Legislative Update

Red Light Tickets

2008-08-29T18:09:00.000-05:00

Just received this on my BR List. Something like that could be coming up in the next session.
Sputnik

8/29/2008
Florida County to Seize Homes with Red Light Cameras Sarasota County, Florida hopes to seize homes from the owners of vehicles accused of not paying a red light camera ticket.
The Sarasota County, Florida Board of Commissioners unanimously voted on Tuesday to move forward on a proposed ordinance authorizing the seizure of the home belonging to anyone accused of not paying a red light camera ticket. The commissioners must now hold another public hearing and vote on the issue before beginning the process of installing the cameras.
"Failure to pay any amounts provided for under this article may result in the filing of a lien against the property of the registered owner,"
the proposed red light camera ordinance states. "Such lien shall be subject to foreclosure as provided by law."
In discussing the plan Tuesday, county officials made clear that ignoring a single ticket dropped in the mail by a for-profit contractor could trigger the lien. A "special master," not a judge, would then use code enforcement powers to foreclose on the home belonging to the registered owner of the vehicle if no response is received after a notice is mailed to his last known address. The foreclosure would take place regardless of whether the homeowner was even behind the wheel when the alleged offense occurred. Some of the commissioners expressed reservations about this aspect of the plan.
"So the city of Sarasota, and I guess a lot of other cities, if you get a bunch of parking tickets, they lock up your car -- they don't put a lien on your home," Commissioner Nora Patterson said. "This is pretty drastic."
Patterson ultimately voted for the ordinance but wanted clarification from Assistant County Attorney Karl Senkow as to how those who do not own their residence might be treated under the proposal.
"If there's no real property to put a lien on, there's the potential of personal property," Senkow said with a shrug. "I think there's a cost-benefit analysis as to how much effort you put into that."
Like several other Florida communities, Sarasota County intends to install red light cameras even though the state legislature has refused to authorize their use. Without the ability to suspend drivers' licenses and registrations -- which would require state support -- county officials saw home seizure as the only realistic means of convincing residents to pay up. With $2.25 million in annual revenue expected from 18,000 citations, the county wanted to take no chances with non-payment.
But the county is risking legal challenge. Both the state attorney general (view ruling) and Florida Department of Transportation (view
ruling) have ruled that photo ticketing is illegal in Florida. The largest photo enforcement vendor in the US even took a swipe at its competitor, American Traffic Systems, for operating cameras in violation of the law.
"Legal opinions indicate that automated enforcement in the state of Florida remains illegal," Redflex said in a statement to Australian investors this week (view statement). "Some competitors have proceeded at risk with early programs."
Although drastic, similar ordinances have been considered in Florida and other states. The city of Brooksville, for example, attempted to implement an ordinance that would have authorized home foreclosures over
$5 parking tickets. Earlier this month, the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin foreclosed on the $245,000 home of resident Peter Tubic, 62, because the man, who suffers mental limitations, failed to pay a $50 ticket he received for parking his own run-down van in his own driveway. Only after the story became national news did a top city official claim he would put a stop to the seizure.
A full copy of the proposed Sarasota County ordinance is available in a 55k PDF file at the source link below.
Source: Ordinance No. 2008-081 (Sarasota County, Florida, 8/26/2008) http://www.thenewspaper.com/rlc/docs/2008/fl-seizerlc.pdf

Democrat Convention

2008-08-28T21:28:00.000-05:00

Democrat Convention

Along with our regular schedule we have tried to make time to watch the Democrat Convention in Denver. There are as always many lesser important speakers followed by the heavy hitters. We will only give a summary of what we believe created the greatest impact.
We will of course give the same coverage on the Republican Convention if we aren’t busy at home ducking a hurricane at the time.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi gave a pretty good speech to open up the convention.
Michelle Obama delivered a fine speech to close out the first day intended to introduce herself and her husband as an ordinary American couple with strong values who began life on the poor side and worked their way up.
Proof that the American Dream worked back then. She did a very good job.
Day 2 we did our TV Show then rushed back to the office to catch Senator Clinton’s speech. I must admit that even as a Democrat I can hardly stand to hear her speak. This time however was different. After an unbelievably long standing ovation, she began to speak and I not only sat riveted to my seat but tears rolled down my cheeks as I listened to her pour her heart out about people she had met on the campaign trail. She made it known in no uncertain terms that Barak Obama was her candidate for president and urged her supporters to also vote for Obama.
The 3rd day was to do the Roll Call Vote of nominations for Party Candidates for President of the US. It was obvious that the vote had been pre-planned in the back rooms at the hotel almost as soon as it began.
When California was called they passed. They held over 400 votes and if it was to be close they would not have passed their chance to vote. Illinois also passed the opportunity to vote for their own Senator and anyone who has followed conventions knew what was coming but not exactly how.
Arkansas, New Hampshire and New Jersey gave all of their votes to Obama.
Now the web began to spread and how professionally was it weaved.
New Mexico Yielded their votes to Illinois who had passed. Illinois then yielded their votes, along with those given by New Mexico to New York.
That combination of votes would put Obama over the top but Senator Clinton took the mike and moved that the procedural rules be suspended and Barak Obama be elected as the Parties Candidate for President. Nancy Pelosi ran it through the necessary steps and it was finished Other Speakers passed through including Bill Clinton who received a prolonged standing ovation as his wife had done. Mr. Clinton said he also would be working and voting for Obama.
Beau Biden, son of Joe Biden introduced his dad with a few stories that those in the political arena have heard before. Certainly these stories needed to be retold as a full 51% of a recent survey had never heard of Joe Biden, do not know what he does or what state he lives in. That in itself tells the story of how this country sunk to the depths of crooked politicians running it Joe Biden does not live in DC. He rides the train home every night and returns the next morning. The issues he talked about are the same things I have been talking about for a few years now. As he began to speak he also spoke of strong family ties and introduced his mother sitting in the audience. One story Senator Biden told was when he got into a fight he came in and told his mother about it. She told him to get back out there and bloody the boy’s nose so he could walk down the street with his head held high next morning. The camera was on his mother. She was laughing really strongly and telling those next to her "That’s right." I have watched Senator Biden for several years on C-Span 2 and seen how he works.
I have always been impressed with the Bills he sponsored and how he voted.
Senator Obama stepped out from behind the curtain onto the stage and it was pandemonium. No question in my mind that those democrats were united.
Tonight will wrap up a successful convention for the democrats. Senator Obama has planned an extravaganza for himself tonight to end the convention. I personally believe this should not have been done so elaborately. To some this could be interpreted to mean LOOK AT MEEE!! SEE HOW GREAT I AM! I can’t speak to such a small crowd as these other people spoke to. Let’s spend a fortune on a Greek Temple in the middle of a field and invite everyone to come in and worship.
I don’t believe that is the message he is trying to convey but it is quite easy to get caught up in oneself. He is supposed to finally lay out in detail his plans for the future if he is elected president. That is what we should be listening for tonight, at 9:00pm and ignore the trappings.

