STATE COORDINATOR'S REPORT | | |
Ramblings from the State Coordinator
Hello brothers and sisters, riders and non riders. As the first sentence suggests, we are a motorcycle rights group that welcomes everyone, that's where we get our strength from. As a lot of you are aware we just wrapped up STEAM/BOD, it was in Yakima this year. This was in my humble opinion a very successful event, I received lots of positive feedback. With that being said we also had suggestions on how to improve it and I think next year it will be even better.
If you were there, you had the privilege of listening to Kirk Willard AKA "Hardtail", a leader in the motorcycle rights movement. He is the president of the MRF, a motorcycle shop owner and is a member of the Soldiers of Jesus MC, he not only talks the talk, he does indeed walk the walk! My takeaway from his presentation and I hope everyone hears this and lets it sink in...no matter which side of the asle you support, when it comes to motorcycle rights you support the cause irregardless of who's name is attached to it. He reminded us that Maria Cantwell is a ranking member on the Senate Transportation committee and holds a lot of influence. Like her or not we need her to help us further our cause for motorcycle rights, she has power. A recent "call to action: went out, you need to answer that call. Remember, this is about fighting for our rights to wear, ride and fix what we love. You don't have to like the messenger but we do have to support the message.
Kevin Billings
State Coordinator
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CALL TO ACTION:
Contact Washington Senator Cantwell
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Ask Washington Senator Cantwell To Keep Motorcyclist Provisions In Highway Bill
Congress is writing the next Surface Transportation Reauthorization (Highway Bill), and the Senate is still drafting its version. Federal highway and safety programs now run on a short-term extension through December 11, 2026, so the window to shape the Senate text is open right now. The House has already done its part: six rider provisions cleared committee by votes of 62–2 and 48–1. Whether they survive depends on what Senate offices hear from riders this fall.
Washington riders have a direct line to that decision. Senator Maria Cantwell is the Ranking Member, the top Democrat, on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. This committee writes the vehicle-safety and consumer provisions where most of these asks land. She negotiates that text with Chair Ted Cruz, and a letter from a Washington constituent carries more weight with her office than any national ask. Send the following letter, add a sentence about where and what you ride, and ask her office for a reply.
| | JUNIOR DEPUTY COORDINATOR REPORT | | Congratulations to Eric Lundt, ABATE of Washinton’s new Jr, Deputy Coordinator- Pro Tem | | “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 | | |
Heading For the 2027 Session
Well, campers, the Tribe has spoken and our legislative priorities have been set for the
beginning of the session.
And the winners are:
1. Congestion Relief, whether it be lane sharing/splitting, filtering, shoulder operation, or
some other idea yet to be proposed
2. Continue to pursue rolling back weight fees on motorcycles
3. Addressing road rage towards motorcyclists
4. Profiling
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2027 Training Proposal
In the past, we have contracted skills refresher training from a really good vendor located in the Puget Sound Region, but I want to offer another option. I think that it is time to take the show on the road and go to the riders. After all, I am a nationally certified motorcycle safety
instructor, with over a decade of experience providing basic, intermediate, and advanced
training.
Here is the concept. We set up several events over the course of spring and summer
throughout the state, where I come to an area and set up skills practice drills so that riders,
both members and prospective members, can challenge themselves with tight maneuvers,
cornering, and possibly emergency hazard avoidance drills. The vision is to be beyond simple parking lot drills, but still at lower speeds to keep the risk level down. The goal is to help riders refresh their skills and learn others, all while have lots of fun.
The numbers: Each event will cost ABATE of WA $350.00 or less to get me to the area and put me up in a reasonable hotel for 2 nights. I would come in on Friday, set up (with volunteer
assistants) and run the skill sessions on a Saturday for up to 5 hours, then head home on
Sunday. (I am not going to kick cones all day then ride half way across the state.) There would be no cost to ABATE for mileage, range cones, or real estate, only printing costs for
administrative paperwork such as registration, bike inspections, and waivers and providing
hydration. If I am running solo, I will be on the bike and the mileage might not be direct, and if
my wife decides to come along for a micro vacation, that is on my dime.
The “ask:” I will need 2-3 reliable volunteers to help with running the sessions, signing in
people, inspecting bikes, staging riders, and other duties as needed. Volunteers will definitely
get a chance to play during the session. I would definitely appreciate any intel on potential free and clear sites to use. I am looking for 140x260 feet for an area, but things can adapt. If
anyone knows of some tarmac that might work hit me up.
This will be tightened up and presented at the January BOD, but here is the concept from which
I am working.
