Sputs info page

The "W" in Christmas - Author Unknown

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I
had cut back on nonessential obligations -- extensive card writing,
endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Yet still, I found myself
exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of
course, the true meaning of Christmas.

My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season
for a six-year-old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's
"Winter Pageant."

I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the
production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his
teacher.

She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation.
All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then.
Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.

So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found
a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several
other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students
were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat
cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform
their song.

Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday
as Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial
entertainment - songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good
cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken
aback by its bold title.

Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy
mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads. Those in the
front row-center stage -- held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the
title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child
would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each
child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas
Love."

The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a
small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down --
totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W."

The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's
mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall,
proudly holding her "W." Although many teachers tried to shush the children,
the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it
together.
A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that
instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the
holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our
festivities.

For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:
"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

And, I believe, He still is.
Amazed in His presence...
Humbled by His love.

May each of you have a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year as you
reflect on His Amazing Love for us.

Hope you all have a wonderful Christwaslove holiday season.

URGENT URGENT URGENT
Please put on your website and pass along as best you can!

We received several reports of Riders from out of state moving into Texas
and being required to take the Rider Training Course to renew their MC
classification on their Drivers License. We called John Young at the DPS
Motorcycle Rider Training Division and he informed us he was getting calls
on that problem also.

By checking with the Drivers License Division we were informed that was
how their Legal Staff told them SB 1967 had to be interpreted. An out of
state licensee was a first time license in Texas and required proof of
having taken the Training Program. We contacted Senator Carona’s Office
and requested a “Letter of Intent” that stated that was not the intent of
that Bill. He agreed to furnish the requested document. We were then
informed that the License bureau’s Legal Staff would not accept a Letter
of Intent to change their ruling.

We then contacted Representative Chavez’s office and requested the same
type letter figuring to use the two letters to file a lawsuit the next
time we heard of a rider moving into Texas and being told they had to take
the course to renew their license. Then I recalled how well we had worked
with Colonel Beckworth when he was Chief at DPS and called him. I
explained the problem and he assured me he would look into the matter.

Just got off the phone with Colonel Beckworth on his return call. He
informed us he had with Colonel McCraw and their Legal Staff and they
would allow out of state riders to renew their license without the course.
He said they will send out a Memo to all Driver License Offices tomorrow
telling them of the decision. He then asked that we clarify the Bill in
the next session. I assured him it would be done.

If anyone has trouble please contact John Young at the Rider Training
Course 512-424-2021 or Sputnik 512-971-6777.
MERRY CHRISTMAS

> PRESS- MEDIA RELEASE
> 16th Annual
> USMC Toys fot Tots Toy Run
> December 12,2009
>
> Well, folks it's just about that time of year again. Now is the time to
> get your bike out, round up your Christmas decorations, and contact all
> your buddies about the 16th Annual USMC Toys for Tots Toy Run. Seems as
> though the problems of the economy has hit everyone really hard this year.
> We really seem to be struggling with our big sponsors this year. I expect
> that we will have more children needing something from Santa this year
> than ever before! So, we need ya'll more than ever this year. We will
> leave Walter Hall Park in League City, Texas at 10:30 a.m. on December 12
> and, with a police escort, lead by none other than Mr. & Mrs.Santa Claus,
> proceed to the Pasadena Rodeo Grounds for a fun filled day for the entire
> family. This event is for everyone, not just bikers!! The parade is for
> motorcycles only.
> Once again the jolly ole fella ,Santa Claus will be there with his
> elves,with whom the children can get their picture take with, at no cost
> to them. We have kid games and " The Ever So Famous Train Ride"!! This
> train ride goes non-stop the whole day long!! We also have a rock
> climb,bungee jump,petting zoo,as well as an inflatable obstacle course.
> Adults will find their own brand of entertainment in the bike games,
> chili cook-of and something new,a bean cook-off this year. We have a
> great auction, raffle items, motorcycle show and the 4x4 Show & Shine
> and CAR CRUNCH again this year. (Wheelers 4 Wishes) . Plenty of vendors
> will also be on hand for those in need of last minute Christmas shopping
> ideas. There is much more than just motorcycle items to buy. We also
> have Toy Run T-Shirt and Koozies for sell. Live entertainment, and great
> food (G&N Scooter Shack) through-out the day. The day will end with
> the raffling off of a 2009 Heritage Softtail Classic Harley-Davidson.
> Raffle tickets are just $20 each
> Admission to the run is either a $10 cash donation or a new, unwrapped
> toy. Our Marines looking ever so handsome will be on hand that day to
> load the toys into their 2-1/2 ton trucks. Please make plans to come out
> and support this wonderful Toy Run.We can't do it without ya'lls help.
> It's all for the KIDS!!!
> Toy Run Headquarters: 713.472.2235
> www.toysfortotstoyrun.com
> usmctoyrun09@yahoo.com
>
>
>
> ________________________________________
> PeoplePC Online
> A better way to Internet
> http://www.peoplepc.com
>

