Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors' Fund

Date: Feb. 22, 2006

(Ipswich, MA) A silent auction and "Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament" fundraiser to purchase motorcycle safety and awareness signs and to help promote the 7th Annual "Nelson's Ride" (Sunday, August 27) will be hosted by the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County, on Saturday night, April 1st, at the Masonic Lodge at 70 Topsfield Road, Ipswich.

Entry fee for preregistration is $100 a player, $125 at the door if seats are still available. Guest are free. Refreshments will be provided to players, and for sale to guests. Pay as you go beverages. Prizes as allowed by the Lottery Commission.

For more information, or to register on-line or download a flyer and mail in registration form, is available at Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors' Fund or www.MassMSF.org.

Capone's Poker Tables will provide the equipment and manage the Tournament. MMSF Board Members Dave Condon and Kelly Ferguson will manage the Event.The MMSF has donated over $25,000 in funds to Essex County area families of riders in need after accidents and during the holiday season.

Its second mission is to help prevent accidents and injuries through safety and awareness programs. It will join the Registry of Motor Vehicles in promoting the Commonwealth's Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Period, the last week of March through the last week of April, when over 150,000 motorcycles will be coming out of winter's hibernation and be back on the roads.

Only 150 seats are available for the Tournament. Satellite games begin at 6:00 p.m., and the main tournament begins at 7:00 p.m., on April 1st. Come on and play, bid on the auction items, and see your friends. If you have an item to donate for the auction, please e-mail Kelly Ferguson at Kmindless1@aol.com.

Date: October 21,2005 - The Newburyport Current

The tail end of the motorcycle riding season is coming. And this brings added dangers to motorcycle operators.
     For safety purposes, riders are reminded to be wary about leaves on the road. When wet, leaves are dangerous to the balance of motorcycles. Citizens are reminded to bag their leaves and not blow them onto the roads.
     Riders are reminded to dress in layers. Warm, sunny afternoons quickly turn into cold nights. Then add a “wind chill factor” to the open ride. Medically, your senses and reaction time decrease when you’re cold. Better to be over dressed, and warm, than cold with less reaction time.
     Late fall and winter months tend to give most of us “cabin fever.” One way to keep in contact with your riding friends and learn some new stuff would be to attend a “Bystander Assistant Program, a Crash Course for Motorcyclists,” offered in Massachusetts and New Hampshire by Accident Scene Management, Inc., a non-profit organization. It is endorsed by the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA).
     This intense, one-day course is taught by Gail and Dave Riley of Merrimac, MA. It seeks to teach motorcyclists (and motorists) what to do at the scene of an accident until professional help arrives, while reducing your own legal and financial responsibility. Its mission is to teach others some first aid to reduce injuries and fatalities.
     Upcoming courses: Oct. 22 at Honda Depot in Rye, NH; and Nov. 5 and 6 at Whittier Rehab in Westborough. Cost ranges from $30 - $40 per person. Groups of 15 or more can schedule their own date by contacting Gail Riley. For information, see www.accidentscene.net or contact Gail Riley at gsriley1@hotmail.com.
     For the 31st consecutive year, on Oct. 2, the MMA kick-started the toy donation drive for the Toys for Tots Program. If you missed the Ride, consider dropping off a toy or gift card at your local fire station.

Between now and mid-December, the US Marine Corps Reserves need to collect the unwrapped toys, gift cards and money to be donated to families in need for the upcoming holidays. The program is one of the more reputable organizations, having less than 1 percent overhead. It is a program the Motorcycle Association and its members are proud to have been a part of over the past 31 years. We encourage all who can, to donate to this worthwhile program.

Over 156,000 Massachusetts citizens-bikers are on the roads of Massachusetts. The Newburyport Current is committed to helping reduce accidents and injuries by bringing safety and awareness messages and news of motorcyclists' contributions to charities to our readers. To achieve these goals, we have invited Paul W. Cote of Amesbury, a vocal advocate, activist and fund raiser, to write monthly columns.

Date: September 14, 2005

(Ipswich, MA) On Monday night, September 19th, the Stage Two Cinema Pub at 109 Rear Main Street in Amesbury will open and host the 'wrap up' meeting of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund and 6th Annual Nelson's Ride Planning Committee, beginning at 6:30 and ending by 8:30 p.m. (when the MMSF Board goes into executive session).

