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DIRECTOR’ S
VIEWPOINT
Another year has rolled around and we
again are approaching the month that is
dedicated to Motorcycle Awareness—
May. It is a time for all of us to invest in the
safety of our future.This is something that we,
as bikers, should jump into wholeheartedly.
GWRRA Motorist Awareness Division
(MAD) has been realigned to become a part of
the Rider Education Division, with the focus
on delivering the message to the motoring
public. In May we are going to make our presentations
to the general public. If we expect
our programs to have a positive impact, we
will assuredly need all of our Members to
participate.
There are many methods used by our
Awareness coordinators in an effort to reach
the motoring public and get our message to
them. Last year, Mississippi organized presentations
at all of the welcome centers in their
state.This included having a motorcycle display
as well as passing out MAD literature.
Upon hearing of Mississippi’s success, and
not wanting to be left out, several other states’ Chapters organized
By Ron & Kathy Jackson
National Motorist Awareness Directors
May Is Motorcycle
Awareness Month
similar displays at many rest areas as well.This
method has been extremely successful and
well received by motorists who are always
intrigued by the motorcycles on display.
Some people have a predisposed opinion
of motorcyclists—one that is all too often
wrong. Many of these same people, after
spending only a few minutes with a GWRRA
Member, will not only walk away with a positive
opinion of motorcyclists, but the next
time they see a Gold Wing, they might even
wave.
Ron Parks from Pennsylvania’s Chapter PA-
F has even made arrangements this year to
have his state’s Department of Transportation
(DOT) put up traffic signs as a reminder for
the motoring public to watch for bikers.
Sometimes our state DOTs will designate
a safety day.This is a grand opportunity to have
a display and get involved. Other venues to
consider for a Motorcycle Awareness display
would be car shows and swap meets, car dealerships,
local festivals and public parks.
At a public park we can have a picnic.This can be a good time for
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