HEALTH CARE ??
I spent most of the day Saturday watching C-Span while the House debated
the Health Care Plan. First you must understand that Nancy Pelosi and a
few of her top Cohorts went behind closed doors and wrote the last 1000
pages of this 2032 page Bill without any committee hearings on that part
of the Bill. Despite many Democrats saying they would not vote for the
Bill if it contained a clause to pay for Abortion that was put into the
Bill. Congressman Stupak introduced an Amendment to remove that clause
from the Bill and it passed with a wide margin.
The Republicans introduced a substitute Bill which was defeated. Then the
vote was called for. 39 Democrats voted against the Bill and I Republican
from New Orleans voted in favor of the Bill. The Bill passed 220 Ayes to
215 Nayes. While Speaker Pelosi claimed a huge victory this Bill is
clearly a long way from being a done deal.
This Bill is not about Health Care it is about insurance. Congressman
Boehner read through some of the things included in the Bill from the
podium. Some of the things this included are:
Everyone will be required to buy insurance. Those who do not can be fined
as much as $250,000 and spend up to five years in the penitentiary.
A Health Czar will be appointed who will make your health decisions for
you. He will decide what treatment you need, how much it will cost and
establish a waiting list for your treatment.
It will cover Illegal Aliens.
Several other Agencies will be established to watch over other portions of
the Bill. A fund will be setup to teach you how to deal with your
children.
Medicare Benefits will be cut and premiums will be increased.
If a state has Tort Reform this Bill will over ride that Law or the state
will pay a penalty to the Feds.
This is just a little of what this supposed Health Care Bill does for or
to you. Pay attention. Watch C-Span 2 as the Senate takes up their Bill
next year.

Sputnik

Oct 20/09
In recognition of your service to our country, all veterans and active
duty military personnel are invited to eat free at Applebee's
Neighborhood Grill & Bar Restaurants this Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov.
11, 2009.

As you may recall, Applebee's launched a pilot program last year on
Veterans Day offering free entrees to military service personnel and
veterans. Because the response was so overwhelmingly positive,
Applebee's is extending the invitation throughout the country this
year.

We would appreciate your help in spreading the word. Please help us
share details across your various communication channels.

All U.S. veterans and active duty military with proof of current or
former military service will eat free at all Applebee's nationwide on
Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009.

Proof of service includes: U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card,
U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and
Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, photograph in uniform or
wearing uniform.

Sep 28/09
This is why I refused to support thie Lane Splitting Bill. THese are all
in just one area.
Sputnik

http://www.insidebayarea.com/dailyreview/localnews/ci_13433868

Recent deaths highlight dangers of lane-splitting By Jason Sweeney
Oakland Tribune Posted: 09/28/2009 12:00:00 AM PDT Updated: 09/28/2009
04:44:24 AM PDT

Click photo to enlargeA motorcyclist splits lanes on Interstate 238. Two
motorcyclists died this year splitting lanes...«12»HAYWARD — So-called
"lane-splitting" on a motorcycle is perfectly legal, but Officer Cristina
Tagle of the California Highway Patrol asks, "Is it really worth it?"

Bikers have an obvious advantage when it comes to the daily commute, but
Tagle said splitting lanes — riding alongside other vehicles, between
lanes — carries significant risk, as exemplified by three deaths this year
in the Hayward-San Leandro area.