All riders, local law enforcement, town officials and the media are invited to attend this 'wrap up' meeting to hear the final figures of the largest "Nelson's Ride" event, which took place August 28th out of the Topsfield Fairgrounds. Event video's done by Wendell Davis, Jr., will be shown on the Cinema Pub's large movie screen. Attendees are asked to address the MMSF Board and Event Planning Team Leaders, and tell us, in two minutes or less, what was good about the Ride and what can be improved upon for next year to make the 7th annual Nelson's Ride even better!

We rely upon riders' input to help us make improvements. Nelson's Ride is an event done by riders for riders. Your input helps us.

Last year, Ron G. of Saugus had his bike over heat while waiting in the Registration line. He told us about it and we think we improved upon the Registration with the East Coast Biker Chicks and Aces and Eights Motorcycle Club members handling entry to the event.

Each year, parking and staging areas needed improvement. This year, with the Christian Motorcycle Association Essex County members, Vince and Dean, . . . we improved upon parking, staging and exiting.

A few years ago, food was an issue, and we think we've addressed that.

This is your meeting to let us know, what went right and what can be improved upon, see the video's and friends, and join in the planning for next year's event.

Monday night, September 19th - 6:30-7:00 socializing, 7:00 SHARP meeting starts. Stage Two Cinema Pub, Amesbury (see link below).

Attendance at the meeting is FREE. Pay as you order appetizers and beverages will be available. Donations always accepted. And if you have photos of the Ride, bring copies for us to post on the websites! If you've got an event coming up, bring your flyers!

For more information, see www.cinemapub.com, www.MassMSF.org, or www.NelsonsRide.org.

Nelson's Ride rolls right along (ONLINE EDITION - CLICK HERE)
Friday, September 9, 2005 - Tri Town Transcript

More than 1,900 motorcyclists rode in Nelson's Ride Sunday raising in excess of $35,000 for the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, for families of riders of Essex and Middlesex Counties killed in motorcycle accidents.
"We're still tallying our numbers," said Chris Cerino of Essex, the charity's treasurer. Cerino reports depositing just over $35,000 in cash Sunday from the event.

On-line advance sales and paying off event expenses won't be tallied until early September, he said, with other donations from vendors and those who couldn't make the event still coming in from the sixth annual 35-mile scenic Ride

The Ride resulted in minor traffic delays for motorist who did not heed 'expect delays' warnings put out by the organizer's three weeks ago and heavily publicized by local newspapers," said Joe Sarge Komola, the Fund's route coordinator.

George Fletcher of Gloucester won the trip for two raffle to Daytona Beach's Biketoberfest, Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 19-23. Al DePietro of Georgetown, a board member, sold more than 50 raffle tickets and was awarded a hooded event sweatshirt as thanks for his efforts. The winning ticket was drawn by the owner of Xtreme Transport, of Plaistow, NH, who donated up to two motorcycle slots to the fund for transport down to Daytona Beach and back

The winner of the LoJack Anti-theft device, a Rockport resident, is deciding whether to accept it for his motorcycle or donate it back to the fund The winning ticket was drawn by a sales executive of the LoJack Corporation, who attended the E. Because of the security nature of the prize, the winner's name confidential. The all-volunteer group recognized Sunday night and Monday morning it committed an error, awarding only a $500 cash prize where $1,935 had been generated, and contacted the winner today to advise them $467.50 more was still due them.

The annual event was staged at the Topsfield Fairgrounds this year, having become too large for Raymond's Field in Ipswich, where the Ride staged the past five years.

Faye Brophy of Ipswich, the mother of Nelson Selig, addressed the crowd before the Ride and thanked them for their continued support of the mission of the Survivor's Fund, of 'riders helping riders.' Nelson's widow, Felicia Selig and the children of Nelson, attended the Ride also, privately expressing their thanks to the event organizers.
A portion of the event's funds will be donated to the family of State Police Trooper Vincent Cila, of Wakefield, who died in a motorcycle accident in July. Before the Rider's left, a trumpet sounded "Taps," remembering the Trooper Cila followed by "Amazing Grace," in memory of Nelson Selig and other motorcyclists who had been killed the past six years.

The fund recognized Neil Ted Raymond, who had donated his soccer field the past five years.

