Board of Directors

President: Patrick Jones (708) 280-6053

Vice President: Dan “Wolf” Paoletti

Treasurer: James “Jimbo” Palkovics

Legislative Director and Webmaster:

Kevin Curth

Public Relations: Norine “Grumpy” Carro

Activities: Andrew “Angler” Lago

Membership: Sandi “She Wolf” Colclasure

Safety & Education: Diane Shapiro

Secretary: Olga Jones

Chapter Newletter Editor: Bill “KeggeR” Lancaster

State Newsletter: Debbie “Moon” Kuppin

State Board of Directors: John “Sleepy” Kuppin

Products: Oscar Flores

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER APRIL/MAY, 2017

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From the Prez, Unless you were born in Illinois and been riding since you could walk you can’t appreciate riding a motorcycle without a helmet. This was prompted by a photo put up on facebook by the wife of us in Cincinnati during the 80’s, as I look at the pic we are both holding helmets and if I remember correctly I asked one of the cops there if I could dunk my head in the fountain because I was so damn hot. He let me or I probably just said F#%& it and did it anyways. Fast forward to 2016, Mr. Harper and I went to a rally in Fort Leonard Wood Missouri. As we got into the state we pulled over And as they say “Got it on” we rode for About 30 miles or so and I couldn’t take it no longer. We pulled into a service station and I took it off and decided that I would just pay the $25.00 fine in fact I said I’d pay for the next 4 days in advance. As we rode thru the state we passed a lot of other motorcyclist wearing helmets and they would look over and motion to put it on, we passed a lot of police cars on the roads and highways that week but not one of them stopped us. Not knowing that at the same time the state was in a repeal mode regarding helmet laws. Did the police know this? Did the riders that were motioning to us know about it? Looking back I know one thing, in the state of Illinois we have the most current information on ANY law that gets submitted if it even mentions the words… Helmet, Motorcycle, Cycle and ANY words pertaining to Motorcycling. The reason for this is YOU, yes YOU .We the Members of A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois have eyes and ears in every nook and cranny of local state and federal government and get information out to our members as soon as it pops. So be proud of what we do and get out and recruit some of your friends or just invite them to a meeting and let them decide. PJ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Membership Meetings: 3rd Wednesday of every month, 7:30 PM at The Brewery, 3848 N Harlem Ave, Chicago, IL 60634 website: ChicagoABATE.com

Photo from the Prez’s article, sized for framing…

Vice President “Wolf”

Hi all, Thanks to everyone that braved the rain and came out for the Awareness Run, we had 2 members that rode. We stayed at LAMA HQ, where we had a BBQ, raffles and Awards. Thanks to all the members that helped out with this event. Watch for our upcoming events on our website, Facebook and at our membership meetings. This year’s Spring Fling will be held on June 10th. Note the different date, hopefully we will have better weather being a later date. Ride safe, Wolf

Prez sez, “How do you want that cooked?” Yeah, right! lol --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chicago ABATE is supported in part by:

Here are a few fun quizes posted on their website: “What Motorcycle Road Trip Should You Take?”: https://www.hupy.com/library/quiz-what-motorcycle-road-trip-should-you-take-.cfm

“If You Were to Ride, What Type of Motorcyclist Would YOU Be?”

https://www.hupy.com/library/quiz-what-type-of-motorcyclist-would-you-be-.cfm

Membership “She Wolf”

Chicago Chapter currently has 335 members. Membership is low, if you know anyone that is inactive, please encourage them to renew. Renewals for April 2017 thru July 2017, have been sent out. Trying to get our inactive members to renew, 2015 to present Inactive renewals have been sent out. Thank you to everyone that came out for the Awareness Run, we had 3 members renew & a new member join. The Annual Spring Fling is around the corner, I will be on hand if you want to renew your membership or bring any new members to join. FOCUS is membership, for every 10 new members you sign up, you get a free year membership. Thank you renewing members! Ride safe, Be well………. She Wolf

