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ABATE of NEW YORKThe Freedom Writer

ISSUE 3 abateny.org

American Bikers Aimed Toward Education ABATE of New York State Office P.O. Box 167 Walker Valley, NY 12588

NON-PROFIT Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Binghamton, NY Permit No. 1039

OR CURRENT RESIDENT

W E L COM E ! Our newest chapter

ABATE of New York

Genesee Chapter

Chapter Officers take their oath

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Over $150 Million Recovered ForOur Clients

• 110 Offices Throughout North America• Free Legal Consultation• No Recovery = No Fee• We make House Calls• Attorneys in Every State and Province Who Ride• No Fee on Motorcycle Damage Recovery• Also Auto Accidents

Law Offices ofRICHARDM.LESTER Founder, Aid to Injured Motorcyclists

Criminal Defense NationwideNew!

24 Hours - Toll Free (800) 531-2424

(800) ON-A-BIKE

HIRE ATTORNEYS WHO RIDE

Affiliated New York Offices to Serve You

ABATE OF NEW YORK SUPPORTS THIS PROGRAM FOR ITS MEMBERS

LAW OFFICES OF

MITCH PRONERATTORNEY AT LAW

New York's Authorized Representative for the Law Offices of Richard M.Lester

Toll Free • 24 Hours

1-800-531-242460 East 42nd Street, Suite 1448, New York, NY

MEMBER OF ABATE OF NEW YORK

A FIRM DEDICATED TO SERVING THE INTERESTS OF THOSE WHO RIDE

Call for Your New A.I.M.Card with Lost Key Finder

THIS BIKE AND RIDER ARE

PROTECTED BY LAW

In Case of Accident

1-(800) 531-2424

FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION OR LEGAL REPRESENTATION

Law Offices of Richard M. Lester

Affiliated New York Offices to Serve YouVisit us on the web atwww.ON-A-BIKE.com

ATTENTION ABATE/CMRO MEMBERS: Our nationwide network ofA.I.M. attorneys donate a significant portion of their legal fees frommotorcycle accident settlements back into motorcycling by being thesole financial sponsor of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists.

We are endorsed by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists andmore than 800 motorcycle groups throughout the United States andCanada, and serve as Legal Counsel for the Confederations of Clubs.

Aid to InjuredMotorcyclists

ABATE of New York, Inc. 2013 State Officers

President Tom Alton 315-342-2446 kc2bwd1alfy@peoplepc.comVice President Matt Grossmann 518-263-5943 matthew138@earthlink.net Treasurer Deb Trask 607-432-2975 debatrask@gmail.comSecretary Prospector 518-239-4560 prospectorspan@netzero.netLegislative Coordinator Mike Giarrusso 315-569-8326 mikegia@email.com Sergeant at Arms Dev Lovick 917-541-8011 devthaent@yahoo.comPublic Relations Terry Higinio 917-250-7978 andhigin@aol.comWestern Region A Coordinator OPENRegion B OPENCnic Region C Coordinator Bob Cunningham 315-380-5768 cunningbob45@yahoo.comMetro NY/LI Region D Coordinator Tanya Cruz 646-533-6167 tanya4ny@gmail.comHudson Valley Mohawk Region E Coordinator Tim Werder 845-744-6346 rdkil@frontiernet.net

2013 State AppointeesState Office Manager Chris Werder 888-344-4400 P.O. Box 167 Walker Valley, NY 12588 cwerder@frontiernet.netTreasury Manager Deb Trask 607-432-2975 debatrask@gmail.comNewsletter Editor Tanya Cruz 646-533-6167 tanya4ny@gmail.comWebmaster John Cholewa 845-705-6370 nomad2000@hvc.rr.comYahoo Moderator Tim Werder 845-744-6346 rdkil@frontiernet.net

NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONSDeadline: May 31st for the July / August 2013 Issue

Send submissions to: tanya4ny@gmail.com Tanya Cruz c/o ABATE of New York State Office PO Box 167 Walker Valley, NY 12588

NEWSLETTER ISSUE: CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINE:September / October July 31, 2013 November / December September 30, 2013 January 2014 / February 2014 November 28, 2013

What is ABATE?American Bikers Aimed Toward Education is a not

for profit corporation formed to promote and protect the interests of New York state motorcyclists. ABATE monitors and interacts with the legislative process, enhancing the image of motorcycling, and provides educational and social opportunities for members and non-members. ABATE will continue to strive to stay acquainted with the issues and the people of the motorcycling community.

We encourage all our members to be informed registered voters. ABATE of New York, Inc. supports Motorcycle Riders Education classes currently being offered throughout NYS. We welcome the interested people to any of our activities and to join our organization. All makes and models of motorcycles are welcome.

For more information, visit our website at: http://abateny.org/

New York State Websites

New York State Assembly http://assembly.state.ny.us/

Assemblymen: http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/

New York State Senate: http://www.nysenate.gov/

Senators: http://www.nysenate.gov/senators

To search for a New York state bill go to http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/

New York State

A S S E M B L Y Sheldon Silver, Speaker

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ay 2013ABATE of New York, Inc. AIMS & PURPOSES

ABATE of New York, Inc. SPONSORS

The following clubs, businesses and organizations have joined ABATE of NY, Inc. to help further our goals

and to help us fight for motorcyclists’ rights by becoming a sponsor.

THANK YOU! We appreciate your SUPPORT!

FULL THROTTLE INS AGENCY- Patchogue, NY SWAHN INSURANCE- Riverhead, NY

Sponsors pay $25 per year to have their business or organization name printed in our state newsletter

and receive a certificate. If your club, business, or organization supports our mission and would like to become a sponsor,

contact Mike Grasby, our Advertising Manager for further details. You can reach him by email at:

michaelg9898@yahoo.com or by phone: 585-728-5246.

SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT US!

ABATE of New York, Inc. MEETINGS 2013

Meetings are held at: American Legion Post 80, 76 Main St.

Binghamton, New York

STATE CHAPTERS MEETINGSThe State Chapters Meetings start at 1:00pm.

The ABATE Board meets at 12:00pm before every State Chapter Meeting.

May 19, 2013

STATE BOARD MEETINGS

The State Board Meetings start at 10:00am.

June 16, 2013

Albany Chapter P.O. Box 3808 Albany, NY 12203 Brooklyn Chapter P.O. Box 245064 Brooklyn, NY 11224 Brooklyn Alliance Chapter P.O. Box 193 Brooklyn, NY 11216 Buffalo-Erie Chapter P.O. Box 286 West Seneca, NY 14224 BuffaloErieAbate.comCattaraugus Chapter P.O. Box 204 Cattaraugus NY 14719 cattcountyabate.orgCayuga Chapter P.O. Box 74 Auburn, NY 13021 Chautauqua Chapter P.O. Box 572 Dunkirk, NY 14048Columbia Chapter P.O. Box 227 Hudson, NY 12534 www.columbiaabate.orgCortland-Chenango Chapter P.O. Box 245 McGraw, NY 13101 cortland-chenangoabate.comFinger Lakes Chapter P.O. Box 353 Hornell, NY 14843 Greene Chapter P.O. Box 92 Leeds, NY 12451 abateofgreenecounty.org

ABATE of Genesee P.O. Box 233 Elba, NY 14058Lewis Chapter P.O. Box 245 Port Leyden, NY 13433Long Island Chapter P.O. Box 22 Yaphank, NY 11980 longislandabate.orgMonroe Chapter P.O. Box 13277 Rochester, NY 14613 ABATEnyMonroe.orgNorth Ulster Chapter P.O. Box 13 West Hurley, NY 12491Onondaga Chapter P.O. Box 11575 Syracuse, NY 13218 Ontario Chapter P.O. Box 546 Canandaigua, NY 14424 abatenyontario.20m.comOrleans Chapter P.O. Box 43 Medina, NY 14103-0043 orleanscountyabate.comOswego Chapter P.O. Box 133 Central Square, NY 13036 www.oswegoabate.orgSouthern Tier Chapter P.O. Box 2441 Binghamton, NY 13902 abateofstny.orgWayne Chapter P.O. Box 332 Ontario, NY 14519 Visit Wayne ABATE on Facebook

ABATE of New York, Inc.

