OFFICER INFORMATION DISTRICT ADVISORS and STATE Revised: 03/28/03 09:46 SENATORS
Austin Web Page: www.jacobswell.com/tmra2 #01 Karl Ford 903-629-7624 Webmaster: Terry Goode [email protected] State Web Page: www.TMRA2.org Senator: Bill Ratliff (R) Webmaster: Elmer McKeegan TMRA2 Yahoo Group: #02 http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tmraii Senator: Bob Deuell (R) #03 Goldie Hale 903-721-1837 Send general correspondence to: (phone contact only) Senator: Todd Staples (R) State Chairman: Sputnik 512-281-0537 [email protected] #04 Mailing: TMRAII Senator: Tommy Williams (R) 275 Old Lexington Rd. Elgin, TX 78621 #05 Senator: Steve Ogden (R) Send membership correspondence to: #06 Carmine Petrillo 281-489-1064 Membership Administrator: Mike Alvey [email protected] 817-468-7328 Senator: Mario V. Gallegos, Jr. (D) [email protected] Mailing: 1303 Cloudcroft Dr. #07 John Bridgeman 281-852-4984 Arlington, Texas 76014 [email protected] Senator: Jon Lindsay (R) Send monetary donations to: #08 State Treasurer: Jan “Dumas” Walker Senator: Florence Shapiro (R) 915-366-6432 [email protected] #09 st Mailing: 1607 East 21 Street Senator: Chris Harris (R) Odessa, TX 79761 #10 James Scott 817-531-3820 th Send Warrior submissions (deadline 11 of each (phone contact only) month for previous month) to: Senator: Kim Brimer (R) [email protected] Warrior Editor: Gerald R. “Garry” Brookman 817-685-8693 Fax: 817-685-8792 #11 Grady Lancon 281-339-1752 (call home before sending fax!) [email protected] [email protected] Senator: Mike Jackson (R) Mailing: P.O. Box 1263 Euless, TX 76039-1263 #12 Mike Alvey 817-468-7328 [email protected] Warrior Publisher/Advertising: Tony Senator: Jane Nelson (R) Brownsword 254-874-5749 [email protected] #13 Mailing: 1309 State Hwy. 174 Senator: Rodney Ellis (D) Blum, TX 76627
#14 Frank Trevino 512-447-9869 #29 Marie Stephens 915-845-4035 (phone contact only) (phone or fax contact only) Senator: Gonzalo Barrientos (D) Senator: Eliot Shapleigh (D) [email protected] #30 Thomas “Patch” West 940-383-2598 #15 (call before sending fax) Senator: John Whitmire (D) [email protected] Senator: Craig Estes (R) #16 Senator: John Carona (R) #31 Dean Maltsberger 915-550-7361 [email protected] #17 Senator: Teel Bivins (R) Senator: Kyle Janek (R) Senator’s name in bold indicates TMRA2 member #18 Senator: Kenneth Armbrister (D)
#19 Senator: Frank Madla (D) #20 Senator: Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa (D)
#21 Senator: Judith Zaffirini (D)
#22 Gregory Bodovsky 254-582-9291 [email protected] Senator: Kip Averitt (R)
#23 Senator: Royce West (D)
#24 Ron Ashmore 915-676-9085 [email protected] Senator: Troy Fraser (R)
#25 Senator: Jeff Wentworth (R)
#26 Senator: Leticia Van De Putte (D)
#27 Jim “The Preacher” Ball 956-428-4031 [email protected] Senator: Eddie Lucio, Jr. (D)
#28 Del Essary 806-291-8863 [email protected] Senator: Robert Duncan (R)
CHAPTER MEETING SCHEDULE Contact: Glenn (512) 247-7689 [email protected] Revised: 03/28/03 09:46 nd st Heart of Texas chapter meets the 2 Sunday 1 Tuesday – Austin Minutemen, Austin @ 1:00 p.m. at Jim's Cycle Shop, Highway 31, 1st Wednesday – Big Spring, Big Spring st Axtell 76624, (254) 863-5460 Contact: Jim (254) 1 Wednesday – Panhandle, Amarillo 863-5460 1st Thursday – Plainview, Plainview st 1 Thursday – San Jacinto River, Kingwood Big Spring chapter meets the 1st Wednesday
@ 7:00 p.m. at La Posada Restaurant, 206 NW 2nd Sunday – Heart of Texas, Axtell 4th St., Big Spring 79720, (915) 267-9112 2nd Tuesday – Big Country, Abilene Contact: The Blonde Bomber (915) 268-8766 2nd Tuesday – 1st Galveston County, La Marque nd 2 Tuesday – Hill Country, Round Rock nd 2nd Wednesday – D/FW, Dallas D/FW chapter meets the 2 Wednesday @ 7:30 2nd Saturday – 1st Brazoria County, Angleton p.m. at VFW Post 4477, 300 S. Smith St., Dallas 75211, (214) 339-5800 3rd Sunday – 1st Houston, South Houston Contact: Elmer (972) 539-2302 3rd Sunday – North Central, Wichita Falls 3rd Wednesday – El Paso, El Paso El Paso chapter meets the 3rd Wednesday @ 3rd Wednesday – Tarrant County, Fort Worth 7:00 p.m. at Luby's Cafeteria, 1010 Chelsea St., 3rd Thursday – Liberty Riders, Harker Heights El Paso 79903, (915) 772-1345 Contact: Jerry 3rd Thursday – Permian Basin, Midland Kelly (915) 433-8955 3rd Thursday – Tri-County, Stamford rd 3 Saturday – Independence Riders, Jacksonville Cowtown chapter meets the 4th Tuesday @
th 7:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 569, 400 W. 4 Tuesday – Cowtown, Fort Worth Felix St., Fort Worth 76115, (817) 924-0931 Contact: James Scott (817) 531-3820 Last Thursday – Lubbock, Lubbock rd CHAPTER INFORMATION listed by city Tarrant County chapter meets the 3 Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m. at American Legion Big Country chapter meets the 2nd Tuesday @ Post 516, 6801 Manhattan Blvd., Fort Worth 76120, (817) 451-7222 7:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 57, 302 S. 11th Contact: Mike (817) 468-7328 St., Abilene 79602, (915) 672-8348 Contact: Ron
(915) 692-9389 rd Liberty Riders chapter meets the 3 Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. at Cutter’s Texas Music Panhandle chapter meets the 1st Wednesday @ th Hall BBQ, 538 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd., 7:00 p.m. at Italian Delights Inc., 2710 W. 10 Harker Heights 76548, (254) 953-1031 Ave., Amarillo 79102, (806) 372-5444 Contact: Grumpy (254) 518-6409 or Contact: Cody (806) 376-4804 (254) 681-1141
1st Brazoria County chapter meets the 2nd Saturday @ 10:30 a.m. at Smithhart’s County Seat Grill, 2440 N. Velasco St., Angleton 77515, (979) 848-1320 Contact: Frank (979) 964-3480
Austin Minutemen chapter meets the 1st Tuesday @ 7:30 p.m. at Vinny's Ten-O-Three Cafe, 1003 Barton Springs Rd., Austin 78704, (512) 482-8484 Independence Riders chapter meets the 3rd Hill Country chapter meets the 2nd Tuesday @ Saturday @ 12:00 noon at VFW Post 3984, 7:30 p.m. at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, Memorial Dr. & US69, Jacksonville 75766, (903) 1720 N. Mays St., Round Rock 78664, (512) 671- 586-1306 7966 Contact: Tommy Wilson (903) 589-7888 Contact: David Farr (512) 257-0744
San Jacinto River chapter meets the 1st Tri-County chapter meets the 3rd Thursday @ Thursday @ 7:30 p.m. at Pop’s Ice House, 22210 7:00 p.m. at VFW Post 9179, Southbound US 277 Loop 494, Kingwood 77339, (281) 359-7884 Access Road and W. McLendon St., Stamford Contact: John C. Bridgeman (800) 632-8366 79553, (915) 773-3034 Contact: Larry or Susan (915) 773-5086 1st Galveston County chapter meets the 2nd Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m. at LaMarque Community North Central chapter meets the 3rd Sunday Hall, 1109B Bayou Rd., LaMarque 77568, (409) @ 2:00 p.m. at Deli Planet, 4016 Burkburnett 938-9269 Rd., Wichita Falls 76306, (940) 855-1921 Contact: Rick (281) 309-0356 or Ray (281) 910- Contact: Mary Beth Looney (940) 855-9125 1563 [email protected]
Lubbock chapter meets the last Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. at Pete’s Fete, 6501 FM 835, Lubbock 79403, (806) 749-7500 Contact: Alan Noble (806) 747-9307 [email protected], Don Pharr (806) 798-7303, Terrence C. “TC” Harp (806) 780-7480 [email protected], or Kristen Phelps 806-885-1515 [email protected]
Permian Basin chapter meets the 3rd Thursday @ 7:30 p.m. at Warfield Restaurant, FM 1788 and I-20, Midland 79706, (915) 563- 4900 Contact: Ed (915) 689-6050
1st Houston chapter meets the 3rd Sunday @ 12:30 p.m. at High Noon Saloon, 2506 S. Houston Rd., South Houston 77502, (713) 944- 6887 Contact: SA (713) 641-2123
Plainview chapter meets @ 7:00 p.m. the 1st Thursday at Nu-Griddle Cafe, 401 W. 5th St., Plainview 79072, (806) 296-6733 Contact: J. T. (Angel) Harrison (806) 839-2655 or (806) 292-2090, Cindy (Blackheart) Williams (806) 296-2991, or Del (Deacon) Essary [email protected]
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Beach Street (which, for those of you who have Gerald R. “Garry” Brookman never been there, is nowhere near the beach).