Sputnik

Report

2008-08-22T16:07:00.002-05:00

Harley Davidson
http://www.usrecallnews.com/2008/08/nhtsa-1723.html
Harley-Davidson Recalled Almost 50-Thousand 2008 Motorcycles August 20,2008 Harley-Davidson Motor Company is recalling 47,500 2008 FLHP, FLHPE, FLHR, FLHRC, FLHRSE4, FLHT, FLHTC, FLHTCU, FLHTCUSE3, FLHTP, FLHX, and FLTR model motorcycles. These recalled Harleys may experience a loss of fuel pressure due to a cracking of the fuel filter shell. A loss in fuel pressure could lead to stalls and failure starting. Stalling in trafficcan result in crash and injury for the rider. Harley-Davidson dealers will replace the fuel filter shell for free beginning on or before August 4th. To locate a Harley dealership near you for a replacement fuel filter shell, Harley owners should call 414-353-4056.

LEGISLATIVE DAY
Legislative Day is always on the 4th Monday in January of odd numbered years. In 2009 that will be January 26th. We shall meet on Sunday the 25th to discuss the issues known to be coming up at the time and pass out talking points on each one. Monday we will walk and talk to legislators throughout the day and be recognized from the House Floor again. We will probably set up the same type recognition from the Senate Floor this time as two bad Bills are coming from that body.

The Rights Association will block rooms at a reduced rate in a different hotel this time. All pertinent information will be put out on a Flyer by TMRA 2 by the end of November or the first of December. Now you know thed ate so make plans for it now.

Here we go again. Due to a lack of funds and high interest rates on IRS payments I just gave Terri my wifes credit card to pay our 2nd quarter taxes of just over $ 2100. I know I will catch Hell when the bill comes in but that's better than paying interest we can get by without.

Time to get ready for the Howl-O-Weeen Rally coming up at the end ofOctober. Terri and I will be there to help keep things rolling along. Weare also planning another Jimmie Vaughan Concert to be held at Antones inAustin. It will also be in October. If both events should fall on the same weekend Terri shall be in charge of the Concert and I will still be at the Rally.

NEW WEBSITE
I know some of you have a problem with the writing across the picture on the new site but it was done for a reason. How about the shows? Are youable to bring them up or have you even tried.
The site is getting rave reviews from out of state. The number of hits are unbelieveable.
Ride Free
-
Ride SoberSputnik

Voter Registration

2008-08-17T16:15:00.002-05:00

I saw a posting about voter registration and decided to put the FAQ's from the Texas State Website.
You can view the complete info from the Texas State website at http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/pamphlets/faqs.shtml

Frequently Asked Questions
The below Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) have been compiled with the November 4, 2008 General Election in mind. We hope that you will take a moment to review these pages, as you may find the answers to questions of your own. We encourage you to explore our website for more detailed information on elections and voting in Texas. We hope you find this useful, and we appreciate this opportunity to serve you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) and Other Popular Topics
Note: We have grouped questions and answers in categories and provided links to additional information when needed.
Checking Voter Registration Status, Getting Registered for the First Time, or Making Changes to Your Current Registration

Q: I’m not sure if I’m registered; how can I confirm my voter registration status?
A: You can confirm your registration status on this website by going to Am I Registered?, where you will select one of three methods for conducting your search. You can base your search on:

1. your Voter Unique Identifier(VUID), which appears on your voter registration certificate;
2. your Texas driver's license number, if you provided it when you applied for voter registration; or
3. your first and last name. Or, you can call the voter registrar’s office in the county where you reside. To find the number, review the list of County Voter Registration Officials.

Q: I'm not registered, but want to vote in the November General Election; how can I be sure that I'm registered in time to vote?
A: The deadline to register and be eligible to vote in the November 4, 2008 General Election is October 6, 2008. This can be either the postmark date or the date the application is received in the office of the voter registrar. You may, of course, register at any time before that date to ensure that your registration is effective for voting in November. You can obtain a voter registration application from your voter registrar's office, libraries, most post offices, high schools, or from this office.
To request a postage-paid voter registration application (you may also download an informal application at this site)
Addresses and phone numbers of Voter Registrars

Q: If I send my registration by the deadline, what happens next?
A: Your voter registration becomes effective 30 days after it is submitted (and accepted*) by the county voter registrar. The county office will then put your name on the voter registration list, generate your voter certificate and mail it to you. Once received, be sure to read the information on the back of the certificate, sign by the X on the "front" of the card (the orange area) and keep your voter card in a safe place. This is what you will take with you to the polls to vote. Note that as long as your name is on the voter list, you may vote without presenting this certificate, as discussed below under “Voting without a Certificate.”
*If your original application is missing required information, you will receive a notice in the mail and have a deadline to respond to the notice.

Q: I am registered to vote, but I moved this past year. Is there anything I need to do to make sure that I won't have a problem voting in November?
A: If you moved “within the same county” where you are currently registered, you must file the new address information in writing with your voter registrar OR you may submit the ‘in county" change online. The last day to make a change of address that will be effective for the November 4, 2008 election is October 6, 2008. If you miss this deadline, you may return to your old precinct to vote. You will be required to complete a "statement of residence" confirming your new address in your new precinct.

A: If you moved to a “new county,” you must re-register in your new county of residence by October 6, 2008 to be eligible to vote in the November 4, 2008 General Election.
Addresses and phone numbers of Voter Registrars.