Earlier this month, John McGuinness, 45, of Alameda, was killed while
splitting lanes on Interstate 880 in San Leandro. He lost control of his
motorcycle and collided with two vehicles, police said.

In June, Jason Amaya, 29, of San Mateo, was killed on Interstate 238.

In February, Jeremie Troub, 28, of Mountain House, was run over by a big
rig, also on Interstate 238, in Castro Valley.

"California does not have a law that prohibits (lane-splitting)," CHP Sgt.
Kevin Briggs said. "But you're still subject to all the laws in the
Vehicle Code. Everything still applies."

That means if traffic is moving at 65 mph, a motorcyclist splitting lanes
can be cited for speeding. "But catching them is a different matter,"
Briggs said.

Lane-splitters also can be cited for "unsafe speed," which Briggs said is
"a judgment call."

Briggs, a motorcycle officer for 10 years, said he has encountered all
manner of danger while on the job.

"You have people that don't use a blinker that pull out right in front of
you, people that are angry and will block your way, people opening doors,"
he said. To avoid the dangers, "You have to use sound judgment."

Fernando Camilli, 35, is a motorcycle enthusiast who knows the risks.
Camilli is president of the Hayward chapter of the Bay Area Delinquents —
the motorcycle club that Troub previously led.

Camilli was friends with Troub. He said I-238, where Troub was killed, is
a particularly notorious spot because of narrow lanes and the large number
of trucks that leave little space between lanes for a motorcycle.

"When I drive through there, I think, Jeremie, man, why here?" Camilli said.

Camilli has been in two motorcycle accidents in the last four years,
suffering road rash, bruises and a concussion. But splitting lanes on his
Yamaha R6 is not something he is going to give up.

"We split lanes every day, commute time, night time," he said. "In 60,000
miles on a sport bike, I just don't think there's a class they could give
that could teach an awareness while you're lane-splitting. You can't
re-create that environment. It is something you learn from experience."

He said inexperienced motorcyclists can make unsafe decisions, but even
for experienced riders, the danger is always there from drivers who are
not paying attention.

"Everybody knows the risks. We know it every day, the minute we stick that
leg over the bike. Everybody knows the consequences. You never hope it's
going to be your time, but it can be any time."

Even so, he hopes no laws are passed to prohibit lane-splitting, as has
been done in other states.

In these days of crowded freeways and heightened environmental awareness,
Camilli asks that drivers see motorcycles not as a dangerous nuisance, but
as a green, fuel-efficient alternative to cars.

Camilli says Troub's death affected him deeply, but he did not consider
giving up his bike.

"It's a freedom," he said. "It's a lifestyle. It's a way of life that I've
been accustomed to."

Posted on September 15, 2009
On Sunday, state Rep. Norma Chavez held a campaign kick-off event on El
Paso’s East Side. Often seen as controversial or polarizing, Chavez’s
event was several things all at once -- party / political event / show of
political strength.

The event attracted more than 800 people by the time it finally ended. If
you’ve never attended a Chavez function and have attended similar events
by other candidates and elected officials, you’d notice that Chavez does
things differently.

You won’t find wine and cheese with a string quartet playing softly in the
background. No hors d'oeuvres. What you will find is beans, beer, and
brisket. Instead of a string quartet, there was a band and a DJ and no
shortage of seniors cutting the rug.

I always knew Chavez was strong in her district; all you have to do is
look at her numbers to see that. In her last contested race against Marty
Reyes, she didn’t lose a single precinct and her smallest margin of
victory in a precinct was over 60 percent of the vote. But the turnout at
her event still surprised me.

Chavez took the opportunity to recognize several people who had done as
Chavez recently has, completed their education later in life.

The other thing that makes a Chavez event unique is that you rarely leave
empty-handed. Chavez is a big on door prizes. Funny thing about door
prizes, turns out County Judge Anthony Cobos was in attendance and his
name was drawn for a door prize. Unfortunately, he left before I got there
and I didn’t get a chance to ask him if he was running for re-election.

