STATE COORDINATOR'S REPORT | |
| |
There is not much to report this month. 501C3 is still moving forward slower than we had hoped. We will keep everyone updated. A second American Income Life (AIL) mailing will be coming out. Please do so if you would like to meet with them for additional coverage. They only get your information from you when sending in the beneficiary card. The mailing comes out from ABATE of Washington. If everything is correct and you don't want to make any changes, you do not need to take any action. You don’t need to do anything to have the basic coverage you already have as a member of ABATE of Washington.
March was busy: Spokane motorcycle show and ABATE Swap Meet in Monroe. As you read this, it went
well, and you had a chance to attend one or both events.
Spring Opener is coming quickly; get your tickets and plan on coming to a great event.
Raffle tickets for both raffles are still available. Please get yours and sell as many as you can. Only 5000
were printed of each.
A few open positions need to be filled at the State level. We need a State Quartermaster who is
responsible for State assets. We have a storage facility, and they would be responsible for getting things
when needed for state events. We also need an East Side Ambassador who would go to non-ABATE
motorcycle groups and functions and try building membership and chapters on the stat's East Side.
We also need a Public Relations person; This person should be the media and public face of ABATE of
Washington.
| | |
Ride Safe and have a great time this summer.
Andy McAfee
State Coordinator
| | SENIOR STATE DEPUTY COORDINATOR | |
| |
WE ARE LOOKING TO FILL POSITIONS AND WE NEED YOU!
This month we have our Board of Directors meeting on April 19th, thank you Star Lake Chapter for hosting. As we have BOD coming up, there are some state level positions needing filled, I'd like to ask you to consider or at least inquire as to what it all entails to serve in one of these positions. We are looking to fill to following positions:
- Membership Secretary
- Quartermaster
- Public Relations Officer
- Eastside Ambassador at Large
If any of these positions interest you, please see myself or Andy McAfee. As you know this entire organization is run by volunteers, the more we have the easier the tasks are to handle & continue to make this a successful organization.
Thank you,
Jeff "Bubba" Bowen
| | |
|
Thanks to each of you who submit articles, chapter reports, flyers and photographs for our Freedom Newsletter.
I will send an email confirmation of each submission I receive.
If you do not receive written confirmation from me, your submission did not arrive as planned. Please reach out to me via email so that I can ensure your submission is included in the next month's newsletter.
As always, thank you for sending your submissions by the 15th of each month. NOTE: Late submissions do not guarantee placement in the upcoming newsletter.
With respect and gratitude,
Shari Rose Carlsberg
ABATE Freedom Newsletter Editor
newsletter.abateofwashington@gmail.com
| | | | SPRING OPENER - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED | |
| April showers, brings May flowers & not long after that it's time for Spring Opener! We have great things planned for this year. We have great local entertainment booked, starting with Iron Stallion on Thursday night, Friday night Seattle Cossack's performance followed by the 80's Ladies rockin' the stage, & closing out the Saturday festivities, we have On The Side!! It's going to be another great event! Tickets are available for purchase online, scan the QR code on the event flyer or checkout the abate-wa.org website, under events. We have minimal printed tickets for members & non-members, please contact your chapter coordinator or myself to arrange to get your paper ticket. | |
I want to thank everyone on this year's Spring Opener Committee, your hours of volunteer service don't go unnoticed & I appreciate all that you do to make this a great event. If you or someone you know is interested in taking over as Chairperson for Spring Opener 2026, please contact myself or Bill Dye, State Jr. Deputy Coordinator. It's well organized & can easily be transitioned to a new team leader.
**VOLUNTEERS NEEDED** Please consider stepping up & working a shift of security or a shift in the State Products booth selling swag. Please contact Phil Snow for security detail & Carrie Saagim for products
Billi Bowen
Spring Opener Committee Chairperson
253-221-7806
| | |
|
Thank you for another successful Swap Meet!
I appreciate each and every volunteer, vendor, and shopper who supported us.
Until next year,
Chris
ABATE of Washington
Swap Meet Chair
| | | |
|
| |
Guess what time it is? Raffle time!!
We will be holding two separate raffles this year. One for motorcycles and one for guns… yep... we get to raffle guns again!
Motorcycle prizes are:
- 2024 Roadglide
- 2020 Triumph Bonneville 1200 Bobber
- Coleman 186cc gas-powered mini bike
Gun prizes are:
- Henry Golden Boy 357 rifle
- Girsan1911 45acp
- Colt Python 357 6”
Tickets can be bought from any ABATE Chapter that has checked-out tickets.
Please read the rules!
