre-Party. Starting at 7PM at the VFW Post #1433, 63rd Avenue south of Northern. New 2010, 883 Iron Harley Davidson raffle! Bike to be given away at 10th Anniversary Party on August 20th. $20 per ticket. Only 2,000 available! Bike Raffle tickets on sale now. See any RRMC member to purchase. For more information contact: Warhead at 623-340-3708.
Saturday, August 20th — Glendale
Rough Riders M/C (Papago Chapter) 10th Anniversary Party! Starting at 6PM, DAV Post #20, 8447 N. 61st Avenue, (1/2 mile north of Northern). $10-Singles, $15Couples, in advance. $15-Singles, $20-Couples, at the door. $5 discount for all Military ID card holders! PreParty on Friday, August 19th at 7PM, VFW Post #1433, (63rd Avenue south of Northern). Only 2,000 available! Bike Raffle tickets on sale now. See any RRMC member to purchase. Live music, Papago chile, 50/50, raffle drawings! Proceeds to support Arizona Veteranʼs. For more info contact: Warhead at 623-340-3708, or Swett at 928-503-1764.
July/August 2011
Page 7
Lobbyist Update Lobbyist information and update relative to motorcycle and citizen rights. Mick Degn Designated Lobbyist Casa Grande District
NCOM Conference 2011
NCOM this year was held at the Hyatt in Albuquerque, NM. We have two conventions each year: National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and Meeting of the Mind put on by Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). Both conventions are good in that they have a variety of topic session for you to attend. In addition, you pick up as much from outside the meetings, while talking to members from your state and others, as you do in some of the sessions. As in any convention, you will have some good sessions and some that are not as interesting and that depends on the individual. You have ABATE, MMA and the clubs from many different states, which allow for us to see a lot of successes and observe some that havenʼt done as well. In both cases you can learn from them. Keep in mind, what works in one state might not work in another state, but there are some good lessons learned from them all. I believe MMA had 13 from Arizona in attendance and they took part in the whole conference. We are fortunate to have two of our members involved in NCOM. Steve Musgrave, (Muskrat), is on the NCOM Board. Bobbi Hartman is on the NCOM Legislative Task Force. They both do an outstanding job of representing MMA and the Motorcycle Community. A special thanks to those that were able to attend, and to the districts for sending a representative. Some of the topics for the conference were: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
NCOM Legislative Task Force Profiling Federal Court Case Personal Injury Study National Overview of Sport Bike Problems Structure of National Sport Bike Association Lobby 101 Sport Bike Issues Public Speaking U.S. Defenders Program Women in Motorcycling Clean and Sober Presentation by Rick Miera, Member State Legislature for New Mexico Regional Meetings (Break-out sessions about what is going on in each state) Motorcycle Only stops and roadblocks II Amendment “Your Right to Bear Arms” Awards to different individuals for Accomplishments
MMA was well represented at NCOM and it was neat to see everyone that could make it. Itʼs hard to attend these events because they fall partially into the work week and conventions can be long. With the meetings during the day, and the get togethers during the evenings to talk about the day, it can get exhausting. Everyone that attemds gets something out of these conventions. It might be new insight from one of the seminars, conversation with folks at night on what is going on in their state, or even a long term friendship that you can build to support similar causes.
We always pick up some good rumors and stories to tell on individuals and groups – just fun stuff. Well, you know the story about Vegas – what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas! I think some of what happens in Albuquerque stays in Albuquerque, too. Now, you could ask the districts if you wanted to have some fun… Bottom line, it was good and for those that attended for the first time, I hope they got something out of it. For those that couldnʼt make it this time, if you can handle a convention and your district can send you, try to make the next one. You might be pleasantly surprised what you learn and the fun you can have. One last note, it was Hollywood & Vineʼs wedding anniversary and they made it there for their district. Now that is commitment. Mick Degn MMA Designated Lobbyist Lobbyist@mma-az.org
Page 8
2011 NCOM Conference Report Submitted by Bobbi Hartmann
After 15 years, it was great to once again attend the NCOM conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The first session Friday started off with the NCOM Legislative Task Force (LTF) meeting – I am a member. Chairman, State Senator Putnam of South Dakota, described the new structure of the LTF and informed the participants that we are available to assist them in their states, and just a phone call away.
Opening ceremonies were conducted by Doc, Chairman of NCOM, who introduced the hosting parties and the mayor of Albuquerque. Mayor Richard Berry, talked about his relationship with New Mexico bikers and standing side-by-side with them in the future.
In the first seminar, Double “D,” Outsiders MC out of Washington state, and one of the key people in the passing of Washingtonʼs recent Profiling Bill, talked about how we have to “unify” and “focus” on the same political issues. He described the importance of documentation, and the ability to represent ourselves in public and to the legislators. The elements we need to do that are: natural passion, knowledge, the ability to embrace the language and confidence. He stated you have to be knowledgeable on the subject, so that you become the “expert.” You need your organizationʼs support, to be able to “control the message” and have consistency along the way. He spoke of the importance of a Media Kit that is visually appealing, and contains the Purpose, History, and Mission Statement of our organization as well as an official Press Release and Organizational Summary. Gimmy Jimmy, Bandidos MC and National Commander of the US Defenders program, talked about the importance of all of us researching the “Fusion Centers” in our states, and of telling our legislators about them. Following is a report from the Confederation of Clubs General Patch Holders Meeting:
Indiana – Has a pro-motorcycle Governor that may run for the White House. Has a lot of participation from ABATE of Indiana in their COC. North Carolina – Ran a “specialized plate” Bill to allow motorcycle clubs to have their names on their plates.
Oklahoma – Their COC is doing better than just OK, and they are hosting Region II in 2011.
Southern California – Have had to change their COC meeting locations, due to law enforcementʼs putting pressure on building owners. They had one of the largest blood drives ever and surprised the local hospital by breaking an all time record. Success with “Share the Road” signs decreasing fatalities and running a repeal on “biker only” checkpoints.
Southern Nevada – Have spent 12 years trying to repeal the helmet law and finally got it out of committee this year.
Arizona – Talked about last yearʼs no colors run to Kingman and the success of the protest run to Pima County Fair this year and how, after showing up with lawyers and the media, 300 patch holders were allowed access to the fair. This was brought upon by the fairʼs “No Colors Policy,” leading to the 2010 arrest of a member of the Devils Disciples MC. He was charged with criminal trespassing for not removing his colors when asked to do so, but had been a vendor at the fair and in and out of it for days prior. Texas – Talked about the unbelievable success of the US Defenders program and how Gimmy Jimmy came into Corpus Christi and “Lit Them Up.” They make a point of being seen and recently filled the rotunda at the Texas Capitol on legislative day. North Dakota – Supported a “rumble strip” Bill, as they have a lot of accidents caused by drivers crossing the center line.
North Carolina – Working well with their MRO, achieved execution of the US Defenders program, and finally got a sponsor to submit an Equal Access Bill. Michigan – Working on a helmet repeal.
PA, Eastern Town – The cop shop there doesnʼt like bikers riding through their town with their “colors” on. At least one club member gets ticketed every month and weʼre told by locals to just consider it $200 rent a month to ride through their city.
The Keynote speaker at Saturdayʼs general session was none other than State Representative Rick Miera, also a member of the NCOM LTF. Rick is a long-time motorcycle supporter and rider. He welcomed everyone to the “Land of Enchantment,” and said he knew we had a good time Friday night, because he could hear us! He described the historical perspective of New Mexico, the fight to repeal the helmet law in the past, and NHTSAʼs blackmail efforts.
July/August 2011
The state legislators asked themselves, “Do we really want the Feds to dictate via dollars, how we run our state?” He said we need to get organized by seeking each otherʼs help to stay organized and ahead of the game. In closing, he presented NCOM with a House of Representatives proclamation of May 5-8 as NCOM Days, in appreciation for what they do. Following is a report from the Regional Meeting:
Arizona – Discussed Highway signs, handle bar heights, 2010 HIPAA Bill, potential Distracted Driving Bill, left turns, and the Medical Care Plan for bikers in our state.
Wyoming – Didnʼt have any motorcycle specific Bills, but lobbied a non-smoking Bill and against the state putting up energy windmills in their yards, and for being able to exceed the speed limit by 10 mph when passing and against the three-foot clearance of bicycles when passing. As of July 1st, Wyoming will honor out of state “Concealed Carry” licenses. Nevada – Reno Rick doesnʼt understand the “closed COC” concept and talked about their COC having sport bike clubs and womenʼs clubs and even trying to get dirt bikes involved.
Colorado – Talked about surprising the legislators by rallying to the Capitol on a snowy cold day, and how they do not want another call to action on a Bill, if they can help it. Diablo said we need to step up – speak up – and take our House back. Itʼs our effinʼ House. South Dakota – State Senator Jim Putnam, Chairman of the NCOM LTF, spoke of the “No Colors” issue in Sturgis and that more bars are implementing the policy. He said that in the future, S.D. will honor concealed weapons permits from all states.