LIMITED BALLOT OPTION: If you have moved to a new county and have not re-registered in the new county by the October 6, 2008 deadline, you may be eligible to vote a limited ballot in your new county. A limited ballot means that you would be allowed to vote on any candidates and measures in common between your former and new county. You may not vote a limited ballot on election day and you must have been an eligible voter in your former county when you moved in order to qualify. For full information on this procedure, go to Special Forms of Early Voting. If you feel you qualify to vote a limited ballot, we recommend that you contact the office of the Early Voting Clerk in your new county: Early Voting Clerk for State and County Elections

Q: I don't remember seeing my certificate lately. Is that a problem? Don't I just stay registered?
A: New certificates are mailed out every two years to the most recent address you gave to the voter registrar. If you do not recall receiving a new orange and white certificate in early 2008, it could mean that you have moved without updating, or there is some other problem with your registration. If the certificate was mailed to an old address, it was returned to the registrar, and you were placed on the "suspense list" in that county. This means you have a grace period that allows you to vote in the same county in your old precinct, but if you do not vote, your name will be removed from the rolls after two federal elections have passed since you were placed on the suspense list. If you did not receive your certificate because you moved to a new Texas county, you will need to re-register.
Voting Without a Certificate - Voting Early - Election Day Voting

Q: I can't find my voter certificate/card. Will I be able to vote without it?
A: If you are a registered voter and you have lost or misplaced your voter certificate, you may vote without your certificate by providing some form of identification (see list below) and signing an affidavit at the polls. This is the procedure to follow if your voter registration is still current and your name appears on the voter rolls in your county of residence. You may also contact your county voter registrar to obtain a replacement certificate. Addresses and phone numbers of Voter Registrars

Acceptable documents are:
a driver's license or personal identification card issued to you by the Department of Public Safety or a similar document issued to you by an agency of another state, regardless of whether the license or card has expired;
a form of identification containing your photograph that establishes your identity;
a birth certificate or other document confirming birth that is admissible in a court of law and establishes your identity;
United States citizenship papers issued to you;
a United States passport issued to you;
official mail addressed to you, by name, from a governmental entity;
a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and address.

Q: How do I find out if I am registered to vote or if I am on the voter rolls in the county where I reside?
A: You can check the status of your voter registration by using our search site, where you will select one of three methods for conducting your search. You can base your search on: 1. your Voter Unique Identifier (VUID), which appears on your voter registration certificate; 2. your Texas driver's license number, if you provided it when you applied for voter registration; or 3. your first and last name. Or, you can call the voter registrar’s office in the county where you reside. To find the number, review the list of County Voter Registration Officials.

Q: Can anybody vote early in person, or only those people who are going to be out of town on election day? What are the dates for voting early in person?
A: Any registered voter may vote early by personal appearance (in person). Early voting by personal appearance for the November 4, 2008 General Election begins on October 20, 2008 and ends on October 31, 2008. You may go to any early voting location that is convenient, as long as it is in your county of registration.

Q: Where do I go to vote?
A:.You will be able to find early voting locations by using our search site Am I Registered?, which will be populated with voting sites a few days before early voting begins. Or, you may want to contact the Early Voting Clerk for State and County Elections in your county. Also, many newspapers publish early voting polling locations, so you might be able to find the information there.

Q: Can anybody vote early by mail (also referred to as absentee voting)?
A: Only specific reasons entitle a registered voter to vote early by mail (no longer called absentee voting). You may request a ballot by mail if you:
will be away from your county on Election Day and during early voting;
are sick or disabled;
are 65 years of age or older on Election Day; or
are confined in jail.

Q: I fall under one of the 4 reasons above. What do I do now? Are there deadlines connected with this procedure?
A: First, request an Application for Ballot by Mail (ABBM) from the Early Voting Clerk in your county of registration, or from our office. Once received, read the instructions carefully, complete the ABBM form and return to the Early Voting Clerk. The dates applicable to the November 4, 2008 General Election are as follows: the first day you may submit an ABBM is September 5, 2008; the last day (or deadline) to submit an ABBM is October 28, 2008---this is NOT A POSTMARK DATE---the ABBM must be RECEIVED IN THE OFFICE OF THE EARLY VOTING CLERK by October 28, 2008 in order for you to receive a ballot by mail.
To learn more about the ABBM process and to request an ABBM from our office (or print one directly from the web)
Contact information for your Early Voting Clerk for State and County Elections

Q: It's election day, November 4, 2008, and I'm registered and ready to vote. Where do I go? What are the hours for voting on election day?
A:. You will be able to find your precinct voting location by using our search site Am I Registered?, which will be populated with voting sites well before election day. Or, you may want to contact the elections official in your county of registration election duties. Also, many newspapers publish election day polling locations, so you might be able to find the information there.
The hours of voting on election day are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

**********************************************************
Provisional Voting
Provisional voting is designed to allow a voter whose name does not appear on the list of registered voters due to an administrative error to vote. It is much like the former challenge affidavit procedure in two ways:
(1) it involves an affidavit the voter must complete stating the reasons he or she is qualified to vote; and
(2) it is used if the voter cannot be qualified by the methods described above.
The key differences are: (1) the cast ballots are kept separately from the regular ballots and (2) the voter’s records will be reviewed later by the provisional voting ballot board (the early voting ballot board), and the ballot is counted only if the voter is determined to be a registered voter. Provisional voters will receive a notice in the mail by the 10th day after the local canvass advising them if their provisional ballots were counted, and if they were not counted, the reason why.

Military & Overseas Voters
Military and overseas voters are welcome to use the regular registration and early voting by mail process available to all voters away from their home county on Election Day. However, there are also special provisions for military and overseas voters that are also available on our website.

Voters with Special Needs
Rather than providing sample questions & answers, we are directing you to special needs information (PDF, 179kb) on our website to ensure that you are fully informed on the services available to you.

Student Voters
Student voters often seek advice regarding residency issues for voter registration purposes. Information regarding student residency issues is available on this website.

Convicted Felons and Voting
In Texas, a convicted felon regains the right to vote after completing his or her sentence. Therefore, once you have completed the punishment phase (including any term of incarceration, parole, or supervision, or completed a period of probation ordered by the court), you would be eligible to register and vote in the state of Texas.

List of Helmets that Failed

2008-08-15T00:24:00.000-05:00

Here is a list of helmet’s that failed because of performance
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has the statutory authority to issue Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) applicable to motor vehicles and items of motor vehicle equipment, including motorcycle helmets. The law establishes a self-certification process in which the motorcycle helmet manufacturers certify that their products are in compliance with FMVSS No. 218, which establishes minimum performance requirements that the products must meet. NHTSA enforces the standard by randomly selecting and purchasing motorcycle helmets from the marketplace and testing to the requirements of the standard at independent test labs.
Just because a helmet fails a test does not mean that a recall will take place! It just starts the process.