Hey, Riders, come out and play. *
R/”Texas Larry
*(If you didn’t get the pop culture reference, then bone up on your 70s.)
| | Black Thursday January 21,2027 | | |
The Motorcyclist's Bill-of-Rights has been drafted into a legislative concept.
It will be introduced in the 2027 session of the Oregon legislature.
It illustrates in easy-to-understand language what A.B.A.T.E & Bike-PAC seek to achieve.
Diesel Dave Ganslein
A.B.A.T.E of Oregon Legislative Director
Bike-PAC of Oregon Legislative Director
Concerned Motorcyclists Coalition
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
Coalition of Informed Riders
National Coalition of Motorcyclists
daveganslein@hotmail.com
503 901 0192
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CHAPTER REPORTS
(Only public Social Media pages are listed)
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COLUMBIA GORGE
Coordinator: Doug Bowers
Email: Sky97a@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 357 Goldendale, WA 98620 Meeting Place and Time: American Legion #116,Goldendale, WA
1st Tuesdays at 5:30pm
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ELK COUNTRY
Coordinator: Red Hultkrantz
Email: houndog197@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 484 Morton, WA 98356
Chapter Meetings: Timber Patch Brewery
180 2nd St, Morton, WA 98356
1st Sundays at 12pm
The Elk Country chapter meet will be Sunday November 1st at 1200 hrs located at the Timber Patch Brewery in Morton Washington.
It is the election of new chapter official, those who are interested in coordinator, Deputy Coordinator, treasurer, recording secretary or any other position. Please come
Come and let your voice be heard.
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FOOTHILLS
Coordinator: Jerry Taylor
Email: Jtaylor0258@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 8369 Tacoma, WA
Greetings from ABATE of Washington – Foothills Chapter!
Foothills Chapter is working diligently on one of our favorite projects: the Terry Home Christmas Run!
For those who may not be familiar with Terry Home, it currently operates two homes serving survivors of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Each year, Foothills Chapter visits the residents to deliver Christmas gifts and donations. This is a tradition we have cherished since our humble beginnings, and it continues to hold a special place in our hearts.
Terry Home is now working to build a third home to expand its capacity and provide care for even more TBI survivors.
We encourage everyone to visit Terry Home online and consider making a direct donation to support this important mission. To donate send an email to terryhomeadm@gmail.com for more information.
You can also purchase a commemorative paver engraved with your name or your chapter’s name to show your support. These pavers are placed at the entrance of the Pacific House, creating a lasting tribute to those who help make Terry Home’s mission possible.
Thank you for your continued generosity, support, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of TBI survivors. Together, we can help make Christmas a little brighter for the residents of Terry Home!
Ride safe, and thank you for supporting this wonderful cause!
Jerry Taylor
ABATE of Washington
Foothills Chapter Coordinator
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RAT CITY
Coordinator: Joe Cosgrove
Email: ratcityabate@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 8639 Tacoma, WA 98419
Chapter Meetings: Burien Eagles
2nd Wednesdays- 6pm Social/7pm Mtg
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TRI CITIES
Coordinator: Kat Bolton
Email: Kathi_young@msn.com
Address: 112 W 21st AVE, Kennewick, WA 99337
Chapter Meetings: Rattlesnake Mtn HD
3405 W 19th Ave, Kennewick, WA
1st Fridays at 5:15pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/tricitiesabate
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LEWIS COUNTY
Coordinator: William Dye
Email: lcabatecoordinator@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 1105 Centralia, WA 98531
Chapter Meetings: Oakview Grange, Centralia , WA
2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month at 7pm
WebPage: https://www.lewiscountyabate.org/
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/227315697445091
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GRANT COUNTY
Coordinator: Charlie Pray
Email: charliepray17@gmail.com
Address:PO Box 1392 Moses Lake, WA 98837
Monthly Meetings: Bob's Cafe
1807 East Kittelson Rd, Moses Lake, WA
3rd Thursdays: Social at 6pm, Mtg at 7pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/598114703691327/
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GRAYS HARBOR
Coordinator: Dennis Quimby
Email: dennisquimby@live.com
Address: PO Box 93 Oakville, WA 98568
Monthly Meetings: Gepetto's
126 Pioneer Ave E, Montesano, WA
2nd Sundays at 1pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/GHABATE
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MASON COUNTY
Coordinator Anthony Suter
Email: anthonysuter88@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 213 Shelton, WA 98584
Chapter Meetings: Taylor Station Restaurant
Shelton, WA
1st Wednesdays at 7pm
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SPANAWAY
Coordinator: April Fritz
Email: aprilfritz7717@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 154 Spanaway, WA 98387
Chapter Meetings: Denny's Restaurant
20420 Mt Hwy E, Spanaway, WA
1st Mondays at 6:30pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SpanawayABATEChapter
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SKY VALLEY
Coordinator: Vic Erickson
Email: skyvalley.coordinator@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 784 Snohomish, WA 98291
Chapter Meetings: Snohomish Eagles FOE#195
Snohomish, WA
2nd Tuesdays at 6pm
Web Page: https://skyvalleyabate.com/
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YAKIMA VALLEY
Coordinator: Matt Patrick
Email:xxmattman@hotmail.com
Chapter Meetings: Apple State Harley Davidson
1710 N 1st St, Yakima, WA
4th Thursdays @ 6 PM
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CWCABATEofWA
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KITTITAS COUNTY PROVISONAL CHAPTER
Coordinator: Jeff Scott
Email:jeffsneburg@gmail.com
509-312-2143
Kittitas County Provisional Chapter Off to a Strong Start
The ABATE of Washington Kittitas County Provisional Chapter held its first meeting October 21 at the Red Horse Diner in Ellensburg, welcoming 25 attendees for an evening of introductions, ideas, and enthusiasm.