CHAPTERS

Abate of New York17th ANNUAL

FREEDOM RALLY RIDE to the CAPITOL

ALL MOTORCYCLIST ARE WELCOME MOTORCYCLE ONLY CHECKPOINTS

MOTORCYCLE CONFISCATION MANDATORY HELMET LAW

PROFILING AND DISCRIMINATION

HEARD ENOUGH YET ??!!Abate of New York, a motorcyclist rights organization,

has been fighting these & other issues for ALL motorcyclists since 1974,

AND WERE STILL HERE. WE ARE THE LAST LINE OF DEFENSE.

We urge ALL motorcyclists to join us on Monday, May 20, 2013

to make our voices heard at the Capitol in Albany, NY.

THERE IS STRENGTH IN NUMBERSMEETING PLACE:

Samson’s Bar & Restaurant, 1736 RT 9 Castleton-on-Hudson, NY.

Ride leaves at 11:00 am Sharp!!!!! Refreshments will be available

For info call Prospector 518-239-4560 OR Erik 518-701-6939

NO ATTITUDES PLEASE!From Albany -1-90 East to Exit 12, left on Rte. 9 North –

3.6 miles on right

ROBERT “BOBP” PIACENTEAMSOIL AND ALTRUM AUGHORIZED DEALERZO# 1434872

47-37 245th StreetDouglaston, NY 11362

(917) 747-0662piagent@nyc.rr.com

www.lubedealer.com/bobp

The First in Synthetics®

SINCE 1972

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Hello from ABATE of Ontario County

Long Island ABATE Marches and Rides in

the Rocky Point St. Patrick’s Day Parade

From the Desk of ABATE of NY’s State PresidentWelcome back riding season! We need to plan now to ride

on May 20th and bring as many of our fellow riders as we can convince to take vacation, sick, personal, floating holiday or whatever day to ride with us.

As I write this passage the law making Albany crew is out on a small break from work because they think they created a budget. Now as is the ‘norm’ in Albany, three men in a room came up with a plan and the other many more are just signing on. The system that they use to get the job done is very hard to participate with, so I ask that we try to do our job the old fashion way and get our representatives to talk to each other and agree to outlaw the State of New York from taking anymore federal monies for mandatory road blocks of motorcycles only. We have agreed in the recent past that this is what we need to do, so now the news that the Second Circuit US Court of Appeals has upheld the use of roadblocks to detain motorcyclists. The appellate judges agreed with the lower court’s analysis that the governments need to enhance safety is greater than the interference with individual liberty.

New York is one of only nineteen states that mandate helmets, one of only twenty one states that will not allow fracking, one of a small number to allow same sex marriage, it is the state with the most gun laws, very near the highest state taxes and near the very lowest high school graduation rates. This great state of ours needs direction from its people to keep it from isolating itself from the rest of the United States.

We have very good presence in Albany because of the ongoing actions of Prospector and the contacts with the chapters that get support from their local representatives. This year Mike G. the new ABATE state legislative coordinator is starting to make his character know to the lobby scene in Albany.

Every year that we return to Albany in May to ride into the Capitol, it is obvious that we are not going away, we are not just going to say whatever, we are the motorcyclists that must have safer roads to share and help educate the driving public and not just tie ourselves into some more safety gear.

All of the motorcycle rights organizations are having membership soft problems. AMA,MRF, and ABATES in most states but none of them are going out of business. Like us they are getting leaner and able to do just as much with less. We and them have not cut programs or stopped acting on the core matters because that is not the way to make the difference but only to loose ground. As volunteers our work is paid by the facts that we see you the membership returning to the activities that bring the public to know the generosity, dedication and the continued fight for the lifestyle that says freedom has a price and it is not the ride that you can take from us. Find time to be with us in Albany on May 20th. Help show them the strength of the motorcycle community coming together.

TOM-

Riding season is upon us and needless to say, we are so ready for the first ride of the season.

As of this writing we had our Swap Meet, annually held at Inn on the Lake. Absolutely a really great turn out and seeing everyone again was terrific. Meeting new people as well. So many of our members turned out to assist where needed. Thank you so much, again for your support.

Inn on the Lake gets a big Thank You as well. Every year they go out of their way to make us feel welcome, and all who come as well. Thank you all for your support!!

We will be starting a new section called, From the Desk of

Don. Don Mohr is our president elect, and he will be sharing some news from Albany as well as local, concerning us as riders.

We all received a big surprise when we were turning into the parking lot at the Inn. Through the generosity of Darlene and Jeff Rogers and the creativeness of Ewing Graphics in Farmington, NY, we now have a beautiful 4’x8’ sign that will be displayed at all our further events. Thank you both so much.Ride careful: Look Twice and Save a Life Rita Bradshaw, PR

This year, Long Island ABATE was invited to participate in the 63rd annual Rocky Point St. Patrick’s Day Parade. On March 17th, 50 bikes participated and rode and about 20 of our members walked the 3 mile parade route which drew about 40 thousand spectators. Our tailgater was a member’s semi truck which had our Awareness Signs all around the back of it. And a thousand of ABATE’S “Watch out for Motorcycles” bumper stickers were handed out. It was a great day for us to wear a little green and to spread the message to watch out for motorcycles.

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from Buffalo ErieAll is well in Buffalo Erie. We are looking forward to a new

MSF training school opening in April. Sorry to see “Ride with Pride” close.

We also have some of new Chapter officers this year. Everyone wishes the best for our past officers were ever they go. I hope the new officer will enjoy the organization.

I plan to get new product for “ABATEmac” this year, I hope that all chapters that would like to participate can and do. I feel that we should take advantage of the opportunities now, no one can tell how long they may last.

Have a safe spring see ya in Albany Pete Campanella Buffalo Erie Chapter Pres

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INFORMATION TO GET IMMEDIATELY1. Witnesses: This is listed first for they will disappear the fastest (especially due to the public’s fear of bikers). Try and get some sort of identification so they might be contact-ed later, i.e., name, address, phone number, license plate number, where they work, etc. 2. Other Driver: All traditional information is needed: name, address, phone number (at home and work), driver’s license, make/model/color and license of the vehicle. In addition, a very helpful piece of information is the insurance carrier of the driver of the car. If this is not obtained and if the other driver does not respond to letters sent by your attorney, you will find that most states require long waiting periods before supplying the necessary information to pursue your case - that means recovery for your injury could be delayed. 3. One Final Thing: Listen to and memorize statements made by the other driver. These statements (also known as admissions) may be used as evidence in many ju-risdictions. An example of this would be the driver of the left turning car saying, “I didn’t see you”. His statement could be used to prove the accident was his fault. NOTE: Remember, this also works in reverse. Anything you say can also be used against you.