But it’s really too bad that he wasn’t there to collect his prize,
especially because I’m pretty sure he won’t be winning anything else in
this town.

Most of the various candidates for the upcoming election made the
obligatory stop at the Chavez event, including Sergio Coronado, Larry
Medina, Beto Acosta, Norma Favela, Connie Telles-Odom, and the U.S. Senate
candidate John Sharp.

Rumor has it that there may be a challenger against Chavez. The buzz is
that Naomi Gonzalez is being courted to run against Chavez. Gonzalez last
ran against city Rep. Emma Acosta in a previous special election to
replace Jose Alejandro Lozano.

Speaking of Lozano, I was critical of him in the past because his campaign
signs in his last attempt at public office looked to me to be a total
rip-off of Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign logo. So I would be
remiss if I didn’t mention that things seem to have come full circle in El
Paso. Coronado, a candidate for county judge, has some identity issues of
his own. His campaign logo looks very much like President Obama’s during
the campaign.

To add to the irony, his new campaign headquarters is located on Missouri,
near downtown. That building also formerly housed the McCain/Palin
headquarters.

Only in El Paso!

On a quick sidebar, I recently wrote a column that mentioned several El
Pasoans that have a reputation for being government watchdogs. Well,
another civically involved El Pasoan and former candidate for City
Council, Walt Phillips, has taken ill. He is fighting prostate cancer and
has several treatments ahead of him. When I spoke to Phillips, he told me
“It was divine providence that I didn’t win because I wouldn’t have been
able to serve.” Phillips’ spirits are high and he ended our conversation
by saying he’ll be around for a long time yet.

That’s Why They Call Her the People’s Rep

It drives some people nuts, not just those who comment here and on my
blog, but other elected officials and politicos, that I refer to Chavez as
the People’s Rep. For some insane reason, a few people even thought I was
the one who came up with that label, but she’s been called the People’s
Rep before I even came to El Paso.

Chavez has plenty of detractors and you could fill a phone book with
legitimate criticisms of Chavez, but to be fair to Chavez, there’s a lot
she’s done that people don’t know about. It's stuff that flies under the
radar because it doesn’t involve a public meltdown, text messaging, or a
fight with Congressman Silvestre Reyes, state Sen. Eliot Shapleigh, state
Rep. Marisa Marquez, or County Commissioner Veronica Escobar.

As I mentioned earlier, I was late to the event, but I stuck around while
people were cleaning up. I noticed that several people that were serving
food earlier (and helping Chavez hand out cake to kids) were lined up in
front of Chavez who was sitting at a table. I realized Chavez was writing
checks. Turns out Chavez was paying them for their work.

Normally, there is nothing remarkable about paying labor, DJ’s, etc after
an event. But this was different. I talked to the workers and found out
that they were from La Mujer Obrera and were women who needed work because
of the situation over at Café Mayapan. Chavez has publicly supported them,
which one would expect from an elected official. Sadly, she’s one of the
few who have done so publicly.

But after talking to the women, I remembered something I had heard Cesar
Chavez tell my dad once. He said that there was dignity in work, all work,
no matter what it is. He also said that when you give someone the dignity
of work, you feed their spirit.

It’s one thing to issue a press release or attend a public event with
cameras and reporters in support of these women, but it’s a whole other
thing to put your money where your mouth is. Chavez backed up her words
with deeds. Chavez directed Lily Ruiz, a senior staffer, to collect the
names of the women so that they can be given more work at a later date.

The food that was served came from Sin Fronteras, another local
Latino-based organization. There’s a lot of criticism about Chavez when it
comes to money, but one thing is for sure, she makes sure she supports her
local community by spending money with people who need the business.

It wasn’t meant to be made public and she’ll probably be mad at me (again)
for making it public. But it's something that needs to be made public,
because for every meltdown or email fight she’s involved it, there are
probably 100 acts of this nature that no one ever hears about.

So when people approach me with a stink-face and ask me, “Why do you keep
calling her the People’s Rep?” I’ll tell them to ask those women.