SPECIAL BIKE WEEK REPORT FROM Sigh…Saturday, the last BIG day of Bike Week, DAYTONA BEACH came all too quickly. It was also the night of the Mike’s Hard Lemonade Miss Bike Week finals. I Your Editor managed to arrange a job interview in can’t remember who won, but I’m pretty sure she Jacksonville, 80 miles north of Daytona, the was blonde and was wearing a bikini…at least, weekend before Bike Week. They put me up in MOST of a bikini. fully furnished corporate housing and paid for a “rental”. Unless they look at the expense report Bike Week wraps up after bad weather, light very, very carefully, the Harley-Davidson dealer attendance rents autos. DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (AP) -- Bike week, The theme of Bike Week 2003 was RAIN, RAIN, the area's annual 10-day festival that draws and RAIN!!! The official Bike Week started motorcyclists by the hundreds of thousands, Friday, February 28 thru Sunday, March 9, 2003. wrapped up Sunday after light attendance because U.S. HWY 1 was clear of any backups, but I-95 of heavy rain and scorching heat. southbound was stopped dead from International Speedway Blvd. north to exit 268. One fatal crash was reported this year, down from 13 in 2002. The week started off wet and cool with far more cars than bikes on the streets, the noses of thousands "It was not as busy as it was in past years, without a of sad-faced bikers pressed miserably against their doubt," New Smyrna Beach Police Capt. Paul Orel motel room windows watching the rain sheet down. said. "The crowds were about half of the normal Although there was definitely more elbow-room amount. I think the rain scared them away." than years past, they still made their way to the bars, but only the most die-hard (and those with the best Bike Week, a tradition dating to 1937 that brings rain suits) rode two wheels to get there. Your Editor about $260 million to the local economy, was made the best of it, though, and found a few good expected to bring 500,000 motorcyclists to the places to stay dry! Daytona Beach area after it opened Feb. 28.
Of course it wasn’t all work – I had a little beer, But severe weather -- five days of rain, then two watched the bands, and wandered around checking days of record heat, followed by more rain -- out the vendors. There was enough leather there to seemed to keep many bikers away. make a blanket big enough to cover Rhode Island! If you were looking for anything in the realm of Two motorcyclists from Virginia remained silver jewelry, patches, stickers, eyewear, or a hospitalized in serious condition Sunday after multitude of other doo-dads you would have been colliding with a car that crossed into their path the hard-pressed to find a better selection. I picked up night before, officials said. many souvenirs, some of which are treatable with transplants and/or antibiotics. (2003, March 9). Associated Press.
Rhett Rotten was also there all week doing his Wall of Death show (if you’ve never seen it, you’ll want to if he’s ever in your area – truly spectacular!). Thursday was also the 22nd Annual Bike Bash. Every year for charity a motorcycle is demolished in front of the cheering mob, and as always it drew a big crowd! I thought Friday would be a laid back sort of day for me to spend dodging raindrops on Main Street and Bike Week 2003: RAIN, RAIN, RAIN! Reprinted with permission from MotorcycleNewswire.com Daytona Beach, FL - (MCNW) Although it may be months before all the numbers are crunched, Take it easy consensus of opinion is that attendance and profits for Bike Week 2003 will both come in below the Never ride faster than your guardian angel can fly. norm. Typically, 500,000 bikers attend the event, spending approximately $350-400 million dollars in As different as we are, the road we travel is the the area. Fewer bikers also add up to fewer same. Let’s all ride cycle safe. problems, fewer violent crimes and fewer serious accidents, according to a report by the Associated Press.
The fact that the area received six inches of rain during the eight day annual event may have had the biggest impact on the figures. But also contributing are a weak economy and the threat of war in the Middle East. Attendance from Florida may have been most impacted by the weather, as those enthusiasts were most likely to stay home. The rains were briefly interrupted by two days of record heat.
Even the premier race of the event, the Daytona 200, was washed-out until the next Monday. There was a significant drop in the number of Bike Week-related deaths this year, with only two. A 55 year-old Pennsylvania man died of head injuries on March 1, and a 53 year-old Floridian was pronounced dead at the scene on Saturday, March 8. In 2002, 13 people died at Bike Week.
Regardless of the weather, Main Street still had its crowds and traffic problems, reported a Daytona Beach Police Department spokesman.
New for Bike Week 2003 were a number of new laws dealing with nudity, noise and public drinking. In Daytona Beach, flashing or showing too much skin will cost $106. Failure to have a muffler on your bike will also cost $106, and not using headlights and eye protection will bring a $44 ticket. Drinking alcohol in public gets you a $53 fine. Enforcement was billed as "firm but fair," although not a zero-tolerance approach.
The upside of the weather, says one vendor, is that chances are in everyone's favor for better weather next year. And, there's always Laughlin and Myrtle Beach, and Americade and Laconia, and Sturgis and Four Corners, and Harley's 100th and Biketoberfest, and...
CHAIRMAN’S CORNER vegetables, all type sweet rolls and several different Sputnik Strain type drinks were laid out at one end of the room. Congratulations to those ABATE members who This has been another of those months. You know took part in the planning and execution of this fine the ones that make life worth living. Most of the affair. You did one Hell of a good job. And I am time at the capitol was spent getting votes for HB very grateful for the centerpiece you gave to me as I 625 and SB 350, our equal Access Bills. We now was leaving. It will be in the state office of TMRAIl have 117 Reps and 23 Senators agreed to vote for for all to see. the Bills. There are other Reps we have always had We spoke with the Products Lady and she is going support from but I haven't caught them yet. Of to check on getting "In Memory Of" Patches made course we are asking for a Roll Call vote so we may for Cyndi. We hope to have some in time for the lose a few votes that way but I believe we are OK. State Meeting in Brady.
