Conference Report - May 2026

By Pauline Forrest

I had a great road trip to Alexandria, MN for the 2026 MRF Heartland STEAM event. Stopped by my daughter Rachel’s on the way and she joined me Saturday for dinner.

Great start with colors and Red Skelton story about the flag. Very touching.

The biggest takeaway for me was hearing about issues from states in attendance. Rocky, our MRF lobbyist, was there to share info on current issues federally. Of course, all the great people I met while there is always highlight- from Minnesota (host) Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Illinois.

On the way to Alexandria, my daughter did not like the lane splitting motorcyclist passing her. We talked to a couple of Minnesota riders who explained the history of the Minnesota law (it was implemented in September 2025(?) and a lot of the problem is the interpretation of the law by motorcyclists and other drivers.

BONUS: Dave Zien sat at our table next to Rachel May. Fun story about Dave as he rode his bike from Chippewa Falls. Look him up. Ask me about the story.

By Cathy Dial

The Heartland STEAM 2026 gathering, held March 20–21 in Alexandria, MN was a great weekend spent with some truly dedicated Freedom Fighters. It was one of those events that reminds you of why we do what we do—standing up for riders and protecting our rights.

One of the highlights was the membership presentation put together by April and Holly. They did a fantastic job keeping it real, relatable, and motivating. It wasn’t just talk—it was a solid reminder that growing our membership is key to keeping this movement strong.

Huge thanks to the folks from ABATE of Minnesota for putting together such a great event. You could feel the camaraderie all weekend, and it’s clear how much heart goes into bringing everyone together.

Weekends like this recharge you. You leave with new ideas, stronger connections, and that fire lit to keep pushing forward for motorcycle rights.

By Bob Tieberg

Another STEAM Conference has come and gone. The snow in Minneapolis was gone too! It was very informative to hear different approaches to common problems. We heard about similar situations that were handled differently. It was fun talking with people from different areas. Everyone should get a chance to attend one of these events. The food was also very good!

By Brad & Lauri Shakal

ABATE of Minnesota did a good job hosting Heartland STEAM. The opening ceremonies were well done. April Thompson gave an outstanding rendition of our National Anthem.

Many of the sessions were informative. We took a lot of notes to take back to our region. As always, our very own Hardtail gave an inspirational and motivational presentation. Seeing Rocky so comfortable in front of a room full of bikers makes us think that he truly believes in what we do.

It was definitely interesting to hear how other states operate. Some of the things they do would not work for us, however it does get us to think outside the box. Especially by getting us and our mission into the public eye.

Overall, it was educational as well as motivational.

It definitely makes a person proud to see how many of our members showed up. It is quite obvious why we are the best.

We would like to thank the board of directors for allowing us a scholarship. Thank You.

By Dawn Stoddard

STEAM 2026

Thank you to ABATE of Minnesota for hosting Heartland STEAM 2026.

Friday evening started off with State of the State and ended with some fundraising fun.

Saturday our day started with the Presentation of Colors, National Anthem, and Pledge of Allegiance. Hardtail then hit on various topics such as the European Union and how what happens in Europe makes its way to the United States. He also hit on how important it is to follow through on the Call to Actions that are sent out so that your Senators and Congressman understand and know what support we are asking for.

Rocky Fox was up next and provided attendees with the MRF Legislative Agenda for the next year. Autonomous Vehicles, Crash Avoidance, Data Recording, Definition of a Motorcycle, Emission Regulations, Helmet Laws/Equipment Mandates, Internal Combustion Engines, Profiling, Renewable Fuels, Right to Repair, and Vulnerable Roadway User Terminology,

Rocky also provided the Call-to-Action numbers for the STEAM States and it is amazing how many people do not complete the Call to Actions that are sent out.

Information presented to the group included Cathy Dial, MRF Reps Representative on Membership. MRF PAC by Ryan Hubbard which provided a clearer understanding of PAC basics and the importance of the MRF PAC.

Saturday afternoon presentations included Increasing Membership and Involving Youth, Safe Riding (Group Riding) and Community Service.

Oh, did we mention that Hardtail spent some time on Friday in the “jail” while others participated in a friendly game of Corn Hole.

Thank you, ABATE of Wisconsin for this opportunity to attend STEAM!! Nebraska will host next year’s event.