The following stats come directly from TxDOT. I would say this is a direct
result of the Texas Transportation Institute put together to cut down on
Traffic fatalities, especially for motorcyclists. Several of our members
sit on the Board of that newly formed Institute.
The Motorcycle Awareness Program put together by TxDOT at our instance and
the full combination of effort put forth by all concerned parties over the
past year.
We have very high hopes that SB 1967 and the year round PSA's, increased
penalties for negligence and Rider Training will bring that number down
even farther.

Ride Free - Ride Sober

Sputnik
State Chair
Tx. MN Rights Assoc.

FYI

Motorcyclist Fatalities Comparison
*JAN 1, 2009 - AUG 24, 2009 = 264
*JAN 1, 2008 - AUG 24, 2008 = 344

Statistics
*80 less fatalities in 2009 versus 2008; during same period
*23.25% less fatalities in 2009 versus 2008; during same period.

Gonzo

Gonzalo A. Poncé
Program Manager
Traffic Safety Section
TxDOT | Traffic Operations Division

Desk: 512.416.3258
Cell: 512.965.4920
Fax: 512.416.3349
Email: gponce@dot.state.tx.us

The national flag of the People's Republic of China (PRC) will be hoisted
at the South Lawn of the White House in Washington on September 20, media
reported Sunday.

Related readings:
Training to bear the national flag
Security for 60th anniversary beefed up
Diplomats play ping-pong to mark China’s 60th anniversary

Chinese associations in the United States had applied to hold a ceremony
in front of the US President’s residence to celebrate the 60th anniversary
of the founding of PRC.

Chen Ronghua, chairman of Fujian Association of the United States, told
reporters that their application was approved not only because of the
sound Sino-US relations but also because China is a responsible country.

"Many Americans admire China due to the success of last year’s Beijing
Olympics," said Chen.

More than 1,000 people will attend the ceremony and the performances held
after it, according to Zhao Luqun, who will direct the performances.

Zhao said the performances will demonstrate the friendship, magnanimous
spirit and kindness of modern Chinese people.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Probably because our government owes China so much money they feel they
have to suck up to them.
Sputnik

SHERIFF JOE IS AT IT AGAIN!

Oh, there's MUCH more to know about Sheriff Joe!

Maricopa County was spending approx. $18 million dollars a year on stray
animals, like cats and dogs. Sheriff Joe offered to take the department
over, and the County Supervisors said okay.

The animal shelters are now all staffed and operated by prisoners. They
feed and care for the strays. Every animal in his care is taken out and
walked twice daily. He now has prisoners who are experts in20animal
nutrition and behavior. They give great classes for anyone who'd like to
adopt an animal. He has literally taken stray dogs off the street, given
them to the care of prisoners, and had them place in dog shows.

The best part? His budget for the entire department is now under $3
million. Teresa and I adopted a Weimaraner from a Maricopa County shelter
two years ago. He was neutered, and current on all shots, in great health,
and even had a microchip inserted the day we got him. Cost us $78.

The prisoners get the benefit of about $0.28 an hour for working, but most
would work for free, just to be out of their cells for the day. Most of
his budget is for utilities, building maintenance, etc. He pays the
prisoners out of the fees collected for adopted animals.

I have long wondered when the rest of the country would take a look at the
way he runs the jail system, and copy some of his ideas. He has a huge
farm, donated to the county years ago, where inmates can work, and they
grow most of their own fresh vegetables and food, doing all the work and
harvesting by hand.

He has a pretty good sized hog farm, which provides meat, and fertilizer.
It fertilizes the Christmas tree nursery, where prisoners work, and you
can buy a living Christmas tree for $6 - $8 for the Holidays, and plant it
later. We have six trees in our yard from the Prison.

Yup, he was re-elected last year with 83% of the vote.

Now he's in trouble with the ACLU again. He painted all his buses and
vehicles with a mural, that has a special hotline phone number painted on
it, where you can call and report suspected illegal aliens. Immigrations
and Customs Enforcement wasn't doing enough in his eyes, so he had 40
deputies trained specifically for enforcing immigration laws, started up
his hotline, and bought 4 new buses just for hauling folks back to the
border. He's kind of a 'Git-R Dun' kind of Sheriff.