Washington – Double D described Washingtonʼs success and how the US Defenders Program has brought them together. Theyʼve had 100% success on their protest runs on 1st and 4th Amendments, and with zero incidents on the road, among the clubs or in their establishments, they have been able to show a truly unified effort in making things happen. Most have never seen Pig-Pen smile as much as he has, since Washington riders are speaking with “one voice.” California – COCs and MROs have come together this last year. A victory in Santa Cruz, when fair officials apologized to COC members and opened their doors to them. A final seminar on “Motorcycle Only” Stops and Roadblocks, is a whole article in itself. Perhaps for another time... Bobbi Hartmann MMA Authorized Lobbyist NCOM LTF Member bobbij2@earthlink.net
Albuquerque 2011 NCOM Report Submitted by Billy Larson
I had the very unique pleasure of attending NCOM this year in Albuquerque. I've been trying to think of what to say and how to express my experience. Everyone gets something different from it and takes that experience home with them, and then shares this with their Districts and clubs or organizations.
As I was trying to find a way of putting this into words, I read what Mick Degn and Bobbi Hartman were thinking. They are amazingly prolific and covered the meat and potatoes of the conference extremely well. Anything I might come up with would be simply redundant. So as I talked to some of the others in my District who were able to make the conference, I realized that, since they have taken their own unique outlooks home with them, I'm going to share their views as well as mine. First we have Mojo. These are his insights.
The NCOM Convention gave me a new feeling of acceptance and appreciation. I went five years ago to the Louisville, KY convention, and to see how much itʼs grown showed me that the convention is working. To see 100 people in the Region Nine meeting, compared to 12 five years ago, was a real inspiration to keep up the fight for motorcycle rights. It makes me feel like I'm a part of something that is making our world a better place. One of the most inspirational speakers was a young man named Double D from the Outsiders MC of Tacoma, WA. Continued on page 9 - NCOM REPORTS
NCOM REPORTS - Eagle District Continued from page 8
Double D, with his clubʼs help and ABATE of WA, were able to pass a Non-Motorcycle Profiling Bill in WA. To look at him, you would never know he could be as articulate and informative as he was. He is an outstanding representative of the motorcycle community and we are lucky to have him. Also to see some of the same officers, (MRO and MC), and many new officers, working hard together for our rights and not getting burned out gave me the resolve to keep going. Sometimes you might feel like youʼre all alone and doing all the work – trust me you are not alone and we are making a difference.
Spread Your Wings & Fly Eagle District Board Member Mojo
Next we have Cheri Dubrow
What a beautiful ride for all five of us: Mick, Billy, Buzzard, Mike, and Cherie, 10 hours 220 miles later. Friday was the first day of the AIM Attorney Conference. Richard M. Lester discussed freedom of the road and use of the courts. Bottom line, if you get into any situation, call the AIM attorneys. They may not be able to handle your case, but can refer you to the proper people. Opening Ceremony – Good overview of orientation and goals of the convention. Good speaker from the state of New Mexico; alas, I canʼt remember his name.
World of Sports Bikes – Everyone agrees that we need this very valuable group of riders. NSBA doing a lot to try and get the various groups together. U.S. Defenders program – Moderator Gimmy Jimmy, Bandidos MC/COC, shared great information on how the U.S. Defenders program is working throughout the U.S. Women in Motorcycling – Great discussions on issues of women and motorcycling. Two groups of "Leather and Lace," one in New York and one in California, have been disagreeing for years, but came together at this venue to put down the disagreements between them and move forward in a positive manner.
SMROs and COC – Learning to work together. Some great examples of how to work beside each other instead of fighting each other. Freedom Fighters Social – Not many attended, but it was nice that they provided this event.
Saturday, first day of General Session, great speakers. 214 names read for the ringing of the bell, very moving. Unfortunately, there are too many names each year. We learned about fusion centers the government is setting up with databases of information on bikers.
Regional Meetings – we are Region 9. COC Pima County Fair Protest Run had 400 bikers participate. Last year it was the Kingman Protest Run. Before that, it was Jerome. We have lost some great people, Kimmy, PaulaR, and the injuries to Colin and J. Our Lobby Team:
Sky Pilot – lobbyist for COC, Governors office of Highway Safety. They are very uncooperative. Will not approve the use of our network of Highway Signs, (Amber Alert). The HIPPA law was shot down by the insurance companies. Currently working on handle bar height requirements. No comprehensive study has been done to determine what, if any, danger the height of the handle bars presents. Bobbie Hartmann – working on unfair settlement and incidence of denied coverage in some cases. Unfair discrimination will not cover. Distracted Driver Bill was too close to the current reckless driver legislation.
Mick Degn – we have had money swept from our State fund by the state. We are establishing a 501(c)3 and have attorneys and a legislative person on board. We will use it to educate through on-air media, PSAʼs and billboards. Carol – ABATE has had several left turn accidents this year; working on trying to change the traffic signals.
Cat – Medieval Maidens Arizona Motorcyclist Medical Care Plan from Tennessee. $300/individual per year for physician coverage. $500/couple, $750/four people.
“Motorcycle only” stops and roadblocks. Double D from Washington state, told us about the no profiling bill they passed unanimously. He offered to share the bill with anyone trying to get this type of bill passed in their states. 2nd Amendment – right to bear arms. Some states will allow you to carry your weapon if you have met your states requirements.
Silver Spoke Awards Banquet – honoring those that have worked so hard over the year to make sure motorcycle riders are safer, treated equally, and not harassed. Sunday – 10 hours 220 miles later glad to be home.
Editor’s Space Comments relative to the content, design and production of this publication.
Web sites: EFF.org, USDeffender.org
Joseph Hoodak Editor, Motorcycle Patriot Leather District
Bills to get involved in: HR904 Federal Bill, S436 Fix gun law to require all sales go through registration, (even private transfers). HR822 national right to carry, (guns). MMA attending districts: Eagle Leather Phoenix Casa Grande Northern Rim Country
About this issue...
Next year NCOM – Indianapolis, Indiana
Then we have our Road Captain, Buzzard
On the 5th of May 2011, I had the privilege of attending the 26th Annual NCOM Convention. The ride there, along with other members of the MMA Eagle District, was fun as well as pleasurable. The weather was fantastic and being with friends and associates was enjoyable. We checked in at the Hyatt Regency, dead tired and ready to relax. Some of us went and socialized with other riders! This was a great opportunity to find out who was there and where they were from and who they were representing. We met some very interesting and articulate people from all over the country. The next morning, May 6th, the first conferences were held: "Freedom of the road and the use of the courts," followed by "Profiling," "Personal Injury," and "Structured Settlements." I couldn't wait for lunch! At 1 PM the Opening Ceremonies started with the Pledge of Allegiance and host comments. And a very nice welcome speech from the Mayor of Albuquerque, NM. I attended the "Public Speaking” presentation, performed by a young man of about 24 or 25 years of age, and a member of the Outsiders MC, State of Washington COCs. You would never have guessed by the looks of this young man that he would be so well informed, intelligent and articulate with his presentation! His case was in regard to a $90,000 court award from the state of WA for motorcycle profiling and illegal roadside spot checks. The best seminar I attended was state MROs and COCs working together, with a message of power and influence in numbers! The guest speakers were very informative and entertaining. “Posers, Wanna Be's and Patch Holders” was the topic; it was educational and funny at the same time. You really needed to be there to grasp the importance and desire in this important topic! At the Freedom Fighters Social, almost everyone ended up outside to talk about the dayʼs events and find out about each other in the beautiful evening weather. On May 7 the General Session started with the Chairman of NCOM Board of Directors offering the invocation, and presiding over special dedications and the "Ringing of the Bell." This year there were 144 names: too many people to leave us so soon. Regional Sessions followed, and we attended Regions 1, 3 and 9. During these sessions, your Regional Chairman makes comments limited to two minutes each. 15 states are represented in these three regions. It was interesting, but long! I attended "Motorcycle Only Stops and Roadblocks," moderated by NY and CT State Attorne. Mitch Proner. His presentation addressed the statesʼ misuse of individual rights, and profiling of motorcyclists. The next seminar covered the 2nd Amendment, "Your Right to Bear Arms," and that evening was the Silver Spoke Award Banquet. The presentations were professionally done and the food was OKAY! Later that evening we all went about on our own; most went outside by the downtown boardwalk and lounge areas to socialize, tell stories and make new friends.
Get our paper out to others. A lot of volunteer work goes into producing the Motorcycle Patriot. We depend on our membership to get them distributed throughout the state. We need your support to pass them around to other riders and businesses. Please distribute the papers you agree to accept, having them sit in a garage or saddlebag is wasteful. Each copy costs MMA of Arizona $.25 to print. Become a Motorcycle Patriot writer. We need stories and pictures for every issue, without the support of our readers and members the paper will wither and die. Give it a try, I am here to help with editing and photo work. Are we getting the job done? Does the Motorcycle Patriot meet your needs; is the information useful, the stories interesting? Send your comments and suggestions to editor@mma-az.org.
For the latest in MRO information and MMA of Arizona updates visit our website. We hope you will check it often.
PDF copies of the Motorcycle Patriot as well as many other documents can be downloaded from our web site.
Thank you to the members who are delivering papers throughout our state; your support is greatly appreciated.