Year brand model report number
2000 BIEFFE B-8C HS-633947
2000 CYBER U-212 HS-633982
2000 VR-1 TA-09 HS-634365
2000 THH T-390 HS-634460
2000 VR-1 TA-300 HR-634954
2000 M2R 602 HR-634955

2001 M2R MR-15 HR-634955
2001 NEXL HR-635482
2001 THH U-67 HR-635563
2001 FULMER AF-300 HR-635599
2001 RIDER GR-900 (child) HR-635622
2001 HJC SY-MAX HR-635705
2001 HJC AC-10 HR-635706
2001 CYBER UY-215 HR-635731
2001 AFX FX-2 HR-635792

2002 AFX FX-3 HR-636024
2002 M2R 503 HR-636049
2002 M2R 325 HR-636050
2002 CKX VG 975 HR-636052
2002 NEXL 02 HR-636096
2002 Harley Davidson Midnight Flame HR-636281
2002 Fulmer AF-50 HR-636296
2002 Harley Davidson Classic Cruiser no HR number
2002 Vega Auto Access CUB HR-636349

2003 NEXL 02 HR-636465
2003 NEXL 02 HR- 636466 retest?
2003 Z1R ZRF-1 HR-636495
2003 KBC TK-9 HR-636497
2003 M2R 503 HR-636505
2003 M2R OX500 HR-636619
2003 ICON ALLINCE HR-636707
2003 AFX FX-9 HR-636802

2004 ZAMP S-1 HR-637106
2004 NEXL 05 HR-637121
2004 ZAMP S-1 HR- 637189 retest?
2004 RODIA RHD500 HR-637318
2004 RODIA RHD200 HR-637339
2004 NXT 101 HR-637402
2004 VEMAR VRX3 HR-637403
2004 MDS RC4 HR-637416

2005 SCORPION EXO-700 HR-637878
2005 NEXL 05 HR-637879
2005 NEXL 05 HR-637880 retest?
2005 advanced carbon composites EXT-001 HR-637990
2005 Z1R METRO HR-637991
2005 FULMER AF-M MODUS HR-638023
2005 HCI 100 HR-637725

2006 JIX (sold by vance leathers) HC2101-2109/200
2006 RAIDER SHORTY
2006 ARAI PROFILE
2006 ICON DOMAIN
2006 KERR H205BLK
2006 SKID LID U-69
2006 ACC EXT-002
2006 Cyber Helmets U-12
2006 FULMER AF-M modus
2006 VIVA VIVA 325
2006 DOING (sold by hot leathers) NH30X /DY0401
2006 NITRO NT100
2006 DAYTONA SKULL CAP
2006 ZAMP S-2 ST-211

For a list of the 2006 HR# you can go to www.headsafe.org click on helmets then click on DOT then click on random testing it on the bottom of the page. Not that it will do you any good if you are trying to get information on a recall because the file # that the ODI uses is different

Dana Young
Senate District 15 Advisor
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association

[Mrfnews] 08NR12 - MRF News Release - HIPAA Update

2008-08-07T20:05:00.001-05:00

July 30, 2008

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation reports that language similar to the HIPAA loophole-fix language contained in HR 1076 may be offered by the bill's sponsor to a piece of legislation being worked on by the US House Energy and Commerce committee, as previously reported by the MRF.

While we are not privy to private negotiations between committee leadership and the bill's sponsor, we are cautiously optimistic that language that would be of benefit to motorcyclists would be included. The MRF has been aggressively lobbying committee members and staff to encourage this.

You may recall reading about an amendment offered in a committee mark up two weeks ago - that would have closed the loophole - that allows for insurance companies to refuse benefits for an injury, based on the source of the injury.

It's what is known in the insurance industry as a "source of injury exclusion". The amendment, offered by Dr. Michael Burgess (R-TX) was ruled not germane by Chairman Dingell (D-MI) and struck down.

Upon closer examination, it was brought to light that in fact the amendment was germane, so germane that the Chairman admitted he was wrong, that he was embarrassed by the oversight and wanted to correct his mistake. At that point the committee had dispensed of the bill leaving the fate of the amendment up to the House Rules committee, the last committee to consider any legislation before full consideration of the House.

A few options remain. Chairman Dingell, the Ranking Republican on the Committee, Mr. Barton (R-TX) and the amendment author, Mr. Burgess, have all signed off on a process agreement and a recommendation to the Rules committee to include the amendment before the measure is voted on before the full House of Representatives.

The MRF will notify you if and when the legislation comes before the House for a vote.

This positive news puts HR 1076 one step closer to becoming law. However much remains to be seen from the Rules committee, the Senate (S 616) and ultimately the White House.

==========================================================

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Ride With The LeadersTM by joining the MRF at http://www.mrf.org/join.php or call 1-202-546-0983

Registration is easy and secure for MRF Regional and Meeting of the Minds conferences. Visit our website at http://www.mrf.org/events.php for further details and registration information.

Send in your nominations and donations for the MRF's Young Activist Scholarship fund today. For complete details, visit http://www.mrf.org/yascholarship.php.

Sign up today for the MRF's new roadside assistance program by visiting http://www.mrf.org/mrfroadside.php The program is available to MRF members and non-MRF members.

Report

2008-07-30T20:06:00.001-05:00

Well we are right back to where we were but it sure felt good for a little while.The last two Rallies combined only cleared about $1400 so we are broke and in debt again. The quarterly taxes were $ 2000 and we could only send them $500. When we pay the rent in a couple of days our balance will be less than $100.

We attended the meeting in Dayton and I drew the ticket for the Rifle.
Jack West won the Rifle. (you owe me Jack Haha) The chapter voted to donate $250 to the state to help out. We need to get some new memberships or renewals very soon.

Our outlook for the coming session is up to us. We have a candidate in Dist 52, Diana Maldonado that we really need to get behind anbd get elected. Our best hope for this go around is to get a new House Speaker.

For any of you who haven't done so take a look at our new website at
http://texaspoliticsbikerstyle.com
and let us know how it looks to you. We plan to sell Sponsorships and Ads once it is completed. You will be asked to sell one.
Hope to see all the Advisors at the office Saturday at 1:00pm.