State Senator Bruce Tarr delivered messages from Governor Romney and the Massachusetts Senate for Raymond, while Rep. Brad Hill delivered a House Citation honoring Raymond for his help with the event and Nelly's Bill, enacted last year putting a motorcycle awareness module in auto driver training schools.

Riders were directed into a staging area until noon by the Christian Motorcycle Club, lead by their Essex County Chapter members, where attendees shopped at vendor booths, listened to Mission for a Minor band, and a safety briefing delivered by a rider who had a minor accident at last year's event.
Komola reports along the route more than 1,000 citizens, young and old, lined the route waving American flags, cheering and applauding the riders.

Cerino reports with event product sales handled by Betsy Murphy of Salem, silent auction items and other raffle products donated, more than $4,500 was raised, again, not including online advance sales and expenses.

After the Ride returned to the Fairgrounds, attendees were treated to live music by the B-Street Bombers, and motorcycle skill contests/games where held lead by John Tarantino of Gloucester.

Donations can continued to be made on-line at www.MassMSF.org and by mailing a check to the MMSF, P.O. Box 427, Salem, MA 01970.

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Cycle event raised money for Trooper's family (ONLINE VERSION - CLICK HERE)
Thursday, September 8, 2005 - Wakefield Observer

More than 1,900 motorcyclists rode in "Nelson's Ride" last week, raising more than $35,000 for the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, for families of riders of Essex and Middlesex Counties killed in motorcycle accidents.
A portion of the event's funds will be donated to the family of State Police Trooper Vincent Cila, of Wakefield, who died in a motorcycle accident in July. Before the riders left, a trumpet sounded "Taps," remembering the Cila, followed by "Amazing Grace" in memory of Nelson Selig and other motorcyclists who had been killed the past six years.

"We're still tallying our numbers," said Chris Cerino of Essex, the charity's treasurer, with donations from vendors and those who couldn't make the event still coming in.

The event on Aug. 28, held at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, was the 6th annual for the 35-mile scenic ride. No accidents or incidents were reported, according to organizers of Nelson's Ride.

The Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund recognized Neil "Ted" Raymond, who had donated his soccer field the past five years. State Sen. Bruce Tarr delivered messages from Gov. Mitt Romney and the Massachusetts Senate, while Rep. Brad Hill delivered a House Citation honoring Raymond for his help with the event and "Nelly's Bill," which last year put a motorcycle awareness module in auto driver training schools

The ride reportedly drew 500 more riders than last year. Attendees shopped at vendor booths, listened to the bands Mission for a Minor and the B-Street Bombers, heard a safety briefing and watched motorcycle skill contests. Cash prizes and various items were awarded through raffles.
Donations can continued to be made at www.MassMSF.org and by mailing a check to the MMSF, P.O. Box 427, Salem, MA 01970.

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Media Release - for immediate release - August 1, 2005

For more information, contact:

Paul W. Cote, 978-535-8222 or claimscote@aol.com

Chris Cerino, lmbsx@verizon.net (call Paul for phone)

Jason Hallock, jason.hallock@vsea.com (call Paul for phone)

Joe "Sarge" Komola, sarge1955@aol.com (call Paul for phone)

Vince Silvia, vsilvia@silviasonline.com, (call Paul for phone)

=========

(Topsfield, MA) One of the largest motorcycle charity motorcycle rides in Essex County has 'outgrown' Ipswich and is moving to the larger Topsfield Fairgrounds for its annual fundraising effort.

"The 6th annual 'Nelson's Ride' will stage, ride out of and return to the indoor arena of the Topsfield Fairgrounds on Sunday, August 28th," announced Paul W. Cote of Amesbury, the events' promoter and president of the Essex County division of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund (MMSF).

The annual ride, in memory of Nelson Selig of Essex, had been staged about a mile from where he was killed in May 2000 at Raymond's Field on Route 133 in Ipswich. The ride brought about passage of "Nelly's bill" last year, where motorcycle safety and awareness are now taught in auto driver training schools.

"With 1,700 riders last year, and growing annually, we were taxing the Town of Ipswich and needed a larger indoor venue in the event of rain," said Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a member of the MMSF Board. "Nelson' Ride is a 'rain or shine' event for August 28th."

