August 2012
Transcription
August 2012
MEMBERSHIP FEES ARE DUE Inside this issue: Cinco de Mayo Event 2 Bill Boards 3 No Colors Welcome 4 Letter to the Governor 5 SNMMRO Update 6 CNMMRO Update 6 Membership Form 6 Hand Signals 6 Entitlement? 7 NM Traffic Fatalities 7 MRF 8 NCOM 9 Truths in Math 10 Grunt Award 10 Calendar of Events 10 Dan Sorey 11 THE NMMRO BOARD: Chairman…………...Annette Torrez Vice Chairman.....Courtney Farris Secretary…………Stephanie Lenox Treasurer……RockHell Thompson Sgt at Arms……...Todd Thompson Editor………….…………….Bev Covert Webmaster…RockHell Thompson Public Relations Matthew DeVolder Org. Liaison…………..Patrick Sierra CNMMRO……….……….Dave Covert SNMMRO……..….Todd Thompson MEETING SCHEDULE: NMMRO Monthly Meetings: American Legion Post 49 11005 Central Ave NE Abq., NM Aug 18 - 12:00 pm Sept 12- 12:00 pm CNMMRO Monthly Meetings: Sept 4 - 7:00 pm Smokehouse BBQ Hwy 528 & Barbara Lp. in Rio Rancho Chairpersons Letter… New Mexico's Traffic Fatality Analysis has reported 22 motorcycle fatalities in our state for 2012 thus far, 48 in 2011, and 40 in 2010. Deadly motorcycle crashes or crashes with injuries to the motorcyclist have become all too familiar on New Mexico Highways. Recently, Channel 13 KRQE got a hold of these statics and started discussing the possibility of a helmet bill, which really concerns me. They went as far as contacting legislators by phone and asking their opinion on a mandatory helmet bill in New Mexico for the 2013 legislative session; they followed up with a story on recent motorcycle crashes and fatalities and the need for a helmet law in New Mexico. We need to stand strong and united to make sure the rights of motorcyclist are protected. I refuse to standby and allow government to rule our freedoms and regulate what a motorcyclist should wear. I don't want Big Brother pushing a mandatory helmet law in our state. New Mexico should remain a state where the rider still has the choice whether to wear a helmet or not. Statistics can be misleading and not all key factors are always taken into account. Even a careful rider cannot control when a car might pull out in front of them. Instead of spending our time on fighting mandatory helmet laws, I would like to see more emphasis on educational campaigns such as Sharing the Road, and Drive Aware, Ride with Care, and promoting laws that will hold those who kill or injure a motorcyclist on our highways accountable for their actions. I feel our community needs to start creating, implementing, organizing and producing our own STATS based on accurate, trustworthy, factual information. We must continue to promote safety awareness to all who share the road and remind drivers to pay attention and look out for motorcycles. We suggest that all riders take a motorcycle safety training course to enhance their rider skills, which even an Volume 4, Issue 1 August 2012 experienced rider can benefit from. Riders must be aware of their surroundings at all times, obey the laws of the road, obey the speed limit, and don't drink and ride. We are losing too many motorcyclists in our state, it is time we turn this trend around through awareness and become responsible riders on our part. Thank you to Representative Rick Miera who stepped in from a last minute call to be a part of the TV interview in support of motorcyclists and against mandatory helmet laws. Many are not aware Representative Miera got his start in government in the 1970's fighting and repealing helmet laws in our state and has continued to be an avid supporter of the motorcycle community. Steve Stucker, fellow motorcyclist and morning news weatherman, recently emailed us on this subject. Steve says "The media sees all these accidents, and because of misunderstanding the subject, tends to ask the wrong questions". Steve feels that instead of asking if we need a helmet law, they should be asking "Are there actually more accidents than before, & if so, why?"... And "Would a helmet law have saved a life...OR prevented this accident?" Steve thinks we need to continue to work at establishing better relationships with the press, so they look to us for comments on these types of stories. He also suggested checking stats with insurance companies & the MVD, to show that one of the real reasons for more accidents and deaths is that there are simply many MORE riders than ever before. He feels this will help us in the long run, by making other drivers aware that there are more Bikers than ever before. He strongly agrees with a push for better awareness of drivers in other vehicles, and the need to focus on them respecting our space and presence. Steve also believes it is OUR responsibility to Apply Peer Pressure to those motorcyclists who ride unsafely. I 2 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER agree with Steve when I promote safety awareness, I hear so many times from those who share the road with us that many motorcyclists do not ride responsibly and obey the laws of the road. We must remember the actions