Hello South Mountain!
Here's the news that's fit to print! First, we have two members out of biking commission right
now. "Cricket" Sweigert had an accident several weeks ago and broke a leg plus got a severe case of road rash on his arms
and side. However, he's getting around now and even driving again! Bob Yohn just got released from physical rehab on
7/13. He had one of his knee replacements blow out, causing a lot of damage & a couple broken bones. He'll still have
many weeks of Physical Therapy ahead of him, but in true Bob fashion, he's taking it with a smile!
Rick Reider, Paul, Maeda and Eileen went to July's First Sunday Biker Breakfast and handed out
packets of ABATE of PA packets that Judy put together. After we gave out everything we had, Rick started handing out those
yellow stickers from the PMCSP. We had a nice time talking to other bikers and encouraging them to sign up. We hope to hear
that some of those packets attracted some new members for the organization! BIG thanks to Rick and Judy!
Our Poker Run will be on Sunday, October 11th leaving and returning to Meadowbrook. Meadowbrook
sponsors a breakfast that day, serving from 8AM-Noon, so you can fuel up before you head out on the run. After you return
(by 3PM) you can have a great Spaghetti & Meatball dinner IF you purchase a ticket in advance. See the
Poker Run page for information. The dinner is sponsored by a group of Bob and Cricket's friends to raise soe funds to help
them out during their recovery. THe dinner is being served from 2PM-6PM. Why not come on out for the day, have TWO great meals,
and enjoy the ride that is being planned? Special prices for kids!
Our SECOND ANNUAL Chicken Bar-B-Q in Memory of Steph Beck will be on Sunday, October 18th. The
money raised is for Steph's boys. With Christmas coming, I'm sure Barb and Ken will appreciate the assistance. Steph was not
only our sister, but she was a great friend and a VERY active Chapter member. Over the years, Steph held a variety of offices
and worked on almost EVERY committee. Back in May, after our Chapter meeting, there was a ride from Meadowbrook to the cemetary
in Denver where Steph rests. There were stories, tears, and a JD toast to Steph. I just KNOW she was there watching everyone
and knows how much we miss her.
Now, on to BUSINESS! We NEED to get more current members involved, and we need
to increase our membership. The "helmet battle" IS NOT OVER!!! In fact, there has already been legislation introduced
in the House by one of the anti-pro-choice Reps. He's looking for co-signers for his bill to undo what it took us years
to do. BE AFRAID PEOPLE, VERY AFRAID!! There has also been a bit of talk, at the Fedreal level, to mandate helmet
use. We've GOT to start working harder, and together as a team, if we want to divert this "disaster
waiting to happen"!!!!! The best thing ANY member can do right now is ATTEND meetings, become INFORMED, PARTICIPATE
in your Chapter, and SUPPORT Chapter and ABATE of PA events. They say there is strength in numbers. We MUST increase
our numbers and participation Statewide. Helmets are not the only issues we are dealing with. READ your "Between
the Lines" to stay informed. Get on Charles Umbenhauer's email list to receive his "Politricks, Biker Style 09"
emails. Once or twice a week you will receive an email from him letting you know what's going on that you really need
to know about.
We need to promote MCS&A across PA. Too many motorcyclists are being injured
(or worse) by unattentive drivers, drunk drivers, and by their own faults by getting on their bikes after consuming too much
alcohol. We need to set an example by NOT overdoing it at the bar and then hopping on our bikes and operating them while
intoxicated! Do your part!
Hope to see you at the August meeting!
Ride Safe, Ride Free, but most of all,
R I D E !
Maeda
Public Relations Officer