POLICE REPORT - Although most of what is recorded in a police report cannot be used in court, it is a great negotiating tool. Keep in mind that most personal injury cases are settled rather than go to trial. A favorable police report can be instrumental in bringing you a quick and generous recovery for your injuries. As we all know, cops can be a mixed bag. However, (in an accident situation) I have found most police to be fair in their assessment of fault. This is especially true of the motorcycle cop.

INJURIES - This is not the time to show how macho you are. After the actual collision, take a few minutes to check yourself out. The initial shock may numb you as to how injured you really are. Remember, the human body is not made to be bounced off the ground. It is a good idea (and will aid in showing the validity of your case) to get checked out at the local emergency room (hospital) or by your own doctor. Be sure to explain all your pains to the doctor so he or she can make a complete evaluation and treat you appropri-ately for the injuries.

NO STATEMENTS - When you are contacted by the insurance company, (which is usually immediately - even right at your ho spital bed) tell the adjuster you don’t wish to give a statement at that time. Even if your statement seems favorable to you, the insurance company would have lots of time to pick out the flaws.

Keep in mind that the adjuster’s job is to save the insurance company money and, therefore, any money offered as a “fair settlement” will usually only be fair to the insurance company.

CALL A PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY - The first 24 hours after an accident are crucial for your case. An immediate investigation should be started including photographs showing your injuries, the accident scene and the involved vehicles. Statements from witnesses and the other driver should be gotten as soon as possible. The police report should be requested and an inspec-tion of the point of impact for skid marks and other material evidence should be made. You will notice that I advised you to call an attorney who specializ-es in personal injury. The law, as with medicine, is highly specialized, and you are entitled to be represented by an attorney who is best qualified to obtain a maximum recovery for your damages. A quick call to the attorney entitles you to the following services:

1. Protection from insurance company employees - the magic words are: “I am represented by counsel and don’t wish to make a statement.”

2. A “house call” if you are unable to go to the office. 3. Immediate investigation of your claim. 4. The possibility that your bike will be fixed prior

to the settlement of your injuries and a rented vehicle while you wait.

5. The evaluation and protection of your legal rights

RIDE FREE KNOW YOUR RIGHTS RIDE PROTECTED

On January 27, 1986, leaders of various motorcycle groups from across America met in Las Vegas to discuss a “coming together” and the overwhelming need

for a national voice to protect our lifestyle and right to ride. The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) was born.

Accident Information Collection

ABATE OF NEW YORK SPECIAL BOARD MEETING FEB 16, 2013 1000

MEETING CALLED TO ORDER at 1020 by Tom AltonBill Cox: Bylaw/policy manual explanation.MOTION: B1-13 Tanya/Matt to appoint Bill Cox to chair committee on bylaws/policy manual -- MOTION PASSEDMOTION: B2-13 Tanya/Matt to adjourn special board meeting of 2/16/13MEETING ADJOURNED 1046

BOARD MEETING FEB 16, 2013MEETING CALLED TO ORDER at 1207 by Tom AltonBob Cunningham and Tim “Roadkill” Werder sworn in as regional coordinatorsRoll call: all board members presentDiscussion: Format of meeting minutesMOTION: B3-13 Mike/Matt to accept minutes of Dec 2012 board meeting -- MOTION PASSEDTom read request from MRF to vote on SMRO Rep on their board, Dave Dwyer is running unopposed.MOTION: B4-13 Prospector/Roadkill to cast vote on behalf of ABATE of NY for Dave Dwyer as SMRO Rep to MRF board -- MOTION PASSEDMOTION: B5-13 Matt/Tanya to approve Prospector to continue as NY State Rep to MRF. -- MOTION PASSEDCorrespondence: Tom AltonTreasurer’s Report: Deb TraskMike Giarrusso requests reimbursement for travel to Javits motorcycle showDiscussion: Use of legislative budget for travel expenses for legislative coordinator.MOTION: B6-13 Tanya/DT to use legislative budget funds to reimburse legislative coordinator for expenses to Javits and to each region. -- Roll call vote MOTION PASSED with 2 abstentions.Discussion: State fair, on-line sign-ups, complimentary memberships, state office manager contract, transfer of office contents to new storage facility.MOTION: B7-13 Prospector/Tanya to adjournMEETING ADJOURNED 1305

ABATE of NY STATE MEETING FEB 16, 2013MEETING CALLED TO ORDER at 1315 by Tom AltonPLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCERoll call: 11 chapters present. (2 arrived late for total of 13)Reading of minutes of Nov 2012 meeting.MOTION: S1-13 Greene/Oswego to accept minutes of Nov 2012 meeting -- MOTION PASSED

Correspondence: Board has approved Dave Dwyer for MRF board and Prospector as MRF State Rep.LI distributed a proposal for weighted voting to be discussed under regional report.Pete Campanella stated that chapter officers are being held to a higher standard than state board members under current bylawsWayne chapter arrivedPresident’s report: Tom Alton; 2013 goals.Vice president’s report: Matt Grossman; nothing at this time.Treasurer’s report: Deb Trask.North Ulster arrivedMOTION: S2-13 LI/Onondaga to accept treasurer’s report -- MOTION PASSEDPR report: DTLegislative report: Mike GiarrussoRegion A report: Pete Campanella/ Eric CarlstonRegion B report: OntarioRegion C report: Bob CunninghamRegion D report: Tanya CruzLI/ Jim Barr proposed that chapter voting at state meetings be a weighted vote by number of chapter members. Discussion followed.A funeral home ass’n. has offered a discount to ABATE members. Call Jim Barr for infoRegion E report: Roadkill.Newsletter report: Tanya CruzOffice manager’s report: Tom Alton/ Dev Lovick: Membership is declining, office needs a new printer.Pete Campanella commented on past practice of not allowing children at state parties, thinks it was a mistake.Freedom rally report: ProspectorMOTION: S3-13 Buff-Erie/Onondaga to move May 2013 meeting to Sun, May 19 at Blackthorne at 1400 -- MOTION PASSED 11 yes, 1 no, 1 abstentionOnline membership: John CholewaMatt Grossman: complimentary membership, trifoldsTom Alton: state fairTom Alton/Bill Cox: bylaw changesMOTION: B8-13 Tanya/Prospector to buy a new printer for the state office with a limit of $300. -- MOTION PASSEDMOTION: S5-13 Greene/Onondaga to adjournMeeting adjourned at 1600

Join aBate of nY, Inc.Protect Your Right to Ride

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LEGISLATION WOULD PROHIBIT E15 GAS PENDING FURTHER INVESTIGATION

Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) has introduced H.R. 875, which would require the Environmental Protection Agency to stop the use of gasoline containing 15% ethanol (E15) until its harmful effects are investigated further.