of those who abuse the speed limit, weave in and out of traffic and flee from the police have an effect on a whole motorcycle community and then all riders are viewed as irresponsible by the public. We as motorcyclist must also act responsible, safety must start in our own community so others will follow our lead. The burning question on the mind of many is who Dan Sorey, JusiceForRiders.com is. Well, Dan Sorey is friend and ally to the motorcycle community. He is an attorney who represents riders in New Mexico, Texas and Arkansas. He helped sponsor our May safety awareness event with $5000.00 to make our event a success. He purchased hundreds of bandanas to help the NMMRO promote our White Bandana Campaign and promote safety awareness in our state. He has already advised and helped motorcyclists in our state and community. He is also the person who paid for the billboard on I-40 near Jefferson South bound helping the NMMRO to promote motorcycle safety awareness. The billboard was recently the subject of a controversial feature by a local TV station. The billboard featured a topless woman covering her breast and wearing a helmet. The billboard was not meant to offend or be disrespectful, only to make an impact and bring attention to motorcycle safety awareness. I actually think the controversy and media coverage helped bring more awareness to motorcyclists in our state and may actually help us save lives. This billboard is a series of 5 or 6 to follow throughout the Metro area. Thank you to Attorney Dan Sorey for his support to our state in motorcycle safety awareness. 2012 has proven to be a dangerous year for motorcyclists on our freeways, several NMMRO officers along with me have tried to gather information as accidents occur and actually go to the hospital and support the victims and their families after the accident has occurred. I want each and every one of you to know that you can contact me at anytime with concerns, issues or questions. If an accident occurs please notify me so we can be of assistance to you and your family 505-730-0435. The NMMRO has gone through some difficult times in the recent months, thank you all for your trust and continued support to your organization and the purpose we serve. Remember together we can accomplish the possible and the impossible. Ride Safe. With Respect and Loyalty always Annette Cinco de Mayo Safety Awareness Event: HUGE SUCCESS… On May 5th the NMMRO hosted the first annual safety This awareness event at the Balloon Fiesta Park. event included a bike & car show and activities promoting safety awareness to all who share the road. We estimate that there were a thousand to fifteen hundred people in attendance, possibly more. It was unbelievable; we filled the park with 135 custom bikes, cars and trucks as entries for the show and hosted a car hop. Thank you to our sponsors: Attorney Dan Sorey, The NM Department of Transportation, Thunderbird Harley Davidson Dealership, MADD, The Confederation of Clubs, The Mz Behavin Divas, The Rollerz Only Car Club and the Duke City Wheelman. Thank you to all who supported, attended and assisted in the preparation and cleaning up at the end of the day. The NM DOT officials were there giving out information and in support; before they left they shared with us, how impressed they were with the NMMRO and our event and all our efforts in promoting safety awareness. They also said the success of this event will help in obtaining assistance for next year. Also thank you to NM DOT for the electronic road signs placed near the event on I-40 promoting SHARE THE ROAD during the event; Thank you to APD Bat Mobile, Commander Eric Garcia and his 10 to 15 APD officers who were there to assist; also thank you to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, APD Motorcycle Officers and ThunderBird Harley Davidson Riders Edge for their motorcycle safety demonstrations throughout the whole event, and to the Duke City Wheelman from the bicycle community for the children’s bicycle safety demonstrations. Our goal was to reach as many people as possible and ask them to look out for motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians and in turn save lives and prevent injuries on our roadways and highways. While there are so many to thank, there were some people we need to thank personally for their assistance and support, if I forget anyone please forgive. The NMMRO board members and membership; Event committee: Jason Sedillo, Desert Posse Allan, Viking & RockHell, Tigger, Diva Kat, China, Wicked, Lorraine Tapia, Bandido Pat and Marcus; Attorney Dan Sorey; NM DOT; David Lapington; ThunderBird H-D employees: Karen, Leanne & Mike; MADD: Dolly Otero; NM Motorcycle Safety Foundation: David Smith; Confederation of Clubs & all the Motorcycle Clubs for their participation; Defenders Program; Mz Behavin Divas; NM MRF assistant Rep; Diva Kat; SinfullDollz China for obtaining Drums; SinfullDollz Wicked for the awesome painting she personally painted and donated