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Editor’s note: While total Chicago Chapter membership is at 335, this is about 100 fewer than just a few years ago. Additionally, attendance at monthly meetings has only been about 25-30 lately. RIDERS! ABATE is here to protect your rights as a motorcyclist. We don’t just fight for your right to choose whether or not to wear a helmet. We’ve also been protecting you from higher alcohol fuels being mandated that would potentially ruin your bike’s engine, enforcement of noise laws that would disallow many engine and exhaust modifications to most motorcycles, especially sport bikes, and many other issues we take for granted. Believe me, the politicians take the most advantage of those who do not speak up. We need your help. Join or renew your membership and get involved. Come to our events. Even the smallest amount of help still assists us in the fight to RIDE FREE. We even have some fun doing it. Thank you!

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Chicago ABATE Membership Meetings:

3rd Wednesday of every month, 7:30 PM at The Brewery, 3848 N Harlem Ave, Chicago, IL 60634

website: ChicagoABATE.com

Activities “Angler”

Hope this finds everyone well Its that time of year to get those bikes out on the road. Make sure you check all your levels and tires before you go, if you don't know how , you can take it to HARLEM&ADDISON and see Mark, he will help you out.. We have our spring fling coming on June 10 2017 at Foster and Cicero you can buy tickets at 7200 w Addison ave. yes that's at HARLEM&ADDISON see Andy or Roy they will sell you all the tickets you need. Remember this is to rise money for ABATE so please come out and support a good cause.. We have a live band, call SUPERFLY REDNECK...great band... plenty of cold beer.. burgers , hot dogs, chili, chips, and more, can't tell you everything, you just have to come and see for yourself. Please remember that our party's are not to see what you can get ,but what can you bring to support our mission, to make sure your rights as a motorcycle rider goes unscaled so you can ride free like it is suppose to be.. We need everyone to come out and spend that dam money you all have WE NEED IT.... Ok with that said lets remember the 10 commandments...... GOD BLESS AMERICA OUR TROOPS AND YOU AND YOUR FAMILYS ...ANOTHER DAY HAS COME AND GONE MAKE SURE YOU ALWAYS COME HOME.. HELP ME HELP YOU ANDREW " ANGLER " LAGO

“Yes, we have raffles!”, says Andy. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Don’t bother me. I’m on vacation.

YOUR AD HERE

Public Relations “Grumpy”

This year was the first year the Awareness Run was ever rained out. Even though we had a small turnout we had a GREAT time! Instead of traveling to our ending destination (MOB) we stayed at LAMA and grilled burgers. Any left over food was donated to the Lutheran church (it was a surprise that there was still members there that I knew growing up) across the street. The following members were presented with awards for their commitment, dedication, and support to Chicago ABATE: Man of the Year - Phil Kerschke: He never misses a meeting or event. Woman of the Year - Teresa Romanenko: Always comes to every event and sets up, cleans up and helps with selling raffle tickets. NEVER refusing to help and always donates her kids to volunteer. Vender of the Year – FeatherHeads; Laura Bolger Ledberter & her husband Rick: This year we did something a little different. We added Vendor of the year. This vendor comes to all events, rain or shine or snow, from way up in Fox Lake. Last year in the very cold Spring Fling they were the only vendor to stay to the end. Business of the Year - Victory Leathers; Eddie and Ginger Whether: They are at our events or we go to their shop. They take good care of our leather needs! “Taylor Ballard” Club of the Year – MOB: What can I say about MOB.... this past Chili cook-off Charlie walked in with 20 members following him. They support ABATE and come out to all of the events! 100% Club - Widows Sons Chapter One: Wonder why they are a 100% club...I think their president makes it a requirement! Great Job!! Certificate of Appreciation - Past VP & State Legislative Coordinator, Dan Harper: Thanks for all you do for ABATE! Certificate of Appreciation - LAMA HQ: Well LAMA, I want to personally thank you for EVERYTHING you do for ABATE! You have opened your doors to us for the last 4 years for the Awareness Run. This year you stayed opened and let us barbecue and have a party there! Rick, thank you very much for all that you and your members do!