H.R. 875, introduced on February 28, would repeal the EPA’s waiver decision approving the use of E15 and the authority of the agency to grant further decisions until the EPA seeks an indepen-dent scientific analysis of the effects of the E15 blend.

“There have been several tests and warnings highlighting E15’s harmful effects on engines and their components, but they have all been dismissed by the EPA. Therefore, we must force the EPA to stop the use of E15 fuel until the serious safety, durability, perfor-mance and environmental concerns have been addressed,” an-nounced Rep. Sensenbrenner.

Sensenbrenner has introduced several bills to address the risks associated with E15, and his latest legislation to halt the sale of the 15% alcohol blended fuel until further studies are completed, came less than a week after witnesses from automobile and motorcycle industry and consumer groups testified before the Science, Space and Technology Committee that more testing is needed.

“We have a responsibility to ensure that Americans using gas-powered machinery – whether it be cars and boats or chainsaws and lawnmowers – are not put at risk due to faulty fuel that has not been adequately vetted,” Sensenbrenner said.

BILL INTRODUCED IN CALIFORNIA TO REGULATE LANE SHARING

No sooner had the California Highway Patrol published guidelines on how to safely maneuver your motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving traffic, than SB 350 was introduced by State Senator Jim Beall (D-San Jose) to codify the rules into law.

California is the only state that allows “lane sharing” or “lane splitting,” precisely because there are no laws against it; though officers have a variety of charges they can levy against a reckless rider such as unsafe lane change or too fast for conditions.

Beall’s bill would restrict the practice by prohibiting motorcycles from splitting lanes unless specifically allowed; “…when a highway has been divided into three or more clearly marked lanes for traffic traveling in the same direction, a person operating a motorcycle shall not pass another vehicle in a portion of a lane occupied by that vehicle unless the following conditions are met:

(1) The passing occurs during traffic congestion.(2) The passing occurs at a safe speed.”Following furious feedback from motorcyclists opposed to

over-regulating an act that 87% report doing almost daily during crowded commutes, Sen. Beall soon pulled his proposal and turned it into a two-year bill for future reconsideration.

In the meantime, although ABATE of California did not initiate the measure, the group will work with Beall to amend the lan-guage, and vows “…our goal is to ultimately submit a bill that ad-

dresses the concerns of the motorcycle community; a bill that can be supported and endorsed by the ABATE membership. If the final bill doesn’t meet ABATE’s requirements, ABATE will vigorously oppose the bill and try to kill it.”

DRIVERS CAUSE MOST CRASHES WITH MOTORCYCLES, RESEARCH SHOWS

For motorcycle riders, people in “cages” bear a disproportionate share of the blame for the high number of motorcycle crashes, while car drivers feel careless motorcyclists careening in and out of traffic are putting their own lives at risk.

So who’s mostly to blame when four-wheel and two-wheel vehicles collide? According to a recent Florida Department of Transportation study, bikers are right. Motorists driving cars and trucks are mostly at fault, often failing to yield the right of way to the smaller vehicles.

In analyzing 10 years of Florida motorcycle crashes, Chanyoung Lee, a senior researcher at theUniversity of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research, found that 60% of the time motor-ists in other vehicles are at fault when they collide with motorcycles.

But the study uncovered more: When looking at all motorcycle crashes, motorcycle operators bear a lot of responsibility as well. They have a significantly higher number of single-vehicle crashes than other drivers. Some 34% of motorcycle crashes involve one vehicle, according to the study, compared to only 19% of car crashes involv-ing one vehicle. When looking at really severe and fatal motorcycle crashes, 50% involve just the motorcycle and no other vehicle, but when multiple vehicles are involved, greater blame falls on four-wheeled drivers. And most motorcycle crashes involve other vehicles.

But it’s also a matter of awareness, according to Lee, who is part of FDOT’s Motorcycle Safety Coalition. In driver surveys, FDOT has asked people how often they see motorcycles. Those with motorcycle endorsements on their driver’s licenses report seeing motorcycles all the time, while those without endorsements who live in the same area report occasionally seeing motorcycles.

Due to minimal levels of protection to their riders, approximately 80% of motorcycle crashes result in injury or fatality, according to the Network of Employees for Traffic Safety, while only 20% of pas-senger car crashes injure or kill the vehicle occupants.

MMA HELPS DEFEAT SOUND WARRANT IN YARMOUTH, MA The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) is pleased to

report that a town bylaw proposal has been successfully defeated in Yarmouth. With short notice, the MMA in concert with the Yar-mouth Chief-of-Police and Deputy Chief attended a recent Board-of-Selectmen meeting and were successful in convincing the board that such a Bylaw would be unsuccessful.

Armed with prior testimony used successfully around the state, including used to overturn a similar bylaw passed in Falmouth and subsequently struck down by the Commonwealth Attorney General, MMA Legislative Director Rick Gleason joined the Chief and Deputy Chief of the Yarmouth Police Department in their argument that Town Bylaws cannot exceed State Law,

and that such a measure would essentially be meaningless.The MMA has long held strong opposition to the use of the OEM

EPA Stamp on stock exhausts as an enforcement tool, because it is a consumer protection mechanism and not meant to be used against the consumer. It is also hard to locate on many models of motorcycle, hidden under seats on sport bikes, under saddle bags of cruisers, or simply facing the wrong way for aesthetic reasons. Most critically, per the very regulation that entitles it, it expires in one year or 3,729 miles, whichever comes first!!

Instead, the MMA (www.MassMotorcycle.org) continues to hold a firm belief that the existing laws on the books are sufficient if properly implemented and enforced, specifically that simple test procedures do exist for muffled exhaust, whether replaced with after-market or not, with a reasonable sound level.

LICENSE PLATE CAMERAS - A NEW WAY TO NAB SCOFFLAWSFirst came red light cameras attached to traffic lights to catch

drivers trying to beat the light; then came speed cameras along the roadway to ticket lead-footed speeders; but now police are deploy-ing cameras in their cruisers to scan our license-plates in order to get instant feedback on unpaid tickets and other warrants.

It also allows authorities to monitor where average citizens might be at any particular time. That bothers some privacy advocates and organizations like the ACLU that oppose public intrusions into indi-vidual privacy. The groups are becoming more alarmed about license plate tracking as a growing number of police departments acquire the technology for electronic surveillance of traffic on public streets.

Little Rock, AR Police Chief Stuart Thomas said the law enforcement benefits outweigh any concerns about possible abuse of the informa-tion, which, as a public record, is legally available for anyone to see.

Lawmakers in several states, including Minnesota and Utah, have suggested setting a time limit for their departments regarding how long such data can be collected and stored, but many places like Little Rock have no set policy and have a growing archive of license plate photos, along with time stamps and the locations, showing where motorists were at certain times.

Privacy advocates worry about the potential uses for such outside law enforcement, from snooping by stalkers and private investiga-tors to businesses that sell personal data. “Given how few rules are currently on the books to protect our privacy, it’s plausible that private investigators and data-mining companies could acquire this location data,” said ACLU staff attorney Catherine Crump, adding that the organization has requested more information from govern-ment agencies, but hasn’t filed any lawsuits.