The Ten Worst Insurance Companies

2008-07-12T17:57:00.000-05:00

We have all seen the ads about how much money we can save if we switch insurance companies. Our Oregon AIM Attorney has sent us a list of the 10 worst companies along with a Bio stating why. A good read.
Sputnik

http://www.justice.org/docs/TenWorstInsuranceCompanies.pdf

-- Sam Hochberg

Texas Politics Biker Style

2008-07-07T23:16:00.002-05:00

One of our members, Greg Bodovsky, is building us a website to put up our TV Show we do in Austin. It will also have pictures and informational writings.
The doodads are still currently under construction but there is one show there that can be viewed now. One more will go up each week as well as archives of some of our better ones such as Legislative Day.

Check it out at http://texaspoliticsbikerstyle.com/ You need high speed to view it of course.

Sputnik

Helmets, Plan of Action

2008-07-04T11:30:00.001-05:00

Prepared for the Texas Motorcycle Rights Association

Senator Carona wants to put a helmet on us, he better think long and hard about this because:

1.The Brain Institute of America states that 1.4 million Americans sustain head trauma each year and 50,000 people die every year as a result of head trauma. Only 4810 of those who died were bikers and 62% of the people in car accidents have some form of head trauma.

2. Fatalities per 100,000 Population have virtually remained the same from 1994 through 2006.

3. Falls from the same level injure and kill more people in a year than on a motorcycle.

4. What the good Senator wants to put on the bikers is criminal. The standards FMVSS 218 have not been upgraded in over 34 years! One study that the taxpayer footed the bill for, stated "It is concluded that (1) motorcycle helmets have no statistically significant effect on the probability of fatality; (2) helmets reduce the severity of head injuries; and (3) past a critical impact speed [13 mph], helmets increase the severity of neck injuries. It was the Goldstein study and, of course, the DOT ignored it.

5. One of the studies that was used by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was the Feasibility Study of Upgrading FMVSS No. 218, Motorcycle Helmets (1997) and estimated helmets to about 37 percent effective in preventing fatalities. This was a statistic. Report of questionable worth. They revised their estimate up from 29% to 37% for helmet effectiveness. It should be noted that no helmets were tested by the DOT in the years 1982, 1983, 1987 and 1988. The same years that the DOT used when they statistically analyzed the upgrade to supposed helmet effectiveness. They stated that, "They include motorcycles, mopeds, 3-wheeled cycles other than All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), "other" motorcycles and motorcycles of unknown type. They considered a rider to be unhelmeted when coded either as 00 (None Used/Not Applicable) or 15 (Helmet Used Improperly). With the exception of unknowns, which were proportionally distributed, all other codes were interpreted as helmeted. This includes codes for safety belts and child safety seats. The assumption made is that the original investigator, who filled out the Police Accident Report, or PAR, had used a restraint code to indicate that a helmet was worn."

6. There is no federal law that states a manufacturer, importer, distributor or dealer has to maintain a record of the first purchaser of the helmet for use in the event of a recall (Title 49 U.S. Code §301.17). If it weren’t criminal, it would be so funny to look at what NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation makes you go through to find recall information on helmets. The Safety Defects Investigation Program is supposed to identify motor vehicle and safety related defects. The DOT requested in 2003 for $8.1 million to fund this program. Ask the DOT how many people beyond the manufacturers that they have been able to contact in a recall. (Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Volume 5, Revised as of October 1, 2004 – Cite: 49CFR577.7) (B) (Except in the case of a tire) if decided by the Administrator to be required for motor vehicle safety, by public notice in such manner as the Administrator may require after consultation with the manufacturer. In this instance the Administrator has utilized the Federal Register as its public notice and the question here is how many people even know where to look or what the Federal Register is.

7. For fourteen years the DOT Fatality Accident Reporting System (FARS) has shown that more people are killed using the helmet than without.

8. Back in January of 1981, DOT Contract No. HS-5-01160 came out. Their "Summary of findings" addressed the need for motorcycle safety training. In single vehicle accidents, motorcycle rider error was present as the accident precipitating factor in about two-thirds of the cases, with the typical error being a slideout and fall due to overbraking or running wide on a curve due to excess speed or under-cornering. Motorcycle riders between the ages of 16 and 24 are significantly overrepresented in accidents; motorcycle riders between the ages of 30 and 50 are significantly underrepresented. Although the majority of the accident-involved motorcycle riders are male (96%), the female motorcycle riders are significantly overrepresented in the accident data. The motorcycle riders involved in accidents are essentially without training; 92% were self-taught or learned from family or friends. Motorcycle rider training experience reduces accident involvement and is related to reduced injuries in the event of accidents. More than half of the accident-involved motorcycle riders had less than 5 months experience on the accident motorcycle, although the total street riding experience was almost 3 years. Motorcycle riders with dirt bike experience are significantly underrepresented in the accident data. But then Mary Peters, Secretary of Transportation, tried to get an amendment allowing her to take the grant money that was to go to Motorcycle Awareness and Safety Education and to use it to promote the use of a helmet. And while you are at it, ask TxDOT why they stole from our Rider Education Fund.

9. During the years 2000-2006, 59 motorcycle helmets were recalled after failing penetration tests. The DOT did not test every helmet manufactured during that time frame. Do not be misled or misinformed by the DOT. All it requires is that the manufacturer conduct a self-certification test (97% of manufacturers are Asian corporations) and the DOT may only inspect 20% of the imports.

10. The good Senator is worried about unreimbursed medical care costs. Last year (2007) Baylor College of Medicine testified across the State of Texas bikers incurred $1.6 million in unreimbursed medical expenses but he and his committee were informed that Harris County Medical District had incurred $100 million in unreimbursed medical care costs for illegal immigrants. It seems that the good Senator doesn’t mind spending $100 million of hard working taxpaying citizens money on illegal immigrants but God forbid that a biker (who is probably one of those hard working taxpaying citizens) have any part of $1.6 million spent on him or her for an accident probably caused by an inattentive driver.