The ride now benefits Essex County families of motorcyclists killed in accidents. "Since 2000, we've raised and donated over $50,000," said Chris Cerino of Essex, the Fund's treasurer.

"We always hope we have many participants in the event, and few families applying for help." The Survivor's Fund has donated to families in Gloucester, Danvers, Lynn, and Salem since last year.

Ride organizers have been working with the State and local police on the August 28 ride route. The MMSF's safety director, Joe "Sarge" Komola, mapped out a 35-mile route from Topsfield, through Danvers, Middleton, Boxford, Georgetown, Rowley, Ipswich and back to the Fairgrounds.

"We've put up signs warning about temporary traffic delays on Sunday, August 28th, between noon and 2:00 p.m.," said Komola, to minimize the impact the charity ride has on traffic."

Vince Silvia of Haverhill, the MMSF's clerk, says the ride planning committee has been meeting since last September planning out the event. In February, they got word the indoor arena at the Fairgrounds had an open date.

"We jumped on it," said Silvia. "Every year, we put out over $6,000 in up-front expenses to insure and promote the event. We needed an indoor venue large enough to accommodate more than 1,500 motorcycles and cars."

Ted Raymond of Ipswich, who allowed his field on Route 133 to be used the past five years for the event, will be this year's parade marshal.

"We are grateful to Ted for his donations the past five years," said Cerino. "This year, we're honoring him as our 'marshal' and he'll ride up front.

In addition to the Charity Ride, the bands "Mission for a Minor" will play during the staging period and the "B-Street Bombers,' who perform nationally, will entertain after the ride returns to the Fairgrounds; with food and product vendors at the event.

For more information on the August 28th event, see www.Nelsonsride.org and www.MassMSF.org.

May 16th, 2005 - Motorcyclists Storm the Massachusetts State House
(Boston, MA) Several hundred motorcyclists are expected to parade and STORM the Massachusetts State House Thursday, May 19, participating in their motorcyclists lobbying day on numerous bills filed this session.

Riders will gather at the Good Time Emporium in Somerville for political action committee (PAC) fundraising breakfast and briefings. At noon, they'll roll out riding to the State House to 'peacefully assemble and redress their grievances with their government.'

Bills filed include opting out of the existing insurance system and accessing insurers to contribute to the motorcycle safety fund; helmet choice for adults; opening trails for off road riders, reduction of tolls two wheels pay, prohibiting 'banning of motorcycles' from public roads; and increasing civil and criminal penalties for those violating the right of way of other road users causing serious bodily injury or death. Bills filed to lower decibels limits will be opposed by the riding association.

All riders are encouraged to take the day off, ride and voice their complaints with their officials Thursday, May 19th. "Be part of the solution," roared Paul W. Cote, one of the organizers of the event.

Riders can donate at the staging area (9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (Good Times Emporium) in cash, check or credit card, to help advance riders' issues.

WOMAN HURT IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT RIDES AGAIN - April 15, 2005 Salem Evening News
Wendy Erikson plans to arrive at her fund-raiser on back of a trike

By Michael Puffer, Staff Writer

DANVERS - Wendy Erikson hasn't been on a motorcycle since the accident last summer that left her beloved Harley-Davidson a twisted wreck - and left her partially paralyzed and in wheelchair. But on Sunday, Erikson, 43, will arrive at a fund-raiser organized to help her buy therapy equipment riding on the back of a "trike" - a three-wheeled motorcycle. "I can't wait, it will be awesome," Erikson said.

During the short ride from her Crane Street home to the Danversport Yacht Club, she'll be surrounded by other bikers. And the balmy forecast is perfect. For Erikson, it will be a taste of the carefree times of the past, when she was able to hop on her own Harley for long, relaxing rides. She's looking forward to feeling "the wind in my hair."

Before the June accident, Erikson was always on the go. She hit the gym every morning, was studying full time to be a medical assistant and was an active supporter of her son's youth leagues. She also rode every chance she got - to medical assistant classes in Tewksbury or up to Laconia, NH, for Motorcycle Week. "I had it all," Erikson said. "It aggravates me."