for the raffle; CNMMRO: Dave, Bev & Rod; ABATE Red Rocks Chapter: Jim & Barbara; Representative Rick Miera; Steve Stucker and to Channel 4 for covering the event; Tanya Griego and the Tanya Griego Band; Jennifer, Tigger Anthony Cordova and the Rollerz Only Car Club. Tigger you were God sent Thank you so so much; Southwest Monster Trucks; My son Chris Aragon, his girlfriend Nicole, her family and his friend Bubba for judging the show; Tony Lopez and ShadowRider THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER 3 Cinco de Mayo cont … Ron for judging the bikes; Wind and Fire MC; All the vendors who participated; The Freedom Riders; The ShadowRiders MC; Legion Riders Chapter One, Yancy; Black Beret Graywolf and the Black Berets MC for all their help and for our Sound System; To Black Beret KickStand for the Print donation; Bikerboyz MC for loan of equipment for our EMS tent and for staying to help clean up; United Blood Services; Handle Bars Magazines for your support coverage in magazine and help with making the T-shirt Logos; To all the Car Clubs; The Fire Marshall Office; Albuquerque City officials; The Balloon Fiesta Park Employees; Pro Plus Security What Bill Boards? … There has been a lot of controversy surrounding some Bill Boards that are popping up around Albuquerque, it seems that we are offending some and saving the lives of others. Attorney Dan Sorey very generously paid for the Bill Boards that are in the spot light. His intention is to bring awareness to NM drivers that Motorcycles are on the roads and to save lives, not to offend; my thoughts are “whatever works!” The NMMRO Board of Directors received some emails from unhappy travelers; they have been included for your reading pleasure. The names have been removed to protect their privacy. It seems that the correspondence stopped as quickly as it started. NMMRO Board Members, Jun 13, 2012 at 6:21 AM I am writing to you to discuss the content on the "watch for motorcycles" ad on I-25 and Jefferson. I was very surprised yesterday to drive down the freeway and see a topless woman covering some of her breasts on a billboard. Although I completely agree with the message your organization is trying to promote, I feel that using a topless woman to get the message across is inappropriate and absurd. As a father I am appalled to see this content on a public billboard located in an area where my children can view it. I am asking that the offensive ad be taken down as soon as possible. Your consideration in this matter is greatly Annette Torrez appreciated. heart. My idea for an ad would be to either give statistics of fatal accidents in the last year in NM or then say someone’s dad, mom, brother, sister; son or daughter didn't make it home because someone didn't see a motorcycle. The other idea would be to list the names of victims (with family permission) of motorcycle accidents with a similar message of they didn't make it home to their families because someone didn't see a motorcycle. I know that this is a very shocking idea and may be too painful for some to do but it may be what we need in NM to get people to stop texting, talking on the phone, and basically doing everything but driving when they are behind the wheel. Once again thank you for getting back to me so quickly and I do wish you great success on getting drivers to be more aware of motorcycles. Ride safe. Dear Annette Torrez, Jun 14, 2012 at 5:26 PM I appreciate the fact that your organization wants to bring motorcycle safety awareness to the Albuquerque area. I think motorcycle safety is very important especially in our city where so many accidents and fatalities occur. The billboard currently in use along 1-25 and Jefferson does nothing for your organization except give passer by's the impression that this organization is trashy. Obviously this is the wrong impression but unfortunately when pornography is used in any advertisement the real message is lost. I bet your organization can come up with something better to clean up the trashy image presented to the drivers of Albuquerque. I personally do not appreciate driving by pornography on a daily basis with my two small boys in tow. With all due respect, please take the ad down. I will be writing to the owner of the billboard company and ask him why he is peddling pornography to small children, perhaps he is a pedophile? Thank you so much and I will be keeping a safe eye out for all my fellow drivers including motorcyclists, Hey Annette-June 13, 2012 1:17 PM See your group is helping sponsor this billboard off I-25 with the topless woman covering her breast. Although I think it’s a great ad, we’ve had some callers who aren’t so keen on it. “More of a distraction than anything else”…”Too provocative etc.” Can you give me a call on my cell? We might do a story on it and would love to do a local interview; keeping in mind of course the point behind the ad is to raise awareness about To all members: Jun 15, 2012 at 5:47 PM riders. It is too bad that your