Dana Young SD 15 Advisor

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Constitution Workshop - Austin /Aug 9-10 & Houston /Aug 16-17

2008-07-04T11:28:00.001-05:00

From: austin_houstonworkshops@yahoo.com

Dear Fellow Freedom Lover or Activist,
Texans finally get to hear it first hand!!
On August 9th and 10th Jack and Margy Flynn will be conducting their highly acclaimed Constitution Workshop in Austin, Texas, and in Houston on the following weekend of August 16th and 17th.
Jack & Margy Flynn use the Constitution, the Supreme Law of the Land, to hold Public and Private Officials to their Oaths of Office and Duties. If you have been or are being wronged by the Federal Government, a State Agency, CPS, a County, City or Town, a Cop (Traffic Issues, Illegal Arrest or Detention, etc.), a Judge, a Bank or Credit Card Company, a Mortgage Company, or any other entity, Public or Private, which has violated your Rights then this workshop will show you how to hold them accountable and get the justice you seek.
Please see the attached Flyers for all the details.
Please forward this information to all Fellow Freedom Lovers and to all email lists of people who would benefit from learning and applying this invaluable information. We need to return our country to the Republic it is intended to be!
If you host a radio show, or publish a newsletter, or have a website, or speak before groups, we would greatly appreciate it if you could mention the seminar now and again. If you have an "Upcoming Events" section on your website, we would greatly appreciate it if you could maybe post it there also.
If there is a Bulletin Board to which you can pin the attached Flyer, it would be a big help and we thank you.
We look forward to seeing you in Austin or in Houston for these awesome events!

Yours in Freedom,
Tony Martin
austin_houstonworkshops@yahoo.com

FLYER:
http://sudsandbutterfly.homestead.com/files/flyerWeThePeopleAug16.jpg
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TMRA2 4TH of July Rally - Abilene

2008-07-04T11:26:00.000-05:00

COME ON OUT FOR THE TMRA2 BIRTH OF LIBERTY RALLY/TMRA2 is 16 years old,
see rally flyer attached.
JULY 4, 5, 6TH
AT V-tWIN VALLEY (FORMERLY KNOWN AS EAGLES LANDING) Near Abilene, Texas
Address 1902 CR 351 Merkel, Texas 79536
only $15.00 to get in/couples discount $25.00 a couple
gates open at noon Friday July 4th
DJ Friday night-live band saturday
Band for Saturday: Blind Terry and the Crashing Pink Flamingo's
50/50 raffle
live Auction
bike games
Run N Gun poker Run, put on by Sputnik
Wet T contest
Bring your old flags for the Flag retirement ceromony
BYOB
We need to make this the best fourth of July ever!!! It's TMRA2 birthday
too, Come and enjoy the fourth of July with us. Fundraiser for TMRA2.....
Sputnik
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association
FLYER:
http://sudsandbutterfly.homestead.com/files/flyerLibertyRallyJuly4.jpg
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Parade Helmet Poll

2008-06-26T21:03:00.002-05:00

From the MRF Representatives email.

Parade has an article with a poll entitled: Must Bikers Wear Helmets?

If you'd like to read it and cast your own vote, go here: http://www.parade.com/articles/editions/2008/edition_06-22-2008/Intelligence_Report

New Law in Florida

2008-06-26T21:01:00.001-05:00

This came from the MRF Representatives.

Effective July 1^st , all new motorcycle riders must past a rider education course.

Story below:

http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/21581734.html

[Mrfnews] 08LR15 - MRF Leaders Report- June

2008-06-26T20:59:00.002-05:00

http://www.mrf.org/reports/2008/08LR15-Leaders_Report-June.htm

MRF E-MAIL NEWS Motorcycle Riders Foundation
236 Massachusetts Ave. NE
Suite 510
Washington, DC 20002-4980
202-546-0983 (voice)
202-546-0986 (fax)
http://www.mrf.org (website)

For Immediate Release

Contact: Jeff Hennie, Vice President of Government Relations
Email: jeff@mrf.org

June 26, 2008

Washington Update

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) reports that a new web-based survey for motorcyclists has been launched by the Federal Highway Administration's Motorcycle Advisory Council (FHWA-MAC). The members of the FHWA MAC recently created the 2008 Motorcyclist Road Conditions Survey. The purpose of the survey is to help state and federal highway administrators better understand and plan for the needs of motorcycle riders. All riders are encouraged to take the survey before the deadline of August 1st 2008. The idea is to launch the survey during riding season when riders are most aware of current conditions and can more accurately respond to the survey.

To take the ten minute survey before August 1st visit:
www.surveymonkey.com/MACmembersHighwaySurvey

Governors Highway Safety Association

Last week the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) released a report on motorcycle safety. The report was in response to the GHSA survey of state motorcycle safety programs. The survey covered a wide range of safety contributors including but not limited to, funding programs, helmet laws, availability of rider education, anti impairment campaigns, road construction and data collection issues.

According to the report, "Motorcycles have become part of the popular culture in the United States. Commercials and movies featuring positive images of motorcycles and motorcyclists are commonplace." The report also goes on to point out that "Not surprisingly, the motorcycle sales increase is one factor that has led to increased rider injuries and fatalities."
The report also points out the fact that motorcycle sales have quadrupled over the same time frame that fatalities have doubled.

Funding continues to be an issue. In discussing a survey of state programs and monies issued during the first two fiscal years (FY) of the federal 2010 funds, the GHSA report states, "In 2006, $5,940,000 in federal 2010 Motorcyclist Safety Grants was distributed to 44 states and Puerto Rico.
In FY 2007, $6,000,000 in federal 2010 Motorcyclist Safety Grants was distributed to 47 states and Puerto Rico. The average grant was $122,000 in 2006 and $125,000 in 2007. However, the 2006 funds were awarded very late in the fiscal year (FY) and were rolled over to FY 2007. As a result, most State Highway Safety Offices did not begin actively working to address motorcycle safety issues until FY 2007. Many states also use federal 402 and 410 grants to supplement motorcycle safety activities."
During the last two years, almost every state has received a 2010 Motorcyclist Safety Grant from the federal government. Yet, states continue to face serious budget and programmatic shortfalls in this area.

"While the report does put some emphasis on helmet laws, it also carefully points out some of the other issues that groups like GHSA have been reluctant to address in the past. Issues that the MRF has been working to advance to the forefront of motorcycle safety for decades, such as funding rider ed, clear marking of construction zones, and increased new motorcycle sales are several examples" said Jeff Hennie, Vice President of Government Relations for the MRF.

You can find the report in its entirety at:
http://www.ghsa.org/html/publications/survey/motorcycle/summary.pdf

This Just In.

A Pennsylvania joint House and Senate committee on legislative budget and finance issued a report on June 25th, 2008 on the fatality trends since PA's modernization of its helmet law in 2003. The report found that "Due to the substantial increase in motorcycle registration, the rate of crashes per 10,000 motorcycle registrations actually declined from 132.4 in CY (Calendar Year) 2000 to 113.2 crashes per 10,000 motorcycle registrations in CY 2007".
The report also showed that helmeted riders involved in a collision dropped from 67% in 2000 to 57% in 2007.