Everything changed with a simple afternoon ride through Topsfield. Erikson lost control of her bike on a quiet back road, clipped a telephone pole and was thrown nearly 40 feet. The single mother of four was rushed to the Topsfield Fairgrounds, where she was put in a Medflight helicopter and taken to a Boston Hospital. Today, Erikson struggles to use a walker. She's in constant pain. She can't control her hands, which are permanently clenched. A neighbor, family member, or home health aide prepares her food, dresses her and handles most daily chores. "There is not a lot of things I can do for myself," she said.

But Erikson found a wealth of support from the community. Coaches and others involved with Danvers Youth Sports came together with Erikson friends last summer to build a new wheelchair ramp and deck that wraps around one side of her home. Volunteers also remodeled a first-floor sitting room into a bedroom and build a handicapped-accessible bathroom. "It was amazing all the people who helped me," Erikson said. "They came out of the woodwork. Doctors aren't' certain how far Erikson's recovery will go. Her spine is bruised, but not severed.

If anybody could come back from such an injury, it is Erikson, said Nancy Skinner, a friend who met Erikson through the Little League in which both of their sons played. "I've never met anybody as strong as she is," Skinner said. "She does have her work cut out for her, but I'm sure she will walk again." And Skinner completely supports her friend's desire to climb back aboard a motorcycle. "I think its a beautiful thing she has the will to live and not just exist. Like not being afraid of things and not allowing something like that to hold her back," Skinner said.

The prospect of being able to ride again, like Erikson desire to work again and reclaim her life, is an important motivating favor said Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivor's Fund President Paul Cote, the man organizing Sunday's benefit. "I really think it comes back to a philosophy if you fall down, you get back up," Cote said. "She has to have some goals to keep her forward momentum going, as opposed to giving up."

Mermaid's Ball A Great Success - Feb. 14, 2005

(Essex, MA) More than 325 Essex County riders and supporters packed Woodman's Function Hall for the 2005 "Mermaid's Ball," Saturday night in Essex, hosted by the Iron Mermaids and the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County, raising more than $11,000 before expenses, for families of Essex County families of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured in accidents.

Dianne Foster of Gloucester, was overwhelmed by the turnout. "This was very special," she said. "I want to thank all those who worked, attended and donated auction items to the event."

People who took pictures of the event can log onto the Survivor's Fund website at www.MassMSF.org and send their photo's to the webmaster for posting. Within a week it is expected all photos will be posted.

Survivor's Fund President Paul W. Cote of Amesbury thanked attendees while announcing that another MMSF event, "Wendy's TEAM", needed their support. A Dance will be hosted Sunday afternoon, April 17th, at the Danversport Yacht Club, to raise funds for 'in-home' rehabilitation equipment for Danvers resident Wendy Erikson, who was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident last season.

Wendy, with some assistance, was able to walk in the front door of Woodman's Saturday night, rather than taking the back door handicap ramp with her wheelchair.

"It was important to her to walk into Saturday's event with her head high," said Survivor's Fund Treasurer Chris Cerino of Ipswich, "and we are proud of her resolve."

Cote said the April 17th event will be a 'community event,' enlisting the youth groups and business community of Danvers Wendy was involved with before her accident, to help in Wendy's rehab.

"Wendy fully expects to walk and ride again," claimed Cote, "and we are going to do everything we can to assist her in achieving that goal."

During the night, the Survivor's Fund recognized George Sands of Salem with a "ROAR of APPRECIATION" certificate, who had sold over 50 tickets to the Mermaid's Ball.

"At every event, we have one or two people who come out of no where and do a TON to help out," Cote announced. "George Sands was this Event's person. He stepped up - and we appreciate his talents and ticket selling effort," said Cote.

For more information of the Mermaid's Ball, Wendy's Event and Nelson's Ride, 2005, see www.MassMSF.org.

A very special ride - By Frank Carini, with the Ipswich Chronicle (North Shore Online)

Nelson's Ride began in 2000 as an event to raise awareness for motorcycle safety and money for the family of Nelson Selig, an Essex resident killed in a motorcycle accident in Ipswich. He left behind a wife and two children.

In 2004, though, the Selig family said thank you to event organizers and asked them to use future Nelson's Ride money to help other Essex County families devastated by a motorcycle fatality or a serious injury.

The annual event is the signature fund-raiser for the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County. Last year's fifth annual Nelson's Ride attracted more than 1,700 riders and raised $31,000. Also, proceeds generated from this Saturday night's Iron Mermaids' Ball will be donated to the Survivor's Fund.