Chris McAfee
2025 Raffle Chair
| | | | |
Marble Floor Marathon, Continued
Despite strong early support, the motorcycle weight fee bill (SB 5309) didn’t make it past the committee cutoff, largely due to federal budget uncertainty impacting state funding. However, there’s still a chance the proposal could be tied to the transportation budget later in the session. Conversations with key lawmakers continue, and there’s ongoing support for creating a separate weight class for motorcycles—though fee reductions this year remain unlikely. Riders are encouraged to contact their legislators to support the bill’s intent and protect the Motorcycle Safety Account. Other issues being tracked include lane sharing, reckless driving penalties, and proposed “pay-by-mile” fees that could impact motorcycle owners.
| | | | |
"Texas” Larry Walker
Legislative Affairs Officer, ABATE of WA
360-271-9285
“Texas” Larry Walker is a nationally certified Rider Coach for novice, intermediate, and advanced training. He is the Senior Instructor for Navy Region Northwest, a long time motorcyclist rights advocate, with over 45 years of riding experience.
| | MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION | |
| |
Prepping for May: Motorcycle Advocates Take Capitol Hill
Motorcycle advocates from across the country have already begun making important visits to Capitol Hill ahead of May’s Bikers Inside the Beltway. Last week, ABATE of Iowa and lobbyists from ABATE of California met with lawmakers, helping ensure every state’s voice is heard. MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard and Steve Panten of ABATE of Wisconsin also met with key congressional staff and members of important committees to lay the groundwork for our May 20th efforts. Discussions focused on rider concerns like profiling, autonomous vehicles, and the future of internal combustion engines. These early visits—and support from the MRF PAC—are helping build momentum for our biggest lobbying day of the year.
| |  | |
New NHTSA Nominee Faces Big Questions—and Biker Impact
President Trump has nominated Jonathan Morrison, a former NHTSA chief counsel, to lead the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration—a role that’s been vacant since 2022. Morrison’s background includes positions at Apple and the California New Car Dealers Association. If confirmed by the Senate, he’ll face major challenges, including autonomous vehicle policies, Tesla crash investigations, and changes to fuel economy standards. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation will closely monitor this nomination, as NHTSA plays a key role in decisions that impact motorcyclists nationwide.
| | | |
Reining In California: Lawmakers Push Back on Emission Rules and Fight to Preserve Classic Cars
California’s aggressive push toward electric vehicles and stricter emission standards is facing growing resistance both federally and within the state. Congress is considering using the Congressional Review Act to overturn regulations that gave California the authority to set its own emission rules. Lawmakers are also exploring the idea of permanently revoking California’s ability to seek waivers from the EPA for customized standards. Meanwhile, California legislators are proposing to ease smog check requirements for older collector cars, with Senate Bill 712 gaining support from car enthusiasts like Jay Leno. The national conversation is shifting, with increased efforts to balance environmental goals with preserving the internal combustion engine.
| | | |
Support H.R. 2165 - The Choice In Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act Of 2025
Representative Tim Walberg has introduced the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act of 2025, aiming to protect the future of internal combustion engine vehicles. The bill would prevent the EPA from using the Clean Air Act to mandate specific vehicle technologies or limit new vehicle options based on engine type. It also requires the EPA to revise any existing rules that restrict availability based on engine design. If passed, it would overturn a 2024 EPA rule that could force over half of new vehicles sold between 2030 and 2032 to be electric. Supporters are encouraged to contact their Representative and ask them to cosponsor H.R. 2165.
| | | American Income Life - FREE Accidental Life & Dismemberment | |
| We’ve renewed the group Accidental Death and Dismemberment policy providing all active members of ABATE of Washington with $4,000 AD&D coverage, 24 hours a day, on and off the job. | There is no cost to you for this coverage. | | |
Dear Members,
You will be receiving a letter from American Income Life Insurance Company (AIL). As a member of ABATE of WA you qualify to receive a $4,000 Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance benefit at no cost to you or ABATE of WA. We have partnered with AIL for several years to offer these benefits.
Each letter will have a reply card enclosed and by completing the information you will receive your certificate of coverage. An AIL representative will contact you to confirm your beneficiary and issue you a certificate of coverage. If you do not name a beneficiary, the $4,000.00 would be paid to your estate and may be taxable.
ABATE of WA does not provide your name or any contact information to AIL. The only way they have access to your information is when you send the reply card back or CLICK HERE to request your benefits. There are several supplemental programs available through AIL for you to choose from, which will be discussed when an AIL
representative calls.
If you have any questions, please contact Fran Christie, AIL Public Relations, directly at 778-231-0226 or contact AIL at 1-800-495-1213.
Over numerous years AIL has helped ABATE of WA families by paying over 90 Accidental Death claims.
ABATE of WA has no financial interest in AIL in any way.
| | | |
Garden at the American Lake VA
April 19, 2025
| CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | |
ABATE BOD Meeting
April 19, 2025
| CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | |
Sky Valley 28th Annual Motorcycle Show
May 18, 2025
| CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | |
Let Them Stare - Make them Aware!