The report also attempted to make a connection with the new helmet law and a rise in traumatic head injury but had to admit that "We found that the linkages between existing data sources that are necessary to specifically determine the relationship between helmet usage and head trauma-related injuries and fatalities are currently not in place." The study does quote some secondary studies that claim to actually be able to make a case for a rise in head injuries.

To read the full 62 page committee report visit:
http://lbfc.legis.state.pa.us/

Click on "reports released" and then scroll down to the Transportation heading and you will find "Motorcycle Injuries and Fatalities Since the 2003 Repeal of the Mandatory Helmet Law".

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Send in your nominations and donations for the MRF's Young Activist
Scholarship fund today. For complete details, visit http://www.mrf.org/yascholarship.php.

Sign up today for the MRF's new roadside assistance program by visiting http://www.mrf.org/mrfroadside.php The program is available to MRF members and non-MRF members.

(c)All Information contained in this release is copyrighted. Reproduction permitted with attribution. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation, incorporated in 1987, is a membership-based, national motorcyclists' rights organization headquartered in Washington, DC. The first motorcyclists' rights organization to establish a full-time presence in Washington, DC, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation is the only Washington voice devoted exclusively to the street rider. The MRF established MRFPAC in the early 1990s to advocate the election of candidates who would champion the cause of rider safety and rider freedom.

The MRF proudly claims state motorcyclists' rights organizations and the very founders of the American riders' rights movement among its leading members. The MRF is involved in federal and state legislation and regulations, motorcycling safety education, training, and public awareness.
The MRF provides members and state motorcyclists' rights organizations with direction and information, and sponsors annual regional and national educational seminars for motorcyclists rights activists, as well as publishing a bi-monthly newsletter, THE MRF REPORTS.

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Pennsylvania Bill

2008-06-26T20:55:00.002-05:00

Pennsylvania bill mandates
motorcycle helmet use The Staff of Clutch and Chrome June 24th 2008 Citing a study showing an increase in head injuries among riders a Pennsylvania politician wants to mandate motorcycle helmet use.

State Representative Dan Frankel has introduced H.B. 945, a bipartisan bill that would restore the helmet requirement for riders 21 or older, restoring the parts of Pennsylvania's motorcycle-helmet law that were repealed in 2003.

Recently, two University of Pittsburgh faculty members compared four years of data concerning motorcycle related fatalities; the two years before and two after the helmet law was repealed. According to their analysis, head injury deaths increased 66 percent and motorcycle-related head injury hospitalization increased 78 percent. The complete findings of the study will be published in the August issue of the American Journal of Public Health.

The 2006 Legislative Budget and Finance Committee also conducted a study which had similar findings and effect on the number of motorcycle riders' injuries in Pennsylvania following the helmet-law repeal.

Frankel points to the increases and the possibility the data could get worse with higher fuel prices encouraging more people to ride motorcycles.

Sputnik

Another state finally gets it.

2008-06-26T20:52:00.001-05:00

Another state finally gets it. More ammo for the coming bout with Carona.

Sputnik

bikers June 23, 2008

Read Comments(2)Recommend (1)Print this page E-mail this article Share this article: Del.icio.us Facebook Digg Reddit Newsvine What's this? In the past, surges in motorcycle accidents and fatalities have been cited primarily to support arguments for mandatory use of safety helmets. We support laws requiring helmet use, but realize that such a focus is limited. The limitation is being addressed by the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission's Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Committee. The committee has launched a statewide motorcycle-safety campaign, using broadcast commercials and billboards aimed not at bikers but at operators of vehicles other than motorcycles.

There is good reason for the safety campaign. Louisiana ranks third in the nation in biker fatalities. Lafayette's record is not good, either. Last year, six motorcycle-related deaths occurred in the city.

The Insurance Information Institute says cycling has become more popular in recent years. The number of bikes on our roads has soared, and the appeal to older riders has increased. Deaths among cyclists 40 and older have climbed substantially, the institute says.

In August, a safety summit produced by MSAC and the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission was held in Baton Rouge. Safety officials pinpointed reasons for the alarming increase in motorcycle fatalities. Among them were lack of professional training, speeding, lack of protective equipment such as helmets and operating while impaired by alcohol or other substances.

These are all valid reasons for the alarming death rate among bikers, but it is an incomplete list.

MSAC's new awareness campaign expands the safety focus - targeting drivers of cars and trucks who pay too little attention to cyclists.

James "Poet" Sisco, president of ABATE Louisiana - American Bikers Active Toward Education - and a founder of MSAC, explained the new focus.

"We try to teach safer crashing, and that's the wrong approach," he said.
"We should teach crash avoidance. It will do a lot more for them than any helmet or safe crashing will."

MSAC's awareness campaign already has shown positive results.

According to Sisco, "It used to be that two-thirds of all motorcycle crashes were the fault of a driver violating the right-of-way of a motorcyclist.
That figure has come down to at least 40 percent, and I would like to think this campaign has something to do with it."

State funds are provided for the awareness campaign. House Resolution 3 allocates $100,000 specifically for motorcycle education and awareness.
The campaign calls for establishing six more billboards every year, if funds are available. Scheduled to expire in 2009, a reallocation of funds has been approved starting in 2010.

Motorcycle safety will be enhanced if drivers of other types of vehicles keep a close watch for bikers. We urge all our readers to heed the message of the awareness campaign

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11:20 AM

Supreme Court ruling

2008-06-26T20:45:00.002-05:00

The Supreme Court has just ruled that it is a Consttutional Right for citizens to own guns for self protection and hunting with some government regulations.

Sputnik

Here is a link to a story for more info.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=91913260

Helmets

2008-06-22T10:59:00.002-05:00

Read in this mornings Galveston Daily News an interview with Senator Carona. He was quoted as saying he will introduce a Bill to reinstate the helmet law in Texas this coming session.
Get ready for a fight.

Sputnik
State Chair
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association

http://galvestondailynews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=3a47e87e2baaafc5

This is my response to Mr. Paschenko concerning his Article

Mr. Paschenko;

Senator Carona’s desire comes from an attitude problem rather than any facts. He professes to want the helmet law reinstated to save lives. His committee took our Dedicated Funds, which only motorcyclist pay into, and moved it from the 402 status to the 601. This allows DPS to take 25% of our budget for their use. This amounts to a $250,000 loss to our training budget.