I spent two days in the hospital doing tests one The Ballot for the May Election is in this Warrior. week and last week I went in for the results. I guess Please take the time to vote. We have spent years they decided that with everything that's going on in teaching you to be involved so let us see the time my life I'm bound to be going crazy because they has been well spent. It will take less than five assigned me to a psychiatrist for evaluation. Maybe minutes. Please follow the instructions written on being crazy is a qualification for living my life. And the Ballot. We don't want any hanging chads in this then too maybe they just need the practice. We'll election. If your District doesn't have anyone listed see who is crazy by the time we finish up. consider putting your name there. Or possibly speak with a friend who could do the job. We need these We had a House hearing on HB 625 on Tuesday 5th spots filled. of March. Had a nice turnout about equally divided between TMRAll Warriors and the COC members. Note the changes on the Officers Page. Mike Alvey We are just waiting now for Chairman Joe Nixon is now doing membership so please send your (Dist. 133 in Houston) to call for the vote. We have applications and renewals to him. Put your member support for passage. # on the renewal if you know it. Ride Safe - Ride Sober Started work on the Tom DeLoach Bill (HB931) today, Mar. 10th. By the time you read this we will Legislative Update probably have it well on the way to passage. Hope some of you have been following the happenings on HB 901 - The Bill to allow cameras to be placed in the web sites or by e-mail and given some help signal lights will be heard in Transportation along the way. Those of you on the Internet share Committee, Tuesday March 4th. Get on the phone the information with those who are not. We need or email and let them know if you are opposed to calls and letters from all areas and the Warrior that Bill. doesn't come out often enough to do more than report what has already happened or what is coming HB 625 - Our Equal Access Bill will be heard the up a month from now. Legislative support requires next day Wed. March 5th in Civil Practices instant knowledge of what is happening and what Committee. We need anyone who supports this Bill needs t be done now. It is not easy to catch anyone to get to the capitol on that day. Be in the Cafeteria yet as they are engrossed heavily with or out in the downstairs circle on Monday morning. Appropriations and insurance so all help is All you have to do is show up, sign a Support paper appreciated. and give it to the clerk. Then just sit back and be I attended "Breakfast with the Bikers" this morning. visible and I will testify. This is a brainchild of Denton and Arlington chapters of Texas ABATE. (possibly other chapters OK Warriors, here we go. We have been busting ass also I'm not certain on that.) They had gone all out to get the Equal Access Bill moving early and we on this novel idea used by ABATE of Oklahoma. have been successful thus far. HB625 will be heard The tables had beautiful centerpieces made by a in Civil Practice Committee on March 5th. Now it is couple of the chapter ladies. A feast of fruit, up to the rest of you to pass the word we need some warm bodies down at the capitol that morning. Elections are coming up in May. We need at least one solid committed leader to step forward in each Farewell to Cyndi district and put their name on the Ballot before the 10th of next month. It would be your task as a A handful of us showed up to say a final farewell to District Advisor to run your District, on a smaller Cyndi on Sunday. It was about the number that I scale, just like you were the state chairman. It had predicted would show. The Unicorn song was would be great if each Advisor could hold a district played as that was our official club song for the meeting once or twice a year thereby having more Mystical Riders M/C. After the Eulogies Bob input from the members at large to share at state Seegar’s song "Turn the Page" was played. Vicki Advisor meetings. then explained that Cyndi never thought of herself Perhaps we could recoup the commitment of old in as a Star but she was. Thanks to those who attended this manner and have fun doing it. I am considering and to all those brothers and sisters from across the a Perpetual Cyndi Award to be given to the District country who generously made it possible for her last Advisor whose district is the strongest supporter for days to be made more comfortable. the year. This support to be counted would come from those members not in a chapter. We waded into the bay where Vicki opened the bag to allow the ashes to be scattered by the wind over 100 new members and renewals are required each the bay and the peninsula. AS we walked out I month to maintain the office. We once met that borrowed some words from the man on the cross. need but it now averages much less. With 31 "It Is Done" districts, that would average out to 3 per month. Doesn’t seem like a big chore from here. Now back to the political business at hand. Contact the clubs in your area and attend one of District Advisors Meeting their meetings. Explain how important their support and involvement is. There are still many clubs and At our Board of Advisor meeting on Feb. 22nd riders out there who haven’t heard about TMRA ll. there were not enough people to really conduct a meeting but we did go ahead with an informal Some Advisors exceed this goal while others don’t. exchange of ideas. We had already received word Still half the district positions remain unfilled. from 10 Advisors that they would not attend prior to the meeting. This is the first time in 11 years we For the general membership have been unable to conduct business at a meeting. Ask yourself why you became a Warrior. What was It is indeed time to turn the page. I have spent the it about the Association that got your attention? last 20 hours in retrospect of why the Texas What would it take to rejuvenate that interest? We Motorcycle Rights Association was founded, the can’t possibly meet your expectations if we have no proud position of power and respect we have held at idea what they are. Don’t just bitch, offer our peak and the steady decline to what we have constructive criticism. Help build an organization now become. you are proud of and you could easily get your friends to join if they could hear that pride in your It is tough to realize that we no longer have the voice as you speak of being a Warrior. If you don’t membership (now less than 1500) or the get a Warrior or your membership patch or card commitment we had from the membership as in the don’t arrive in a reasonable length of time let us good old days. We run now simply by finesse. That know. Patches are sent out quickly and a month is can’t last forever. With both we are unstoppable but plenty of time to receive your card. If there is a with only one of the two we can’t win. problem with either give us a call.
We can turn the page. When you move contact us immediately so you do not miss your Warrior as it is not forwarded nor District Advisors does it come back to us.
And Finally DPS began administering the state's motorcycle operator training program in 1983. Since then, the We do not have a secretary and will not have one program has trained more than 140,500 Texans on anytime in the near future. We simply will not find motorcycle safety. The program has 50 permanent anyone willing to put in the amount of time and and eight mobile training work required of that position for free. There is no sites for a total of 73 range locations. money to pay a person to fill the position so you will have to bear with us as I try to do what needs to "We appreciate the recognition provided to us be done at the capitol and do what office work I can by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation," said Col. during the night. Thomas A. Davis Jr., director of the DPS. "We are proud of our training program and the level of Mike Alvey has stepped up and agreed to take over instruction that the students receive." the membership for the present time. I should have everything ready to present to him so the member We were able to lock in an increase that replaces applications and renewals should go to him after the our cuts for this year so once again we will have 1st of March. This includes Supporter Members. over $920,000 to run the training program. For the 1st time we also had to work with Appropriations Conclusion this year. Rep. West always handled that for us but it is all new this year. They had cut our budget this There it is fellow Warriors. Read back over the year by $182,000 giving us just over $738,000 to history of the Texas Motorcycle Rights Association. spend. We went looking for an increase and Relive the proud heritage we have shared for the fortunately one of our Warriors, Rep. Dan Ellis, was past few years. Ask yourself if you still believe the on the Subcommittee that would hear our request Creed of the Warrior. Is there anything you can do for increased funding. It required time we normally differently to bring us back to the position we once don't need to spend but we turned in a proposed held? Is there anything I as your chairman can do to budget and it was approved. We managed to get it re-instill the pride of the past? back up to $920,000 per year for the next two years.
We can not allow what have become the most Sputnik successful grassroots organization in our state capitol and the most respected SMRO in the country to become a caricature of that proud heritage. It is up to each individual member to decide for your self. Will we indeed turn the page in the next few months and write even more glorious chapters or has the best of this book already been written?
DPS Motorcycle/ATV Safety Training Unit receives MSF award
The DPS Motorcycle and ATV Safety Training Unit have received the Outstanding State Program Award (Category III) from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation provides the curriculum used by DPS and other motorcycle training programs throughout the world. The foundation cited the DPS for meeting and exceeding the foundation's high expectations for training programs. TREASURER’S REPORT the owners Mike or Bad Bob. You may not care Jan “Dumas” Walker nor am I asking you too...just an F.Y.I. Thanks.
Effective January 1, 2003, all donations from Motorcycle Awareness Campaign chapters and individuals are to be sent to: This is an Invitation to attend a meeting for a new Jan Walker Motorcycle Awareness Campaign that needs your TMRA2 State Treasurer help. 1607 East 21st Street Odessa, TX 79761 We need the general public to be much more aware of motorcycles on the road so they will stop running 915-366-6432 over our brothers & sisters. This campaign needs all [email protected] of our input, ideas & support. We need to make 4- wheel motorists aware of bikes on the roads so they LETTERS TO THE EDITOR will learn to "Share the Road".
TMRA 2 Northeast Texas Chapter As y'all know, we finally have a Bill # for the Tom DeLoach "Kill a Biker, Go to Jail" bill. This is good Please continue to contact us as you read this and news and a positive step, but we also have to RE- are in the East Texas counties of Senate District 1. TRAIN car drivers to "Open Their Eyes" to These include Bowie, Camp, Cass, Franklin, Gregg, motorcycles. Harrison, Lamar, Marion, Morris, Panola, Red River, Rusk, Titus, Upshur, Wood and a small part Well, it's time - We're going to build a public of Smith let. We have actually started our information campaign that will make everyone on membership update list and want to include you. So the road see us, but we need your input! contact us! Contact Karl Ford at 903-629-7624. Here's what we want to do: Write Radio PSA's Harris County (Houston) Police Roadblock (public service announcements) that promote motorcycle awareness. These will be distributed to TMRA recently received this email from a all the radio stations in DFW and beyond. concerned rider. This is an activity that is increasing Make pre-edited Radio PSA's on cd to distribute rapidly in the state of Texas. Produce TV PSA's and distribute them. There's more in the works too. Recently, there was a poker run from the Spring Tavern in Spring, Texas to benefit a Houston Hey! Don't panic - we already have a TV producer Livestock event. Approximately 120 bikes from on board, so it's not going to cost us an arm and a many chapters showed up for a leisure ride on a leg. beautiful day with friends. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, so we THE PROBLEM - - - Harris County Sheriffs set up want to have all this done and ready to promote by a “road block" to check motorcyclists ONLY! May, which means we need everyone's help. Checking for insurance, driver’s license, helmets, etc. Not one car was stopped and checked. While Email for more information: cars were being flagged to pass, "motorcyclists" were being pulled over. They (the police) just Rebecca: [email protected] happened to be situated between two of the stops on Butterfly: [email protected] the poker run. When word got out, the bikes near the rear of the run went different routes to avoid the trap.
