Chairman Rocco W Libertine chairman@massmotorcycle.org 413.768.8118
Director at Large Kevin Griffin directoratlarge@massmotorcycle.org
State Director Rocco W Libertine statedirector@massmotorcycle.org
Recording Secretary Bruce Arsenault secretary@massmotorcycle.org
Treasurer Elaine Griffin treasurer@massmotorcycle.org
Merchandise Manager Laurie Horn products@massmotorcycle.org
Vice Chairman OPEN
Business Manager OPEN
Safety & Education Manager OPEN
Director of Off-Road Riding OPEN
Director of Public Relations OPEN
Membership Manager Bruce Arsenault membershipmanager@massmotorcycle.org
Website Administrator OPEN
Newsletter Editor Deb Stoodley Dbethgray@gmail.com
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
The main purpose of the association is to work toward continued freedom of the road by insuring that motorcyclist’s point of view is presented to our legislators and to promote motorcycle safety, rider education and public awareness. We are trying to alleviate the very real possibility of “Big Brother Government”. We encourage all our members to be informed registered voters. We write letters to our elected officials and stay aware of what is going on with motorcycle legislation, and other transportation issues. We welcome interested parties to any of our activities or to join our organization.
MAILING ADDRESS
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association P.O. BOX 378 Brimfield, MA 01010
All articles and photo’s within the contents of this newsletter and our website are the property of … Massachusetts Motorcycle Association You may not use them without the express written consent of the newsletter editor, webmaster or the association board.
HOTLINE Call the HOTLINE anytime for any info or to contact any officer
1-413-768-8118
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association encourages all members to submit letters, articles or cartoons they feel may be of interest to fellow members. Massachusetts Motorcycle Association supports the rights of ALL motorcyclists. Massachusetts Motorcycle Association does not endorse any products or services other than its own.
The thoughts and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the individual contributors alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MMA board and it’s members. Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
On October 8th, 2023 the Annual “Wicked in Pink” Run was held at the Agawam Polish Club 139 Southwick Street in Feeding Hills, MA. Supporting charitable causes is part of what the MMA does, so we were able to Rent a booth space and attend this worthy event. The end party included food, beverages, raffles, a raffle for a motorcycle trailer and of course a great band. Participants were asked to wear something Pink. The proceeds went to the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center Patient Services Fund in Springfield MA. The Center is part of Mercy Hospital. Cancer treatment is only one step in the approach to cancer care. Also included are specialized therapies like rehabilitation and supportive care that promotes nutritional and emotional healing, genetic testing and survivorship planning. In our booth was our new educational tool. Through the efforts of our Safety and Education Director, Lou Petrucci, the MMA has been granted custody of a Motorcycle Training Simulator! The unit is on loan from the Massachusetts Rider Educational Program. The Registry of Motor Vehicles purchased the Simulator for classroom training some years ago. The Unit has several programs and driving situations that will score your skill level. Turning, braking, street awareness and special riding situations are some of the skills needed for motorcycle riding. The first showing of the unit was at the Annual MMA Fall Round-Up, and as you can imagine it drew a lot of attention. Bob Alves is the promoter of the Pink Run. He estimated that over 600 bikes and over 800 people attended the event. Again the simulator was a big hit as it was used for four hours non-stop! Both seasoned and novice riders were interested in testing their skills. I was able to spend some time in the parking area looking for bikes with loud pipes. It was not difficult to find them. Armed with an exhaust decibel meter in hand I asked for volunteers to have their bikes checked for loudness according to M.G.L. ch 90,s16 “A weighted sound levels”, and explained the testing procedure. I was received with some skepticism at first but accepted my offer when told that the test is unofficial and only for informational purposes. Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
One individual with obvious hearing problems told me the his bike “is not that loud”, but it tested at 108.1 db(A) at 2000 RPM. The image of the MMA is sometimes viewed as a raffle organization and a big party in the “Fall”. While we do have yearly expenses to keep the MMA afloatand the need to raise funds, we have not forgotten the mission. Our purpose is to protect the sport/hobby and lifestyle of motorcycling against any and all restrictive legislation and regulation; to advance the cause of motorcycle safety, education and public awareness; to aid with charitable causes and programs for the betterment of motorcycling within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Bruce Arsenault, Secretary
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
DEB STOODLEY Editor
Ride safe.
