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ABATE OF WASHINGTON

JULY 2025 UPDATES

STATE COORDINATOR'S REPORT

July 2025


You have a proposal at each of your chapters to consider supporting the first PNW Freedom Run. This is a run being organized by Joy Reyes, the ABATE of Oregon State Coordinator. She has worked with Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and California to put this run together. This will be a combination of a legislative and a spring opener type of event. See the flyer in the newsletter for more information. I think we should support this event, and I ask for your consideration in supporting this proposal. ABATE of Washington is sponsoring the event with $1,000.00. Both Deputy Coordinator Bill Dye and I will be attending the event to see how things go.


501c3 has been sent back to the attorney and I hope it will get filled soon with the federal government. More to follow when I know more.


Spring Opener - Well, as I write this, it’s two and a half weeks out. I hope it went well, we shall see. I know Billi Bowen has put a lot of work into trying to get things set up.


Please consider working with your neighboring chapters when naming or scheduling events. We need to support each chapter and each other.

Ride Safe, keep our members struggling with cancer in your thoughts and prayers. To those lost on the roads this year my thoughts and prayers are with your family. Fishhook, you were an amazing person, honored to have gotten to know you.


State Coordinator

Andy McAfee

NOTES FROM THE EDITOR

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 

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

🏛️ We Held the Line — Now Let’s Keep the Momentum.

“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.

After a long haul through the halls of Olympia, our weight fees are locked in at $35 through 2029 — a solid win in a tough session. While SB 5309 didn’t make it past committee, the door isn’t closed. Work is already underway to revive the bill next session, and with no increase in our category, we’ve got a good starting point. As fair and festival season kicks off, it’s time to mix advocacy with outreach — and maybe a little fried food on a stick. Catch your legislators in the wild, plant the seed, and let them know we’re still pushing for a dedicated weight class.

"Texas” Larry Walker

Legislative Affairs Officer, ABATE of WA

360-271-9285


SAFETY AND EDUCATION

🏍️ Sharpen Your Skills, On Us.

This summer, ABATE is sponsoring a full rider training class — and it’s your chance to level up your skills on the company’s dime. With several great options in the mix, the top pick is Cascade Gymkhana: a flexible, high-impact course designed to boost your precision, confidence, and control. It’s fun, fast-paced, and tailored to real-world riding.


Scheduled for August 23–24 in Anacortes, this training doubles as a weekend escape. Whether you're shaking off the rust or just want to ride tighter lines, this is your moment. Spots will go fast — so start thinking about why you want in.

“Texas” Larry Walker

ABATE of WA

Safety and Education

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

MRF Suggestions To DOT

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) recently urged the Department of Transportation to reconsider new fuel economy standards that could threaten the future of internal combustion engines. Highlighting concerns over limited rider options, rural access, and impacts on the aftermarket industry, the MRF continues to fight for motorcyclists’ rights in the face of rising EV mandates.

Revving Up Advocacy in the Nation’s Capital

The roar of engines echoed through Washington, D.C. on June 10th as members of Congress, industry leaders, and passionate motorcyclists took part in the 2025 Congressional Ride to Work Day. Hosted by the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus for the second year running, the event blended patriotic spirit with motorcycle camaraderie — highlighting the power of two wheels to unite lawmakers and riders alike. From Capitol Hill to Mt. Vernon, it was a ride to remember.

A Major Victory for Riders and Engines Alike

In a landmark move, President Trump has signed three Congressional Review Acts that reverse California’s ability to set its own emissions standards—marking a bold stand in defense of the internal combustion engine. This legislative win, championed by the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and its grassroots network, signals growing resistance to federal overreach and regulatory patchworks. As legal challenges loom, one thing is clear: the fight for rider freedom and engine choice is far from over.

Ready for a Revolution on Two Wheels?

The roar of freedom is rising again. From September 25–28, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s Meeting of the Minds returns — louder, bolder, and more urgent than ever. This is where rights are defended, strategies are sharpened, and voices refuse to be silenced. If you think motorcycle advocacy is just talk, buckle up — because this isn’t a rally, it’s a reckoning. And in Shreveport this fall, the road to liberty runs straight through Sam’s Town.

More Miles. More Freedom. More Money in Your Pocket.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation is turning up the heat in D.C., fighting to keep motorcycles included in new federal tax credit provisions. If the Senate drops bikes from the bill, riders could lose out on big savings when purchasing American-made motorcycles. This is about more than taxes — it’s about economic fairness, supporting U.S. manufacturing, and keeping freedom on two wheels alive. The MRF isn’t backing down — and neither should you.

Ready for a Revolution on Two Wheels?

The roar of freedom is rising again. From September 25–28, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s Meeting of the Minds returns — louder, bolder, and more urgent than ever. This is where rights are defended, strategies are sharpened, and voices refuse to be silenced. If you think motorcycle advocacy is just talk, buckle up — because this isn’t a rally, it’s a reckoning. And in Shreveport this fall, the road to liberty runs straight through Sam’s Town.

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.