Thank you to the contributors who have provided pictures and articles for this issue. The following is a list of those individuals. Chris “Rebel” Childers Cindy Gates Eric Osborn Jay Duett Julie Cissne Larry Stroud Lee “Snakebite” Gonzales Michele Osborn Mick Degn Steve “Muskrat” Musgrave Tom Corr Tom “Teekay” Kartler Val “Shorty” Bunce Rich Tuminello Smokin Joe T The Disgruntled Biker Fred Frederick Dave Rollins Bobbi Hartmann Mike “Mojo” Reed Addalee “Joystick” Opie Jim “Buzzard” Taylor Billy “Desperado” Larson Becca “Vine” Holyoak Ron Arieli
Thank you all for your support.
Jim Taylor, ”Buzzard" Eagle District Road Captain
And as for me... I was amazed at the grace and eloquence with which the presenters and attendees alike spoke and presented their questions. Itʼs funny how the general public have this misconception that bikers are just a bunch of drunken, no-brained dolts. Nothing could be farther from the truth, and was demonstrated very well at this conference. I was proud to be there and be a part of it. I would like to thank you all for your trust and confidence, and hope you all enjoyed reading about what we experienced. Next year, try to make the trip yourself. You won't regret it! Billy Larson, "DESPERADO" Eagle District Board Member MMA Authorized Lobbyist
Data Snapshots MMA-AZ Memberships
952 individual members, 137 are life members 120 business members, 41 are life members Registered Motorcycles Statewide 158,411
July/August 2011
Page 9
Screw Laughlin 9
Submitted by Lee “Snakebite” Gonzales
Who would believe we have been doing this event for nine years already. Time has just flown by. We hope this event continues for many more years. This yearʼs event was held again at The Butcher Hook in Tonto Basin, AZ. We love the people at The Butcher Hook – they go out of their way helping us out to make this a successful event for all. This year we had about 260 people, up from last year by about 80 people, but still half the attendance of years past. The economy is taking a toll on everyone and we do appreciate all who return every year to support us, and all the new folks who joined us for a weekend of fun.
This year we added a few new people games to the line up and they we a huge success and a barrel of laughs.
This yearʼs people games included Screw Your Partner, (the toilet paperplunger game), Strap-On, where the ladies had to put a bra on their partner, and Midget Toss. We also had bike games that included Slow Race, The Great Race, Ring Toss and the Trike Race, where we use tricycles – itʼs always a favorite.
We had attendees from near and far, with a few from Nevada, New Mexico, California, and all over the state of Arizona. A great bunch of people.
There were many of the ACMC clubs that came out to support us, too many to name, and I wouldnʼt want to leave anyone, out so we thank you all. Foolʼs Life and the Brotherhood of Blues Band featuring Sara Stiles was our entertainment for the weekend, and as always, they rocked the crowd. We canʼt thank them enough for traveling each year to our event to entertain.
Special thanks to the members of the Leather District, Desert Thunder MC, Limey Riders MC, and Sober Riders MC for all the hard work they put into this event. See you all next year at Screw Laughlin 10! Snakebite
Page 10
July/August 2011
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Page 11
MMA of Arizona Business Member Listing - listed by city At Large
Sober Riders MC, Inc Organizations and Clubs Business Life Member
Apache Junction
Captainʼs Bars & Restaurants 300 W Apache Trail #118 Apache Junction, AZ 85217 480-288-2590 Business Life Member Garfields Sports Bar Bars & Restaurants 10123 E Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85220 480-380-0558 Mirage Sports Grill Bars & Restaurants 1075 S Idaho Rd #108 Apache Junction, AZ 85219 480-671-3846
Sundance Restaurant and Lounge Bars & Restaurants 1535 Old West Highway Apache Junction, AZ 85119 480-246-4496
Paulʼs Motorcycle Shop Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 1678 W Superstition Blvd #10C Apache Junction, AZ 85220 480-288-4395 Superstition Harley Davidson Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 2910 W Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85220 480-346-0600 American Legion Riders Post 27 Organizations and Clubs 1018 S Meridan Rd Apache Junction, AZ 85220 602-541-2441 Business Life Member
Arlington
Desert Rose Bars & Restaurants 18300 S Old US Highway 80 Arlington, AZ 85322 623-386-0789
Avondale
Daddy Dukes Bars & Restaurants 215 W Van Buren Avondale, AZ 85323 623-882-3853
Dart Cycle Worx Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 1060 N Eliseo Felix Way Ste 10 Avondale, AZ 85323 623-925-5503 Adobe Chapel Funeral Home Services and Miscellaneous 218 N Central Ave Avondale, AZ 85323 623-932-4418 Business Life Member
Buckeye
Waddellʼs Longhorn Corral Bars & Restaurants 1629 N 195th Ave Buckeye, AZ 85396 623-853-0395
Parker Paralegal & Consulting, LLC Services and Miscellaneous 12112 S Dean Rd Buckeye, AZ 85326 602-370-7103 Rebel Ink Tattoo / Body Piercing Services and Miscellaneous 22776 W Pima St Buckeye, AZ 85326 623-332-2754
Page 12
Casa Grande
Airport Tavern Bars & Restaurants 1801 N Pinal Ave Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-560-2309 Silver Bullet Bar Bars & Restaurants 1401 North Pinal Casa Grande, AZ 85222 520-836-1363 Wonder Bar Bars & Restaurants 310 W 2nd St Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-836-9987
Chandler
Chandler Elks Lodge #2429 Bars & Restaurants 1775 W Chandler Blvd Chandler, AZ 85224 480-963-6262 Elkʼs Lodge 2429 Organizations and Clubs 1775 W Chandler Blvd Chandler, AZ 85224
Coolidge
Tags Cafe Bars & Restaurants 156 N AZ Blvd Coolidge, AZ 85128 520-723-1013
Cornville
Grasshopper Grill Bars & Restaurants 1160 B S Page Springs Rd Cornville, AZ 86325 928-649-9211 Old Corral Bar Bars & Restaurants 11375 E Cornville Rd Cornville, AZ 86325 928-649-9495
Page Springs Restaurant Bars & Restaurants 1850 N Page Springs Rd Cornville, AZ 86325 928-634-9954
Cottonwood
Kactus Kateʼs Bars & Restaurants 929 N Main St Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-634-7822
Players Sports Bar & Grill Bars & Restaurants 1100 State Rt 260 Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-634-3966 Rockin B Saloon Bars & Restaurants 625 E Hwy 89A Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-634-9511
The Bar at Strombolliʼs Bars & Restaurants 321 S Main St Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-634-3838
Biker Babes and Beyond Clothing 418 N 15th St Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-778-7494
A Touch of Class Custom Trikes Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 1421 E Birch St Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-254-0957 K.A. Cycle Accessories & Service Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 595 S 6th St Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-634-1364
July/August 2011
Seitz Architectural Design Services and Miscellaneous 782 Cove Parkway Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-646-1788 Business Life Member
Deset Hills
Skinny Dipping Pools Services and Miscellaneous 2706 W Valley View Trail Desert Hills, AZ 85086 602-292-4033 Business Life Member
Eager
Safire Restaurant & Lounge Bars & Restaurants PO Box 1478 Eagar, AZ 85925 928-333-4940
El Mirage
United Tattoo Services and Miscellaneous 12013 W Thunderbird Rd El Mirage, AZ 85335 623-933-1835
Flagstaff
Hogʼs Family Restaurant and Lounge Bars & Restaurants 2200 E Butler Ave Flagstaff, AZ 86004 928-779-5852 Katts Towing & Recovery Services and Miscellaneous 5450 E Penstock Ave Ste C Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Fountain Hills
Flapjacks et al Bars & Restaurants 16605 E Palisades Blvd Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 480-837-2910
Gilbert
Team Arizona Motorcyclist Training Center Services and Miscellaneous 36 N William Dillard Dr Gilbert, AZ 85233 480-998-9888 Business Life Member
Glendale
Charleyʼs Place Bars & Restaurants 4324 W Thunderbird RD Glendale, AZ 85306 602-439-1668 Business Life Member
Chuyʼs Mesquite Broiler Bars & Restaurants 5134 N 95 Ave Glendale, AZ 85305 623-877-4025
JFJ Cycles Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 4350 E Thunerbird Glendale, AZ 85306 602-561-6297 Limey Riders M/C Organizations and Clubs PO Box 780 Glendale, AZ 85311 623-930-9165 Business Life Member
Goodyear
Clubhouse Grill Bars & Restaurants 14175 W Indian School Rd Suite C1 Goodyear, AZ 85395 623-535-4857 Romans Oasis Bars & Restaurants 16825 W Yuma Rd Goodyear, AZ 85338 623-910-7133