To verify this, simply contact Spring Tavern in Spring, Texas just north of Houston and speak with Hasselhoff, Wife Injured In Motorcycle Crash Both Sustain Broken Bones HEALTH INSURANCE BILL INTRODUCED "Baywatch" star David Hasselhoff and his wife are IN CONGRESS recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash in Los Angeles. When motorcyclists worked together to pass legislation through Congress to ensure health Los Angeles police Sgt. Christopher Kuntz said insurance availability for motorcycle riders a few strong gusty winds were blamed for the crash, years ago, those efforts were eventually negated which happened about 3 p.m. Thursday in the city's when the Clinton administration ruled that the West side. federal government cannot dictate insurance coverage to state insurers. But now, U.S. Senators Kuntz said the crash threw Hasselhoff, 50, and Russ Feingold (D-WI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) Pamela Bach, 39, against a light pole. Both were have introduced "The Health Care Parity for Legal wearing helmets, but sustained broken bones in the Transportation and Recreational Activities Act," to crash. end insurance discrimination by closing the loophole that has The couple was taken to the UCLA Medical Center, allowed insurance carriers to deny benefits to where Hasselhoff was treated for possible lower those who are injured while participating back fractures, as well as a broken rib, and cuts and in so-called risky activities such as bruises, according to Kuntz. Bach was treated for a motorcycling, snowmobiling, skiing and horseback fractured ankle and a broken wrist. riding.
Hasselhoff's publicist Warren Cowan said that both "From riding Harley Davidson motorcycles to the actor and his wife are in stable condition, and visiting the Snowmobile Hall of Fame in St. are expected to be released from the hospital Friday. Germain, these activities are part of Wisconsin's heritage and economy," Feingold said. "It simply Because of the accident, Cowan added, Hasselhoff doesn't make sense to exclude those participating in will have to cancel trips and interviews for his these activities from health care benefits." upcoming "Baywatch" reunion movie, "Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding." This legislation, introduced February 14, aims to promote health care parity for participants in legal Hasselhoff starred in the hit syndicated series from transportation and recreational activities, and 1989 to 1999, and the 1995 series spin-off, addresses a loophole caused by a Department of "Baywatch Nights." He also starred in the hit Health and Human Services rule that prohibits television series "Knight Rider" from 1982-86. employers from denying health care coverage to motorcyclists and others who participate in what is The actor checked himself into alcohol rehab last deemed a risky activity, but yet allows insurers to summer. deny benefits to insured’s if they are injured while participating in those In July, Hasselhoff's publicist issued a statement activities. regarding the actor's drinking problem. He said Hasselhoff "realized his social drinking had "Because of this loophole, someone who increased more than he was comfortable with, and participates in motorcycling, snowmobiling, he decided to do something about it." running or walking could be denied health care coverage, while someone who is injured He was reportedly attending meetings daily with while drinking and driving a car would be other recovering alcoholics, after leaving the Betty protected," Feingold said. "It is time that Ford Clinic for a "one last hurrah" binge that landed Congress corrected this so that those who are him in a hospital emergency room. abiding by the law is not denied coverage."
(2003, February 21). Associated Press. The language of the bill specifically states that "a plan or issuer may not deny benefits otherwise water and we're all rowing in the same provided for the treatment of any injury solely direction." because such injury resulted from participation of the participant or beneficiary in an activity such as Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM motorcycling, snowmobiling, all-terrain vehicle MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: riding, horseback riding, skiing or other similar http://www.on-a-bike.com legal activity." NEW YORK CITY CONSIDERS LIMITS ON We did it before, and we can do it again, so NOISE AND "DAREDEVIL RIDING" sharpen those pencils and urge your federal legislators to support the Feingold-Collins bill Two New York City council members and the city's to stop insurance discrimination against public advocate have proposed limits on motorcycle motorcyclists, once and for all. noise and daredevil riding, allowing the city to impound motorcycles and levy hefty fines or jail Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM terms for repeat offenders. MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: http://www.on-a-bike.com Sponsored by Councilman Bill de Blasio, the legislation focuses on motorcycles like a NM SENATOR BOWS TO PRESSURE, "Pop-a-Wheelie Kawasaki, which encourages riding WITHDRAWS "ORGAN DONOR" BILL on one wheel, and excessively loud Harley-Davidsons," such as one on display with Within days of the news that New Mexico Senator straight pipes that "could wake Mayor La Allen Hurt had proposed a law requiring Guardia," De Blasio told the New York Times. motorcyclists to become organ donors, the Senator withdrew the bill under intense pressure from the Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM motorcycling community. MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: http://www.on-a-bike.com "You win ... I'm pulling New Mexico SB 239," said Senator Hurt. MASSACHUSETTS MAY BAN CHILDREN FROM RIDING ON MOTORCYCLES Senate Bill 239, would have mandated the harvesting of organs from any motorcyclist who Massachusetts Senator Richard T. Moore has was killed in an accident while not wearing a sponsored legislation on behalf of a constituent, helmet. Specifically, SB 239 stated: "a person Paulette Zazza, which should be of great concern of operating a motorcycle without a helmet and who, all riders. Senate No. 1351, entitled "Petition To as the result of an accident, is pronounced brain Improve Safety For Passengers Of Motorcycles," dead pursuant to Section 12-2-4 NMSA 1978 by a would prohibit any persons 16 years old and licensed physician shall become an organ donor younger from riding as a passenger on a motorcycle regardless of whether the person made an on all Massachusetts roads. anatomical gift by completing the organ donor statement." There are already laws on the books that state that a passenger must sit on a seat, and his or her "No matter how you view organ donations, this feet have to reach the footrests comfortably; but this outrageous bill not only violates our individual civil proposed legislation puts an age definition that the liberties but is also transparently discriminatory Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) is against motorcyclists," said Richard Lester, founder opposed to. of Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) and the This would have serious implications for the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). "It's motorcycling families within Massachusetts no wonder that this issue invoked the ire of bikers to as well as those traveling through the state, the point of generating thousands of e-mails, letters according to the MMA. "Those of us who’s and phone calls. But it demonstrates how effective motorcycles have always been the focal point of we can be when we've got all our oars in the our families transportation and recreation would see its patrons. "As of this point, we are not discussing our family's activities severely disrupted. For the a change in policy," said Richard out-of-state touring riders bringing their children on Nicholls, executive director of the Garlic Festival. vacation would mean having to avoid "We want to provide our customers with a safe and Massachusetts completely," said an MMA non-intimidating, family atmosphere. We've had spokesperson. good compliance with our policy so far, so I don't see why it needs to change." Concerned Massachusetts motorcyclists should contact their state legislators immediately Hammock said one of the fundamental problems and let them know how such legislation can affect with the policy is that it was not available in writing you, and ask them to protect the to his clients before the incident. "I was surprised American Motorcycling Family by opposing Senate to discover that the Garlic Festival had no written No. 1351. dress code that warned my clients before the incident," Hammock said. "Now they have one Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM referring to gangs, but they've refused to give it to MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: us to review. Why would they want to keep this a http://www.on-a-bike.com secret?"