Deb Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
2024 Federal Legislative Agenda The MRF’s Legislative Committee held a legislative strategy session at the 2023 Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) 39th annual Meeting of the Minds Conference held in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The purpose of the session was to establish and prioritize the MRF’s 2024 Federal Legislative Agenda. Legislative issues fall into one of three categories, high, medium and monitor. This list remains fluid and can be adapted depending on the issue and political environment.
2024 HIGH PRIORITY OBJECTIVES
(1) Autonomous Vehicles:Advocate and monitor any legislation or regulations related to motorcycles concerning connected and autonomous vehicles (AV): (a) Endorse rulemaking to set new standards specific to seeing, detecting, and properly reacting to motorcycles. (b) Ensure motorcycles are part of all testing and development procedures. (c) Promote that any AV public user advisory committees should include a representative from the motorcycle community and a motorcycle manufacturer. (d) Require a public, easily accessible, and searchable database where consumers can look up important safety information such as the limitations and capabilities of different products offered by AV manufacturers or service providers. (e) Require that all AV manufacturers must submit safety evaluation reports to detail and make public how their vehicles identify motorcycles among other road users. Manufacturers must also include human error analysis in safety reports. (f) Require that all AV manufacturers must publicly report crash data share incidents between AVs and motorcycles just as they would incidents between AVs and other road users. (g) Protect the safety of motorcyclists with any rules or standards as it relates to electronic and cybersecurity systems including the clarification of rights of data ownership of any recorded data in the context of connected and autonomous vehicles. (h) Inclusion of motorcyclists’ perspectives in discussions regarding the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). (i) Work to ensure motorcycles are a separate classification of vehicle and road user for purposes of regulation and testing of AVs. (j) Protect the set aside radio spectrums necessary for DSRC vehicle to vehicle communications. (k) Protect additional spectrum as needed for Vehicle to Everything technology (V2X). (2) Crash Avoidance:Continue to promote the theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing urging NHTSA and the DOT to focus on crash prevention and support rider education by providing funding and other resources. (3) Data Recording:Pursue legislative language that any collected or available vehicle data is the property of the consumer and in which the consumer has the choice of whether to opt-in to having their personal data communicated to interested parties. (4) Definition of a Motorcycle:Educate policymakers and advocate for change to the current definition that better reflects the current two and three-wheel motorcycle landscape. Collaborate with appropriate stakeholders concerning the federal definition of a motorcycle, ensuring that crash and fatality statistics continue to be separate from other classes of vehicles including autocycles, non-motorcycle powered vehicles such as mopeds, scooters, motorized bicycles, and various cabin-based steering wheel type vehicles. Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
(5) Emission Regulations:Engage the EPA & Congress on any activity related to motorcycle emission regulations including the RPM ACT, H.R. 3281, S. 2736 or similar legislation. (6) Work against any efforts by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) that endangers the future of motorcycling. Helmet Laws: (7) Oppose any mandatory federal helmet, apparel, or conspicuity requirements. Advocate for limiting funding of any federal government entity with increasing involvement in advocating for a universal helmet law or similar initiatives. (8)Internal Combustion Engines:Work to ensure the survival of internal combustion engines, including elimination of the California air quality exemption waivers which allows California to enact different standards and threatens combustion engine production. (9) Profiling:Sustain lobbying efforts for the passage of resolutions or legislation that promotes awareness and prohibition of motorcyclists profiling. Seek opportunities including, but not limited to H. Res 366, with language that: Promotes increased public awareness on the issue of profiling of motorcyclists. Encourages collaboration and communication with the motorcycling community and law enforcement to engage in efforts to end profiling of motorcyclists. Urges state law enforcement officials to include statements condemning profiling of motorcyclists in written policies and training materials. Outlaws the practice of profiling of motorcyclists. Oppose any motorcycling, motorcycle, or motorcyclist-based