AUSTRALIA BANS BROTHERS BEHIND BARSSince last Nov 19, the Australian State of Queensland in Northeast-

ern Australia has banned the distribution of the monthly newsletter “Brothers Behind Bars” in its prisons. Brothers Behind Bars is a digest of biker club and motorcycle news edited by retired Sons of Silence patch holder Iron Mike Davis, and is an outreach program supported by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). BBB is specifically aimed at motorcycle club members and is stubbornly non-partisan.

Mike Davis was notified that the words he publishes were illegal in Oz with a peremptory, unsigned form letter from the govern-ment of Queensland that read in full: “On 7th of November 2012 Queensland Corrective Services issued a directive from head of-fice that all correspondence between prisoners who are members of an Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG) & OMCG members & as-sociates was to cease immediately. As a result the author of this letter has been identified to be either a member or associate of an

OMCG as such your mail has been returned to you.”Iron Mike recently told The Aging Rebel (www.agingrebel.com),

“Something I’ve said for years: ‘Australia today, Canada tomorrow, and the U.S.A. the day after.’ I truly believe countries likeCanada, Germany, U.S.A., and others are watching to see what works in Aus-tralia to outlaw motorcycle clubs – starting with the 1%er ones.”

The Aging Rebel article went on to describe “Anti-Bikie Laws” down under: “Queensland has been trying to outlaw motorcycle clubs since 2009 when the state passed legislation formally called the Criminal Organisation Act of 2009. These anti-bikie laws give police the power to declare which organizations are criminal & which are not. Similar sets of laws have been passed in the Austra-lian states of New South Wales & South Australia, and have been challenged in the courts by the Hells Angels, Finks & Rebels MCs. Australia’s strategy has been difficult to implement in the United States because the U.S. Constitution specifically guarantees citizens’ & visitors’ rights to move freely, assemble peaceably, to keep & bear arms & to express themselves freely in numerous ways including the right to wear a patch on your back. Various Fed police forces in Americaincluding the FBI, the ATF & increasingly the Dept of Homeland Security have attempted to subvert these Constitutional guarantees using the Racketeer Influenced And Corrupt Organiza-tions Act (RICO) & in several recent cases trademark law.”

CANADIAN RIDERS BALK AT HEFTY INSURANCE HIKES

Premier Brad Wall says “maybe mistakes were made” and the Saskatchewan government will revisit motorcycle insurance rate hikes proposed recently by Saskatchewan Government Insur-ance. “Our MLAs are reporting a lot of feedback on the issue, not just from those who are riders or have motorcycles, but others in general who note that these increases seem to be very high,” Wall told reporters.

When the legislature reconvenes for its spring session next week, the Saskatchewan Party caucus will discuss its next steps, Wall said. He said he’s not convinced SGI has exhausted all of its options to help eliminate a $9-million deficit between crash injury payouts and fees charged to motorcyclists. “Obviously, what’s be-ing proposed by SGI for the rate rebalancing means huge increases and immediate increases, if approved, for riders,” Wall said.

SGI’s proposal to the Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel would mean a sudden 73% jump in insurance costs for the average mo-torcycle owner, compared to an overall vehicle insurance rate in-crease of 1.03%. The move prompted a backlash from bike enthu-siasts and business owners, who fear a big blow to new and used bike sales which could devastate the motorcycle industry.

If approved, the rate increases would take effect in August, but Wall said the chance is “slim” the proposal will stay as is. He wants the government and SGI to look at other creative options, such as using better price incentives to reward motorcyclists who have taken training courses.

[Cycle eNews] AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE NEWSBYTES

MARCH 2013THE 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 you’ve been involved in any kind of accident, call us at 1-(800)ON-A-BIKE or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.

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

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “I am not a product of my circumstances.

I am a product of my decisions.” Stephen R. Covey (1932-2012) author,

one of Time magazine’s 25 most influential Americans

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We ride, So Don’t GetTaken For A Ride!

CALL OUR24 Hr.Toll Free Helpline1-877-752-6867If you’ve been injured

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PROUD MEMBER OF THESE ASSOCIATIONSABATE - American Bikers Aimed Towards Education

HOG - Harley Owners GroupAMA - American Motorcycle Association

5800 Main StreetWilliamsville, NY 14221

716.626.0404

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WE GETRESULTS!

ITHACA HARLEY-DAVIDSON, INC.6033 Rt. 13, CAYUTA, NY 14824

Hours: Monday Friday 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. Sat. 8-3 Phone 607-594-3536 Fax 607-594-3009 www.ithacah-d.com

Pickerington, Ohio: The AMA is pleased to announce that Maggie McNally was unani-mously elected chair of the AMA Board of Directors at its meeting in Indianapolis on Feb. 16. McNally, of Albany, N.Y., was elected vice chair in December 2011 and has been a member of the board since 2009, representing individual AMA members in the Northeast Region. With her election, she becomes the first woman to lead the AMA board in the association’s 89-year history.

“I’m honored that my fellow AMA board members have chosen me as chair, and I’m humbled by the historical significance of a woman taking this office,” McNally said. “At the end of the day, however, the important thing is not the gender of the board’s chair, rather it is the united commitment by the board and the AMA staff to carry out our mission to better protect and promote motorcycling. Doing so enables us to nimbly and ably meet the needs of our exist-ing and future members.”

McNally succeeds South Central Region Board Member Stan Simpson, who did not seek re-election as chair. Simpson, who remains on the board, was elected to the AMA Board of Directors in 2005 and served as its chair from 2007-2013. In 2008, he was recognized as the AMA Motorcyclist of the Year.

Also at the meeting, AMA Business Member Russel Brenan of Kawasaki was elected vice chair, and Ken Ford of the Southeast Region was elected assistant treasurer. Members elected at-large to serve on the executive committee were Perry King of the Northwest Region and business member John Ulrich of Roadracing World. At the AMA Business Member meeting earlier that same day, Scott Miller of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Brenan were re-elected to the AMA board.

Washington, D.C.: In response to concerns expressed by the AMA and power equipment makers, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued new guidelines to help ensure that motorcyclists and others don’t inadvertently use E15 fuel. On Feb. 7, the EPA posted a new option for retailers on its website’s “E15: Misfueling Mitigation Plans” page to try to avoid misfueling by consumers.

Under the new option, retailers who use a blender pump to sell E15 and E10 fuel through the same hose must also have a separate E10/E0 fuel pump. Those retailers would be required to have a label on the blender pump that reads: “Passenger Vehicles Only. Use in Other Vehicles, Engines and Equipment May Violate Federal Law.” Retailers would also be required to have signs indicating the location of the dedicated E10-or-lower fuel pump. There would be no minimum-fuel-purchase requirement at that pump.

Retailers who want to sell E15 also have the option of having a dedicated E15 pump or hose, or a pump that dispenses E15 and higher ethanol blends through a single hose. If a blender pump dispenses multiple fuels that include E15 and higher ethanol blends, the EPA may require a minimum purchase requirement.

Washington, D.C.: The Coalition for Recreational Trails, a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, has announced its 2013 achievement awards to recognize outstanding trail projects funded by the national Recreational Trails Program. The awards will

be presented in Washington, D.C., during Great Outdoors Week in June as part of the Coalition’s ongoing effort to build awareness and appreciation of this highly successful program, which has greatly enhanced the quantity and quality of trail experiences available to the public.