Hoot & Howl Bars & Restaurants 55 N Litchfield Rd Goodyear, AZ 85338 623-932-3580
Greer
Neon Moon Bars & Restaurants PO Box 28 Greer, AZ 85927 928-735-7774
Holbrook
Winners Circle Bars & Restaurants 466 Navajo Blvd Holbrook, AZ 86025 520-524-9600 Business Life Member
Laveen
The Spurr Lounge Bars & Restaurants 5535 W Baseline Rd Laveen, AZ 85339 602-237-3309
Mayer
Smokinʼ Harleyʼs Steakhouse Bars & Restaurants 10456 State Route 69 Mayer, AZ 86333 928-632-4255 Business Life Member
Mesa
Smokeyʼs Bar and Grill Bars & Restaurants 1734 E Main St Mesa, AZ 85203 480-833-1950 Spirits Bars & Restaurants 9303 E Apache Trail Mesa, AZ 85207 480-986-5572
Mainstreet Motorcycles Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 9750 E Apache Trail Mesa, AZ 85207 480-357-7595 Business Life Member Skunk Motorsports Inc Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 720 S Country Club Dr Mesa, AZ 85210 480-649-2800 VIII Society M/C Organizations and Clubs 7930 E 1st Ave Mesa, AZ 85208 480-227-2690 Business Life Member
Americaʼs Ultra Clean Services and Miscellaneous 738 E Dana Suite A Mesa, AZ 85204 480-206-4003 Business Life Member
New River
Roadrunner Restaurant & Saloon Bars & Restaurants 47801 N Black Canyon Hwy New River, AZ 85087 623-465-7888 Business Life Member Harris Roofing, Inc. Services and Miscellaneous 1717 W New River Rd New River, AZ 85087 623-465-4520
Overgaard
The Cabin Bar & Grill Bars & Restaurants 2763 Hwy 260 Overgaard, AZ 85933 928-535-6117
Page
Peoria
Windy Mesa Bars & Restaurants 800 N Navajo Dr Page, AZ 86040 928-645-2186 Business Life Member
M&M Medical, P.C. Services and Miscellaneous 15182 N 75th Ave #180 Peoria, AZ 85381 623-487-3334
Ranch House Grille Bars & Restaurants 819 N Navajo Box 3491 Page, AZ 86040 928 645-1420 Business Life Member
Blairʼs Trading Post Clothing 626 N Navajo Dr Page, AZ 86040 928-645-3008 Business Life Member Page Boy Motel Lodging 150 N Lake Powell Blvd Page, AZ 86040 928-645-2416 Business Life Member
Page Honda Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 915 Coppermine Rd Page, AZ 86040 928-645-3251 Business Life Member Classic Auto Body Services and Miscellaneous Box 2756 Page, AZ 86040 928-645-9023 Fredʼs Liquor Store Services and Miscellaneous 902 N Navajo Dr Page, AZ 86040 520-645-3575 Business Life Member STIX Bait & Tackle Services and Miscellaneous 5 S Lake Powell Rd Page, AZ 86040 928-645-2891
Payson
Jakes Corner Bar Bars & Restaurants 57564 N Hwy 188 Payson, AZ 85541 602-359-1068
Mazatzal Casino Bars & Restaurants PO Box 1820 Payson, AZ 85547 800-777-7529 Business Life Member
Amon Builders, Inc Services and Miscellaneous 903 E Hwy 260 #6 Payson, AZ 85541 928-474-0689 Business Life Member Coyote Auto LLC Services and Miscellaneous 310 W Main St Payson, AZ 85541 928-472-1100 Markʼs Mobile RV Service Services and Miscellaneous 122 W Matlock Dr Payson, AZ 85541 602-616-8803 Miller Auto Works Services and Miscellaneous 600 W Main St Suite A Payson, AZ 85541 928-468-8855 Business Life Member Payson Packaging Services and Miscellaneous 106 E Bonita St Payson, AZ 85541 928-474-5260
Steveʼs All-Clene Carpet Cleaners Services and Miscellaneous 609 W Bridle Path Ln Payson, AZ 85541 928-468-1358
CJ Creations Clothing 10348 W Cashman Peoria, AZ 85383 623-412-2110 Business Life Member
Phoenix
Maverick Saloon Bars & Restaurants 9605 N 19th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85021 602-943-5680
Bikers Bay Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 2530 E Bell Rd Phoenix, AZ 85032 602-923-0114 Wheel Shop Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 1621 E McDowell Rd Phoenix, AZ 85006 602-253-1344 MotoTire Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 13012 N Cave Creek Rd, Ste 7 Phoenix, AZ 85022 602-374-5877 Angelo Bellone CPA-PLC Services and Miscellaneous 3420 E Shea Blvd #140 Phoenix, AZ 85028 602-765-6111 Business Life Member Breyer Law Offices Services and Miscellaneous 15715 S 46th St Ste 100 Phoenix, AZ 85048 480-505-2162 Business Life Member Drain Guys and Plumbing Services and Miscellaneous 4625 N 79th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85033 632-848-3962 Business Life Member
Fabyannʼs Embroidery & Decals Services and Miscellaneous 13439 No Cave Creek Road Suite 7 Phoenix, AZ 85022 602-404-3138 Business Life Member Foolʼs Life Services and Miscellaneous 819 E Spanish Moss Ln Phoenix, AZ 85022 602-770-5593 Law Tigers Services and Miscellaneous 362 N 3rd Ave Phoenix, AZ 85003 602-516-0000 Business Life Member Ramjet Racing Services and Miscellaneous 13207 N Cave Creek Rd Phoenix, AZ 85022 602-788-0364 Rim One Tire and Wheel Services and Miscellaneous 3017 S 46th Street Phoenix, AZ 85040 480-832-7467 Victor Florio and Co. Services and Miscellaneous 4735 N Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85034 602-251-1650 Business Life Member
Prescott Valley
Prescott Valley Motorcycles Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 2741 N Starlight Dr Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 928-772-4266 Business Life Member
Scottsdale
Southwest Trikes Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 7430 E Butherus Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480-951-7171 Business Life Member
Sedona
Sundowner Restaurant Bars & Restaurants 37 Navajo Dr Sedona, AZ 86339 928-282-1858
Sewd
Blue Moon Cafe Bars & Restaurants 6101 SR179, Suite B Sewd, AZ 87351 928-300-3634
Show Low
Native New Yorker #12 Bars & Restaurants 391 W Duece Of Clubs Show Low, AZ 85901 928-532-5100 Business Life Member Days Inn - Show Low Lodging 480 W Duece Of Clubs Show Low, AZ 85901 928-537-4356 Business Life Member
Springerville
Coyote Creek Saloon Bars & Restaurants Hwy 60 and D St Springerville, AZ 85938 928-333-4022 Business Life Member Java Blues Bar & Grill Bars & Restaurants 341 E Main St Springerville, AZ 85938 928-333-5282
Sunnyside Restaurant Bars & Restaurants PO Box 1135 Springerville, AZ 85938 928-333-9313
T D Automotive Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 633 E Main St Springerville, AZ 85938 928-333-5207
St. Johns
El Camino Restaurant Bars & Restaurants 277 White Mountain Dr St Johns, AZ 85936 928-337-4700
Mickeyʼs Bars & Restaurants 235 S White Mountain Rd St Johns, AZ 85936 928-245-2384
Strawberry
Sportsmanʼs Chalet Bars & Restaurants 5087 N Hwy 87 Strawberry, AZ 85544 928-951-4292
Gila County Chopper Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 7803 Ralls Drive Strawberry, AZ 85544 480-789-2933
Sun City
Red Onion Lounge Bars & Restaurants 10850 W Carlota Ln Sun City, AZ 85373 602-867-9989
Aces and Eights Cycles Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 9010 N 103rd Ave Sun City, AZ 85351 623-271-7898 Business Life Member
July/August 2011
Surprise
Coyote Alley Bars & Restaurants 16846 W Bell Rd Suite 100 Surprise, AZ 85374 480-320-9852
Arizona Dragon Slayer Exterminator Services and Miscellaneous 26307 N 157th Ave Surprise, AZ 85387 602-526-0919 Business Life Member
Tempe
American Legion Riders Tempe Post #2 Organizations and Clubs 2125 S Industrial Park Ave Tempe, AZ 85282 Business Life Member Aflac Services and Miscellaneous 6197 S Rural rd Ste 103 Tempe, AZ 85283 480-686-4346 Business Life Member
Tolleson
Fuego Bar & Grill Bars & Restaurants 9118 W Van Buren Tolleson, AZ 85353 623-478-7300
Pepeʼs Lounge Bars & Restaurants 91525 W Van Buren St Tolleson, AZ 85353 623-936-8817
Tonopah
Tin Top Bar and Grill Bars & Restaurants 2614 S Wintersberg Rd Tonopah, AZ 85354 623-386-1501
Tonopah Joeʼs Family Restaurant Bars & Restaurants 41101 W Indian School Rd Tonopah, AZ 85354 623-386-3895
Tonto Basin
Cactus Flats Bars & Restaurants Hwy 188 Mile Marker 260 Tonto Basin, AZ 85553 928-479-2233 Punkin Center Bar Bars & Restaurants PO Box 795 Tonto Basin, AZ 85553 498-250-4519
Tonto Village
The Double “D” Bars & Restaurants 354 Johnson Blvd Tonto Village, AZ 85541 928-978-0734
Wickenburg
Blodgett CPA, LLC Services and Miscellaneous 610 W La Golondrina Dr Wickenburg, AZ 85390 928-684-0660
Youngtown
Curlyʼs Customs Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Accessories 12040 N 111th Ave Youngtown, AZ 85363 623-977-0339 Business Life Member
Other
Law Offices of Richard M. Lester Services and Miscellaneous 21054 Sherman Way 3ed Floor Canoga Park, CA 91303 800-521-2425 Business Life Member
Page 13
COLIN
Continued from page 1
In our shock and dismay, we prayed, and what we didnʼt know how to do, we suddenly knew how to do, and we did!