group has to use woman as dirty sex objects. Your billboard will not make me respect motorcycle Annette, June 14, 2012 1:51 PM Thank you for getting back to me. I truly hope that drivers riders more. Nobody wants bike riders to be injured but I will start to pay more attention to motorcycles as well. I do don't understand how having this disgusting sign up for have an idea that may be very impactful for future ad women and children to see will help. My husband used to ride campaigns about motorcycle awareness that I would like to and subscribes to two motorcycle magazines. I went riding share with you. I have several family members and close with him a few times before our age and health caught up friends who are riders and so this topic is very close to my with us. I am not anti motorcyclist but I am against using 4 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER NO-COLORS Welcome … Establishments as reported by NMMRO members who: Welcome Bikers and provide friendly service or Do not allow Colors or have refused service to a Motorcyclist. High Noon Restaurant Leo’s Nightclub Billy’s Long Bar Santa Ana Casino Burts Tikki Lounge Silva’s in Bernalillo Cottonwood Mall Slate Street – Rio Rancho Hard Rock Casino Stone Face Tavern Horse & Angel Tavern T.D.'s Showclub KnuckleHeads (Bar & Grill ABQ) The Library Bar and Grill (downtown) Los Ojos Locos Twin Peaks Bar and Grill Ned’s on the Rio Grande Uptown Sports Bar Bill Boards cont… women this way. Cycle World and Motorcyclist also display these ads. Motorcycle groups will be more discriminated against by people when they portray themselves as slime balls. Using women to arouse men to promote motorcycle safety doesn't make much sense. Women should not be used! This type of ad makes motorcycle clubs seem primitive and full of uneducated people, which is not true. Why must motorcycle people use negative images of women to get their point across? If you want to get people's attention, show a dying rider on the billboard. It would not be appropriate either, but it would make more sense. Women are more than just T and A, but not according to your organization. Lovington, NM Sandia Casino This list will be updated and published in every newsletter. Please email Annette Torrez with new submissions or resolutions atorrez2@msn.com The NMMRO would like to recognize Biker Friendly establishments, please take the time to report those businesses that appreciate your business. Please take a moment to view channel 7 news clip regarding the safety awareness billboard sponsored and paid for by Attorney Dan Sorey, which has our NMMRO Website on it was approved by the NMMRO board) causing a stir in New Mexico. I think it is great we are getting the attention of the people to look out for motorcycles. http://www.koat.com/news/new-mexico/albuquerque/Motorcycle-Billboard//9153728/14818078/-/10le03x/-/index.html#.T9l2K6I0ZOw.email Founded by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking. With the help of those who want a safer future, MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving® will end this danger on America’s roads. PowerTalk 21™ is the national day for parents to talk with their kids about alcohol, using the proven strategies of Power of Parents, It’s Your Influence™ to reduce the risk of underage drinking. And as one of the largest victim services organizations in the U.S., MADD also supports drunk driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every 8 minutes at 1-877-MADD-HELP. Learn more at www.madd.org or in NM call (505)255-2955. THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER Watch for new arrivals… 5 Letter to Governor Martinez… What would you do if someone you knew, your father, brother, son, friend, who was a motorcyclist, was killed when a semi truck ran him over? You would be mortified, heartbroken, angry, and wanting justice to be served on the truck driver. Now, how do you suppose you would feel if said truck driver got a slap on the wrist, placed on an ankle bracelet and set free to return to his home in California? Justice didn't seem to be served, in your opinion. In fact, a stiffer penalty was given to a man who shot up an EMPTY speed van! Did you know that since the beginning of 2012 that at least TWO motorcyclists PER WEEK have been killed on New Mexico roads? The justice system in this state stinks, to be honest. Almost daily we are still hearing about corruption and people such as this truck driver being let go when he SHOULD be in jail. I'm not a motorcyclist, but my husband is and so are a great number of our friends and family. They are from every walk of life and occupation and all of them enjoy a common bond - the freedom of riding in the wide open spaces, feeling the wind in their hair, so to speak. It is a freedom that is unparalleled. Something needs to be done to make our roads safer for them. Bike Day at the Capitol each year is meant to bring awareness to incidents such as the one mentioned above, but are you listening? Is