"We use that money to help families who have had a member killed or seriously injured in a motorcycle accident pay the mortgage and other bills until insurance kicks and they get back on their feet," says Amesbury resident Paul Cote, president of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County.

There is an average of five motorcycle fatalities per year in Essex County, according to Cote. There also are numerous other accidents that result in serious injury, as was the case with Danvers resident Wendy Erikson.

Last June, the single mother of four was riding her Harley-Davidson in Topsfield when she hit a patch of sand. She was thrown 40 feet, landing on her back and neck. Despite wearing a helmet, Erikson's neck was broken in four places. She's been a paraplegic since, and rehabilitation has been slow.

Members of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund delivered presents and donations worth $3,500 to Erikson's Crane Street home a week before Christmas.

"This is what Nelson's Ride is supposed to be about," says Ipswich resident Christopher Cerino. "Riders helping riders."

The sixth annual Nelson's Ride is being planned for Sunday, Aug. 28.

Have a Ball (North Shore Online Local News)

The Cape Ann motorcyclist club the Iron Mermaids will hold a Mermaids' Ball from 8 p.m. to midnight this Saturday, Feb. 12, at Woodman's Hall in Essex. Proceeds from the club's second such event will go to the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County. Tickets ($20) are available, while supplies last, at the Cape Ann Veterinary Hospital, 462 Essex Ave., Gloucester; Robyn's Dog Grooming, 388 Main St., Gloucester; and Ipswich Music, 13 Hammatt St., Ipswich. The event will feature a silent auction and raffles. For more information about the Mermaids' Ball or about the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County, visit the Web site www.massmsf.org.

Iron Mermaids ready to roll for benefit biker fund (Gloucester Times, front page)

By Gail McCarthy - Staff writer

The women attending this weekend's hottest ball won't be showing up for the event in a Cinderella-like carriage. After all, the ladies behind the Mermaid Ball prefer the roar of a motorcycle.

The women, called the Iron Mermaids, organized Saturday's benefit at Woodman's in Essex for fun and to raise money for families in need as a result of a motorcycle accident.

This will be the second Mermaids Ball hosted by the Gloucester group, which will bring on the Megawatts Blues Crushers to provide the music. The hostesses will don tails, fancy wigs and other adornments as they shuffle around the function room.

"It's amazing what we came up with for our outfits," said Dianne Foster, an organizer. "For those interested, sea-faring attire is encouraged and men can do the Hawaiian thing. But it's all just optional."

All proceeds will benefit the Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors' Fund and its newly created Essex County division, which grew out of the annual Nelson Selig benefit. Selig, an Essex resident, was killed in May of 2000 on Route 133 in Ipswich when a 19-year-old motorist crossed into Selig's lane and hit his motorcycle head on. Selig left behind a wife and two children. The benefit became so successful that his widow, Felicia Selig, asked that proceeds from future rides be shared with other families in need who reside in Essex County.

Dianne Foster, an Iron Mermaid, said their women's motorcycle group grew out of the time they volunteered together for the Selig rides. Foster and two other Gloucester women, Ruth Kuykendall and Connie Marosi, collected the names of other Cape Ann women riders and founded the Iron Mermaids in 2000.

Foster, who grew up on Reynard Street riding dirt bikes in Dogtown with her brothers, met Marosi at the Cape Ann Veterinary Hospital, where the two worked and quickly became friends.

The dozen or so women met for weekly Tuesday night and weekend rides.

"It was just a bunch of professional women who wanted to ride and we called ourselves the Iron Mermaids because we're from Gloucester and close to the sea," Foster said.

The name of the group refers not to the metal but to the character of the women.

"We have strong-willed women," Foster said.

But shortly after the group was formed, a pickup truck hit Marosi on Oct. 5, 2001, leaving the 5-foot, 2-inch, 100-pound woman in a coma for a month. Police cited the truck driver for failure to yield at an intersection. Marosi never recovered from the brain injury and remains in a nursing home. Her two friends, Sullivan and Foster, witnessed the collision and never forgot it.

The following February, the Iron Mermaids held their first ball to raise money to help pay for medical expenses.

This year's ball will benefit the new division of the state motorcycle survivors' fund.