I wanted to take this opportunity to personally thank all the M.M.A. Business members who allowed us to use them for a stop: Smokin Harleyʼs, P.V. Motorcycles, Blue Moon Café, K&A Cycles, Grand Canyon Harley, and Nadineʼs Stuff and Things, even though a couple of them just did the Jester Run. Knowing this, we went in another direction and emailed Lenore Payne of the Black Sheep Ministry and she sent out an S.O.S. A flood of responses came back to help, to sit with these overwhelmed members, and pass out our M.M.A. safety paraphernalia to the riders. Black Sheep provided a chase vehicle in case of breakdown, and hung out at Smokin Harleyʼs the day of the event to do whatever was needed. Thank you: Ken, Mike, Lenore, Doug, John, Dawg, Curtis, and many others Iʼm sure I have missed! We could not have pulled it off without you! Personal thank you to all of Prescott, and Prescott Valley businesses which provided an abundance of gift cards, and donated items for the raffle and auction.
Personal thank you to The Hometown Radio Group who provided free radio spots for Colin for a week prior to this event. Special thanks to Allison Flannery, Vice-President of Advertising and Sales, who went to bat for us with the owner, Sanford. Personal thank you to Melcher Printing who provided posters at no cost for our sign-up tables.
Personal thank you to Mayor Harvey Skoog, for coming in to emcee our raffle auction and fight Stony for the microphone. You donated your time for a close personal friend of yours, and we love you for it! Colin loves you for it!
Personal thank you to Mary Hart of the M.M.A. Phoenix District, You drove up here, spent time with my wife and me, taught us how to close out an event, and stayed ʻtil the end. For that, and your companionship, youʼre a newfound friend and we applaud you. You are much appreciated. What a gem you are!
Personal thank you to Lynnette and Glenn Marshall. You provided your business, (noise buffering to dinner customers), time, staff, cooked all day, ran all night, kept our “nest egg” safe, and had Budweiser make a special banner, (which by the way Glenn gave to Colin to hang in his garage). He wouldnʼt have it any other way!! Big hearts – awesome business people – donated 25% of all their proceeds. You out-did yourselves, and Iʼm sure youʼre probably still sleeping! You earned it.
My heartfelt thanks to everyone else I might be overlooking here, not intentional. We met many of Colinʼs friends from past to present, and we were dumbfounded by more than 100 people who just showed up and donated money. Colinʼs sons came up after visiting with their father. I asked them to please share his update with the crowd, (no sugar coating), and Ian exceeded my expectation. I wanted to remind the crowd why they were there spending their hard earned money. It was a sobering moment for us all. If it had been anyone else, we would have responded in the same manner. Colin and Ian, along with Ianʼs girlfriend Ann, participated in the raffle, assisting Mayor Skoog. There was such an abundance of gift cards we had to double down on the prizes just to get to the auction items and still be able to leave at a reasonable hour. In total, we had 73 riders that signed up and rode. We did experience one casualty, a husband and wife here from Orange County South Black Sheep Chapter, Don and Cindy Leath. Please keep them in prayer as they heal from their injuries. To avoid running into a truck, while averting from a dog running across the road, they laid their bike down. They have decided itʼs time to put away the road riding. They will be missed on the road, I hope to meet them in the near future and thank them for participating in our event. I praise God for his presence with them.
This will be forever etched in my heart. Colin is my close family friend and we love him. We only wish we could have done more. My wife has made a scrapbook of photos for him to view when he is able and back among us, ʻcause the next event will be ALL HIS!! Larry Stroud High Country District Manager
Page 14
Popsʼ 90th Birthday Party Submitted by Lee “Snakebite” Gonzales
Saturday, June 4th was a day so many of the Leather District had looked forward to, as it was the day we got to present Pops with our labor of love: his new motorcycle. In April we had a fundraiser to see if we could raise enough money to fix Popsʼ Royal Enfield, which was damaged in a rear end collision two years ago, and get him back on the road.
Michele, our wonderful ADM with her trusty towtruck, picked up Popsʼ bike and took it to a local shop to assess the damage. Pretty much the end result was the frame was tweaked and broke…essentially it was totaled. Okay, time for Plan B. Michele and Eric started to look for an alternative that was in our budget, and was constantly monitoring Craigʼs List for a good deal. Finally they spotted “the one,” a 1998 Ural Duro with a sidecar and in great condition. Immediately, they knew it was perfect, and they could picture Pops on it. They went over to see the bike and took it for a test drive; this was the best deal we were going to find and we had to act quickly. We were $500 short of the price, so with little time to get it done we did the only thing we could…we passed the hat around. Between the Leather District and some local club members we were able to collect the remainder of the funds and purchased the bike. Saturday was the day we waited for to give Pops his special present. His face was worth a thousand words! I have never seen him so happy. As someone stated, “He didnʼt look 90 today, he looked 50,” and he glowed with the knowledge he would now be back in the wind. More than 100 people showed up for the party, most of which had donated in some way to the project. I have never seen so many happy smiling faces. The atmosphere was the best I had experienced in a long time. When Pops saw his bike he climbed right on and examined everything. He sat astride that bike for nearly an hour. He was in another world away from the party.
Even when he got off the bike he sat beside it with his hand still on it. It almost seemed that he thought it would go “poof” and be gone if he didnʼt keep ahold of it. He told me it was so beautiful and reminded him of the old days. He was even happier that it had a sidecar and wasnʼt a trike. He also said it was the best birthday he had ever had.
At that moment, I was never more proud to be a part of the district that made it happen, and I have been proud of a good many things the Leather District has done. But this was different. It was helping someone we dearly love, a person that, in a big way, is part of the history of motorcycling. Someone said he gave all he could as Pops was an inspiration and source of hope to them that as they age they can still ride. This was more than heart warming for all of us – I believe it even warmed our souls. So Pops… ride hard, ride free and ride often until the end of your days! We all love you! Snakebite
July/August 2011
VICTORY Quiz Submitted by Tom Corr
Q1: Victory offered its first motorcycle for sale on July 4th of what year? 1992 1994 1998 2000 Q2: What was the name of the first Victory? Freedom V98A Vegas V92C
Q3: Which of the following is not a 2005 model Victory? Vegas Ness Signature Cruiser 8-Ball Hammer
Q4: What celebrity rode the Victory motorcycle as it was first introduced to the public? Robbie Knievel Peter Fonda Al Unser, Jr. Arnold Schwarzenegger Q5: What is the Polaris advertising tagline? Freedom in the Outdoors The Way Out People on Machines Forever Young
Q6: The parent company of Victory, Polaris, was founded in what year? 1954 1964 1974 1984
Q7: What was the name of the unique service that Victory introduced in 2002? Custom Order Program Six-Year Warranty Free Scheduled Maintenance Upgrade Your Bike
Q8: Which of the following 2005 models features a Freedom 100 V-Twin and 6-speed transmission? Kingpin Ness Signature Kingpin Hammer Ness Signature Vegas Q9: How many motorcycles did Victory sell in 1998, its first year? 1000 2000 4000 8000 Q10: The 2005 Victory Hammer has a super fat rear tire. How fat is it? 195 mm 200 mm 250 mm 300 mm Answers on page 15
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Why I'd Rather Ride
RIDE
Ponder this, won't you? Whoʼs who in 1923 and what became of them...
TIPS
Submitted by Lee “Snakebite” Gonzales
Oh No – I Dropped My Bike!
Carol Youorskiʼs Easy Steps for Picking Up a Fallen Motorcycle. This is a method perfected by Carol Youorski. It is the safest and most effective method; it can be used to for a variety of motorcycles, and by people of varying physical sizes.
Most of us have witnessed the scenario at least once in our motorcycling life: someone drops his or her motorcycle and three or four guys run over to help muscle it upright. But, have you ever seen someone actually upright oneʼs own motorcycle alone? It can be done, and Carol Youorski, a BMW rider from Atlanta, has been traveling to rallies around the country showing people how to do it. Carol is a 5ʼ3”, 118-pound woman who rides a 2000 BMW GS 1150, a 600-pound motorcycle – and she can demonstrate how to pick it up. These steps are for a bike that has fallen on its left side: 1. Hit the kill switch. Make sure the motor is off. 2. Turn the gas off, if necessary.
3. Make sure the bike is in gear if you can get to it. (If it is not in gear and you canʼt get it in gear, the technique is more difficult, but it can still be done.) 4. Standing with your butt toward the seat, stoop down and with your right hand take the left grip.
5. When you grab the grip, pull it until it is as close to the tank as possible. With your left hand find something sturdy to grab hold of under the seat. The closer your left hand is to your body the better.
6. Place your butt midway on the edge of the seat. This is crucial. The placement of your butt too high or too low on the seat will not give you the leverage angle. You are pushing the bike with your butt and upper legs. You will have to pull up with your arms a bit, but mostly you will be pushing the bike up with your legs. Use baby steps in bringing your feet back and raising the bike.
7. You must have good traction under your feet or they will slip. If there is gravel under your feet, sweep it away with your boots. Same for grass. 8. Once you have the bike up, carefully put the side kickstand down and lower the bike onto it. If you canʼt get the side stand down with the heel of your boot, turn carefully and grab both grips, then put the bike on the center stand, Carolʼs Tips:
The process is the same if a bike is on its right side. Your hands are reversed of course. It is easier to get it into gear. Remember to put the side stand out first so that you can ease the bike onto it once it is upright.
