Meeting of the Minds – St. Louis, MO – September 2024

Thank you to ABATE of Missouri for hosting the 40th Meeting of the Minds. Opening session on Thursday evening was a recap provided by each state’s SMRO leader of their top issues.

Rocky Fox provided attendees with the Legislative Agenda for the next year. The Internal Combustion Engine, Motorcycle Profiling, Right to Repair, Autonomous Vehicles and the Definition of a Motorcycle are just a few on the agenda.

The options for breakout sessions this year made it hard to choose which ones to attend! The Search & Seizure breakout presented by Attorney Steve Murrin provided information as to how not to put yourself in the situation of being searched when in a traffic stop situation.

Life on Gilligan’s Island, which was originally presented at MOTM 2013 by Marlene Bautch was presented by Tracy Beaurivage and Kris Cook. This presentation covered the challenges of recruiting, inspiring and retaining members and volunteers in SMROs.

One of the highlights of the weekend, was the induction of Marlene Bautch into the MRF Hall of Fame along with the other awards presented to ABATE of Wisconsin.

Thank you, ABATE of Wisconsin for this opportunity to attend MOTM!! I definitely encourage others to attend!! Just a little secret, Wisconsin will be hosting Meeting of the Minds 2026.

Respectfully Submitted

Dawn Stoddard