Looking forward to seeing all of at the the next event, the Spring Fling in June! See me for tickets! Norine "Grumpy" Carro Public Relations

Safety and Education Diane Shapiro

Can it be that spring is finally here and May is just around the corner? We here at Safety and Education have been busy making contacts at several schools working to arrange our "Share the Road" presentations whenever and wherever possible. Due to lack of funding some schools have decided to only do shortened driver's education classes limited to the curriculum alone with no special guests. It's unfortunate, but a fact of life in Illinois. We've still been able to stay in touch with several of the teachers and are hoping that the situation improves quickly. May, after all, is "Motorcycle Awareness Month" and every instructor has assured us that they will remind their students to look out for motorcycles. We've also brought fliers for "Spring Fling" to each school, hoping that some of the instructors will attend the party and meet our members. Again, we wish to remind all of our members that we are open to new venues and will bring our "Share the Road" presentation wherever we can, and everyone is invited to volunteer their time in a classroom, meeting the students, sharing their tales from the road and answering questions that students are always eager to ask. It's always a great time for our volunteers. Every student in that classroom will one day be sharing the road with YOU, and we want to do all that we can to keep our streets and highways safe for all who share them, especially those of you on two wheels. Some of us were present in Springfield in March to lobby with our elected officials on Legislative Day to present legislation supported by ABATE to our legislators, and enlist their support. All of our activities ultimately affect all of us, and your participation is welcomed too. Every member's voice counts, and without activism all of our hard fought for rights are at risk. We owe special gratitude to our Chicago and statewide board members who keep us apprised of all legislation particular to motorcyclists statewide and nationally, as well as their dedication to looking out for all of YOU. Turnout was fantastic! It was wonderful to meet fellow members and activists from around the state working on behalf of all of YOU to preserve and protect YOUR rights. Our elected officials need to know that we are watching them. Remember: we elected them to represent us, and we have to hold every one of them responsible for their actions. Often, they quickly forget once they are elected that we live in a representative constitutional republic, not a dictatorship. We must stand up for our rights. Consider getting more involved in a leadership capacity if you have the time, attend meetings on the third Wednesday of the month, and remember that your voice matters. Also, please support our fundraising events and invite all of your friends too. Spring Fling on June 10th is our next event, and we're hoping for excellent weather, a great turnout and lots of camaraderie. In the meantime, ride safe and free thanks to ABATE.

See you down the road, Diane

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Great supporter of Chicago ABATE. Ask for Andy or Roy. Repairs and Sales

Treasurer “Jimbo”

The Chili Party did well this year. I am glad people came out to support us. I had to work, so I did not get there till it was almost over. People that I talked to said it went well and everyone had a great time.

In 2015 Spring Fling we spent more on the party then what was taken in. We have been digging out from that hole ever since. Last year we barely broke even. So I am hoping that this is the year we get back to being in the black.

So to those who have been there. You know we always throw a great party. Great food. Great band. The best vendors in the world. We always have toys for the kids to win in the kiddie games. We will have trophies for the adult games. So please bring your friends and enemies. We don't care who you bring. They do not even need to ride. We just want their money. For the price of a ticket we will feed you, give you a beverage, enjoy the fun of the games, shop at the vendors and all the while listen to a great live band. Heck the ticket price for most bands comes out to more than our price for the whole kit and kaboodle. Spread the word. Put up our flyers at the local watering hole. Put our flyer on your refrigerator, to remind you and the people that visit you about the party. If you need any tickets get a hold of any board member, or go down to Harlem & Addison. Roy will sell you a ticket. Andy will sell you a bike and a ticket. Cause that is how he rolls.

So please help us make this the best party of the year. We pay our bills with the proceeds. And remember that board members do everything free for ABATE. None of us are getting paid for this. We donate our time and energy so that you can ride free.