In 1923, who was:
1. President of the largest steel company?
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2. President of the largest gas company?
3. President of the New York Stock Exchange? 4. The greatest wheat speculator?
5. President of the Bank of International Settlement? 6. The Great Bear of Wall Street?
These men were considered some of the worlds most successful in their day...
Now, 88 years later, the history books tell us what became of them. The answers:
1. The president of the largest steel company: Charles Schwab, died a pauper.
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2. The president of the largest gas company: Edward Hopson, went insane. 3. The president of the NYSE: Richard Whitney, was released from prison to die at home.
4. The greatest wheat speculator: Arthur Cooger, died abroad, penniless. 5. The president of the BIS: shot himself.
6. The Great Bear of Wall Street: Cosabee Livermore, committed suicide.
In that same year, 1923, the winner of the worldʼs most important road race, the Isle of Man T.T., was Stanley Woods. What became of him? He won 10 T.T. races between 1923 and 1939. He lived on the Isle of Man and rode motorcycles all his life. He lapped the island circuit at 82 mph in 1957 for The Golden Jubilee when he was age 54. He was a wealthy man when he died at the age of 90.
The Moral: Screw work. Ride motorcycles!
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If you feel like there is no way this bike is going up like this, then move the position of your butt, If that doesnʼt work, try changing the flex of your knees. Carol says she tries not to flex her knees too much to begin with. Often when you get the angle just right the bike goes up like itʼs made of paper. Adrenaline tends to push the bike over to the other side.
Carol Youorski truly is an inspiration to women in motorcycling. She also has a video on her site that demonstrates the technique to pick up your ride. To read more visit www.pinkribbonrides.com.
Answers to VICTORY Quiz Q 1 - 1998 Q 2 - V92C Q 3 - Ness Signature Cruiser Q 4 - Al Unser, Jr. Q 5 - The Way Out Q 6 - 1954 Q 7 - Custom Order Program Q 8 - Hammer Q 9 - 1000 Q 10 - 250 mm
Carol says itʼs not so much about the size, but whether a bike has a low center of gravity. Some sort of bag or bar on the side of the bike preventing it from being completely over on its side makes it easier to upright. Sport bikes are the hardest of all bikes to lift this way because they have a high center of gravity and do not have anything between the pavement and the frame. If a bike like this falls over, Carol recommends using a piece of wood, or a bag, or something else that can be shimmied under the side of the bike to get it off the pavement a bit.
Rim Country — Dan Shover is owner of Coyote Auto: Rim Country Districtʼs newest business member. They service all gas and diesel automotives and RVs.
They belong to the ASA and are ASE Certified Technicians. If you need work on your vehical when youʼre in Payson, call Dan. Coyote Auto 310 W. Main Street - Payson 928-472-1100
July/August 2011
Page 15
NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)
THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. If youʼve been involved in any kind of accident, call us at 1(800) ON-A-BIKE, or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com. NEW HAMPSHIRE PROHIBITS MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECKPOINTS In an unprecedented victory on the motorcyclistsʼ rights front, New Hampshire became the first state to bar motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints. HB 148, cosponsored by longtime biker activist State Rep. Sherm Packard, prohibits the acceptance of federal funding for the discriminatory roadblocks.
“No law enforcement agency of the state or a political subdivision of the state may accept federal funding the purpose of which is to establish motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints,” states the new law, which takes effect 60 days after passage.
Packard was one of the first biker-legislators in the country, and as an original member of the NCOM Legislative Task Force he literally wrote the book on “Getting Elected To Public Office”, a pamphlet that can be ordered free of charge through the National Coalition of Motorcyclists at (800) 525-5355 or via the internet at www.ON-A-BIKE.com. On the flipside, however, Virginia recently joined New York, Georgia, Utah and Maine in conducting such controversial roadblocks, with the Arlington County Police Department setting up a motorcycle-only checkpoint on May 28th during the annual Rolling Thunder POW/MIA rally in Washington D.C. over Memorial Day weekend.
Also, on May 16th ABATE of New York held their annual Freedom Rally/Ride to the Capitol and as participants departed in small groups to return home, law enforcement units pulled over many of the riders and issued numerous citations of dubious legitimacy, primarily for helmets and exhausts. “This ride has been held without incident for 15 years,” said Robert “Prospector” Boellner, a member of the NCOM Board of Directors representing the New England states, adding; “It is believed that this action by New York State Police was retaliation for a class-action lawsuit filed by AIM Attorney Mitch Proner against state police and DMV to stop the practice of motorcycle-only roadblocks.” CONGRESSWOMAN GIFFORDS CONTINUES MIRACULOUS COMEBACK
In what many have dubbed a miracle recovery, Arizona State Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) continues to make amazing progress after being shot in the head at a political rally during a shooting spree that left six dead and 19 others wounded. Her doctors credit her “will to live” with keeping her alive, despite initial news reports that she had been killed, and she is now expected to leave the hospital soon to continue her outpatient therapy and treatment from home.
Giffords remains seated in Congress and among her many duties she serves as co-chair of the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus along with U.S. Rep Michael Burgess (R-TX). The bipartisan caucus is comprised of motorcycleriding reps who promote motorcycling interests in Congress. She and fellow rider Rep. Allen West (R-FL), newlyelected Congressman from Florida who also now sits on the motorcycle caucus, were selected by the NCOM Board of Directors to receive the Silver Spoke Award Government at the National Coalition of Motorcyclists annual NCOM Convention in Albuquerque, NM this past May. MICHIGAN POISED TO REPEAL HELMET LAW
After decades of protesting Michiganʼs 42-year old helmet law at rallies at the State Capitol, motorcyclists converged on the statehouse on Wednesday, June 8 for a "Call To Victory Rally" in anticipation of a repeal bill making it to the desk of newly elected Governor Rick Snyder. Gov. Snyder has not committed either way, but he replaced Jennifer Granholm who twice vetoed repeals that were approved by the state legislature in 2006 and 2008. It appears that lawmakers are once again poised to approve legislation that will allow freedom of choice for many of Michiganʼs 241,000 motorcyclists. The Senate Transportation Committee recently passed a repeal measure that will soon go before the full Senate, while a similar bill is pending in the House of Representatives. The Senate bill would allow those 21
Page 16
and older to ride without a helmet if they have had a motorcycle endorsement for two or more years, or have passed a safety course. The House bill would allow those 21 and older to ride without a helmet if they have a $20,000 medical policy in place.
Vince Consiglio, state director of ABATE of Michigan, said there are enough votes in both chambers to change the helmet law. "We're not opposed to helmets, but it should be a choice," Consiglio says, adding that the issue ought to be the education of motorcyclists and drivers of other vehicles to avoid collisions in the first place. ABATE pushes motorcycle training and education for riders, and awareness for those in other vehicles. The battle over helmets has also been waged in courtrooms across the state, with A.I.M. Attorney Larry “Katman” Katkowski challenging the enforcement of the law on behalf of ABATE and the Michigan Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs.
BILL WOULD ALLOW SUNDAY MOTORCYCLE SALES IN PENNSYLVANIA In the past, Pennsylvania "blue laws" prohibited the sale of nearly all products on Sunday because of religious reasons associated with the Sabbath, but a new bill is aiming to allow motorcycle dealers to open their doors seven days a week.
Right now, you can only buy parts and accessories on Sundays. "We always joke that you can sell all the parts to build a motorcycle but that you can't sell the motorcycle itself," said a spokesperson for State Senator Tommy Tomlinson (R-Bucks) who introduced legislation that unanimously passed through the Senate and now moves to the House. Many dealers are eager for the change, especially since neighboring New Jersey recently lifted their ban on Sunday cycle sales and have posted positive sales figures. Motorcycle businesses in Indiana and Wisconsin have also been trying to overturn prohibitions on Sunday bike sales. ALABAMA MAY EXPAND MOTORCYCLE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Alabama is the only state where a person can get a motorcycle license without ever sitting on a motorcycle. Would-be motorcyclists as young as 14 don't have to take a skills test to obtain a license, just a written one. Rep. Allen Farley, R-Jefferson, and eight co-sponsors are behind the House version of a bill (HB-576) to require graduated licenses and mandate testing that includes riding. It would require future motorcycle licenses to include a written test and a skills test for ages 14-17. It also would introduce a graduated driver's license law that would restrict motorcycle operations for ages 14-17.
“Issuing a motorcycle license with a written test and no skills test is just setting people up for failure. The lack for a mandate of training and education can be directly linked to reports of accidents,” said Richard Randolph, Alabama Motorcycle Safety program manager. “Sixty-nine percent of all motorcycle-involved accidents, the cause was the motorcycle operator. That's steady year in, year out.” Currently, there are 47 state-legislated rider training programs in the United States and all but five US states waive motorcyclist license testing for graduates of rider training courses. Only 15 states require completion of a rider ed course to obtain a motorcycle endorsement, usually for riders aged 18-21. VERMONT TO CREATE MILITARY LICENSE PLATE FOR MOTORCYCLES
Vermont will soon have a special motorcycle license plate to honor Vermont's veteran and active duty members of the military who ride. Governor Peter Shumlin signed the bill into law on Tuesday, May 24, and it takes affect on July 1. The new law also allows members of the military to get veteran license plates before they retire. The governor's office says in the past military personnel who have made a career of their service would have had to retire to receive the plate.