"COLORS" LAWSUIT GOES TO FEDERAL Similar suits to the Top Hatters' lawsuit have COURT been filed against the California State Fair and the Morgan Hill Mushroom Festival, with A case currently pending in the 9th District varying outcomes, Hammock said. U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco could soon decide if the Gilroy Garlic Festival’s Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM policy restricting "gang colors" is constitutional. MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: The debate revolves around an incident that took http://www.on-a-bike.com place at the 2000 Gilroy Garlic Festival when four Top Hatters Motorcycle Club members were removed by Gilroy police officers after refusing to WASHINGTON MAY POST WARNINGS FOR take off their vests. MOTORCYCLISTS
Immediately following the incident, the club Senate Highways and Transportation Committee filed a lawsuit against the Gilroy Garlic Festival and Chairman Jim Horn has introduced a bill that the City of Gilroy claiming the policy was a requires signs to be posted alerting motorcyclists of violation of their freedom of association and speech. hazards caused by construction work. Under Senate Bill 5457, if any construction, repair or maintenance "The plaintiffs are not seeking any money in the work lawsuit, only a change in policy and lawyers' fees," presents a special hazard to motorcycles, the work said Randolph Hammock, the plaintiffs' Los location must be posted with signs warning Angeles-based attorney with the Law Offices of motorcyclists of the hazard. Richard M. Lester. "We applaud the festival's efforts to stop gangs, but a motorcycle club is The proposal calls for Department of fundamentally different than a gang -- it's a fraternal Transportation to create a uniform sign for this organization, a social and fraternal club -- the same purpose, and it must include at least the following as the Masons or Lions Club. My clients feel they language: "Motorcycles Use Extreme should have the right to wear their club's jackets in Caution." public." "For motorcyclists, it can be very dangerous to ride along a road or highway and suddenly come But the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association across a work site that has loose gravel, a grade disagrees and maintains its policy is not intended to separation or an abrupt edge," said Horn, R-Mercer deny freedom of speech but protect Island. "These types of hazards provide minimal risk to cars but can often be fatal for motorcyclists. This bill gives motorcyclists some advance notice Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM that these types of conditions exist within the work MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: site." http://www.on-a-bike.com
The bill was referred to the Senate Highways and PENNSYLVANIA PUSHES PRO- Transportation Committee, where AIM MOTORCYCLE LEGISLATION Attorney Marty Fox testified in support of the measure. Moving quickly on the momentum of last year's victories (removing handle the bar height "I started the wheels turning last year because restriction, increased funding for the Motorcycle of the number of construction accidents that I was Safety Program, allowing for more than seeing where riders were going down at one bike in a metered space, and reduced turnpike night while transversing between recently scraped tolls for bikes), ABATE of Pennsylvania has lanes and newly paved lanes side introduced a helmet law modification bill with 19 by side," said Fox, further explaining that "Usually, co-sponsors. there is an abrupt lane edge between the two surfaces in the middle of a road that the rider is not "That's much more support than previous years aware of in the dark, and at a shallow angle at when we had about four co-sponsors," said highway speeds the result can be deadly." John Mullendore, ABATE Legislative Coordinator. "Senator Wozniak wants to pass this in the first 100 Fox testified in part that, "In lawsuits representing days of session. It looks like motorcyclists I discovered that riding lidless will be legal in Pennsylvania this year the our state transportation department does not if our members keep the pressure on. We gained have any rules or signs to warn a motorcycle of this four to five yes votes in the election and that was all type of condition or any pavement disruption that a that was holding us up before." motorcyclist needs to know about in advance to avoid the hazard. In fact, I learned that some ABATE also reintroduced a bill to create a contractors who were using 'Motorcyclists Use Veteran's license plate for bikes, and a bill Extreme Caution' signs were advised by to increase penalties for right-of-way violations. A government inspectors on jobs to remove the signs bill to include motorcycles in the state's Lemon Law because they were not approved." was also introduced.
"I think everyone will agree that motorcyclists Bish, B. (Eds.). (2003, February). AIM/NCOM pay more attention to signs than any other drivers MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS Available: on the road, and if they are given enough advance http://www.on-a-bike.com warning of potentially dangerous roadway conditions they will pay attention and avoid them and potential accidents. A simple reusable sign that costs less than $50 can save lives and property," argued Fox in favor of the proposal.
Fox says he began working on the construction signage with Karen Bolin of the Washington Road Riders Association when she was his AIM Chief of Staff and NCOM Rep. "Last year we tried to get the Washington DOT to use signs warning motorcyclists of highway problems in advance. They listened but did not do anything. This year we went to the legislature and have received overwhelming support from both parties."
THANKS FOR FEBRUARY Big Spring chapter minutes for February 5, 2003
Wichita Falls Crew - $370 The meeting was called to order by Greg, at 7:00. El Paso Chapter - $172 The Pledge of Allegiance was said by all. He then Permian Basin Chapter - $100 st led us in a prayer. The minutes were read and 1 Houston Chapter - $100 approved. Tarrant County Chapter - $100 Big Country Chapter - $158.25 The old business of Legislative Day was discussed. Jerry and Lisa White, Ro said that out of 3000 motorcyclist at legislative Motorcycle Specialties - $50 day there were only 13 complaints. The Legislators and all others that they came in contact with on CHAPTER REPORTS Legislative Day were very cordial. And Ro talked about the cameras at intersections. Big Country chapter minutes for February 11, 2003 The Big Spring Chapter TMRA2 Birthday Party It is that time of the month again. We are fired up was also discussed. The final plans were made. with a new Coordinator here in the Big Country and The party will be March 29, at the Big Spring looking forward to a "Rocking New Year". Rob Cossacks Club House from noon till? There will Mason says he intends to figure out a way to make also be a COC meeting on that same date at coming to our meetings and participating in the 4:00pm, there will be a poker run and a live band activities of TMRAII fun and exciting. He tells us to and food while it last. "...hang on for the ride". We have also got the privilege of having our previous Coordinator in the The local government discussed was about the code Assistant position to help Rob get off to a great enforcement for the city was also being enforced in start. the county. Greg asked that anyone that could should try to start going to the City Council That being said, we had two new members and 5 Meetings. renewals that are being sent to the new Membership chair as I am setting all of this up. We passed the hat and collected $35.00 to send to During the February meeting, I had to work, so state. For the 50/50 drawing we had $28.00 and Tammy Day was kind enough to take notes and Mary won the draw for $14.00. keep me up to speed on what went on. There were 12 members and 1 guest present. Great turnout Greg adjourned the meeting. compared to some of our more recent events. Pat Cypert They discussed the need to keep in contact with all of our representatives and senators both at the Federal as well as the State level. Stressed that this DFW chapter minutes for February 12, 2003 legislative session is moving very fast. We feel this is very important because it means we have to keep We had a better turnout of people at this meeting. moving fast to keep on top of what Sputnik wants us to do. These are tense and interesting times. Let's The meeting was started and the Treasurers report all do what we can to get our organization back up was read and approved. on its feet and rolling. According to the State Office there was a good turnout for Legislative Day. A small group gathered for the meeting Sunday. But when you went to the State Capitol Monday, every corner you turned you saw bikers all around.
Elmer got interviewed a couple of times from College Students at the State Capitol. The students Membership was also discussed. Applications were impressed by the number of bikers here and were available for members to take with them that they were easy to talk to and very informative so they could work on increasing our membership. on the issues. Mando informed everyone that we all need to get A discussion opened on the current status of the out and let the politicians know who we are. We equal access bills (HB625 and SB350). It is also need to help Alejandro with his campaign for important that if your legislator is not on the current City Council. He is on our side, so we need to help list of those saying yes, then you need to be calling him get elected. or sending a letter again asking them to please look at and support. A long time friend of everyone has passed away. Al Jones was very well known here in El Paso. Garry Brookman (editor of the Warrior) showed up He was the original owner of the Harley Davidson for the meeting so he spoke on the new information dealership here in El Paso. He will be missed. being put in the Warrior. He emphasized on how important it was for each chapter to submit its Debbie Rios reports. He also spoke of his meeting with Senator Jane Nelson and her interest in our issues. He felt Hill Country chapter minutes for February 11, that Senator Nelson would be supporting us on all 2003 our issues. The meeting was brought to order at 7:35pm. with 8 Discussed some of the plans for the Fish Fry on members present. We were led in prayer by Steve March 2nd. Need everyone that is going to help Hazzard, Chaplain. Bart Luck, Chapter Coordinator, show up by 11:30 am. There are other events going led the Pledge of Allegiance which followed. on that day and we need to get as much turnout as possible. A motion to suspend with the reading of the minutes was made by Steve Hazzard and seconded BikerFest is not going to happen in May this year. by Don Potter. Pat Luck, Sec/Treasurer gave the Last year’s results were not that good and we have Treasurer's Report seen a trend in the last couple of years of lower this after the addition of $4 from the SO/SO turnout. Too many events are happening in the area drawing gave the chapter a balance of $210 now to compete with. We will look at changing the in the treasury. event to entice more people to show up at a time when fewer competing events are planned, maybe A discussion of the cost and effectiveness of sometime in the October time frame. sending postcards to remind members of upcoming meetings was the first topic of the night. It was El Paso chapter minutes for February 19, 2003 decided that the cost was prohibitive and therefore the group decided to discontinue this mailing. Steve Meeting was called to order by Jerry. The Hazzard volunteered to do a bulk e-mail as a Pledge of Allegiance was said by all. reminder. Susan Potter followed by volunteering to call persons on our mailing list to see whether or not We were updated on what went on at the Capital they wished to remain on the list. This would also on Legislative Day. We also discussed SB350, serve as a means of updating said list. Pat Luck HB625 & HB921. turned over the mailing list to Susan Potter.