this Bike Day a waste of time? The person mentioned in the semi/motorcycle accident died at around 7:00 a.m. on April 22, 2012 on I-40 between Moriarty and Edgewood. His name was John Hamilton. The truck driver was seen trying to pull the body from beneath the truck as well as pull the mangled motorcycle out from under the front bumper and wheel. John's Black Berets club brothers, friends and especially his family are still mourning this devastating loss. So, Governor Martinez, what are YOU going to do about these types of tragedies? You are supposed to be a servant of the people of New Mexico. I hold you accountable and expect you to step up and do what is right!. Laws protecting motorcyclists need to be stiffened, and I'm not talking about a stupid law requiring helmets. It seems that's the first thing that the news media always reports in these accidents, that the rider wasn't wearing a helmet. That was reported, erroneously, in John's accident, too. Helmets, which John always wore, can't and won't provide any protection against a semi weighing thousands and thousands of pounds running you over, literally! Wearing a helmet needs to remain the choice of the rider. Cordially, Donna Little Wife of Black Berets member Grumpy Jim 6 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER SNMMRO Update… On June 2, 2012, the first stand alone SNMMRO meeting was held in Roswell. Attendance was about 20. We discussed the recent wrecks involving motorcycles with no new wrecks reported in the Roswell area. I reported on the Cinco de Mayo, Sharing the Road event in Albuquerque was received very good positive feedback. There are no new events from any of the clubs in the Roswell area. The White Bandana program was explained to those attending the meeting and white bandanas were given to those attending. Many took some for those not present. SCOC Chairman, Bryant Dunlap reported a few items of interest. The new nightclub, The Complex, will be opening soon and has a "No Colors" policy. Bryant and I will try to talk with the owner/operator of the Complex to attempt to change their minds. Also, the SCOC meeting will be held at Quarters in Ruidoso on June 10, 2012. Nothing else to report from the SCOC. I will be travelling to the SCOC meeting on the 10th. SNMMRO SA Loki advised nothing new to report involving the motorcycle community in Roswell. On June 9, 2012 it was reported the SCOC meeting in Ruidoso has been cancelled due to the Little Bear Fire in the Lincoln National Forrest. It will be rescheduled for the 2nd week of July. I travelled to Roswell on the 10th-11th to meet with SCOC Chairman Bryant Dunlap regarding the "No Colors Policy" at the Complex. I met with one of the co-owners around noon on the 10th and discussed the policy. She was advised that bikers police themselves and there should not be any problems, should they decide to change the policy. She said she would discuss it with her husband and fellow co-owner and possibly hold a "Bike Night" to see if there would be any potential problems. I advised Mr. Dunlap who appreciated the door being opened. He promised to follow up. Todd "Viking" Thompson SA NMMRO Chairman SNMMRO CNMMRO Update… The CNMMRO held its most recent monthly meeting on July th 10 Items discussed were: • CNMMRO hosting a Benefit Run • Nomination Results: Dave C– Chairman, Steve – Vice Chairman, Rod – Treasurer/Secretary, Dave S – Sgt at Arms. • Motorcycle Awareness Bill Boards – They have created a controversy • Participation in the MAP Program without being a member, it was discussed and decided that this would be OK provided we maintain control over MAP and they uphold the integrity of the CNMMRO. CNMMRO meetings are held at 7 pm on the first Tuesday of each month at the Smokehouse BBQ, Hwy 528 & Barbara Loop in Rio Rancho and are open to everyone. Our upcoming th meeting will be held on Tuesday Sept 4 NMMRO Membership Single Membership $20.00 Couples Membership $30.00 Corporate Membership Renewals: $100.00 Single $15.00 Couple $20.00 Please send info & checks to: NMMRO PO Box 27673 Albuquerque NM 87125-7673 --------------------------------------------------Name:_________________________ Address:_______________________ ______________________________ (City, State and Zip Code) E-mail: ________________________ Phone Number: _________________ Are you a registered voter? ________ THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER Entitlement is the new buzz word… 7 NM Traffic Fatality Statistics… The following is the opinion of the author and not necessarily the opinion of the NMMRO: I see that the majority of the past two generations are not being educated, motivated, inspired or given opportunities to learn about and look up to our Government. Our Government is NOT respected anymore and those "inside" are tainted, dishonest, corrupt, and greedy. The American people have become "puppets" who are used, manipulated and abused by those that use to be honored, respected, and revered as "representatives