Adrian "Andy" Megrath, president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Rutland Chapter, told The Republic newspaper that the motorcycle plate is another way of showing "how proud we are of veterans, and how many of us there are." TRAFFIC FINES BOLSTER BUDGETS
The economic downturn has put loads of stress on state and municipal budgets across the country, and with strong public pressure against raising taxes lawmakers are raising traffic fines instead. Continued on page 18 - NCOM NEWSBYTES
July/August 2011
Lady Rider Report Comments and tips writen specifically for our female motorcycle riders and passengers.
Val “Shorty” Bunce Leather District Communications & Activities
Dangerous Curves – For Lady Riders
Lesson #4 –Temperatures have reached over 100 in the Valley already, so I know a lot of riders will be heading north for camping and cooler weather. Following is a pretrip inspection checklist for your motorcycle. No one, (and I mean no one), wants to be broken down on the side of I-17 when itʼs 108 degrees outside and 120 on the road! Ride safe this summer. • Check under the motorcycle for leaks, obstructions, etc. • Check for body damage.
• Check tires for tread depth, wear and damage, sidewall damage, inflation, valve caps, spokes, wheel hub, oil and grease leakage, (visual inspection only). • Check brakes for wear, if possible.
• Check front shocks/forks for damage, secure attachment and oil leakage. • Check signals.
• Check headlight/running lights. • Check cables on handle bars. • Check fuel valve for leakage. • Check levers.
• Check left rear footpeg, chain guard, chain tension, exhaust and shocks for damage and secure attachment. • Check rear light, and number plate, for damage. • Check right rear indicator. • Check rear shock.
• Check exhaust for secure attachment.
• Check carburetor and engine for gas and oil leaks. • Check rear brake and front footpeg. • Check shock.
• Check fuel cap seals on tank. Top off your tank! • Adjust mirrors before you get on the road.
• Make sure you have your license, registration and proof of insurance.
• Make sure you have your cell phone, a first aid kit, some water, and a small tool case. • Dress in light colors to deflect heat and be seen. Cotton is best to keep cool.
• Make sure you pack your helmet if youʼre heading through a state that has a helmet law.
The Motorcycle Patriot would like to have some sport bike articles in each issue. If you are interested in submitting an article, or know someone who is, please refer to the left column on page two for more information.
Rider Safety & Maintenance Tips
Safety Check Before You Ride. With the day-to-day hustle and bustle in our lives, it is easy to just put some things off. Many of us, when we are ready to ride, simply go out, jump on the scoot and head down the road. Many think inspection of the bike before every ride is a bit of overkill. Perhaps…but it is your life. If a safety inspection is not something you want to do every time you ride, then at least set a schedule weekly, every other week or when youʼre cleaning your ride to fully inspect your bike. Elsewhere in this issue are helpful tips for inspecting your motorcycle and riding gear for safety. Thereʼs more to inspection than just fluids and tires.
Motorcycle Safety and Awareness
Motorcycling is a sport. More to the point, motorcycling is a motorsport. Have you, as a rider, given much consideration to that statement?
A quick review of what is required for riding a motorcycle reveals some major similarities with almost any other sport like basketball, tennis, baseball, and golf. All of these activities, including motorcycling, require balance, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to plan the next action quickly. To perform well at any of these sports, athletes and riders must do one thing repeatedly: practice. The best athletes in the world, like Steve Nash, Serena Williams, Albert Pujols, or Phil Mickelson, spend massive amounts of time practicing the fundamentals until the basics become nearly automatic. How can we, as mere mortals, learn from the habits of these professionals? Practicing helps with the following: • • • •
Crash avoidance Hazard avoidance Increase of safety margin Enrichment of the experience of motorcycling
Whether you are a weekend rider, having fun cruising around the beautiful landscape of Arizona, commuting to work daily on your trusty machine, or interested in finding your limits on a racetrack with cutting edge motorcycles, we can all benefit from enhancing skills through practice. When a difficult situation presents itself on the roadway or track, what do we rely upon – a hope, wish, or prayer? Or do we rely on our training to aid us through that difficult time?
A fun facet of motorcycling is that we have a chance to practice the fundamentals every time we ride. When was the last time you practiced low-speed maneuvering, braking efficiently, cornering smoothly, or swerving effectively?
We at T.E.A.M. Arizona believe that riding well is a life-long pursuit and we want you to join us in bringing your passion for riding to the educational aspect. The athletes mentioned above all share one thing in common: they consult coaches to enhance their skills. Unlike the sports mentioned above, motorcycling brings with it severe consequences for improper performance. No matter where you are on your road to ride for life, T.E.A.M. Arizona is there for your improvement. Ron Arieli, (President) T.E.A.M. Arizona Motorcyclist Training Centers Inc www.motorcycletraining.com www.teamaz.com
ATTENTION MMA BUSINESS MEMBERS
Please review your business listing on page 12. It is possible that the information we have on file has changed, or we entered something incorrectly. Submit any corrections right away so we can update our database by the next edition. Email to membership@mma-az.org or mail to MMA of Arizona, PMB 138 P.O. Box 30280, Phoenix, Arizona 85046. Help us support you by providing any information you may have regarding discounts for MMA members. Consider placing an ad in our newsletter – your ad is published for a two-month period, and we can help you design it! We also offer web advertising.
ATTENTION MMA MEMBERS
Have you visited an MMA business memberʼs establishment lately? Have you ever recruited one of your favorite hangouts to join as an MMA business member? Help us recruit businesses that are biker friendly! Ask your preferred businesses to consider a membership, or suggest that we can help them design an ad to place in our newsletter and/or on our website. If you have any questions, contact your District Manager, Board Member, or Editor of the Motorcycle Patriot.
Pet Corner
DO YOU KNOW WHAT PET POISONS ARE IN YOU KITCHEN?
Sharing “just a bite” of food off your plate with your pet is harmless, right? Wrong! These are some human foods that can be toxic–even deadly–to dogs and cats.
Grapes and Raisins Just a handful of grapes or raisins can damage your petʼs kidneys or even prove deadly. Even small amounts in trail mix or snack boxes can be dangerous.
Sweeteners Many sugarless gums and candies contain xylitol, a sweetener that is acutely toxic to dogs. Ingestion can cause vomiting, weakness, a life-threatening drop in blood sugar, loss of muscle control, seizures, and liver failure. Onions and Garlic Large amount of onions and garlic in any form – even powdered – can endanger your petʼs health. Effects can range from gastrointestinal upset to severe anemia.
Chocolate Cocoa and chocolate contain theobromine, a chemical that can affect heart rhythm and cause vomiting, diarrhea and seizures if ingested by pets. Yeast Dough Unbaked dough that contains yeast can expand and release gases in your dogʼs stomach or intestines, resulting in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and even lifethreatening bloat, and twisted stomach. Some yeast also ferments in alcohol, (like beer), which can cause alcohol toxicity. 866-vet-pets * www.vetpethealth.com
Pet Poison HELPLINE 800-213-6680. Please be advised there is a per-incident fee. Information provided by Julie Cissne Eagle District Membership Officer
Whatʼs Up With All These Tablets?
Tech Corner Submitted by Ed “Jersey” Smith
Letʼs break this down… What is a tablet personal computer? What you have is a notebook or personal computer that is shaped like a slate that might have some sort of cellular technology and is about the shape of a paper tablet or paper notebook. Today most of these devices are touch screen and/or use digitizing technology to allow the user to control it with a stylus or digital pen, making a keyboard and mouse obsolete.
Some now are referred to as “convertible,” and have an integrated keyboard that rotates and can be folded down. The “slate” models like the iPad or Android tablets usually have only touch or stylus control. Most of the better tablets have Bluetooth capability and there are many options out there for keyboards that will use this technology.
The most impressive thing about these items is their battery life. Because of their low usage and power consumption, the life of the battery has proven to be quite impressive. Some boast more than ten hours! Letʼs not forget the weight of the device. The average weight is about three pounds. Many individuals put their laptops in their closets or placed them in a drawer of the desk and run their entire life or business on their tablet.
Now you are asking yourself, “What would I use it for?” Thatʼs an excellent question. Do you have email? Watch movies or listen to music? Do you browse the Internet? Use Facebook or Twitter? This is just to name a few, and if you answered “yes” to one more of these questions then you are certainly a candidate for a tablet.
If you consider purchasing one there might be a few things to consider. The first is quite simple: can you let go of a full keyboard? If the answer is no, than you may need some deeper pockets. Companies such as Dell, Fujitsu and Motion still manufacture tablets that have rotating keyboards. You can position it like a laptop or tablet by swinging the monitor around to pivot or fully rotate. If you canʼt live without a keyboard, consider a wireless, (Bluetooth), keyboard and give up on that mouse. Then your world is at your fingertips. These tablets could run you from $1,000 to $2,500.