Five people stepped forward and were nominated as pro tem officers, helping lay the groundwork for the chapter’s future. The gathering also welcomed former ABATE members from North Carolina and Oregon.
Special thanks go to ABATE of Washington Senior Deputy Coordinator Susan Carson and Yakima Valley Coordinator Matt Patrick for their support and guidance.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed.
With a strong turnout and great ideas, Kittitas County is building momentum!
The next meeting is: November 18th
5:30 - 6:30 Social
6:30 Meeting
Red Horse Diner Ellensburg, WA
Following November, the future meetings are the 2nd Wednesday of every month starting in December at the same times listed above.
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SOUTH KING COUNTY (SKCC)
Coordinator: Dana Holzworth
Email: danaholzworth@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 1931 Auburn, WA 98071
Chapter Meetings: Spunky Monkey Bar and Grill (Downstairs)
124 2nd St SE, Auburn, WA 98002
1st Tuesdays at 6:30pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AwempQbAa/
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share a few quick updates regarding our recent and upcoming events.
First, thank you to everyone who supported the Wreaths Across America fundraiser on Saturday, October 10th, at the Puyallup Eagles. It was a great success, and it was wonderful to see so many people from different chapters in attendance. All proceeds will go toward purchasing wreaths for veterans at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA, which will be placed on December 19th.
Our next event is the Veterans Day Parade in Auburn on Saturday, November 7th. Here are the details:
- Pre-Gathering: We will meet at the Imperial Palace Casino (333 15th St. NW, Auburn, WA 98002) with kickstands up at 9:45 AM. Feel free to arrive early for breakfast before we ride out.
- Event Booth: Stop by our booth at the Marathon gas station (520 East Main Street) for coffee and snacks. New veterans can also sign up for a free one-year ABATE membership.
Best regards,
Dana Holzworth
Cooridnator- South King County Chapter
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EAST PIERCE COUNTY (EPCC)
Coordinator: Joe Cain
Email: abate.epcc@gmail.com
PO Box 906 Auburn, WA 98071
Monthly Meetings: Bud's in Milton, WA
1st Sundays at 11am
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STAR LAKE -
Coordinator: Ken Nyland
Email: hawks0216@hotmail.com
Address: PO Box 8369 Tacoma, WA 98419
Chapter Meetings: Rail Hop'n Brewing Company, Auburn, WA
1st Sundays at 11am
Greetings to everyone from Star Lake Chapter, October 15 th , 2026
We conducted our Chapter meeting at Odd Fellows located in Auburn October 11th, 2026, at 11am. The chapter discussed old business, Ride events attended by the members and new business. Chapter By- Laws were reviewed and voted on by the members at the meeting to accept as written. The By-Laws will be signed by the chapter officers and submitted to the state for review and acceptance. The chapter
presented a donation check of $500 to one of our long-standing members that has been going through some very difficult physical, emotional and financial times. Next meeting will be at Odd Fellows on November 8 th at 11am.
Star Lake Chapter 2026 events:
- Black Diamond community center donation drive November 1 st , 2026
Now for this month’s safety note: Road hazards can be unexpected and very sudden even with the best of riders doing all the right things. My Wife (Kim) and I found out the hard way. As we heal from minor injuries we are reminded of just how risky motorcycle riding is and how precious life is. Doesn’t mean we will stop doing the things we love. It just means we are
surrounded by people who care about us who will rally to your aid. Thanks to all for the care,
attention and devotion to ensuring we were taken care of. As always, remember the three S’s -Stay Alert, Stay Safe, Stay Alive. See you down the road.