Jerry gave a brief update on the meeting with Steve Hazzard handed out literature on penalties the El Paso Police Department. It was a very which were to be added to a code short meeting due to the Police Department relating to the failure to yield the right of way. representative failing to show up for the meeting. Paul Green presented information on HB 638 which The motion to adjourn was made at 8:58 p.m. by is sponsored by Rep. Warren Randy Miller and seconded by Steve Hazzard. Chisholm, Pampas. This bill has to do with the amount of pollution per horse power and Heart of Texas chapter minutes for February 9, emission reduction incentives. The account was to 2003 be funded by: 1) Gifts or Grants or 2) Any other source so designated by the legislature. HB 625 the Equal Access Bill was presented again. SB 350 Meeting called to order at 1:12pm. Prayer led by which is sponsored by Sen. Armbrister of Victoria Susan. Pledge led by Jim. would add "race, creed, sex, religion, or national origin" to the Equal Access Bill. The supporters of Cyndi died earlier this week {We all took a moment this bill wanted to have it on the Governor's desk by of silence}.We all lost someone who's shoe's won’t the first part of May so that it would have to be be easy to fill. acted upon. Sputnik has appointments with all committee members. HB 200, sponsored by Rep. Sputnik said Legislative Day was a great Leo Berman, wants to make the penalty regarding success, We had about 3,000 bikers there. citations given by the use of "Photo Cop" a civil penalty ruling that evidence and burden of proof are Sputnik is wanting someone to go to Austin for a totally different. The use of "Photo Cops" is being week. Henry and Don can get with each other to go promoted by the company which to Austin for that time period. The money for the manufactures the equipment used for said service. rider’s education course is already there and we HB 144 is sponsored by Suzanna Hupp, need to let Rep. Kip Averitt know this. Also we Lampasas. This bill has to do with the restoration of need to visit our representatives as often as possible. one's vehicle or property to its former owner if Greg brought up the need to e-ail, fax, and call our searched by any law enforcement officials. HB 205 representatives, and send hand written letters to sponsored by Rep. Leo Berman would require one them. to acquire a minimum of a 90 day insurance policy to get Someone mentioned protest rides and Sputnik a TDL. After the expiration of said policy the cautioned that we are not making protest rides. insurance company would be required About the gun course we will need Renschler to get to notify law enforcement agencies in said county. in touch with Jim but, we will try for the 23rd of Paul Green said that Leo Berman got Feb. Don made a motion we adjourn, and Hatch much negative feedback and probably would not seconded it. Meeting adjourned at pursue said bill. 2:00 p.m.
There was no old business. New business included Susan won the 50/50 which came to $30.00. Susan the mention of the memorial service for our sister, donated her $15.00 back. Cyndi Calhoun, which was to take place on the pier at Rockport Beach on February 23rd. Also mentioned was the Guitar Man Memorial Run which was also to take place on February 23rd. Our Coordinator, Bart Luck, requested that we keep Muff and Big Wade in our prayers as they had been involved in a serious car accident. He also mentioned an appreciation party which was held by the probationary club, the "Coyote Moondogs", at the Roadhouse Bar in Round Rock on Sat., February 22, from 1 pm to 5pm.
The SO/SO drawing was held and won by Bart Luck. Six dollars was donated back to the treasury. Lubbock chapter minutes for February 27, 2003 Bubba, president of Aces and Eights, stated that we Our meeting started a little late it was about need to bring a piece of paper and a pen at our 7:30pm. There were 17 people showed up this meetings and just take about 5 minutes to write a month. Thanks to everyone that showed up. letter. Del agreed and said that it really is important that we do this, because it really hurts Sputnik when Alan started out on the floor telling us about the he goes to our senators and representatives and they Austin trip and how we had a really great turn out have no idea what bills he is talking about. He also down there. Alan also thanked all the Aces and mentioned that we need to occasionally send a Eights members that went to Austin that not only thank you note as well. represented the club, but represented being a Warrior. He directed the floor to Scout. Scout was Del also stated that when he went to Austin they telling us about the trip and how it was our first were welcomed in. He stated that he had to wait a time to go to Legislative Day. The weather wasn't couple of hours to see Senator Duncan, but it was that great, but we didn't even think about the worth the wait. Senator Duncan is committed to the weather once we got into Austin. He also told Equal Access Bill. about meeting Rick Perry and how Mr. Perry said that would like to ride with us. Alan said that we On the Federal level the EPA deadline has passed should write in the local newspaper about that and and that was on January 7th. We still need to see what kind of response Mr. Perry gets. recognize this issue. Dell told us to send our letters to our congressman. He mentioned that the Barcia Scout told us that Sputnik is definitely running an bill is dead right now, because Barcia did not get re- operation in Austin. He has dedicated his life to elected. This should not stop the bill and its help protect our rights. He said that we shouldn't be purpose. Del also told us about the health insurance scared going to Legislative Day, because the issue and that the Failure to Yield bill is in the information is handed to you when you get there. House Transportation Committee. The proposed All you have to do is just show up. It's that simple. law in New Mexico was also read to us. This is He said that it was disappointing that there were a ridiculous! This law was proposed to make some few members there. Out of all the bikers in the state motorcyclists forced to donate their organs if they of Texas we really should have had more people are declared brain dead as a result of an accident. there. Alan was wondering how many registered motorcycles are in the state of Texas. I will have to On May 17th in Brady, the District Advisors do some research on that. It would be very meeting will be held to elect new people. Del interesting to find out. wanted to know who could volunteer. He said that the job was not that hard and that all you have to do Also there was a mention later on after the meeting is stay in tune with what is happening and to about printing out flyers for next months meeting. mention any new ideas that you have. Speaking of We will go to the local motorcycle shops in town to new ideas, Del stated that there was an idea of push people to come and join TMRA 2. We really having $5.00 donated to TMRA 2 each time have to let people know what we represent and how someone buys a motorcycle. That could definitely we can help them. There are a lot of motorcycles in help with funds in Austin. Lubbock. Hopefully we will see more people next month. Alan announced that there will be a birthday party for the Big Spring Chapter TMRA 2 on March 29th Del stood up and took the floor and stated that we and the COC meeting would be held at 4:00 p.m. really need to send a letter to our senator and that day also. I also mentioned the rally in representatives and also our congressman. It only Sweetwater April 18th-20th. There will be food, takes a few minutes to just write about what you poker runs, etc. support and to ask them to support your rights as well. If they get enough letters on their desk then Last thing that was discussed was the next meeting they might turn their heads. place. Bubba stated that at the Coronado Inn there is a place called the Sandtrap and the owner of the place also rides a motorcycle and is welcoming us with a response that she will pass the message on. to have a meeting next month. There was a motion, The Secretary was excited to hear we were from then seconded. The next meeting place will be held Wichita Falls and she took a digital picture of us. March 27th at the Sandtrap off of I-27 and Erskine. She told us that she would forward the picture to us afterwards. We will be looking forward to receive Aces and Eights donated 250.00 to TMRA 2 that picture with anticipation. Meeting was adjourned at 8:28pm The thought of having a convention one year our "We may have all come on different ships, but we're New Coliseum was brought up. What are the in the same boat now." -- Martin Luther King, Jr. chances there?? I sure would save on travel time for us, that is for sure. We may even get more from Kristen Phelps our Chapter to actually participate. Wouldn't that be great? North Central chapter minutes for February 16th, 2003 A big thanks goes to the Boozefighters for their hospitality at "Mug Shots" on Sunday night, there in Meeting started at 2:00 p.m. The minutes from the Austin. We had a great time. last meeting was waived. We started the meeting off with the discussion of the Deloach Bill and Next we discussed the upcoming State meeting and Failure to Yield. The importance of contacting our Cyndi's memorial in Rockport. Hopefully some of Senator and Representative was stressed. Decy will our members can get away and be there. That is print up postcards to both Senator Craig Estes and one wonderful lady and she is surely missed. Representative David Farabee on both issues for anyone that hasn't the time or not sure how to write Okay, with no Fund-Fun committee members in a letter concerning these issues. Once this is done attendance, Mary Beth will get with the members to they can be found at Frizzel's Tavern. have them set up something between April and June. The weather will be better then and maybe It was remained that Wichita County Democrats we can get more interested in our cause. were having a meeting on February 25, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. with Sherry Boles as guest speaker. All that The Treasury report for this month is $208.00 for are available were encouraged to attend. the Operation Capitol Fund and $930.89 in our regular fund. With no further business, the meeting Mary Beth announced that the February Birthday was adjourned. Party at Frizzel's Tavern had raised $370.00 for TMRA. Thanks goes to all members that attended Decy Taylor this party, who helped make this possible.
Next topic was electing officers for the next two years. The new officers elected were the same officers for the previous two years with a unanimous vote. Thanks to the officers for their hard work and dedication.