TO THOSE OF YOU NOT FAMILIAR WITH JOE ARPAIO

HE IS THE MARICOPA ARIZONA COUNTY SHERIFF

AND HE KEEPS GETTING ELECTED OVER AND OVER
THIS IS ONE OF THE REASONS WHY:

Sheriff Joe Arpaio (In Arizona ), who created the 'Tent City Jail':
He has jail meals down to 40 cents a serving and charges the inmates for
them.

He stopped smoking and porno magazines in the jails. Took away their
weights. Cut off all but 'G' rated movies.

He started chain gangs so the inmates could do free work on county and
city projects.

Then he started chain gangs for women so he wouldn't get sued for
discrimination.

He took away cable TV until he found out there was a Federal Court
Order that required cable TV for jails so he hooked up the cable TV again;
only let in the Disney Channel and the Weather Channel.

When asked why the Weather Channel he replied, 'So they will know how hot i
t's gonna be while they are working on my Chain Gangs.'

He cut off coffee since it has zero nutritional value.

When the inmates complained, he told them 'This isn't the
Ritz/Carlton......if you don't like it, don't come back!'

More On The Arizona Sheriff:

With temperatures being even hotter than usual in Phoenix (116 degrees
just set a new record), the Associated Press reports:
About 2,000 inmates living in a barbed-wire-surrounded tent encampment
at the Maricopa County Jail have been given permission to strip down to
their government-issued pink boxer shorts.

On Wednesday, hundreds of men wearing boxers were either curled up on
their bunk beds or chatted in the tents, which reached 138 degrees inside
the week before.

Many were also swathed in wet, pink towels as sweat collected on their
chests and dripped down to their PINK SOCKS.

'It feels like we are in a furnace', said James Zanzot, an inmate who
has lived in the TENTS for 1 year. 'It's Inhumane.'

Joe Arpaio, the tough-guy sheriff who created the tent city and long ago
started making his prisoners wear pink and eat bologna sandwiches, is not
one bit sympathetic. He said Wednesday that he told all of the inmates:
'It's 120 degrees in Iraq and our soldiers are living in tents too, and
they have to wear full battle gear, but they didn't commit any crimes, so
shut your mouths!'

Way to go,20Sheriff!

Maybe if all prisons were like this one there would be a lot less crime
and/or repeat offenders. Criminals should be punished for their crimes -
not live in luxury until it's time for their parole, only to go out and
commit another crime so they can get back in to live on taxpayers money
and enjoy things taxpayers can't afford to have for themselves.

If you agree, pass this on. If not, just delete it.

Governor Perry has called for a special session to begin on July 1st in
order for the Legislature to address three issues.
The first issue is the consideration of legislation allowing the Texas
Department of Transportation to issue general obligation bonds, which have
already been approved by voters, for highway improvement projects.

The second issue is the consideration of legislation extending the
authority of the Texas Department of Transportation and regional mobility
authorities to use comprehensive development agreements to design,
finance, build and maintain transportation infrastructure.

The third issue will be the passage of the "Sunset Safety-Net" bill needed
to keep the Texas Transportation Department, the Texas Department of
Insurance, the State Affordable Housing Corporation,the Racing Commission
and the Office of Public Insurance Counsel functional beyond September
2010.

In other words he has called a Special Session to begin with a National
Holiday with the main purpose of selling our highway system to the
highest bidder. And we all know who that is don't we?

Sputnik

Jun 22/09
We attended a Biker Benefit for some close friends at Lost Prairie Cycle
Ranch on Saturday and the Heart of Texas Chapter Meeting at Jim’s Cycle
Shop in Axtell the next Day. It was good to see a few riders participating
during the meeting. It was at least an improvement over a few months ago
so things are looking up. Jim cranked up the air and moved the meeting
inside due to the heat.

We had a good meeting and laid out what was necessary to get back on track
and become the powerhouse from the past. We left there with a good feeling
that things would continue to get better in that neck of the woods. Went
back to the house to keep my next appointment for this month, the second
of three scheduled. Put that behind us and headed out for ETME Acres for
the ETCG Fathers Day Run.

