Motorcycle Safety Awareness

The St. Mary Parish Council recently passed a resolution proclaiming the month of May Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. From left are Councilman Kevin Voisin, ABATE Chapter Vice-president Richard McGoff, Parish President David Hanagriff and ABATE Chapter President Donald Marin Jr. Marin said he joined ABATE of Louisiana in February 2016 after his oldest son’s best friend was killed in a motorcycle accident. Marin said he wanted to take a more active stance and gain knowledge on motorcycle safety and awareness and later started a St. Mary Chapter in May, 2016. The chapter now has 80 members. ABATE, or American Bikers Active Towards Education, is the only recognized motorcycle rights organization in the state. Membership is open to everyone, motorcycle riders and non-riders alike. The chapter is a member of the Louisiana State Confederation of Clubs and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. They are affiliated with the American Motorcycle Association and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists. The group works to educate the public about motorcycles and riders, as well as the responsibilities of sharing the road with everyone. For more information, contact donmarinjr@yahoo.com.