Star Lake Chapter, Coordinator
Ken Nyland
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KEY PENINSULA (Key Pen)
Coordinator: Nick Gourley
Email: keypenabate.coord@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 8369 Tacoma, WA 98419
Chapter Meetings: VFW Post 2669, Port Orchard, WA
2nd Thursdays: Social at 6pm, Mtg at 7pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DVnnSLfHU/
Greetings from the Pen!
Brothers and Sisters,
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out and supported the Key Peninsula’s Annual Brewery Run! This year’s run was our most successful to date in support of the Key Peninsula Resource Center, and that’s something we can all be proud of!
Mother Nature sure smiled on us with a beautiful day to ride. Maybe she has this date reserved just for us as we continue our tradition of holding the Brewery Run one week after the infamous Oyster Run! The turnout was our biggest yet, and it’s a testament to what happens when the biker community comes together with a common purpose.
A special shout-out to our Brewery Run Committee — Bear, Chad, Cheryl, Jamie, Pete, Glenn, and Linda — for all the hard work, dedication, and behind-the-scenes effort that made this event such a success.
We were proud to have the following chapters join us: Star Lake, North Kitsap, Tacoma, SKCC, Spanaway, Foothills, and Mason County. Thank you all for showing up, supporting the cause, and helping make this our best run yet. Your support is what keeps the wheels turning!
We’d also like to give a heartfelt thank-you to our business supporters: Trident HD, Camp Union Saloon, Deep Draft Brewing, and Brothers Owl (formerly Bent Bine). This event wouldn’t have been possible without the collective effort of everyone involved. When our chapters, local businesses, and riding community come together, great things happen!
Keeping Our Brothers and Sisters in Our Thoughts
Unfortunately, the ride also brought a reminder of how quickly things can change out on the road. Ken and Kim Nyland, riding two-up, went down during the run. Thankfully, things could have been much worse. They’re healing up nicely and keeping their spirits high, and we’re grateful for that.
Please keep Ken and Kim in your thoughts and prayers as they continue their recovery. We’re all pulling for you both and look forward to seeing you back out there when you’re ready!
I would like to give a Huge Shout out to Kim Adair (Accident Scene Manager) her Ride or Die "Huck" and her son Stephen for everything they did to assist, including staying onsite with Ken for 5 hours until the tow truck arrived. I would also like to thank Cheryl "Fly Girl" Holtquist and several others (names were not given) that helped with everything at hand. No one ever knows when these things are going to happen, however, that day, we were blessed with many prepared and selfless riders to act on a moments notice without hesitation...Thank You Lord!
And the Winner Is.....
Brice Carl, we truly appreciate your generous donations and support! However..... the lucky winner of the $500 + Freezer Raffle was our very own Jamie McCarthey. In true spirit of giving back, Jamie generously donated his winnings to our beneficiary, the Key Peninsula Resource Center. That’s what brotherhood and community are all about — looking out for others and making a difference beyond the ride. Great job, Jamie!
Fall Riding: Keep the Shiny Side Up!
As we roll deeper into fall, it’s time to give our bikes a little extra attention and our riding a little extra caution. Cooler temperatures, wet roads, fallen leaves, and slick corners can make for some unpredictable miles.
Before heading out, take a few minutes to inspect those tires, check your pressures, and make sure your ride is ready for the road. Keep an eye out for leaves, gravel, and other hazards, give yourself extra stopping distance, and remember that conditions can change quickly this time of year.
Look out for one another, ride smart, and make sure everyone makes it home safely. The miles are always better when we all get home to ride another day!
From all of us here on the Key Peninsula, thank you for your continued support, generosity, and brotherhood. We’re proud to be part of such a strong riding community, and we look forward to seeing you all down the road.
Until next time, keep the rubber side down, the shiny side up, and the brotherhood strong!
All the best from Key Pen — we’ll see y’all down the road!
Ride safe and ride proud,
NikOTym
Key Pen Coordinator
| | Key Peninsula Brewery Run report | |
Key Peninsula Brewery Run report
submitted by Chad Holtquist
Brewery Run report time! First the bad. We did have a couple take a spill on the ride. We had some outstanding friends stop and stay to help. A few stitches, a few bumps and bruises, a gooned up bike but they are okay and a bike, while they can be a part of us, is just a thing that can be fixed or replaced. The main thing is they’ll be fine and that they were in good hands. From me to you, thank you to those who stopped, stayed and helped.