If we had a group of real Bikers as dedicated as those in the Piney Woods
in each District there would be no stopping this army. These same hard
core riders turn out twice each year to keep the doors open and as they
call it ”do their little part to help”. Their little part consists of
everyone having a great time. Pickin’ n Grinnin’ kickin’ tires and telling
tales on Friday. Followed by a Poker Run Saturday morning and (ride ‘em
like you stole ‘em) field events with no wimps allowed for the afternoon.
They raffle off every thing but the kitchen sink then settle down for some
kick ass music that night. Sunday morning they send you back to the office
with $3-4000 and start getting ready for next time.

Back in the office again after a long, hot, wonderful weekend spent with
the East Texas Chopper Guys at ETME Acres. Waited for the time to wind
down and SB 1967 did not get Vetoed so regardless what happens now it will
become law on September 1st 2009. Da’Lady, Rep Chavez, has requested a
public signing ceremony. We will see if anything comes of that.

Da’Lady also was the one who filed the Amendments to rededicate our rider
training Fund and get our Budget raised for the coming biennium. Once
everything settles down we will owe her and her entire Staff a Party for
all the work they did for riders this session. They put in far more effort
on our behalf than most riders did.

The 17th Birthday Party is coming up July 3-5, at V-Twin Valley at CR 351
in Merkel, Texas. That’s just outside Abilene. Get your Butt out there and
make this one a big success. A lot of work has gone into making this be
the place to celebrate the Independence of our Nation. Plenty of Events.
Bring your bathing suit. Silver has announced the SWIMMING POOL IS BUILT
and the pump is filling it with water as I write.

Another SPECIAL for this Event: U.S. SENATOR KAY BAILEY HUTCHISON has sent
us an AMERICAN FLAG with a certificate verifying it was flown over the
U,S. Capitol. It will go to the highest bidder during the Saturday
Auction.
I have one more Dr. Appointment to keep and then I will see you all in the
VALLEY, in the pool.

Ride Free – Ride Sober
Sputnik/State Chair

June 03/09
Texas Motorcycle Rights Association
512-971- 6777 - 275 Old Lexington Rd. Elgin, Texas 78621
www.tmra2.org

The parking lot at Lost Prairie Cycles was packed with bikers from as far
away as Houston, Hewitt, Huntsville, Groesbeck, Eddy, Crockett, Mexia,
Waco, Jewett, Tx. And parts unknown, with The NEWS motorcycle club, The
CMA and a new Mom & Pop riding group called The Los Pirados rounding out
the mix of bikers. Lunch was served shortly after 12 noon, with Fajitas,
Pico de Gallo, Uncle Tom's Jalapeno Beans, Tortillas, Guacamole, Chips,
Salsa, Susan's salad & Smoked Link Sausage! Kevin & Robert Rose came in
early to set up the tables, chairs and help prepare the store
for a massive display of food & drink.

The Texas Owners Group meeting started at 1pm with a prayer from Thomas
Barber of The CMA. All stood for The Pledge of Allegiance. Topics
discussed were the alcohol check point, holding our senators &
congressmen/women accountable to the constitution or they will be gone in
2010, The 2009 Howl-O-Ween Rally on Oct 30th - Nov. 1st , Volunteers for
the rallies are doing a great job, all were recognized and much
appreciated with a big round of applause! Skunk Dots Biker News was also
mentioned, they wrote a great article about The Texas Independence Day
Rally, see the May 2009 edition of Skunk Dots before they are all gone!
Dennis & Skunk also were mentioned and made a whopping $600.00 bid to win
the Texas Flag flown over the Texas Capitol building just for TMRA2

6 New members signed up at the May 3rd meeting, they are Stephanie & Mike
Forbes of Eddy, Tx, Jason Harris of Waco, Tx., Norman & Audra Gilbert of
Hewitt, Tx. & Cynthia Holmes of Jewett, Tx.. Los Pirados is also a 100%
TMRA2 membership organization!