Award winners will be selected from projects nominated by public agencies, trail adminis-trators or other project sponsors. Projects must be completed in order to receive an award, but projects completed before 2005 are ineligible. Project award categories include: construction and design; maintenance and rehabilitation; education and communication initiatives; acces-sibility enhancement; multiple-use management or “corridor sharing;” environment/wildlife compatibility; and use of youth conservation/service corps.

This year, for only the second time, those making nominations are encouraged to solicit support from their members of Congress – both U.S. representatives and U.S. senators – to build awareness of excellence in RTP-funded projects and the RTP program itself. Additional information can be found on the nomination form.

The nomination form and any supporting materials, including pictures, should be returned by March 29 to the chair of the Coalition’s Awards Committee: Duane Taylor, Director of Federal Affairs, Motorcycle Industry Council, 1235 South Clark Street, Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22202. If you have any questions, please call him at (703) 416-0444 or send an email to dtaylor@mic.org. Winners will be notified no later than April 30.

Eastern Kern County, Calif.: The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Divi-sion has proposed a plan to acquire and manage 59 privately owned parcels (approximately 28,275 acres) in Kern County, Calif.,from ReNu Resources, a private company that owns and manages agricultural land in California. The parcels are largely interspersed with lands owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

Property management includes visitor activities, maintenance and operations, resource management, minor projects, and special events. These activities could involve minor ground- disturbance activities such as the installation of fencing, signage, vault toilets, or re-routing of recreational trails. No changes in land uses or significant site improvements are proposed. No expansion of open riding or the existing route network is proposed. No new points of access to the project property or changes to open range grazing are proposed.

The OHMVR Division has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Eastern Kern County Acquisition project and is requesting comments on its contents. The Draft EIR is available for public review and comment for 45 days, which began on Feb. 15. Your response should be sent at the earliest possible date, but no later than April 1. Instructions on how to provide comment can be found in the Notice of Availability document.

In addition, the OHMVR Division encourages all interested individuals, organizations, and agencies to attend the public hearing for the Eastern Kern County Property Acquisition on Saturday, March 16, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Holiday Inn Express, 901 Capitol Hills Parkway, Tehachapi, CA 93561.

Los Angeles: Thanks to a software update to the cameras, the ExpressLanes on the I-110 & I-10 freeways now recognize standard (non-vanity) motorcycle license plates, ensuring riders

won’t receive a notice for not having a transponder. The recently opened I-10 lanes run for 14 miles along the freeway, between Union Station in downtown Los Angeles to the 605 Freeway in El Monte and the I-110, also known as the Harbor Freeway, connects San Pedro with down-town Los Angeles.

Riders who have opened motorcycle-only accounts will be notified by email and issued refunds when they return the transponder.

Moreno Valley, Calif.: The U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s California Desert District is soliciting nominations from the public for five members of its California Desert District Advisory Council to serve three-year terms. The council’s 15 members provide advice and recommendations to the BLM on the management of 11 million acres of public land in eight counties of Southern California.

The council meets in formal session three to four times each year in various locations throughout the California Desert District. Council members serve without compensation, other than travel expenses. Members serve three-year terms and may be nominated for reappoint-ment for an additional three-year term. The secretary selects council nominees consistent with the requirements of Federal Land Policy and Management Act and the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), which require nominees appointed to the council be balanced in terms of points of view and representative of the various interests concerned with the management of the public lands within the area for which the council is established.

Any group or individual may nominate a qualified person based upon education, training, and knowledge of the BLM, the California Desert, and the issues involving BLM-administered public lands throughout Southern California. Qualified individuals also may nominate them-selves. The nomination form is on the Desert Advisory Council webpage at http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/info/rac/dac.html.

Nominations should be sent to Teresa A. Raml, District Manager, BLM California Desert Dis-trict, 22835 Calle San Juan De Los Lagos, Moreno Valley, CA 92553. For further information, please contact David Briery, BLM California Desert District External Affairs, (951) 697-5220 or via e-mail at dbriery@blm.gov.

Sacramento, Calif.: The sponsor of a California Senate bill that would have restricted the current practice of lane-splitting by motorcyclists will place the bill on hold from consideration for 2013. Lane-splitting by motorcyclists in California is recognized by the California Highway Patrol and helps ease traffic flow.

An aide to state Sen. Jim Beall (D-San Jose), who sponsored S.B. 350, confirmed in an email to the AMA that the bill would be put on hold, pending the results of a University of California-Berkeley safety study expected later this year. The bill, introduced Feb. 20, would have allowed lane-splitting only in certain instances: on divided highways with three or more lanes of travel in the same direction, only when traffic is congested and only at “a safe” speed.

Nick Haris, AMA western states representative, noted that lane-splitting has been an ac-cepted custom and necessary strategy to ease traffic congestion in California for years. He

noted that Beall’s bill proposed a sudden and significant shift in traffic management strategies in the state with respect to motorcycles, which could have had a serious impact on traffic flow.

Boulder, Colo.: the Outdoor Industry Association recently released figures quantifying the economic impact of outdoor recreation in all 50 states, with a separate report for each state that tallies direct spending, jobs, salaries and tax revenue. This data demonstrates that outdoor recreation is an important driver of state economies, supporting jobs, businesses and communities.

The state-by-state figures expand upon a national report OIA published in June 2012, which found that nationally Americans spend $646 billion each year on outdoor recreation, directly supporting 6.1 million jobs and generating nearly $80 billion in tax revenue.

OIA commissioned Southwick Associates, a research firm that specializes in shooting sports, hunting, angling, natural resource and environmental economics, to perform the research. The Motorcycle Industry Council and National Marine Manufacturers Association contributed funding and data to support this study.

The national report, as well as a one-page fact sheet for each state, is available on the OIA website at outdoorindustry.org/recreationeconomy.

Springfield, Ill.: The secretary of state would administer a program to set standards and establish training for volunteers to become certified motorcycle road guards, under House Bill 1539, sponsored by Rep. Kenneth Dunkin (D-Chicago). A motorcycle road guard would have the authority to stop and direct traffic during a motorcycle group ride if certain conditions were met.

Under another Dunkin proposal, House Bill 2253, the owner of property used as a cycle rider safety training course would have immunity from civil action for any injury or death to persons or damage to property that occurs during instruction or training on the training course.

Topeka, Kan.: House Bill 2318, offered by the House Transportation Committee, would authorize the use of FMVSS-compliant motorcycle headlamp modulation systems and permit the addition and use of body or wheel lamps of any color that are visible from the sides of the motorcycle but not the front or rear.

Lansing, Mich.: Operators of bicycles, mopeds, and two- and three-wheeled motorcy-cles could proceed with caution through an automated stoplight if, after being stopped for one full cycle of the automated stoplight or 60 seconds, the automated stoplight fails to detect their vehicle, under House Bill 4265, sponsored by Rep. Mike Shirkey (R-Columbia).

Jefferson City, Mo.: Law enforcement agencies would be barred from establishing a roadside checkpoint or roadblock pattern based on a particular vehicle type, including the es-tablishment of motorcycle-only checkpoints, under House Bill 594, sponsored by Rep. Robert Cornejo (R-St. Peters). The bill doesn’t prohibit roadside checkpoints for commercial motor vehicles or any other type of checkpoint or roadblock established and operated in accordance with the provisions of the United States Constitution and the Missouri Constitution.

