April, 2002
Message from the Incoming Director
What can I say? Am I honored? Yes. Am I scared? Sure, who wouldn't be? Am I
sure of our mission and purpose? You bet. It has never been more clear. We have
opportunities before us concerning the helmet modification bill. But, we have
forces still infringing and trying to restrict our sport and freedoms. Continued
efforts by the EPA, insurance organizations and legislatures are trying to take
away our fun or at least protect us from ourselves. But, I’m getting ahead of
myself. First, I should probably introduce myself.
Most of you don't know me or my background. I guess the most important thing
to know is that I love motorcycling. I ride a lot and we live in one of the
greatest places I’ve ever seen to enjoy it. I’ve had the pleasure of riding
in most states in the country and I can honestly say that the hills, valleys,
vistas and towns in Tennessee continue to fascinate and thrill me. I always want
to wander off on the next little piece of two-lane road, see where it goes and
what’s around the next corner. I love working on bikes and talking
motorcycling. I need the freedom and pleasure I get from enjoying a beautiful
day when the bike is running well, my head in the clouds and all my cares are
behind me. I truly love motorcycling.
For these reasons I’ll do my best to help this organization protect and
promote motorcycling and motorcycle rights in the state of Tennessee. But, this
is more than a one man or woman job. I don’t have a magic bullet or special
influence with the legislature. I wish I did. There are over 213,000
motorcyclists in this state yet we don’t control or even effectively influence
our own destiny. Counterparts to our organization in other states have shown us
what we are capable of. We now ride there to enjoy the freedoms we should have
here. To achieve the victories they have fought and won requires commitment,
participation and communication.
I know some of the state and charter officers and directors from around the
state and am truly impressed with their dedication and desire. I’ve been a
charter officer. It is difficult, often thankless, yet fun and rewarding. This
organization doesn’t continue without that selfless commitment. Thank you. I’ve
been involved in some great charter events and have met some wonderful people. I
hope in my tenure as director to meet many of you and enjoy a lot of the local
events put on by many of the charters. As the saying goes, "Let’s have
fun out there."
We continue to have a wonderful opportunity before us. Our greatest gains
will happen because we are an effective political force representing ALL
motorcyclists in the state of Tennessee – those who know about us and those
who don’t. To do this we need membership and participation. We can’t be hung
up on brands, groups or single-issue battles. So, what can we do? That’s easy.
But, doing it takes phone calls, inviting people to meetings, putting up
posters, explaining to bikers that their rights really are threatened, passing
out flyers, handing out membership applications, convincing motorcycle shops to
hold raffles and events with us, developing relationships with social rider
organizations, building lists of motorcyclists’ names and addresses,
volunteering to help work the state and local events (by the way, we need
volunteers for the Spring Bash), building relationships with local charities and
acting responsibly when riding. We will be our own best friend or worst enemy.
It is up to each one of us. The opportunities are before us. Let’s decide our
own destiny.
On a final note, I'd like to thank Wayne for a wonderful job as Director over
the last three years. His insight, guidance, and patience are only matched by
his persistence and belief in what is right. I know he will still be active
within the organization applying his many talents to our goals. Thanks, Wayne.
I'm proud to be able to call you my friend and I look forward to our future road
trips.
Enjoy the wind,
Steve