TMRA2 Benefit - East Texas Chopper Guys Rally - June 19th, 20th & 21 at
E.T.M.E. Acres near Nacadoches, Tx. I will be going, this is a fun family
orientated rally, with games for all and live
music. Show your support for TMRA2, Make this benefit!
Thank you all for showing your support for Freedom & TMRA2,

Tom Maddux
TMRA2 Senate District 5 Advisor
&
TMRA2 Finance Officer
5544 Hwy 164 East
Groesbeck,Tx.76642
254-729-3104
http://www.LPCycles.com
http://www.TheHOTRally.com

MRF News
HR 1253 Passes United States House of Representatives

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation reports that the US House passed HR 1253,
sponsored by Michael C. Burgess (R-TX) and cosponsored by Bart Stupak
(D-MI), which would require that people signing up for a health plan
receive in writing an explanation of treatment limits or non-covered
conditions, along with other plan restrictions, "in a form that is easily
understandable." The bill passed with overwhelming support with the
final vote coming in at 422-3.

All group health plans would be covered by the bill, and health plans
would be required to provide the information before customers sign up.

"We are going to stand up and shine a light on these exclusions so
Americans will not be caught off-guard by exclusions buried deep within an
insurance plan," said Burgess, a physician.

HR 1253 at this point does not have a Senate companion bill which is the
next step before this legislation is signed into law.

"This legislative action keeps Congress on record that this issue needs
their attention," said Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President of Government
Relations. "While this bill is a step in the right direction, the MRF
remains committed to securing coverage of any injury that comes from legal
use of an on-road motorcycle."

Elmer H. McKeegan
Chapter Coordinator

“There was no joy in Mudville, MIGHTY CASEY HAD STRUCK OUT.”
That was the feeling in the capitol as first the House and then the Senate
Adjourned SINE DIE on June 1st. I had an appointment with my Renal Dr. for
that day in Houston so I called Legislators off the Floor Sunday and said
my thanks in case I didn’t make it back for the final day. I stayed in
touch with the Task Force Members at the capitol as I made my way through
the routine at the Hospital. After being told by the Dr. that my kidney
function was down to 20% and I needed my heart work up done again on June
16th I headed back to Austin to see the final hours of Sine Die. Compared
to past years it was a waste of time.
There just wasn’t anything to celebrate and they all knew it. Nothing of
any real importance got done this session. There were a few good Bills
passed but the major issues remained out of reach. The problem was not
just Partisanship but House against the Senate. And then it was a
combination of both. The House Democrats slowed things to a crawl in an
attempt to kill the Voter ID Bill. They were successful but many good
Bills died behind it for lack of time. When it was clear Democrats had won
that battle and offered to move on the Republican Senators threatened to
Filibuster each of the other issues in a battle of one up man ship. It was
absolutely disgustingly politics at it’s worst.
Whether you blame the House, the Senate, Democrats or Republicans the
problem was a total lack of leadership. Governor Perry demanded issues
that weren’t popular with Texas Citizens be passed. Republicans did their
best to make it happen but met stiff opposition. Toll Roads and Taxes were
top priorities for Republicans and I’m not sure the Democrats had any
issues the Republicans truly opposed.
There will be a Special Session and it will revolve around Toll Roads,
Taxes and Voter ID. Some things just never change until you have a change
in Leadership. I shall go home today and rest a couple of days. I plan to
make the H O T Chapter Meeting at Lost Prairie Cycles Sunday and then make
plans from there. Those plans will include making each Chapter’s meeting
and try to get things back on an even Keel. Watch for a notice of when I
will be in your area and let’s get ready for what lies ahead.

Ride Free – Ride Sober

Sputnik
State Chair/TMRA 2

Gun Control is a priority for the US Attorney General.
I don't normal send out any polls but please take this
poll on cituizen's right to own weapons.
Click on or cut and paste the following url and two
clicks cast your vote and give you the standing tally.
Nearly 2,000,000 votes have been cast and 97% say yes.
Pass it on.
Sputnik

http://www.usatoday.com/news/quickquestion/2007/november/popup5895.htm

Sputnik's Commentary last updated Thursday, 04-Feb-2010 18:56:15 EST State Web Page www.TMRA2.org	Texas Motorcycle Rights Association Terri 512-971-1377 Sputnik 512-971-6777 Sputnik's Email 275 Old Lexington Rd. Elgin, Texas 78621