Now the good! It was a bluebird day and the committee lined out a great route and stops. Thanks to all who showed up and rode with us. Abate of Washington members from Star Lake, North Kitsap, South King County, Tacoma, and Foothills chapters joined our Key Peninsula chapter for this ride along with a handful of non members, about 25 riders in all.
Big thanks to Farmer George’s Meats in Port Orchard! They stepped up and covered half of the cost of the raffle prize gift card, $250 of the $500 value!! I must also say when I went to pick it up, I grabbed some of their no sugar beef jerky and it was outstanding! I ate the whole package on my drive home, it was that good. Next to our stops. Trident Harley Davidson in Silverdale stepped up, hosted registration and fed us all pancakes and sausages before we hit the road. Camp Union Saloon can always be counted on to provide a welcome stop. They kindly donated a couple gift cards too! Deep Draft Brewing in Gorst is one of our perennial favorite stops, very welcoming folks who sling some outstanding beers! Brothers Owlhouse (formerly Bent Bine) in Belfair was next and now has great menu options along with top shelf beers, drop in and check them out!
From there we rode out to Key Peninsula Community Services for our last stop. They are our grateful beneficiaries and the staff volunteered up their Saturday and prepared us dinner and graciously welcomed us into their facility. We had a great time of fellowship and finished up our raffles and then did the big meat raffle draw. I was very happy to read the name when it was handed to me because I always say, “you don’t have to be present to win, but it’d be a lot cooler if you were”, and they were! Our chapters own Jamie McCarthy was the big winner!! Considering the work that is done at the center, he donated the gift card and the freezer to the center! Awesome gesture Jamie!! Now, last but certainly not least, we were able to make a monetary donation of over $3300 to KPCS! That was all the proceeds from the ride and raffles
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Bryce, you gave enough and I thank you for your unending generosity!) along with the meat raffle ticket sales. Add the value of the donation Jamie made pushed that total over $3700! If you bought tickets for the meat raffle, I know where your heart was because when you bought, you knew where that money you gave was going and if you bought from me I know this to be true because I told you the background. Thank you!!
“…and the days that I keep my gratitude higher than my expectations, I have really good days” .
Yesterday was a really good day!
Stay cool!
Chad Holtquist
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SPOKANE CHAPTER
Coordinator: Amanda Seip Email: amandasiep@gmail.com
Address: PO Box 11094 Spokane Valley, WA 99211
Chapter Meetings: Combat Veteran Riders
2405 N. Dick Rd. Spokane Valley, WA
2nd Tuesdays at 6:30pm
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067746335695
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TACOMA CHAPTER
Coordinator: Dan Barker
Email: Dannybhdrider@gmail.com
Address:: PO Box 98178 Lakewood, WA 98498
Chapter Meetings: VFW Post 969, Tacoma, WA
1st Wednesdays at 7pm
Web Site: http://www.tacomaabate.org
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/TacomaABATE
Holy crap it's already November. When you are reading this it is November ,I'm writing this in October on the 15th. Sometimes that's why I forget to post every month. I remember just before the 1st that a chapter report was due. Anyway this is what our chapter has been upto and plans to do.
9/20 Chapter support ride 8 of our chapter members went to Rat City Chapters "Salmon Run"
Good roads It's always fun to ride with Rat City Chapter Top notch good job
9/27 Oyster Run weather held out .Good to see everyone. Big thank you to the volunteers that did the meet and greet at the ABATE of Washington booth. I watched hands being shook, pamphlets being handed out and info about ABATE being shared.
10/03 Another support ride a few of us attended Key Peninsula's "Brewery Run" Well planned, awesome route, good cause. Good time, great people. If you haven't been on this ride make a note for next year.
10/04 Our Chapter does a "Day of Community Service for Veterans" in need. We do this twice a year once in April and once in October. Our October recipient needed an old fence removed so a new one can be installed. I want to name and thank the 15 Chapter members that came to help.
Terry,- Perry,- Lee,- Dolly,-Lori,-Slow Charlie & Angie,-Gary & Lea,-John & Stephanie,-
Rodger & Judy,-Connie & Duke and lets not forget Connie's dog "Rocky". This project was completed in half a day, when you have as much help as we had it made short work of it. We had a good time and saved our Veteran a chunk of change.
10/15 today is the 15th of October. By the time you read this on 11/01/26 Steam and BOD have been held in Yakima on 10/17 & 10/18 I'm sure it was productive.
