Last weekend, ABATE of South Dakota hosted the 34th Annual Heartland Seminar to Educate and Motivate (STEAM) event in Sioux Falls, SD. Riders from Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin gathered to share information about how the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) and state motorcyclist rights organizations are tackling issues facing the motorcycling community.
A diverse set of presentations occurred over the two-day seminar. Some highlights included MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard’s speech, “Ride to Live, Live to Ride; Well Maybe,” a history of the Bikers’ Rights Movement by MRF Executive Director Mark Buckner and an update on legislative action from the member states. Famed long-distance rider Wendy Crocket shared her stories of career achievements in competitive endurance riding. As always, there were breakout sessions that allowed riders to learn more about issues they care about.
The seven states that make up Heartland STEAM form a crucial part of the national motorcyclist rights movement. A significant number of MRF members come from these states. The STEAM states include red states, blue states and purple states, meaning they send a diverse set of lawmakers to Washington. Forty-two (42) members of the U.S. House of Representatives and fourteen (14) U.S. Senators hail from the Heartland STEAM area. This unique political makeup helps drive our motorcyclist agenda in D.C.
A huge thank you to ABATE of South Dakota for hosting a fantastic event and for all those who presented and participated. Attendees left reenergized and enthusiastic about the work ahead and proud of a renewed bond with fellow riders. We can’t wait for the 35th edition of Heartland STEAM next year in Iowa!
As always, Ride Safe and Ride Free.
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