We asked for a law to increase the punishment for those who cause a collision resulting in death or serious injury due to inattentive driving.
Currently if a driver fails to yield the right of way and injures or kills someone they pay only a small fine and go home. This Bill was killed.

Insurance companies reserve the right to not pay benefits if you are injured in an accident while participating in a dangerous activity including riding a motorcycle. We offered a Bill to correct this problem and it too was killed. Thus we have to carry insurance that may not pay benefits if we are injured on our motorcycles.

Maryland introduced a strong Motorcycle Awareness campaign in their state, cutting the number of accidents by 50% in the first year. We have argued for the same type program in this state for years and have been rebuffed.
So much for the Senator’s claim that he is concerned about rider safety.

The legislature established a Traumatic Injury Fund to help pay for injuries not covered by insurance or patient pay. The funding comes from added cost of traffic tickets and other fines. The same committee which moved our Training Fund also moved this fund out of the dedicated class along with several other dedicated funds. This was done to show a balanced budget when one did not actually exist. So much for his concern about cost.

I met several times with the Senator’s Staff and staff members from Baylor College of Medicine during the last session concerning his Bill. We were given the cost of motorcycle injuries to the hospital but they couldn’t give us the same cost breakdown on those injured in auto accidents saying that information was not available. We again expounded on the benefit of a strong Motorcycle Awareness Program and were told by the representatives from Baylor that if we would accept the Bill they would pay for an awareness campaign. How would that save them money.

We will once again oppose his Bill and soundly defeat it. This isn’t about wind in your hair. It is about the constitution which government refuses to accept.

Respectfully,
Sputnik
State Chair
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association
512-971-6777

Update - Dallas Motorcycle Parking Petition

2008-06-20T19:08:00.001-05:00

Date: 6/16/2008
From: raine@bannedbreed.com
Just a friendly update on the motorcycle/scooter parking petition that some of you have signed.
At the time of this posting, more than 860 have signed but we are still needing many more so that the City of Dallas knows we are serious.
You can sign the petition at: http://www.petitiononline.com/dallasbp/petition.html
There is a companion blog that is keeping the public updated on all media attention, petition counts, etc. http://dallasmotorcycleparking.blogspot.com/
If you have any stories you would like to share about trying to deal with parking, you are welcome to email them to us for inclusion on the blog. Email to: dallasmotorcycleparking@gmail.com
Sincerely,
Raine Devries
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Motorcycle Safety Survey

2008-06-20T19:05:00.001-05:00

Date: 6/18/2008
From: rogue@bikerrogue.com
The members of the Motorcyclist Advisory Council to the Federal Highway Administration recently created the 2008 Motorcyclist Road Conditions Survey. The purpose of the survey is to help state and federal highway administrators better understand and plan for the needs of motorcycle riders.
All riders are encouraged to take the 10-minute survey before August 1, 2008, by going online to www.surveymonkey.com/MACMembersHighwaySurvey

Rogue
Sturgis Freedom Fighters
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
www.bikerrogue.com

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Heads Up Dallas Riders : Motorcycle Parking Petition

2008-06-08T12:55:00.000-05:00

From: raine@bannedbreed.com

Recently an online petition was launched by a group of individual motorcycle and scooter riders. Dallas is the 6th largest motorcycle owning market in the U.S. and filled with designated parking for handicapped, compact cars and SUV spaces. What the city is desperately lacking is designated motorcycle/scooter parking. All too often a single bike has to take up an entire parking space or meter which causes frustration amongst the car drivers we share the road with. This petition requests that the Dallas City Council implement designated motorcycle and scooter parking throughout the city in both public and private lots and parking meters. We also request that the spaces be in high profile locations to ensure the safety of our bikes when they are parked. Within 3 days of the petition launching, it received media coverage from the Dallas Observer and on-air segments from both CW 33 and NBC5.

All links to media coverage can be found at the companion blog: http://dallasmotorcycleparking.blogspot.com/

The petition can be reviewed and signed at: http://www.petitiononline.com/dallasbp/petition.html

Please let me know if there is anything additional you need. I did receive a phone call from Dallas City Council Member Pauline Medrano on Monday (the news segments aired Friday & Saturday nights), informing us that they have asked the City Attorney and the Transportation & Environment Committee to review this request. I’m waiting to hear back when the Committee will be meeting, if it’s open to the public, and if not can we submit supporting data for this issue.
We still need as many signatures as possible though to illustrate our point!

Sincerely,
Raine Devries
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Republican State Convention

2008-06-06T23:32:00.001-05:00

FOR BIKERS WHO WANT TO ATTEND THE REPUBLICAN CONVENTION:

Republican State Convention June 11 thru 14 George R. Brown Conv. Center Houston In past years we have not had enough Republicans of TMRA2 to warrant our own Caucas meeting at the Convention, However, I would like to meet with any of our members present at the Entrance to the Vendor and Display area. We will be there at breaks between Senate, Dist. Caucas meetings and breaks during the General Convention on the Main floor.
This promises to be an interesting year with the party division on THE TEXAS CORRIDOR and the movement to IMPEACH RICK PERRY.
See you there,

Ron Ashmore
Dist. 24 Advisor
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DNC decision

2008-06-02T07:24:00.000-05:00

Florida and Michigan had all their delegates except with each having only 1/2 vote. Harold Ickes on behalf of Hillary Clinton reserved the right to appeal the decision to the Credentials Committee.

Sputnik

Democrat Convention

2008-05-19T09:37:00.000-05:00

Just a Warning

The Turnout for the Primnary was so large it has happily created a problem
for the Party. Not enough room for those wishing to attend the Convention
in Austin.
Not such a happy problem for us. If you are not a Delegate or an
Alternate, or have not entered the drawing for the few spots left and been
told you won, you will not get in. No need to come to Austin hoping for a
way because there is a city code on how many people the building can hold
and they won't go over that.
For those coming to town we will be camping at the state office for anyone
wanting to camp. 275 OLd Lexington Road in Elgin. Get on Loop 109 off of
Hwy. 290 and turn right at the light or Hwy. 95 and turn left at the
light. (only light in town) Go 4.4 miles to when the speed limit drops to
35mph.(pass a church on the left) Pass Raccoon Rd on the right and the
office is the 2nd driveway on the right.

Sputnik