Upcoming Tacoma Chapter events:
11/01 We will start putting toy collection boxes out. Supporting "Summit Secret Elves"
see the flyer in the newsletter.
11/07 "Fall Bash" Live Music by "Soul Stripper" and all the typical biker shenanigans.
See the flyer in this newsletter.
11/15 "Tattered Flag Run" KSU 10:30 More details will be posted on our facebook and state
web site.
Tacoma Chapter Coordinator
Dan Barker
425-785-1597
| | 49th Annual Olympia Toy Run | |
The Olympia Toy Run officially began in 1977 by “Santa Joe” Sullivan and his biker friends. They wanted to provide gifts to children whose families could not afford them at Christmastime and build a better relationship between the local community and the biker community. That vision has impacted thousands of children and families in our communities over the years and continues to do so year after year, collecting millions in money and toys.
Each year, the Olympia Toy Run collects toys throughout the community beginning in November with the help of community business partners who have toy drop-off boxes. On the first Saturday in December, the Olympia Toy Run holds their annual run event at South Sound Center in Lacey, WA (I-5 and Sleater Kinney Rd/Gates open at 10:00am). This is a fantastic community event. There are food vendors, merchandise vendors, motorcycles, performances, and the parade of bikes leave around 1:00pm to travel through Lacey, then downtown Olympia to Marathon Park.
This year is our 49th Annual Toy Run and it will be held on Saturday, December 5th, 2026 – rain or shine!
The roaring thrum of thousands of motorcycle engines fills the crisp December air. But this is not a day just for motorcyclists as tens of thousands of spectators line the parade route, excitedly waving, calling, and whistling to the riders. Both directions of the street are closed to all but motorcyclists, yet drivers on side streets honk and wave. Though riders come from all over to participate in this event, it’s a day to be proud of Olympia, the fellowship that brings us together and the goal we accomplish. It’s thrilling, breathtaking, moving…and downright fun.
We hope you’ll join us in helping bring smiles to children’s faces at Christmas. In the meantime, we wish you safe and happy motoring!
If you have any questions or need further information, please check out our website at: www.olytoyrun.com or email us at info@olytoyrun.com.
Written by: Jen “Bad Kitty” Dempsey 10/2026
| CURRENT CONGRESSIONAL REPS | | |
Current Congressional Representatives from Washington State
Washington State has a total of 10 congressional representatives. The delegation consists of 8 Democrats and 2 Republicans. Below is a list of the current representatives along with their respective districts.
Washington State Congressional Representatives by District
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Public Relations - November 2026
As we head into November, many of us are reminded of gratitude and our reasons to be thankful.
As riders, there’s no shortage of people, organizations, and events to be thankful for… in reflection.
Part of that gratitude is sharing the good with others in our community.
WE should take every opportunity we can to share the positive and powerful things that happen
And why we do what we do.So often, people have no idea what ABATE does, why we do it, or who is welcome to join the mission of awareness, education, and fair legislation.
Take the time, share the message if you hear it wasn’t really what we are about, or who is welcome to join us (Hint: it’s all who ride and stand for the right to ride free!). Share our membership information.
Carry a tri-fold. Know our history. Become the resident ABATE expert in your area, group, club or group of independent riders. Get your name on there as a referral!
Did you know if you sign up 10 ABATE of Washington members, you get a free 1 yr membership?
Already an ABATE member? Be sure to tell them about the national agenda of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. 2027 MRF Agenda Read Here
Having the conversations, not assuming people know, is a integral part of building and keeping the team that is making a difference in our communities. That carries out in multiple ways and interactions. We build with those personal one on one conversations, and we crumble without them. Let’s continue our journey of building and counting blessings.
I’m grateful for every person who plays a part in building a strong organization that stands up for our right to ride.
What are you grateful for?
Kim Adair
State Public Relations
ABATE of Washington
State MRF Representative
Email: wa.mrf.rep@gmail.com
Ph/Txt: 360-373-3372
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For those of you who were at the ABATE of Washington STEAM in Yakima, what a great experience we had over the weekend! From our State Coordinator’s unifying message, speaking on how our continued focus on unity across the board and getting to the business of motorcycle rights, to our Board of Directors meeting on Sunday getting our affairs lined up for the 2027 year.
A sense of achievement, goals to accomplish, and renewed enthusiasm for standing up for motorcycle rights was the order and mood of the weekend, and the temperature of the room.
Your fellow members walked away from STEAM and BOG with renewed purpose and enthusiasm for the business of motorcycle rights!