and/or ambassadors of the USA. Then self interest groups, businesses, and organizations came to offer "contributions, gifts, under the table deals, and promises" for consideration, perks, and/or favoritism. Our elected officials (which was suppose to be a "service to your community" was now being "bought off". Their greed, self-serving, egotistical, selfish, dishonest, above the law attitude has created the apathy and acceptance to mediocrity, transgressions, abuses of power and a total disregard to the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Our Flag. This is NOT a Democrat or Republican issue. Those two parties have Founded a mother whose was killed a drunk Mothers become veryby distorted and daughter overlapping. It by feels likedriver, religion in aAgainst Drunk Driving® (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking. With the help of those who want a safer future, MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk sense. You have the orthodox (right wing) believer. Then the Driving® will end this danger on America’s roads. PowerTalk 21™ is the national day for parents to talk with their kids about alcohol, using the proven conservative (middle road) believer. And lastly the reformed strategies of Power of Parents, It’s Your Influence™ to reduce the risk of underage drinking. And as one of the largest victim services organizations in the U.S., MADD also supports drunk driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every 8 minutes at 1-877-MADD-HELP. Learn more (liberals). at www.madd.org or in NM call (505)255-2955. The Republic has become entrenched with political correctness and trying to serve everyone's needs and beliefs at the costs of throwing out the fundamental principles and reasons WHY this Country was established. We are a police state and country without most of the population knowing it. We have rewritten history and convoluted our definitions of Rights, Liberties and Freedoms so much that the majority of our children and their children do not even know the fundamental principles or foundation of The United States of America. We are too busy trying to make "everyone happy and content" that we are losing OUR identity and uniqueness. No respect. No convictions. Little involvement. Mostly apathetic. Dependent. And the majority doesn’t even register to vote or actually vote. They are lambs who are lead by leaders who say one thing and do another. No honor, morals, values, or integrity. In fact, Americans today state that they do nothing because nothing will change. Entitlement is the new buzz word. Give them what they want, not what they need. Government will take care if you and make it easy. All you have to do is stay down, do nothing, be quiet and live off programs that were meant to be temporary solutions. We have become lazy, self absorbed, selfish, and accepting of "less than, mediocre, average". No accountability to our Politicians, Media, Government Agencies, Banks, Wall Street, Big Business, etc. NONE! We are too busy just making a living and staying one paycheck away from being homeless. Love and Respects, Kat Grover, President MMMC, AZ, ACMC BOD, ACMC Webmaster & Spokesman Editor, AZ US Defender Lieutenant Commander, MRF Member & AZ Asst Rep, MMA Board member & Secretary-Casa Grande, Co-founder AMMCP, Abate-Vice-Coordinator Phoenix/Shadow Mountain, AMA Member, MMAA Member 8 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER Meeting of the Minds 2012 The annual Meeting of the Minds is closer than you think. The dates seem early; but it is still the 4th weekend in September. This year those dates are September 20-23. Concerned Bikers Association/ABATE of North Carolina (CBA/ABATE) will be our hosts for this year's conference. We will be in Durham, NC at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel. For those not familiar with Durham, they share an airport with Raleigh. Our rate for the Conference is $99.00 per night. Be sure to mention the Meeting of the Minds to get our rate. You must make your reservations no later than August 19th to take advantage of the discounted rate. Shuttle service is available to and from the airport to the hotel. August 19th is also the pre-registration deadline for the Conference. Members pay only $70.00 registration fee; for nonmembers it is $80.00. On August 20th, the registration fees go up by $10.00 for both members and non-members. Preregistering is easy. Simply log on to www.mrf.org, click on 2012 Conference Information. A secure link for registration is right on the page. You will also find a link to make your hotel reservation. If you prefer to pay by check you may send you check to the DC office: 236 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Suite 204, Washington, DC 20002. To get the pre-registration rate the envelope must be postmarked no later than August 19th. The Conference begins on Thursday evening at 7:00PM with the Meet and Greet. This is one of the most important events at any conference. This is