On the market currently, there dozens of different slate tablets to consider, but Iʼm going to narrow it down for you. A few of the more popular ones are the Samsung Galaxy Tab and Apple iPad; projected to be very popular is the Blackberry Playbook. By the time you read this, the Blackberry should be on the shelves. Its projected ship date is between April 18th and 20th of this year. In comparing, you will have three main things to look at: features, size and cost. The only drawback of the Apple iPad2 is the lack of Flash compatibility. Unfortunately, this falls on Adobe rather then Apple, from what they are saying. Otherwise, the largest and most extensive battery life is on the iPad2. They are comparable in terms of hardware and that makes that part easy. Just pick which one has the amount of storage that you want.
The last but most important thing to consider is: Which one has more applications? Apple has the most and this is because they have had so much time to build an inventory with the iPhone over the past few years. The Android devices are catching up fairly quickly and this is because the operating systems are based on similar code. Last but not least is the BlackBerry. Now – BlackBerry has been around a long time. Their application numbers are growing, but at a slower rate. In this technicianʼs experience they have been known to be clunky, expensive, and have a high failure rate. My personal recommendation right now is the Apple iPad2 because of the technical support, reliability, battery life, larger display, integration with PC and MAC on wireless networks, and simply good bang for your buck.
July/August 2011
Page 17
NCOM NEWSBYTES Continued from page 16
Communities and state governments are looking to balance their budgets on the backs of drivers, using the boost in revenue from traffic tickets to help pay their bills.
“Police are having a quick trigger finger,” says Gary Biller, executive director of the National Motorists Association. “Thereʼs less tolerance, and tickets are being issued much quicker. We know the pressure being put on governments, but it doesnʼt justify whatʼs going on.” Speed limits were originally intended to conserve fuel during the energy crisis of the 70s, but have evolved into a $4.5-$6 billion industry according to NMA estimates.
FoxNews.com recently reported that looming budget gaps have turned the roadways into a jungle for motorists, and cite the following examples of over-exuberant penalties across the country: * Parking in a fire lane in Pensacola, Fla., will cost you $100, up from $10. * Georgia recently added a $200 surcharge for anyone driving more than 85 miles per hour. * Colorado increased fines for speeding from $50 to $135. * Portland, Ore., increased fines for parking in a handicapped spot from $190 to $450. * Parking fines in Boston doubled to $40. * Speeding in Florida just 10 miles over the legal limit will cost you $196, up from $154.
Despite the increase in traffic citations, along with increased fines and fees, an estimated 95% of motorists simply pay up and donʼt bother to fight their tickets in court. AIM/NCOM INFORMATIONAL DVD AVAILABLE
The National Coalition of Motorcyclists and Aid to Injured Motorcyclists have a new professionally produced DVD available to bikers and biker groups free for the asking.
Oregon AIM Chief of Staff Gunny Hutcheson, who was honored at the recent NCOM Convention with the Ron Roloff Lifetime Achievement Award, wrote about the new DVD in his monthly Gunnyʼs Sack column: “It features information about the annual NCOM Conventions, the various groups and committees within NCOM, bike insurance and accident info and more. Get with your AIM Rep or AIM Attorney in your home state, or contact AIM/NCOM directly at (800) ON-A-BIKE, and they will make sure you get your free copy to view with your own groups. Watch for AIM/NCOM booths at the biker runs – they should have some available there as well. The DVD is nicely done and very informative.”
Gunny further noted that “Every year we are faced with more and more losses of our right to ride our machines, and the industry has to comply with ever more restrictive directives that control the manufacture of our rides. These are the reasons national organizations like the NCOM exist. My hope is that this DVD will encourage more rider groups to send representatives to every national NCOM Convention. They are held every year in a different city, so more can attend. Itʼs always over Motherʼs Day weekend, and the 2012 NCOM Convention will be in Indianapolis, next May 10-13.“
CIVIL RIGHTS VIOLATION COMPLAINT FORM Name of complainant:____________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Phone:________________________________ Email:__________________________________ The Law: “Every person who, under color of any statute, ordinance, regulation, custom, or usage, of any State …subjects, or causes to be subjected, any citizen of the United States or other person … the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the Constitution and laws, shall be liable to the party injured in an action at law…” 42 USC § 1983. The wearing of colors by members of motorcycle clubs is a means of identifying Club Members and symbolizes their common interests and beliefs. Prohibiting speech of this nature constitutes an attack on a particular viewpoint. Sammartano v. First Judicial District Court, in and for the County of Carson City, 303 F.3d 959, 971-72 (9th Cir. 2002). In Sammartano, the Carson City courthouse enacted a rule to prohibit admission of those with “clothing, attire or ‘colors’ which have symbols, markings or words indicating an affiliation with street gangs, biker or similar organizations,” because “such clothing or attire can be extremely disruptive and intimidating, especially when members of different groups are in the building at the same time.” 303 F.3d at 964. The Ninth Circuit reasoned that the rule singles out bikers and similar organizations for the message their clothing is presumed to convey, and held that the rule impermissibly discriminates against a particular point of view – the view of biker clubs as opposed to garden clubs and gun clubs. Id. at 971-72. Complaint Information Provide names, address, phone number, organization, business, or any other identifying information of the PERSONS ACTING UNDER COLOR OF LAW to violate your rights. (Example: Officer Dom Foke, Small Town Police Department, badge #0666). ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Describe in detail what the person acting under color of law (the police or their agents such as business proprietors) did and said regarding your wearing colors or being present at the location wearing colors. State date, time, location, names of persons present and what they might be able to testify to. Be prepared to make a truthful, accurate statement under oath. ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________
QUOTABLE QUOTE: SPREADING THE GOOD NEWS (The following is quoted from the Editorʼs Column of the June issue of Quick Throttle Magazine, Rocky Mountain edition, and we appreciate the shout-out): “Some More Good News -
- Motorcycle fatalities are down 2% - Motorcycle sales are up 7.2% - Laws are being enacted all over the United States to prevent police profiling and the singling out of motorcyclists for checkpoints and traffic stops - Someday soon it may be legal to run those pesky red lights that donʼt turn green because your motorcycle isnʼt heavy enough to trigger them
For more related news, be sure to check out the AIM/NCOM website (AIMNCOM.com or ON-A-BIKE.com) and sign up to receive their free monthly e-newsletter. AIM/NCOM is a nationwide organization founded to bring motorcycle clubs together and protect the rights of motorcyclists.
Although most of us think of them as just a club entity, the truth is they provide lobbying services and information that benefits all of us.” ~ Deb Mountain, QT Editor
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July/August 2011
Complete and mail to: MMA of Arizona PMB 138 P.O. Box 30280 Phoenix, Az. 85046-0280
DATE: ______________
Documentation of Discrimination
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
Support Our Business Members
Biker Vittles Tips from the table of the ‘Vittles King’
Deadline for your submissions will be August 3, 2010. Send them to bikerfood@mma-az.org.
Well, summer is here folks, and we will have to deal with the heat for a while. I myself have no desire to hang out over a hot grill and would not even consider turning an oven on. When itʼs hot…hot food just donʼt get eʼt. So for this edition I have included some fun kabobs and a classic pasta salad. Keep cool and enjoy.
They Support Us
Greek Salad Kabobs Ingredients:
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small clove garlic, pressed through a garlic press or finely chopped 1/2 pound feta, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 an English cucumber, quartered lengthwise, then cut into chunks 1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 cup pitted black or green olives or my fave Kalamata Olives
Stir together lemon juice, zest, olive oil and garlic and pour over feta and let marinate while you prepare other ingredients. Now thread ingredients onto bamboo skewers: push slowly and gently through the cheese cubes so they donʼt crumble. I will also add cubed roasted chicken from the grocery store on occasion. You can also add chunks of peperoncini peppers for extra zip. Anything works on a skewer. Rolled up ham with chunks of cheese and pineapple, chicken, any kind of veggie and cold meat. Make some fruit kabobs the kids just love them. Strawberries, kiwi, grapes melon balls, pineapple, mango are all good choices. Use can use colored straws as screws also as they are a bit safer for the youngʼuns.
Bacon Ranch Salad
This has been a favorite of mine for many years and the recipe changes from time-to-time depending on the mood but it always goes over good at a picnic or barbeque or just for a cool side for dinner. There are no set rules for this recipe so add what you like and omit what you donʼt. Ingredients:
1 pk uncooked tri-color rotini pasta
10 slices of bacon crisp for crumbling 1 cup mayonnaise
3 tbl dry ranch or bacon and ranch salad dressing mix ½ cup sour cream ¼ garlic pepper ¼ cup milk
1 large tomato chopped or cherry tomatoes 1 can sliced black olives
½ to 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ½ bell pepper any color
½ cup small broccoli florets
½ cup finely chopped red onion
Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. In large bowl mix mayonnaise, dressing mix, sour cream and a little milk and stir until mixed. Place all ingredients in bowl and mix until coated. You can also just use a bottle of your favorite flavored ranch dressing, instead of the wet ingredients and the ranch mix. Like I said, put in anything you like and take out what you donʼt. You can also add any kind of cooked chicken. Salad is better the next day after flavors mix.
THE DOUBLE “D” BAR, STORE & CAFE Tonto Village, AZ - (928) 478-4332
We offer a Full Service Bar, Cafe and Store located in Tonto National Forest We are known for our great Hamburgers
July/August 2011
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