Speaking of motorcycle rights…I would be remiss to fail to share how absolutely impactful it was to have the President of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, travel across the country to paint a CLEAR picture of the different attacks on our lifestyle.
He also stressed how VITAL it is for us to FILL OUT the Calls to Action that are put before us! They literally keep track of what state fills them out and the data that goes with them.
Currently, under ABATE of Washington Coordinator, Kevin Billings’ report is the most recent and HUGELY important Call to Action to contact Washington State Senator Maria Cantwell’s office.
FILL IT OUT! Have your fellow brothers and sisters of the road FILL IT OUT!
Cousins, moms, dads, you know, EVERYONE, ABATE or NOT needs to send their feedback on these important motorcycle issues, in this bill.
Hardtail also gave a full report on the issues that the MRF and lWashington DC lobbiest Rocky Fox has been steadfastly chipping away at.
Those who were blessed to go to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s “Meeting of the Minds” this year in Milwaukee had the ability to hear Rocky, in person, share his report card on motorcycling issues and how we fared on the national front.
For the reports from 3 of the 4 attendees, click the links below:
Donovan McCartney: CLICK HERE
Kevin Billings: CLICK HERE
Kim Adair: CLICK HERE
It's an exciting time to be part of ABATE of Washington! Get out and support your fellow chapters, and let's get to the business of Motorcycle Rights!
Welcome to Kittitas, our newest Provisional Chapter! We are excited to see you all do good things!
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Kim Adair
ABATE of Washington
State MRF Representative
Email: wa.mrf.rep@gmail.com
Ph/Txt: 360-373-3372
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Hi Everyone,
Curious how we stack up in membership amongst our fellow ABATE organizations through out the United States? Here's our latest membership report.
Got questions? Email: Membership.abateofwashington@gmail.com
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ABATE of Washington
State Events, Board of Directors Meetings(BOD) & Executive Committee Meetings (ECOM)
ABATE of Washington upcoming STATE EVENTS
January 21, 2027 BLACK THURSDAY- Washington State Capitol
ABATE Monroe Swap Meet- March 28, 2027
ABATE of Washington Spring Opener- June 24, 25, 26th, 2027
October 9th, 2027 STEAM- Location TBD
BOD Meetings
Sat Jan 9th, 2027 - Location TBD
Sat April 17, 2027 - Location TBD
Sat Jul 17, 2027- Location TBD
Sun Oct 10th- Location TBD
ECOM Meetings
Sunday Nov 15, 2026 @ 11am- Location TBD
Sunday June 6, 2027- Location TBD
Sunday Sept 12, 2027- Location TBD
Sunday Nov 7, 2027- Location TBD
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ABATE of Washington
Contact information
| | | | MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION | | |
2027 High Priority Agenda | In September, the Legislative Committee of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) hosted a legislative strategy session during the 42nd Annual Meeting of the Minds in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The Committee had gathered to establish and prioritize the MRF’s 2027 Federal Legislative Agenda. | |  |
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New Federal Fuel Economy Rules Announced
On September 28, 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation finalized a rule resetting Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for model years 2022-2031. The rule projects an industrywide average of about 34.9 miles per gallon by model year 2031, well below the 50.4 mpg average projected under the rules finalized in 2024. The standards apply to passenger cars and light trucks. Motorcycles are not affected because this federal fuel economy law covers only 4-wheeled vehicles.
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Tesla Drops Full Self-Driving In Europe | Tesla has begun using the name "Tesla Assisted Driving" on its European websites as it seeks approval for its driver-assistance system there. In the United States, the company continues to market the same technology as "Full Self-Driving (Supervised)." The change follows years of questions from regulators, safety advocates and some Tesla owners, who have said the "Full Self-Driving" label suggests the car can drive itself, even though the driver must stay alert and ready to take control. | | |
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Ask Washington Senator Cantwell To Keep Motorcyclist Provisions In Highway Bill
Congress is writing the next Surface Transportation Reauthorization (Highway Bill), and the Senate is still drafting its version. Federal highway and safety programs now run on a short-term extension through December 11, 2026, so the window to shape the Senate text is open right now. The House has already done its part: six rider provisions cleared committee by votes of 62–2 and 48–1. Whether they survive depends on what Senate offices hear from riders this fall.
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This Election Will Determine What Goes In The Next Highway Bill | | | 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. | | |
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.