"Another push for this ball is to raise awareness about health care proxies and the complications of catastrophic injury," Foster said. "If I can get at least one person to sign a health care proxy I'll feel like I've done something. People always say I'll get to it, but this one little piece of paper can make a world of difference."

Foster wants to make sure that riders are aware of the legal document that would allow them to choose who will make their medical decisions for them.

Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a motorcyclist of 27 years, serves on the board of the Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors Fund. He was a close friend of the late Nelson Selig and helped establish the Nelson Run benefit.

"I've known the women who are in the Mermaids for years and they were a big supporter of Nelson's Run and they worked extensively on the committee. We're all working for the same cause, we want to help the families that are severely affected," he said. "I look forward to working with them. They have always been there for us and we'll be there for them. It's important to help each other."

George Sands, a staunch supporter of the Iron Mermaids, already sold 55 tickets.

"I want to help to do anything to support a motorcyclist that has catastrophic injuries from an accident or to help survivors of those killed," said the Salem resident.

Sands, an equipment operator for the city of Salem, began riding a minibike at the age of 12 and graduated to a Harley-Davidson as an adult. The only time he went without biking was when he served in the military.

He supports the efforts of motorcyclists teaming up to help fellow enthusiasts in dire need.

"It's an unfortunate thing when this happens," he said. "Now the cyclists are banding together to help each other out."

Tickets should be purchased in advance. To order, call Dianne Foster at (978) 282-9927, or they are on sale at Cape Ann Veterinary Hospital, Robyn's Dog Grooming and Ipswich Music. The cost is $20, with all proceeds to benefit the Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors Fund. The evening features the Megawatts Blues Crushers, a silent auction and raffle.

January 27th, 2005 - Iron Mermaids encourage health care proxies...

Connie Marosi of Gloucester loved to ride her Harley with a group of other area women motorcycle riders. They called themselves "The Iron Mermaids" riding group. They shared the commonality of women riding.

But in 2001, that love turned into a 4-year Court battle after a truck pulled out in front of the group while they rode over the Newburyport/Salisbury, MA, bridge, resulting in Connie being hit and going down off her motorcycle.

Connie suffered a major head injury. She is currently housed at the Greenery Rehab in Middleboro. While she battles for rehabilitation services, her friends battle an estranged family for the right to be her guardian and provide care for her here on the North Shore.

What the Iron Mermaid's and Connie's friends found, . . . Connie did not have a "Health Care Proxy, Power of Attorney, or Will," which would have dictated and directed a Court of what her wishes were, for her care and distribution of her assets, in the event of an accident or death. Without this direction, the Court got involved and the legal battle (and expenses of that battle), continue to this day, while Connie languishes on the South Shore.

In 2002, Iron Mermaid sisters Diane Foster and Ruth Sullivan of Gloucester set up a "Connie Marosi Special Needs Trust," to donate money for 'extra care' for Connie, so money raised would not affect her Medicaid benefits. They hosted a "Mermaid's Ball" at Woodman's in Essex, MA, in 2002, and had a benefit concert in Ipswich in 2003. Both were great events for area riders to come pay their respects and donate a small amount which raised money for Connie's 'extra needs,' to make her a bit more comfortable.

Connie and several Iron Mermaids were members of the first "Nelson's Ride" planning committee in 2000. They still contribute their energy and effort to the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund (MMSF) / Essex County, in helping raise funds "for our own." In October 2004, the MMSF Board voted to co-sponsor and associate with the Iron Mermaids in hosting the 2005 Mermaid's Ball, for Saturday night, Feb. 12, 2005 at Woodman's Hall in Essex, MA.

In honor of Connie, and as a recommendation to all, the Iron Mermaids strongly encourage adults to make arrangements and obtain a Health Care Proxy, Power of Attorney, and Will. Just about any attorney can prepare these documents. Most charge from $150 to $400, or more.

For persons who have purchased tickets for the February 12, 2005, "Mermaid's Ball" at Woodman's in Essex, MA, the Mermaids have secured a discount of legal fees for preparation of these documents at a total cost of $125.00, from the Law Offices of Joseph S. Provanzano of Peabody. Provanzano was a sponsor of Nelson's Ride, and is the General Counsel for the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA).