AMA News and Notes: March 2013

AMA News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association Government Relations Department.

Designed to inform motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events in the United States and around the world, AMA News & Notes welcomes your input.

Suggestions and editorial contributions can be sent to AMA Western States Representative Nick Haris by email at nharis@ama-cycle.org.

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Join aBate of nY, Inc.Protect Your Right to Ride

We would like to acknowledge our newest Milestone Members and thank them for their continued dedication to the organization.

10 Years: Lynn Swinehart Joseph Ricco Laura Price Eugene Squillace Carolyn Squillace Brian J Winser Ed Thomas Joel E Dyslin John Raynor Ron Fruin Lou Camassa Jack “Grumpy” Benson Michael Spencer Steve Corts Kathy Grasby Michael Grasby Sr15 Years: Mihaly Decsi Emily-Su Shappy Thomas Shappy Rudy Hildebrandt Jim Keene Randy Mathes Geoffrey Shulkin Jackie Polisse Manlio C Mondo Steve Faughnan William Mott Jr Gertrude Chudzinski Jim Gorton Jeff Grube Jim Grube Tony Saurini20 Years: Jeddy Tranquill Wayne Frost Mark Ginter Jack Lane Jim Priestley Rich Tallcot Thomas Buss Annette J Holowka Robert Marranca Roberta MacGray Gerald H Powell21 Years: Steven Brady Roy J Randall Gary VanValkenburg Lewis Fleming 22 Years: Joe Tazz Valla Robert C Bancroft23 Years: Joseph R Garces Tracey L Arnett Salvatore A Bonafede Rose Costantini Michael Farrell24 Years: Jan Mahoney David B Wells25 Years: A.J. Travis26 Years: Ryder Fitzgerald Becky Persons27 Years: Roddy Niesen Dan “Wind” Smallwood Gaeton “Guy” Godios28 Years: Woody Bustle29 Years: Jeff Barkley William Clay Richard L Gardner Jr30 Years: Paul W Siejak31 Years: Bruce Roemmelt Mike Gleber32 Years: Dennis Hollfelder34 Years: Keith C Mark

Our Newest Charter Life MeMbers • 25 Years:

Paul W Prochilo Ronald Knatz

John F McDonald Jay Heyd Jack Helfric

Richard L Ward Sr. Curt Dunnam

MiLestONe MeMbers

SUPPORTTHE BIKER LOWDOWN RADIO SHOW

WITH YOUR BRO LJ JAMES& PREACHER CHUCK D

LIVE WEDNESDAY'S AT 8pm East CoastAll shows archived and available 24 hours a dayfrom every on-line computer world wide.

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ABATE BOARD MEETING DEC 16, 2012Call to order at 1020 by President Tom Alton2012 board members present: Tom Alton, Deb Trask, Dev, Tanya Cruz, DT Matt Grossmann, Prospector.2013 board members present: Tom Alton, Deb Trask, Dev, Tanya Cruz, DT Matt Grossmann, Prospector, Caryn Grossmann. Mike Giarrusso arrived later.Pledge of AllegianceMotion: Waive reading of Sep minutes. ApprovedLetter to Chautauqua Chapter sent certified mail was returned unclaimed.Albany Chapter account paperwork was completed.Discussion: Taxes on advertising, fees paid for advertising income paid by ABATE of NY.Motion: Tanya, Dev; To authorize seminar copying costs to be paid to Deb ApprovedTreasurers report: Att.Discussion: Insurance renewal, storage unit.Motion: Matt, Dev; To keep our current accountant ApprovedMotion: Matt, Dev; to pay all bills. Approved.Legislative report: Roster of new state legislators is almost complete. Prospector will be back in Albany at start of session meeting with new members. Mike Giarrusso will accompany.Discussion: Public relations.Region D report: Tanya, nothing at this time.Region E report: Matt, nothing at this time.Discussion: Plan for regional coordinators for starting new chapters.Sgt@Arms report: Dev will set up 2013 meeting locations.Newsletter report: Tanya; problem with printer re. Nov issue has been resolved.Office manager report: Membership is down. Office manager’s contract to be renewed.Seminar committee report: Dev; Lunch will be sponsored, speakers are set. Optional President’s roundtable 8 PM Friday.Board to be there Saturday 9AM.Motion: Matt, Dev; to pay for no more than 5 rooms for Friday night only at seminar.Approved- 1 abstentionDiscussion: Foundation to pay for seminar and ABATE to reimburse? Is it legal, we need more info.Freedom Rally report: All preparations are on schedule to date. Tom will contact Governor re proclamation at Freedom Rally.Discussion: Establishing a warchest to help individuals fight court cases. We will appoint a committee to research.Discussion: Policy manual changes.Motion: Dev, Prospector; to have a special board meeting on 2/16/13 at 10 AM to address proposed policy manual changes Approved.Tom distributed info from National Safety Council re helmets.Tom met with Chautauqua president re patches. They will comply with bylaws and will not make any more patches.Discussion: Membership drive.Motion: Matt, Dev; to offer a free 6 month membership patterned after LI program, to anyone who buys a new or used motorcycle at any shop or dealer. To be administered by Chapter membership officer. Approved.Discussion: State fair booth.Discussion: Trifolds, we will ask chapters if they need any.Discussion: Javits.Discussion: Bylaw changes, suggestions will be solicited from chaptersDiscussion: Legislative Gazette. Prospector will attempt to get info on past ads from gazette office.Discussion: ABATE charged for a foundation expense.Motion: Matt, Prospector; to request $67 rebate from attorney for services not per-formed. ApprovedDiscussion: AMA now has a membership category for SMRO’s. We will no longer have to be classified as a social club.Discussion: We need to fill Regional Coordinator positions.Oath of office recited by 2013 board members.Motion: Tanya, Matt; to adjourn. Meeting adjourned 1615

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http://www.nysmsp.org/

New York State Motorcycle Road Test WaiverDMV offers an option to the traditional motorcycle road test given at the DMV

locations. A person is now eligible to secure a class M or MJ license provided that he or she is the holder of a valid “New York driver’s license, and has successfully completed the 15-hour “Basic RiderCourse®” developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). The course must be completed at a DMV/MSF approved training site. The course includes a written test and a skills test which must be passed, and the individual must have a motorcycle permit in order to receive the waiver.

The approved MSF course is offered in New York State through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). To find the nearest training site, you may access the MSF web site at http://www.nysmsp.org/ or call them at 1-800-446-9227.

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For many people, motorcycling is a fun sport as well as an energy-

efficient means of transportation. However, motorcycling requires skill,

concentration and reasonable precautions. Although it is possible to ride a motorcycle without

specialized training, trial and error is a tough teacher of motorcycling skills. That’s why virtually all motorcycle groups have endorsed the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Motorcycle RiderCourse® (Basic RiderCourse® or BRC) for beginning riders; Basic RiderCourse - 2® (BRC2) for experienced riding skills; and the Advanced RiderCourse (ARC) for learning advanced specialized techniques.

