Last weekend, ABATE of Iowa hosted the 35th Annual Heartland STEAM event in Bettendorf, IA. 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 of the highlights included MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard’s speech, “Wheels, What Makes Our World Go Around,” MRF Executive Director Ryan Hubbard’s “Principles of Leadership” presentation and an update on legislative action from the member states. As always, there were breakout sessions that allowed riders to learn more about issues they care about.
The seven states in Heartland STEAM form a key part of the national motorcyclist rights movement. Many MRF members come from these states, which send a diverse set of lawmakers to Washington D.C. The STEAM states include red states, blue states and purple states. 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 Iowa for hosting a fantastic event and for all those who presented and participated. Attendees left reenergized and enthusiastic about the work ahead, proud of a renewed bond with fellow riders. We can’t wait for the 36th edition of Heartland STEAM next year in Minnesota!
As always, Ride Safe and Ride Free.
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