where we find out who is in attendance and what issues they are facing at home. It gives us an answer to the question "Who do I need to talk to this weekend?" Again this year, we have a variety of topics to cover in the General Sessions as well as the offered workshops. We will be doing a panel discussion of what challenges different parts of the country are facing; and how to help each other. Our individual workshops will cover topics ranging from attracting younger (read that sport bike) riders to leadership to an analysis of the CDC statements on motorcycle safety. Another item to note is this may be the last year for the Tug of War. Currently, the standings are three wins each for Bibs and Kilts. And as an added bonus, Bruce “goes both ways” Downs will come out of retirement and again tug for the team who raises the most money. In the previous year's that Bruce tugged, the team he was on won three of four matches. We have other fun events planned as well. You will need to join us to find out what all there is to do, and who all there is to meet. See you next month! THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER 9 THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at www.ON-A-BIKE.com. NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) is solely sponsored by the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) nationwide legal services program and serves as an umbrella organization for more than 2,000 NCOM Member clubs, organizations and associations worldwide, representing well over a quarter of a million politically active motorcyclists. NCOM has successfully outreached to numerous segments of the motorcycling community in an effort to unite for our rights, both legal and legislatively, and has become a unifying voice amongst North America’s motorcycle rights organizations (MROs), motorcycle clubs, women riders, religious riding organizations, touring groups, trikers, sportbikers, and minority motorcyclists. All motorcyclists are welcome to attend the NCOM Convention, hosted this year by the Indiana Confederation of Clubs, and encouraged to participate in the many meetings, seminars and group discussions that focused on legislative efforts and litigation techniques to benefit our right to ride. Next year’s 28th Annual NCOM Convention will be held May 9-12, 2013 at the Silver Legacy Resort-Casino, 407 N. Virginia St. in Reno, Nevada. For further information, contact NCOM at (800) 525-5355 or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com. HEALTH AGENCY PUSHES HELMETS WITH BOGUS FINDINGS Researchers at the Centers For Disease Control are using flawed logic to promote their crusade for helmet laws, but “Garbage-In, Garbage-Out” numbers reveal helmet use is actually in indirect proportion to motorcycle fatalities. In a newly-released CDC study of Fatal Accident Reporting System (FARS) data, the following has been quoted recently by media outlets from coast to coast; “According to a CDC analysis of fatal crash data from 2008 to 2010, a total of 14,283 motorcyclists were killed in crashes, among whom 6,057 (42 percent) were not wearing a helmet. In the 20 states with a universal helmet law, 739 (12 percent) fatally injured motorcyclists were not wearing a helmet, compared with 4,814 motorcyclists (64 percent) in the 27 states with partial helmet laws and 504 (79 percent) motorcyclists in the three states without a helmet law.” The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) looked over the CDC’s own numbers and found some serious faults in their findings: First off, if 6,057 motorcyclists were not wearing helmets of the 14,283 motorcyclists who were killed in crashes during the 3-year study period, that means that 8,226 riders (58%) WERE wearing helmets when they died, meaning that the vast majority of motorcyclist fatalities nationwide wore helmets! Using the CDC’s twisted logic, nearly half of all motorcyclists killed were in the 20 states that required them to wear a helmet! If the agency’s numbers are to be believed, between 64-78% of riders in the 30 partial and no-helmet law states legally chose to ride without a helmet, yet only 38% of the fatalities involved non-helmeted riders, so helmet use is astonishingly overrepresented in motorcyclists’ mortality statistics! But the CDC also touts that 12% of the biker deaths in helmet law states were not wearing a helmet. The most amazing thing about this figure is that helmet use rates approach 100% in helmet law states and virtually no one rides without one at the risk of facing hefty fines! What the government’s numbers most likely reveal, if they have any legitimacy at all, is that helmets come off in about one in ten fatal accidents. This revelation is consistent with prior estimates, and seriously skews their other helmet use/non-use data, because it would mean considerably more riders were wearing helmets up to the moment of their demise than previously anticipated, which means all the Center’s fiscal extrapolations are meaningless