IN THE WIND

RUNS AND EVENTS

F#!% CANCER DONATION RIDEW

JULY 13th, 2025

CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER

FREEDOM RUN

AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2025

CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER

Oyster Run

SEPTEMBER 28, 2025

CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER

STEAM 2025 BOD MEETING

OCTOBER 18 - 19, 2025

CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW FLYER

2025 Steeple Chase

STEEPLE CHASE 2025


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

CHAPTER REPORTS

EPCC


First things first – we want to express our deepest appreciation to the many brothers and sisters who so generously turned out to support us this year (and win all our games and raffles – LOL). We love you!!


Our Mystery Run was a great success – perfect weather, no mishaps or accidents, we were warmly welcomed everywhere we went and everyone had a fun time. We had attendees from Tacoma, Star Lake, Foothills, South King, and a half dozen independent riders. We’d also like to thank our hosts and servers at the Log Cabin in Sumner, Yella Beak in Enumclaw, L&M Firehouse in Orting, Kapowsin Tavern, and the Chalet in Puyallup.


Phil Snow won our Mileage Guess (within 2 miles) as well as the highest Yahtzee score! Dave Crawford claimed the low hand prize in Yahtzee, and Dan Barker walked away with the 50/50. Now we are gearing up for the Spring Opener and our grand finale – the Teddy Bear Rally!


Peace, love and respect to you all! See you soon.


Laura Cain

EPCC Secretary/LAO

KEY PENINSULA


Greetings from Key Pen!!!


We had to move our June meeting up a week in order to de-conflict schedules, paid off though, as we had great attendance and added four "New" memberships!!!!


That's a wrap, just like that, another successful annual chapter ride on June 1st is now in the books and well represented with Star Lake, Tacoma, SKCC, North Kitsap in attendance and the prospective coordinator for Bellingham also came down to support and rode with.


Additionally, the following motorcycle organizations also were in attendance with their continued support ABATE and the chapter... VAVMC, VFW, CMA, CVI, Band of Brothers, CVMA. What a great day it turned out to be. Mother Nature had a very kind heart and certainly blessed us! ... Click here to read more!


God Bless and Stay Safe!


Nick (O'Tym) Gourley

Coordinator - Key Peninsula chapter


PACIFIC COUNTY


Our 101 run is in the books. Turnout was low, so the Run became more of a Ride. Good job, everybody, making lemonade from Lemons. Our mileage champion is Maria, who came from North Carolina to visit relatives and rode along.


In Summer, the competition between Runs with other things heats up, but don’t forget to check tires, belts, chains, fluids, etc. Spotting this in the garage is always best.


Stay Sharp and Ride Safe,

John Tschannen

SKY VALLEY


The 28th Annual Sky Valley Motorcycle Show was held on May 18, 2025. The weather was not on our side, and it was in a new location, but there was a good showing. The city of Granite Falls was pleased with how we ran the Show and are looking forward to hosting us next year. We would like to thank all our sponsors, vendors, participants and volunteers for helping make the Show as successful as it was.


Our Chapter will be helping out at the Taco Poker Run Fundraiser, benefiting hit-and-run survivor Jon Bradshaw, on July 12th.


By the time you read this, Spring Opener will be over. Hope y’all had a good time!


Vic Erickson

Coordinator

SPANAWAY


Greetings from Spanaway Chapter.


It’s been a busy Spring so far. Between attending events and planning for the Spring Opener.


May 22 nd, Andy McAfee led our Motorcycle Awareness ride from Graham to Mineral and back.


May 31st, we held our Fallen Brothers and Sisters ride to remember those we can no longer be with us. Andy led a group over the bridge, where they were treated to an Orca sighting. People who have lived here for their entire lives said it was their first time. Ryan led a group up to Mineral or a memorial for a rider we lost in March.


Next up is Spring Opener. By the time this is published, Spring Opener 2025 will be a memory. And I hope it is an excellent memory for all.



Ryan Eaton

Spanaway Coordinator

SPOKANE


Our Spokane Chapter May Awareness Ride was a great time. The ride donations brought us closer to having an Accident Scene Management Basic & Advanced class in early 2026 - our off-season. If you are interested, let us know.

 

Summer booths will be July 17-19 at the Pacific Northwest HOG Rally. Plus our board meeting will be Saturday 12 noon at Lone Wolf Harley-Davidson. The meeting is open to all Abate members. Food booths, coffee, treats will be among the vendors onsite. Booths will open about 8am.

 

Those HOG members whom have signed up for the Rally will have an opportunity for extra adventures - Rides, Scavenger Hunt, Self Guided Rides, Boat Cruise and music entertainment. All the fun starts Thursday July 17, 2025. Rooms still available at the Mirabeau Park 509.924.9000 & Fairfield Inn & Suites 509.928.5218. Ask for HOG Rally rate. More information on Facebook - Pacific Northwest HOG Rally.

 

Thank you 

 

Diana Picone

Coordinator 

Spokane Chapter

STAR LAKE


Greetings, everyone, from Star Lake Chapter!

We conducted our Chapter meeting and night out at the Nyland’s home on June 6 th , 2025, 6pm. The chapter discussed the final details of the Charity ride the next day on June 7 th and prepared the swag and items associated for the ride event. The chapter also discussed the need for a chapter P.O. Box since it is not used. The coordinator will request a shared P.O. Box with the state since it is a requirement for chapters. Click here to read more!


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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