While at the Capitol building during Legislation Day we found we were welcomed by Senator Craig Estes to discuss our issues. He seemed to be open to our ideas, but time will only tell. He did mention that he had heard about the "Legendary" Sputnik but had not met him as of yet. Representative David Farabee was out of his office but we did get to talk to his trainee. She was very nice a polite Panhandle chapter minutes for February 5, 2003 7:15p.m. call to order. Roll call 26 members, 5 new members and 2 guests. Total present 33 The February meeting was called to order at 7:20pm with 5 members present. The invocation was given Scott Edgerton gave the invocation. We all said the by Pockets and Larry led the pledge. Pledge of Allegiance.
Larry also informed those present that Cyndi was The last month’s minutes were read by Sassy. A now absent from the body and face to face with the motion was made and accepted. She also gave the Lord. She was definitely one of a kind and treasurers report. A motion was made and accepted. everyone was proud to be considered her friend. Her like shall not pass our way again in this Mike gave a report on Cyndi passing away and that lifetime. A very large piece of our hearts went with her memorial will be this Sunday in Rockport. The her, but her memory will live with us forever. district advisors meeting will be in Austin this Goodbye little buddy and Godspeed. Saturday.
Larry also gave the legislative update and We then had a discussion about the casino night. mentioned HB 625 and equal access. A discussion We can not be ready by March 29 so we moved it to followed concerning the upcoming failure to yield April 26, 2003. legislation and the possibilities of getting it passed this session. Mike gave a legislative update on HB625/SB350 (Equal Access) and asked everyone to write their Cody gave a report on Legislative Day in Austin legislators about HB931 (Failure to Yield). He also and the visit that he and Larry had with our asked when someone could go to the capitol for a Representative David Swinford. They also visited week. D-Man can go in next few weeks. the new TMRA II headquarters while they were down state. We signed up 5 new members: Bonnie Battle, Debbie Amaya, Steve Biggs, Bart and Jeannie The quote of the month is a paraphrase from McNabb. we wish to welcome all of you to Shakespeare’s “Henry V". TMRAII.
“Whoever does not have the stomach for this James Tidmore announced another Sonic night for fight, let him depart. Give him money to probably in July. We will let you know as this hasten his departure for we wish not to die in that develops. man's company. Whoever lives past today and makes it safely home, will every year on this day, We passed the hat and raised $56.00 for the chapter. rouse himself, show his neighbor his scars, and tell embellished stories of bravery and battle. These Meeting adjourned 8:45 p.m. stories he will teach his son and from now till the end of the world we will be remembered. We few, Sassy we happy few, we band of brothers. For whoever shall shed his blood with me will be my brother and those men who were afraid to go will think of themselves as lesser men when they hear of how we fought and died together.”
Keep the faith and ride awake,
Pockets Tarrant chapter minutes for February 19, 2003
DISTRICT ADVISOR REPORTS in the committee or amendments on the floor but we got the bill #01 - Karl Ford in.
As stage 2 in developing this huge Senate district is The DPS Rider Education budget got cut. progressing, this month included a meeting with the Freetime riders of Gilmer, Texas (not to forget Sputnik said that there is no money to pay the state Perryville and Simpsonville!) Karl got up and spoke secretary. Del Essary out of senate district 28 will about the TMRA2, where we came from, what we do the secretary job with no pay. have accomplished and the current bills we need to support. We got one new member for our Northeast The state may shut down in May if we don't get Texas group and one membership update. We had more members. We can't even pay Sputnik $2,500 a about 20 in attendance so we focused on getting month. He knocked off $5,000 off the original letters written. We took time to dictate the agreement. Sputnik said that Pennsylvania Abate appropriate format and let the Freetime riders ad-lib has $112,000 on hand and $29,400 a month just for as they saw fit. All in all, about 7 to 10 letters will ad’s with 60,000 bikes. Why is it that we only have be in the mail to our House of Representatives, about 1,000 members? Bryan Hughes in support of the Equal Access bill. THANK YOU FREE TIME RIDERS. I called MMA, the oldest biker rights association in the US which started in 1973 for advice. I flew to If you missed our meeting on February 27 at our Vallejo, California which is Division 11 and spoke house, you missed a good one! Awesome snacks, to the advisor Anthony Phillips. He gave me some coffee, tea and a lot of political information were advice on fund raising. I went to their MMA fund shared along with more letters! Our next appearance raiser Feb 8 at HAMC clubhouse. I talked to my is at a CMA meeting in our area. We’ll see what we friend Frisco Gary who has a nice tavern called can muster up there!! Terrible Terry's. After I got back to Texas I also talked to MMA's business manager Steve Hammit. Blessings He said it's just a drop in the bucket to get the funds we need. Steve's more then willing to help us out #06 - Carmine Petrillo and if they had to they would keep a rights association in Texas. There was a low turn out at the District Advisors meeting in Elgin February 22. Sputnik was also We will see what happens May 18 at the general disappointed in the life member’s lack of support meeting. In the mean time let’s try to sign up new during these difficult times. members.
Sputnik wants to know what local members feel #22 - Greg Bodovsky about issues when District Advisors meet. I've been spending some time on the phone and The Equal Access bill is already in processing hopefully have talked to a lot of you in SD 22. If stages. Sputnik is going to try and set a meeting not, I will, or at least try to. Some of the phone #'s with Governor Perry and see how he feels about the need updating in the state office, so check with me bill. We already know that last session he if you have not heard from me yet. I'd like to setup opposed it. This way when the reps and senators ask a phone blitz system within the district so that the how does the governor info goes out in a timely manner when the need feel about HB 625 he can respond that he made an arises. I'd like to be able to call 1 or 2 Warriors per effort to talk to Perry. That’s the politics involved. county or House District. They can call some of the Twenty-three Senators already signed up to support members close to them. This way, when Sputnik the bill. Soon we will ask for a roll puts out the word that we need to call and/or write call vote. our Senator and/or Representative, we will all get Sputnik said that the Tom DeLoach bill didn't go far the word in about the same time and we can "Blitz" enough in righting the bill. It may have substitutes their offices with our concerns. Let me know if you I went to a COC meeting with Henry Duckett on 3/2 can help out. in Austin. The weather was nasty and we rode in the cage, but a lot of bikes fought the elements and State Senate District 22 has 10 counties (Bosque, rode in. It would sure be nice to have that kind of Coryell, Ellis, Falls, Hill, Hood, Johnson, turnout at a TMRA2 meeting. There's no reason we McLennan, Navarro, and Somervell). There are 7 can't, so come on out to the next meeting and bring House Districts within SD 22, with some covering a friend (or 2 or 4). more than 1 county, and 1 county (McLennan) has 2 House Districts. The State Senator is Kip Averitt, Don Poole, Henry Duckett, Johnny Brady (from SD and you should know (and get to know) your State 5), and I went to Austin on March 5 for the public Representative. If you don't know who your State hearing on HB 625 after Sputnik put out the call for Representative is AND the State House District is "warm bodies". There were about 30 Bikers there not on your Voter Registration card (it is NOT on (TMRA2 and COC), which I am told was a good mine), then contact the official in your county that turnout. We signed our support papers and quietly handles registration and find out. Or if you have waited for Sputnik to testify. HB 625 was left in internet access, it's as easy as going to "pending" status, but I learned that was common for http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/fyi/fyi.htm and the 1st hearing of a bill, so it all seemed to turn out entering your info (or anyone else you are helping well. This was my 1st time to attend a hearing, but out). not the last. Henry and Don talked with Sputnik later about going back to Austin to spend a week to As of this writing, there are still 3 Representatives follow Sputnik around the Capitol, and they in SD 22 that have NOT said that they would scheduled it. support HB 625. Those 3 are: HD 8 - Byron Cook, Navarro County I went to the monthly Heart of Texas Chapter HD 56 - John Mabry, part of McLennan County meeting on March 9. There was a very good HD 57 - Jim Dunnam, Falls County and part of turnout. I gave a report on the District Advisors McLennan County meeting and the hearing on HB 625. I gave the status of HB 625 & HB 931 and advised that we Let me know if you have contacted one of these still should be contacting our Reps that have not Reps and what they said. We need a LOT of pledged support. A lot of interest was shown about support to override another expected Perry Veto! the EPA rules that are proposed in D.C. that would Also, if you have NOT sent a letter or postcard to basically put small bike shops out of business. I did your Rep asking for support on HB 931, do it today. not have the current status but pledged to get it. We So far only HD 58's Rep (within SD 22) has said talked about our booth at the upcoming events at she'd support this bill. Jim's. We will have some printed material about the EPA issue to pass out at these events. Make I went to the District Advisor's meeting on February sure you come by the booth at these events and 22 and it was rather sad. Only 7 people TOTAL bring a friend. We can renew memberships there bothered to show up. Only 3 were Advisors. It and sign up new members too. We should also couldn't have been the weather, Because it was have some of the latest info about our bills at that beautiful. It was my 1st visit to the new state office time. in Elgin. It was easy to find, so I don’t know. We really didn't even have enough officers there to I told the members about the lack of funds at the conduct business. We have to do something about state office and asked what it would take to get that, huh? One of the things Sputnik asked that we them more active. I was told that they'd like to see ask the members in our district was why the a more businesslike breakdown of income and membership was NOT active? If you have any expenses so they'd have some kind of idea as to ideas, please let me know. Like Mike Alvey said, how much money it is will take. I was told that "This is SERIOUS TIME"! The Legislature is only they were tired of hearing "send more money" in session for a few more months, so let's get busy! without seeing some kind of report that shows where the money they spent was going. They said that they did not doubt that the money was being spent wisely, but seeing it in black and white (i.e. a monthly Treasurer's Report) would help everyone get an idea of what it was that we were up against. Everyone there agreed that we can't let the association fold, and this would be a good step to get its feet on the ground. I agree!