MAY 18, 2025
| CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | |
Run for the Hills
JUNE 7, 2025
| CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | |
SPRING OPENER
JUNE 26 - 29, 2025
| CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | | STEEPLE CHASE T-SHIRT ORDER FORM | CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER | | |
Steeple Chase Banquet 2025
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
| | | | | |
RIDER REIMBURSEMENT
Complete a State-Approved Rider Safety Course to receive $50 reimbursement & more!
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
| | | |
EPCC
Hello Friends!
March is always a very exciting and hectic month for EPCC! Our chapter fundraiser, “A Night Out With EPCC,” on March 1st was successful and a lot of fun. A huge THANK YOU to all the friends, family, and donors who made it happen. The typical bi-polar weather for our 5th annual Leprechaun Memorial Run on the 15th brought a lower attendance this year – but quality trumped quantity
and we had a great time. Our Leprechaun sent us a few lovely sun breaks, but it was mostly cold and wet with biting winds. Much love, respect and gratitude to all
those who braved it to support us!
Stay safe and well – we’re looking forward to seeing you all soon.
Laura Cain, Secretary/LAO
East Pierce County Chapter
| |
FOOTHILLS
Welcome back Spring! Sure has been a depressing and dark winter, definitely happy to see the weather improving & so many bikes out. It's been a bit refreshing. Foothills has our annual Terry Home Easter visit on Saturday, April 26th. Watch Facebook for more details. Visiting our friends at Terry Home is always a great time. When Foothills first became a chapter 3 1/2 years ago, we started weekly socials, after a break during the holiday season, we are revisiting. Watch Facebook for information on our bi-weekly socials & come out for a visit.
Terry Home has their own fundraiser coming up on April 12th, they are building a 3rd home in the Auburn / Pacific community. Check out their website for more information or if you want to make a donation, Terry Home – There's Hope Inside they are a great organization to support & the residents & staff are amazing people.
*Save the date* Saturday, August 9th, Foothills Fallen Pig Roast & Chapter Fundraiser. Keep the rubber side down, head on a swivel. Watch for them, because they aren't watching for us. Get out & support where you can.
Billi Bowen
Coordinator
Foothills Chapter
| |
KEY PEN
Greetings from Key Pen!
Wow, here we are closing out the first quarter of the year and Spring is here! As we prepare for our June 1st Chapter Ride around the Hood Canal, we were able to gather for our monthly social at the Beer Vault in Purdy for some mind challenging Trivia...we came in 2nd Place!!!!
See you all around and about, stay safe!
Nick Gourley
Coordinator, Key Pen Chapter
| | |
PACIFIC COUNTY
It’s starting to feel like Spring, and time for that Springtime ritual….trying to start your bike with a weak battery. Take my advice, and charge it before you crank it. An overnight charge works wonders!
While your scoot is charging, is an excellent time to look it over. Check the tire inflation, fluids, and belt/chain. Time in the garage with a hot cup, or cold brew sure beats sitting on the side of the road, waiting for a friend with a truck and ramp to show up!
Ride Safe and Stay Sharp,
John Tschannen
Coordinator
| |
STAR LAKE
Greetings everyone from Star Lake Chapter,
We conducted our Chapter meeting on March 1st h , 2025, 10 am at Rail Hop’n Brewery in Auburn. The chapter discussed the details of hosting the April 19 th BOD at the Am Vets in Tacoma. The chapter pitched in for a booth at the ABATE Swap Meet in March and identified volunteers for security. The chapter is continuing to work on the route and plans for the annual charity benefit ride on June 7th. The flyer has been distributed to promote the event. The next meeting will be on Sunday, April 6th, at 11 am at Rail Hop’n at address 131 E Main St. Auburn). All are welcome to attend.
| |
SPANAWAY
Greetings from Spanaway ABATE Chapter. We have had a very busy last 2 months.
We held our chili cook-off with a fantastic turnout and lots of great chili! Thanks to everyone who came out.
We followed that up with our fist ever spaghetti feed and biker bingo. This was our first event at our new venue (Tacoma Eagles #3). It was Another great turn out and I hope everyone was pleased with the event.
Now we look forward to the Swap Meet, Spring Opener and the Spring Opener Poker Run!
| |
SPOKANE
The Spokane Motorcycle Show was a huge success! We sold over 400 Spring Opener Raffle tickets and got 22 new members. Great job to our Chapter volunteers. It was a team effort, and everyone did their part.
May is Motorcycle Awareness Month, and the Spokane Chapter is having an Awareness Ride. May 18th Reg. 9 am KSU 10 am. @ Combat Vet Riders Outreach Center 2405 N. Dick Rd. Spokane Valley. The ride will go all around Spokane to show that motorcycles are out and riding. See the Flyer below.
Challenging all Abate Chapters to have an Awareness Ride to promote May Motorcycle Awareness Month.
Thank you,
Diana Picone
Chapter Coordinator
| |
|
Need to reach a specific Chapter?
Get their contact information here:
| | | | |