discriminatory legislation or rules proposed by the U.S. Congress or by any governmental agency. (10) Renewable Fuels:Advocate for targeted changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) including the following actions: Support the universal availability of approved fuel blends, containing no more than 10 percent ethanol by volume. Promote additional research and independent studies concerning the effects of higher blends of renewable fuels on motorcycles. Ensure the availability of separate pumps (i.e., no multi-dispensing) to minimize the risk of damage to motorcycle engines where higher blend of renewable fuel blends is available. Sustain lobbying efforts for the passage of the Consumer Protection and Fuel Transparency Act of 2019 (H.R. 1024) or similar legislation which requires information to be provided to the public about the risks associated with the improper use of E15 fuel (or higher) in certain vehicles, engines, and equipment. This legislation: Revises current EPA rule to include warning label requirements for fuel pumps that dispense E15. Requires the EPA to create a public education campaign about the risks of unauthorized use of E15, as well as the vehicles, engines and equipment prohibited from using E15. Defines multi-dispensing nozzle and requires an additional warning label on multi-dispensing nozzles to warn consumers of the residual fuel left in gasoline pump hoses from the previous individual dispensing. (11) Right to Repair: Protect and advocate for “Right to Repair” provisions that allow consumers the ability to repair and modify their own products. Vulnerable Roadway User Terminology: Monitor and ensure that motorcycles and motorcyclists are a specific and unique category or classification.
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
2024 MEDIUM PRIORITY OBJECTIVES (1) Gang, Club and Other Language: Monitor and respond to federal legislative or regulatory activity concerning the usage of the terms gang, club, known associate, associate or any derogatory term when referring to motorcyclists. (2) Lane Filtering and/or Lane Splitting:Monitor and support federal efforts to study and review the benefits and concerns of lane splitting and lane filtering. (3) Surface Transportation Reauthorization (Highway Bill): Advocate and pursue legislative efforts related to the next highway bill reauthorization (expiring in 2026). Ensure the following provisions are included: Preserve the Motorcycle Education & Awareness Program Grant Funding. Preserve the ban on federal funding for Motorcycle Only Checkpoints. Preserve the NHTSA Lobbying Ban and expand to other federal agencies. Preserve the Motorcycle Advisory Council (MAC) to advise the FHWA. Preserve motorcycles are not considered single-occupancy vehicles for HOV lane access. Oppose any motorcycling related federal blackmails or federal sanctions. Monitor for any action that would negatively impact motorcycles, motorcycling, and motorcyclists. Advocate the integration of an updated federal definition of a motorcycle. Advocate a mandate that autonomous vehicles must detect and respond to motorcycles. Advocate for expanding opportunities to address motorcyclist profiling. Ensure motorcycles are not banned from federally funded roads. All high priority issues and emerging technologies (12) Taxes:Encourage fair treatment of motorcyclists in any change to federal taxes related to transportation. Vehicle miles traveled and other tax proposals must account for the different impact motorcycles have on infrastructure.
2024 MONITOR ITEMS (1) Distracted Driving: Work to discourage any/all forms of distracted driving. (2) EV Incentives: Seek fair tax rebate and or credits for the purchase of electric motorcycles similar to those offered for electric automobiles. (3) Exhaust Systems: Monitor and vigorously oppose any federal standard proposing stamping and certifying of motorcycle exhaust systems. (4) International Partnerships: Continue participation in motorcycle-related activity in the European Union, United Nations, and Canada informing the membership of key developments. (5) National Studies: Continue monitoring any national studies concerning motorcycles (i.e., Federal Crash Causation Study or MSF Naturalistic Study). (6) Opponents: Monitor private and public organizations that oppose the legislative agenda or mission of the MRF. (7) Sound Testing: Monitor any SAE Motorcycle Roadside Sound Testing (addressed by individual states). Monitor any action by the EPA Office of Noise Abatement Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
(8) Tariffs: Monitor any tariffs on imported motorcycles, parts, or apparel. (9) MRF2Tolling: Monitor fair tolling concepts on federally funded roadways and projects supported by federal bonds. Monitor any congestion tolling concerning motorcyclists by federal, state, or local governmental agencies. In order to remain vigilant until all aspects are complete, some references to legislation or resources could appear not to be timely.