as well. Another gem proffered by the CDC to bolster their helmet law push is that while motorcycles represent only 3% of registered vehicles they represent nearly 14% of traffic fatalities. But when you consider that motorcycles offer little in the way of physical protection during a collision, unlike cars with airbags, crumple zones and impact-absorbing structures, it’s easy to understand why motorcyclists seldom have fender-benders…yet auto drivers routinely walk away from high-speed impacts. The true numbers are pretty clear; a previous DOT Traffic Safety Facts Research Note states in 2010 that 54% of all U.S. motorcyclists were observed wearing a helmet when they rode, whether by choice or by law, and since the CDC says 58% of fatally injured riders wore a helmet at that time, then helmets obviously are not designed to protect against fatal injuries. QUOTABLE QUOTE: Wisconsin’s embattled Governor Scott Walker, following his strong win in the state’s recent recall election, sees support from Wisconsinites not just a ticket to govern, but also a ticket to ride; “I'm gonna go ride my Harley all around the state of Wisconsin. Who knows where I’ll end up. I’m just getting on the motorcycle and riding,” he told Fox News. 10 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER Truths in Math… On Sun, Jul 15, 2012 the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette published an article stating that Motorcycle crash costs are a burden: Below is Ron Fryer’s response to the article. The link to the article is provided as they do not allow their material to be reprinted. http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20120715/EDIT07/307159972/1147/EDIT07 He has noted some interesting statistics. This is the same old story. The issue here cannot possibly be about money. If the research is properly done, it will reveal that 61% of motorcycle accident victims do not pay their hospital bill. The same study will show that 63% of automobile accident victims do not pay their bill. On the surface, these numbers are approximately the same; however, when tied to the number of people who drive motorcycles and the number of people who drive automobiles, the results clearly indicate that the automobile drivers are the greatest burden on society. Only about 3% of vehicles are motorcycles and about 95% are automobiles. What is the greater number? 63% of 95% or 61% of 3% ??? Lawmakers need to look at the real costs. Unfortunately, the real issue here is freedom of choice; and any kind of freedom stands little chance of being upheld because freedom does not get politicians elected. Very sad. Best Regards, Ron Fryer - MRF Rep, Washington State GRUNT AWARD… I received a special recognition award for appreciation for improving the image of motorcycling in our state at NCOM (National Coalition of Motorcyclist) this past weekend. NM now has 3 NMMRO's in our state, and have been involved in legislation, profiling and discrimination against motorcyclists, improved and established relationships with MADD, DOT, MSF, Police Departments, public and state officials and the media; Worked on promoting safety awareness to all who share the road. Annette Torrez NM MRF REP NMMRO Chairman Calendar of Events… Aug 6 - 12 Monday - Sunday Sturgis Motorcycle Rally http://www.sturgis.com/ Time: Location: Sturgis, SD th NMMRO Meeting American Legion Post 49 - 11005 Central Ave NE Aug 25 9:00 am th 2 Annual Rescue Riders M/C Poker Run Veterans Memorial Park Louisiana & Gibson Sweet_fe_22@yahoo.com Aug 30 - Sep 3, 12 Ignacio Bike Week http://www.ignaciobikeweek.com/ Time: Location: Ignacio, Colorado Aug 30 - Sep 3, 12 Sugar Pine Ranch Rally http://sugarpineranchrally.com/ Time: Location: Mancos, Colorado Aug 31– Sep 3, 2012 All ABATE Campout http://www.abateofcolo.org/images/stories/AllABAT E_preregistration_.pdf Time: Location: 6.2 miles east of Ignacio Sept. 1 Saturday Bikes, Blues & Brews http://www.cyclefish.com/event/15834/ Time: all day Location: 10 Miller Lane, Angel Fire, NM Sept. 6 - 8 NM HOG Rally http://www.nmstatehogrally.com/ Time: Location: Abq. Marriott Pyramid N, TBird HD Sept. 12 - 16 Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally www.motorcyclerally.com Time: Location: Ruidoso, New Mexico Sept. 20 - 23 MRF Meeting of the Minds www.mrf.org Time: Location: Durham, NC Aug 18 12:00 pm nd THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER 11 12 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER Advertisements & Announcements’ Show Stoppers Unlimited 9319 Central NE Albuquerque, NM 87123 www.showstoppersunlimited.net (505) 888-2484 D&D Custom Embroidery David Baca Sr. and David Baca Jr. 615-6632 8509 Constitution Ave, NE Albuquerque, New Mexico (505) 292-2700 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER Sales Service Installation, Repair, Carpet, Wood, Laminate, Ceramic Great Carpet Sale and Specials Contact Pancho Frank Rivera 505 837 1950 For all your flooring needs 13 14 THE NMMRO NEWSLETTER In Remembrance