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Summit Secret Elves
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
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Fallbash
Nov 7th, 2026
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
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Wing Ding Charity Fundraiser
November 20, 2026
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
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Irish Chicken Dinner
November 21, 2026
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
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Kittitas County
November 18, 2026
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
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Laying of Wreaths at Retsil
December 19, 2026
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
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Remember. Honor.Teach
December 19, 2026
CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER
| | | MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AND EDUCATION ADVISORY BOARD | |
Goal-To foster and promote safe motorcycle riding through:
- Public information campaigns throughout the state to increase awareness of motorcycle safety
- Developing quality rider training programs including classroom and on-cycle training
- Improving operator testing
Funding
This program is funded by your Washington motorcycle endorsement and permit fees.
Advisory board
Created by law, the Motorcycle Safety Education Advisory Board works with the Director of the Department of Licensing to develop:
- Effective motorcycle operator training programs
- Motorcycle safety education outreach and campaigns
| Sign up for email updates to get the latest Advisory Board and Motorcycle Safety Program information. It's free to join and you can unsubscribe at any time.) | | MOTOCYCLE WORD FIND KIDS/ADULT KIDS | | |
ABATE of WASHINGTON
State Office- PO Box 8369 Tacoma, WA 98419
Web: https://www.abate-wa.org
Email: Abate.of.Wa@gmail.com
FREEDOM NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
See full copy of newsletter policy in the policies handbook.
The FREEDOM newsletter is published monthly, by ABATE of Washington.
All issues are on our website after the first of each month. All submissions, editorials, photos and advertising are to be emailed to newsletter.abateofwa@gmail.com or sent to the ABATE Corporate office above, attn: NEWSLETTER.
The correct photo format is (JPG, PNG, TIF, MSWord, or MS Publisher) or put text format in email body, TXT, DOC, RTF, PDF (Circulation distribution is 1600 monthly in an email blast, online).
Written ads or articles are the opinions of the authors and not necessarily the
opinion of ABATE of Washington. Editor reserves the right to edit any submission for space, clarity, content and propriety.
DEADLINES:
Submission deadline is the 15th of the month, prior to publication for ALL
Materials. All run flyers, photos and ad copy must be camera ready.
NON-MEMBER ADS/EVENT FLYERS
2”X3.5” SIZE (100 words) $24
3.5” X 4.75” SIZE (200 words) $40
7.25 X 4.5” or 3.5” X 10” SIZE ( 480 words) $70
7.25 x 10” SIZE (975 words) $120 note- full page ads have limited availability. Contact the editor for reservations and pricing. Sizing may vary depending on application.
All ads MUST be pre-paid for the entire duration of ad run. Prices do not include any changes that you may want to make to existing ads placed with us.
ABATE of Washington will publish other State ABATE flyers/event info at no cost. Registered 501 C (3) corporations can place 1 ad per month at no cost. See ABATE Standing Policies for guidance.
CHAPTER REPORTS
10-450 WORDS-ish, optionally accompanied by photos, submitted by Chapter Coordinator, Dep Coordinator or person authorized by the Coordinator, in writing.
CHAPTER FLYERS
Free, up to one full page per chapter, the month of the event; 2 months prior, flyer may be printed at ¼ pg size; chapters limited to one full page flyer/announcement per month; must have ABATE of Washington and the Chapter name at the top; submit in color.
CLASSIFIEDS for Members
Members may advertise a small classified-type ad in the Freedom, at no charge and their ad will be run up to 3 issues.
LETTER POLICY Signed letters to the editor are welcome and encouraged. We reserve the right to edit or not print letters of questionable content. We reserve the right to edit letters to 300 words.
MEMORIAL/OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS
ABATE of Washington member tributes and obituaries are welcome. This is a new feature and guidelines will be updated as needed.
PHOTOS
Photos of ABATE events should be emailed to newsletter.abateofwa@gmail.com. Please include name of event, date, captions, etc. They must be received by the deadline to be published in the next issue. Please share if you prefer the photo with your chapter, or “In the Wind”.
FREEDOM welcomes articles consistent to ABATE’s purpose as a motorcycle rights organization (MRO) motorcycle legislation and motorcycling in general. NO letters containing personal attacks, profanities, or issues not related to motorcycling will be considered for publication.
Submissions must give proper credit and acknowledgement of the source being submitted.
We can not guarantee publication of anything that is not received by the deadline of the 15th of the month. Make check payable to FREEDOM/ABATE OF WASHINGTON P.O. Box 8369, Tacoma, WA 98419. Allow ample time for mailing and payment processing ahead of deadline.
Ride safe out there!
Kim Adair
ABATE of Washington-Freedom Newsletter Editor
newsletter.abateofwashington@gmail.com
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