THE COURSEThe Basic RiderCourse® is designed for beginning

riders. It was developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and approved by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. It consists of classroom and on-motorcycle instruction including the following:

1. Preparing to ride2. Turning, shifting and braking3. Street strategies4. Special situations5. Increasing riding skills6. Maintenance and insurance

Name: ________________________________________________________________ Member #: ______________________________________

Chapter: ________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________________________________________________ State: ___________________ Zip: _______________________

Date this new address is to take effect: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________Fax: _______________________________ Email: ______________________________________

Other members in the household who will need to be updated:

Name: ________________________________________________________________ Member #: ______________________________________

Signature: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ARE YOU MOVING? Bulk Mail is not forwarded; please update your address.Mail to: ABATE of New York, Inc. • P.O. Box 167 • Walker Valley, NY 12588

ABATE of New York, Inc. - Membership Application ABATE of New York State Office • P.O. Box 167 • Walker Valley, NY 12588 • 1-888-344-4400

YO U CA N R E A D T H E S TAT E N E WS L E T T E R O N L I N E !You can download your ABATE of NY Freedom Writer from our website

instead of receiving the printed version. Give your name and email address to the state office manager, Chris at: cwerder@frontiernet.net. You will receive an email letting you know when the state newsletter is available online.

Trouble seeing a pdf? Update your Adobe Acrobat Reader FREE http://get.adobe.com/reader/

Course Overview

MOTORCYCLES MAKE SENSE - SO DOES PROFESSIONAL TRAININGMotorcycle Safety Foundation - Motorcycle Rider Courses

LEARN FROM THE PROSPROVIDED BY THE COURSE:

The Basic RiderCourse is taught using a lightweight (100cc - 350cc) motorcycle provided for class use. These motorcycles are restricted to off-street use only.

THE STUDENT PROVIDES:Students provide the following protective clothing:

1. Boots with walking heels, high enough to cover ankles;

2. Long pants of denim, other heavy material or motorcycle riding pants;

3. Leather gloves - full fingered and unlined but not too thin

4. Long-sleeved jacket or shirt, made from denim or other heavy material;

5. Approved eye protection;6. USDOT-approved motorcycle helmet.

Some training sites have loaner helmets available, check with the site for information.

Taken from New York Governor’s

Traffic Safety Committee website: http://www.safeny.ny.gov

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Date: ______________________

Email: ____________________________________ Web page: _____________________________________

Business Name: ____________________________ Your Name: ____________________________________

Street: ____________________________________ Phone: _________________________________________

City: ______________________________________ State: _______________________ Zip: ______________

JANUARY MARCH MAY JULY SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER

NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING RATES ** Extra charge applies for front or back inside cover placement.

All Advertising, Including Renewals - Must Be Prepaid.

FULL YEAR ADVERTISING - 6 ISSUES SINGLE ISSUE ADVERTISING

____ Full Page 9” x 10” $1,000 ____ Full Page 9” x 10” $170

____ Half Page 9” x 4.95” $500 ____ Half Page 9” x 4.95” $85

____ Quarter Page 4.48” x 4.95” $260

____ Eighth Page 4.48” x 2.45” $140 How Many Issues: ________

____ Business Card $120

Please supply your ad, with this form. Business Card Sponsors can supply a business card or similar size ad. If you do not have a suitable ad, we can prepare one for you. Just supply us with the ad text and any graphics. Print clearly or type all ad text. ABATE of New York, Inc. reserves the right to refuse any advertisement that is not in the best interest of our organization. We also reserve the right to change our advertising rates without notice.

Circulation 3500 per issue.

DISCOUNTS____ ABATE of New York Sponsored Events FREE

____ Non-ABATE of New York Sponsored Events $102 for Full Page / $51 for Half Page

Advertiser Index Page1-800-HURT-911 24

American Harley-Davidson, Inc. 11

AMSOIL Dealer 4

Bad Pig Saloon 8

Brunswick Harley-Davidson, Inc. 19

Eagle Beverage Co. 5

Extreme Biker Leather 7

Falcon Designs • Bullet Jewelry 16

Geneva Harley-Davidson 5

Gowanda Harley-Davidson 16

Hardtails Magazine 8

Harley-Davidson of Jamestown 14

Harley-Davidson of Suffolk 11

Harley-Davidson of Utica 17

Haymond Law Firm 9

Iron Block Harley-Davidson, Inc. 8

Ithaca Harley-Davidson 14

JJ Cycle 4

Joe’s Cycle Repair 11

Kantor & Godwin 15

Lighthouse Harley-Davidson, Inc. 7

The Biker Low-Down Radio Show 17

Mid-State Trikes 8

Niagara Falls H.O.G. 17

Proner & Proner 2

Road Hazard 19

Ronnie’s Motor Sports, Inc. 7

Seeber’s Tavern 17

Stan’s Harley-Davidson 14

Staten Island Harley-Davidson 19

Stone’s Snow Sled 11

Woodstock Harley-Davidson, Inc. 14

PLEASE REMIT YOUR PAYMENT WITH YOUR ADVERTISEMENT

Make Checks Payable to: ABATE of New York, Inc. 223 Lincoln Street Wayland, NY 14572-1417

Freedom Writer Advertising Manager Michael Grasby • Email: michaelg9898@yahoo.com

Phone: 585-728-5246 • Cell: 585-739-4797

aBate of nY, Inc. Life Membership programIn addition to all benefits

of a full member, the Life Member will receive:

• A Life Member patch • A distinctive Life Member card • Yearly pins

The Life Membership Program consists of a one time payment based on the number of years the member has in the organization. Beginning with their 25th year, they are automatically a Charter Life Member and dues are waived.

0 - 5 yrs Membership $400 6 - 10 yrs Membership $300 11 - 15 yrs Membership $200

aBate of nY Forever MembersThe ABATE of NY State Board is honored to present another level of membership, designed to memorialize members passed.The ABATE of New York Forever Member will be memorialized through a unique card and memorial certificate, and continuing

annual ABATE of New York pins. Forever Members’ names will be published in a special section of every subsequent issue of The Freedom Writer and on the ABATE of New York website.

The card and certificate are meant for the memorializing party to treasure, pins perhaps to be saved or placed at the grave, and the publication so all remember.

Forever Membership has been established at a one-time cost of $100, and eligibility is limited to those who were members of ABATE of New York at time of death.

For further information, or to memorialize an ABATE of New York member through Forever Membership, please contact the State Office Manager at 888-344-4400, or cwerder@frontiernet.net

Chris Allen

Stan Bach

Donald Blasko

Dorothy Falt

Tom Fleming

Brenda Force

Dick Fulton

Forever Members You can shed tears because they are gone, or you can smile because they lived.

Victor Green

Michelle Hall

Martin Hourihan

Frank Martorana

Gary P. Myers

Terry ‘Doc’ O’Rourke

Brian Paschen

Chris Peek

Barbara Rancourt

Robert Ritchie

Walt Rutski

Angie Shufelt

Robert Shuster

Martha Strouse

Robert Taylor

John V, ‘Jack’ Wrigley

Support those who support us

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HURT in an Accident? Find out your rights, FAST!

Call 24 hours / 7 days

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• FREE consultation!• We will come to you!• We will immediately protect your rights!• Don't speak to the insurance company

before you call us!• We will fill out all forms for you!• We will advance the money to

investigate & pursue your claim!• 1/3 Legal fee is paid at the end of your

case!