I would like to thank the members for the hard work that I have seen them put forward and the work I know that is to come. I received thanks from the membership for what I've tried to do as District Advisor since taking over. I just wish I could do more, and if re-elected, I will try to do just that.
I'd like to hear from the members in SD 22, so if you have email, drop me a line at [email protected], or give me a call at 254-582-9291. Come to the next meeting at Jim's which will be April 13th, and contact your State Representatives and your State Senator (Kip Averitt) and ask them to support our bills. Be ready when Sputnik puts out the call for "warm bodies" at the Capitol and make the trip. It'll make you proud. Remember, the 78th will be done in June (regular session anyhow).
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association District Advisors OFFICIAL BALLOT 2003 Dist. 01 PLEASE FOLLOW DIRECTIONS Karl Ford______CAREFULLY We want your vote to count. ______You must be a current member through Dist. 02 05/31/2003 to vote. ______All members vote for State Chair Position but you may only vote for the District Advisor in ______your Senatorial District. If there is a candidate Dist. 03 listed for the position you are voting for and you Goldie Hale______choose to vote for that candidate, mark an X at the end of that line. If you do not choose to ______support the candidate listed you may write in a Dist. 04 name on the blank line under that heading. ______If there is more than one member in the household receiving only one Warrior and you ______both support the candidate on the Ballot you Dist. 05 each put an x at the end of that line. If one ______chooses a write in candidate they write in their choice on the blank line. If both choose to vote ______for a write in candidate write the name in for one Dist. 06 vote and place an X at the end of the line for the Carmine Petrillo______second vote. Place your name and membership number on ______the back of the ballot in the spaces provided. ______Place the Ballot in an envelope and write Dist. 07 BALLOT in the bottom left hand corner of the ______envelope. Do not put anything in the envelope but the Ballot. ______Mail to: Dist. 08 Texas MC Rights Association ______275 Old Lexington Rd. Elgin, Texas 78621 ______Dist. 09 Ballots must be received in the state office no ______th later than May 10 . A committee will count the votes after the Advisor meeting. The results will ______be announced and new officers seated at the Dist. 10 beginning of New Business during the General ______meeting. Any questions call 512-281-0537 or email [email protected] Dist. 11 ______State Chairman ______Sputnik______
______Dist. 12 Mike Alvey______Dist. 25 Dist. 13 ______Dist. 26 Dist. 14 ______Glenn Dial______Dist. 27 Dist. 15 Preacher Ball______John Bridgeman______Dist.28 Dist. 16 ______Dist. 29 Dist. 17 Amando Parra______Dist. 30 Dist. 18 ______Dist. 31 Dist. 19 DEAN MALTSBERGER______Dist. 20 ______VOTER INFORMATION
______NAME______Dist.21 ______Member #______Exp.______
______Disr.22 Name______Greg Bodovsky______Member #______Exp.______Dist. 23 ______Thank you for taking the time to vote. ______
Dist. 24 Ron Ashmore______
MAY 17th PLEASE ATTEND YOUR MAY 17th
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association State meeting in Brady
Meeting will be held in Richards Park, the center of Texas and location of our first state meeting in 1994.
Advisor Meeting 11:00am - General Membership 1:00pm
Free Camping Available Rates at: Friday &Saturday GOLD KEY INN 915-597-2185 Double $40.95 Single w/king $33.95
Other Motels Available Days Inn and Best Western
All members please make every effort to attend this meeting. We will take a group picture of those present to compare with the group picture taken at the first state meeting in 1994.
There will be some very important issues discussed and decisions made at this meeting that will affect the entire membership.
Thanks to Jennifer Laborn of Texas Biker News for making all arrangements SUPPORTER $100 or more Governor Albert Alvidrez, Tigua Indian SILVER $500 or more Tribe, El Paso 10/03 Frizzel's Tavern 10/03 Ball Insurance Agency LaFeria Gypsy M/C 05/03 Bill & Ruby Carlton 11/03 Northwest Texas COC 11/03 State Rep. Norma Chavez, El Paso 10/03 Crocodile Lile 09/03 San Jacinto HighRollers M/C In memory of Nick DeLaCruz (National) 12/03 Phillip Duprey 02/03 T-Twisters M/C 07/04 Ed Hale 03/03 George Hatt 11/03 Steve Hazzard 02/03 GOLD $1000 or more Kamakazie 04/03 The Brownswords Mad Mike & Brenda Alamo City Gypsy M/C 02/03 Tim Moore 10/03 Wayne Miller Amigos M/C (Texas) 11/03 Walt Mosby 01/05 Boozefighters M/C 10/03 Joe Peters 10/03 Brotherhood of Bikers M/C Gary Smith 07/03 Calallen Gypsy M/C 01/04 Cherokee Wind Warriors M/C Companeros M/C 03/04 06/03 Cossacks M/C 12/03 East Texas Chopper Guys 07/03 Dreamer BFMC 01/04 Guardian M/C 02/03 G&N Scooter Shack 07/03 Los Canales M/C 02/04 Great Dane Shoe Co. 07/03 Magic Dragons M/C 03/03 Leggett Cycles 07/03 Motorcycle Specialties 10/03 NW Texas COC 11/03 Mystical Riders M/C 10/03 South Texas COC 09/03 Sawmill Town USA 07/03 Texas Wheels M/C (Waco) 11/03 Tornados M/C West Texas COC 04/03 BRONZE $250 or more **Cyndi Calhoun** Elmer McKeegan 11/03 Amigos M/C (S. Houston) Branch Gypsy M/C 11/03 Denton ABATE Old Sawmill Town USA 10/03 Sawmill Town Intl. Trade 02/04 Southwest Texas COC Texoma ABATE 09/03 The Wichita Falls Crew 02/04
18th Annual
NCOM CONVENTION
MAY 8-10, 2003
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN FOUR POINTS by SHERATON, MILWAUKEE AIRPORT HOTEL 4747 South Howell Ave., Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53207 Compilmentary shuttle to and from Milwaukee's Mitchell International Airport For Room Reservations Call (800) 558-3862 or online at fourpointshotel.com put NCOM in the comments section Make your reservations today, rooms are going fast!
Mention NCOM for the Special Group Rate of $65.00 Single/Double
Hosted by Federation of Wisconsin Motorcycle Clubs
For further information about the NCOM Convention, or for Pre-Registration, call 1-(800)-525- 5355
Pre-Register NOW to Reserve Your Place In Biker History! NAME ______PHONE ( ) ______
ADDRESS ______CITY ______
STATE ______ZIP ______ORGANIZATION ______$75.00 - Convention Registration (including Silver Spoke Awards Banquet) ___ $40.00 - Registration ONLY (not including Silver Spoke Banquet) PAID: Cash _____ Check # ______Received by: ______(Make checks payable to Richard M. Lester)
MAIL TO: NCOM, 21054 Sherman Way, Third Floor, Canoga park, CA 91303 NOTE: Your Convention packet will NOT be mailed to you. Upon arrival at the NCOM Convention, check in at the Pre-Registration booth in the hotrl lobby to pick up your wrist band and other Convention information. This wrist band must be worn for admittance into all the workshops and seminars. No one will be admitted without it! You will also receive your banquet ticket(s) if your Pre-Registration includes the Silver Spoke Awards Banquet on Saturday evening. You will need your banquet ticket to be admitted into the Silver Spoke Awards Banquet.
ALL MOTORCYCLISTS WELCOME !