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
1)… To initiate , endorse and sponsor educational programs such as rider safety, public awareness, legislative and affirmative action and, individual freedoms and rights. 2)… To create and promote a positive public image of motorcyclists and motorcycle groups and to dispel and disprove media hype, unfounded propaganda and the “Hollywood” image. 3)… To encourage goodwill and mutual understanding among motorcyclists, law enforcement personnel and the general public. 4)… To serve as an information source on matters pertaining to current laws, pending legislation, personal rights, political inclinations of elected officials and their constituents, and voter awareness. 5)… To act as a central responsive agency to devise and coordinate recreational, legislative, educational, and charitable activities
MEMBERS PLEASE SUBMIT Articles..Pictures..District Information Pictures.. Run / Party / Shows This is YOUR publication. PLEASE SEND ALL INFORMATION TO
Massachusetts Motorcycle Long Island Association ABATE Does Does Not Not Endorse Endorse Any Any Advertiser Advertiser oror Product Product In In This This Publication Publication
Agawam...Bruce Arsenault Bedford...John Pecora
413 250-8539
Brubike95@juno.com
617 590-1781
J.M.pecora@verizon.net
Bellingham...Kurt Van Vloten 508 409-1109 Kvanvloten@gmail.com Bernardston...Rocco Libertine Chicopee...Bob Kaine Alves Erving...Mike Pierce
413 768-8118 413 531-1073
413 348-2830
Rocco4par@aol.com RZNKaine@gmail.com
Mike33469@verizon.net
Fitchburg...Patriot Riders of America Ch.3 Petemmaworcesterco@gmail.com Gardner...Sandy Crossman Lynn...Bill Mannell
978 833-1652
617 791-2387
Sdesires@aol.com
Wildbill106@comcast.net
Marlborough...Lou Papile 508 481-7380 Loujr@engraveablesma.com Milford...Laurie Horn 508 813-6596 Lady_rides_harley@hotmail.com Peabody...Kevin Raiche
781 858-8884
Plymouth...Kevin Griffin 508 888-2210 Randolf...Ray Pike
781 248-1724
Royalston...Deb Stoodley
93heritage@gmail.com
Kevingmma2@yahoo.com Motopyker66@hotmail.com
978 413-9535
Dbethgray@gmail.com
Shrewsbury...Rachel Ingham 508 864-9166 Rachelingham63@gmail.com Southampton...Roy Lapan
413 533-4328
W. Springfield...Robbyn Kibler
413 304-0974
Britbike74@aol.com Robbyn09@gmail.com
W. Yarmouth...Lionel Souza 508 280-7977 Lionelsprinters@yahoo.com
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association State Membership ANNUAL DUES INFORMATION
Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Membership Dues & Renewal Fees Donation
Duration
Individual Membership
$25
12 Months
Family Membership
$35
12 Months
Individual Membership – Two Year
$45
24 Months
Family Membership – Two Year
$65
24 Months
Gold Card Business Sponsorship
$100
12 Months
Individual Life Member
$350
Life
Family Life Membership
$500
Life
Membership Type
SINGLE
FAMILY
…What are the membership rewards ?
MMA Members Receive… FREE $4,000.00 Accidental Death & Dismemberment Life Insurance Policy. Applications are sent bi-annually to current members with the option of purchasing additional coverage
A friendly entrance into the biker community When you join you receive your MMA patch, membership card, welcome letter and insurance.
https://mma.clubexpress.com/
Join the cause & become a member today ! Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Motorcycle safety and awareness season 2023 is upon us. The MMA has a fresh supply of the MMA “Look!” signs. They are available for members and the general public who are willing to display them throughout the riding season. You can obtain a sign through your Area Rep. A list of our current Reps and their contact info is posted in the newsletter each month. We are asking for a $5 donation to offset the cost of printing and shipping. Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Does Not Endorse Any Advertiser or Product In This Publication
Massachusetts Motorcycle Long Island Association ABATE Does Does Not Not Endorse Endorse Any Any Advertiser Advertiser oror Product Product In In This This Publication Publication
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