Keep the rubber side down. JImbo

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ABATE Mission

A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education; A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Inc is organized for charitable, educational, civic, benevolent, social, and athletic purposes, including such purposes as the

promotion of motorcycle use, acceptance, safety, and enjoyment. Said purposes include promoting of motorcycle interests of the corporation’s members and affiliates. Said corporation is further

organized to undertake such interactions, including lobbying and litigation support, with various governmental bodies as may be necessary or desirable to promote the motorcycling interests of the

corporation’s members and affiliates.

So says the legalese at the beginning of our Bylaws; but what does that mean? The bottom line is; A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Inc. is a Motor Rights Organization. Yes, we do charitable work. What better

way to promote motorcycling, and a positive image of motorcyclists’ to the rest of the world? Yes, we educate; we educate our members on the merits of taking the motorcycle safety courses offered

by IDOT. We educate anyone who will listen to be aware of motorcycles, both through individual effort and through our Safety and Education program. We also educate legislators that laws, which

discriminate against motorcyclists, and motorcycling are unacceptable. On the civic level we encourage all A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Inc members to be not only registered, but active voters. We also

believe that all citizens should be active in their communities.

Editor’s note: The state website, http://www.abate-il.org/, has bills we are following, other chapters’ events, and much more. Please also visit Chicago ABATE’s local website, www.chicagoabate.com, and our

Facebook page. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What’s Happenin’ May 17, Wednesday: Chicago ABATE monthly meeting 7:30 PM, The Brewery May 28, Sunday South Suburban ABATE “Memorial Weekend Pig Roast” June 4, Sunday Southern Dupage ABATE “Topless Tour”

June 10, Saturday: Chicago ABATE 31st annual ”Spring Fling” Food & Beer while it lasts. Bike Show, Vendors, Games, Music, & more!

Noon – 6 PM, LaBaugh Woods, E side of Cicero, just N of Foster $20 advance tix - $25 at gate, 13-17 yo: $5, 12 & under free.

June 11, Sunday DuKane ABATE “Knees in the Breeze Run” June 21, Wednesday Chicago ABATE monthly meeting 7:30 PM, The Brewery June 23-25, Fri-Sun State Party, Menard County Fairgrounds

For Immediate Release May 4, 2017

Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill Introduced Addressing Motorcycle Profiling

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Tim Walberg (R-Mich.), Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.), Michael Burgess (R-Texas) and Collin Peterson (D-Minn.) along with Senators Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.) Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hamp.) jointly introduced a bipartisan and bicameral resolution concerning the profiling of motorcyclists.

The bill defines the practice of motorcycle profiling and expresses the sentiments of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives on the issue of motorcycle profiling. Additionally, the bill promotes increased public awareness on the issue and encourages collaboration, education and training for the motorcycle and law enforcement communities in order to end instances of profiling.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), which has been advocating for a national solution to address motorcycle profiling with the support of the Motorcycle Profiling Project, will work over the coming months with states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders to advance the measure.

President of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Kirk ‘Hardtail’ Willard, stated this with the bill’s release: “For too long motorcyclists have felt the effects of discrimination from law enforcement.

Riding a motorcycle doesn’t make me suspect. We hope that, with this bill’s introduction, we can shine a national spotlight on this issue that affects every rider in every state, and helps put an end to this unconstitutional practice.”

About Motorcycle Riders Foundation The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

All Information contained in this release is copyrighted. Reproduction permitted with attribution, Motorcycle Riders Foundation. All rights reserved. Ride With The Leaders ™ by joining the MRF at http://mrf.org or call (202) 546‐0983 You are receiving this message because you opted in at http://mrf.org/alerts. If you choose to not receive these alerts moving forward, please click the unsubscribe button or contact the office at: MRFoffice@mrf.org

Products - Chicago ABATE Oscar

Prices:

Hoodies $35 Hats $15 Bumper Stickers $3

Long Sleeve T-shirts $25 Most Pins $5 Membership Year Patches $2

Short Sleeve T-shirts $20 Most Patches $5

Ladies Tank Tops $20 Bandanas $5