Persons with tickets to the Mermaid's Ball can call Provanzano's office at 978-535-8222 to schedule an appointment.

Persons wishing to buy tickets to the 2/12/05 Mermaid's Ball can go to www.MassMSF.org and purchase them on-line or print out and mail in a completed form and their check, before 2/7/05. Tickets are available for purchase at Cape Ann Vet Hospital (462 Essex Ave., Gloucester), Robyn's Dog Grooming (388 Main Street, Gloucester), and Ipswich Music (13 Hammatt Street, Ipswich) and will be available for purchase at Provanzano's office (16 Bourbon Street, Peabody) up to Thursday, Feb. 9th, or until the 300 available are sold out.

Appointments with Provanzano's office should be made before February 28, 2005 for this discounted price for preparation of Health Care Proxies, Powers of Attorney and Wills. It generally takes two meetings to prepare and finalize these documents.

Even if you don't take advantage of this limited-time offer for low cost preparation of these documents, buy your tickets to the Mermaid's Ball in advance as the 300 available are selling out. For more information, see www.MassMSF.org.

'Nelson's Ride' aids Danvers family - Thursday, January 6, 2005 (link to story in Ipwich Chronicle)

Santa joined a contingent of Essex County motorcyclists from the recently established "Survivor's Fund," spending last Sunday afternoon at the Danvers home of Wendy Erikson. They delivered presents and donations of more than $3,500 to help the single mother of four, who was paralyzed last June in an accident in Topsfield.

"This is what 'Nelson's Ride' is supposed to be about," said Christopher Cerino of Ipswich, "Riders helping riders."

Nelson's Ride began in 2000 as an annual event to raise awareness for motorcycle safety and donate to the children of Nelson Selig, an Essex resident killed in a motorcycle accident on Essex Road in Ipswich. In 2004, the Selig family said thank you to the event organizers and asked them to begin helping other Essex County families of riders in similar need.

     The fifth annual "Nelson's Ride and Concert" last August created an Essex County division of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund (MMSF), and donated some funds to a family in Gloucester. But its bylaws stated funds raised should go to "families of riders killed in accidents."
     On June 23, Wendy Erickson was riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle when it hit a patch of sand on the road and threw her 40 feet, landing on her back and neck. Despite wearing a helmet, her neck was broken in four places, resulting in no movement of her arms and legs. Rehabilitation has been slow.
     George Sands of Salem, an avid lifelong motorcyclist, contacted the Survivor's Fund members asking them to send a donation to Erikson and her family. Board members first had to refuse, based upon the non-profit bylaws.
     "We all knew it was a lousy situation," said Cerino, "and we all wanted to help but weren't sure of the technicalities. George helped push us to find out how to get it done."

Cerino and MMSF President Paul W. Cote of Amesbury sought advice.

At the MMSF board meeting Dec. 11, after more than 30 area riders lobbied to donate to Erikson, the board voted to suspend its bylaws and donate $2,750 to the Erikson family. Another $800 was collected that night from riders present. The MMSF also will begin discussing hosting an event in March or April specifically for the Erikson family, hoping to enlist friends of Wendy and others in the Danvers community to help her.

"Nelson would be proud of these decisions," said Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a longtime friend of Nelson Selig and member of the MMSF board.
The Survivor's Fund Board is now planning the sixth annual Nelson's Ride for Sunday, Aug. 28, and will co-host an Iron Mermaid's Ball at Woodman's in Essex on Feb. 12. For information, visit www.MassMSF.org or www.Nelsonsride.org.

December 23rd, 2004 - Danvers Herald (link to story and photo)

A Christmas story in Danvers
By William Henderson/ whenders@cnc.com
Thursday, December 23, 2004

This past Sunday, Santa Claus did without his reindeer and sleigh, pulling up to his Crane Street destination in a white pick-up truck. He stepped out of the truck, dragging behind him a white plastic sack filled with toys donated by North Shore residents.

He walked into the house without knocking, the white sack slung over his shoulder.

Wendy Erikson, a paraplegic since a June motorcycle accident, looked at Santa and slowly smiled. Her eyes brimmed with tears. She called out for her sons: "T.J. Levi. Boys, Santa's here."

If she could swivel her neck, she'd see the empty space underneath the Christmas tree displayed in her living room. She'd see the stockings hung along the door frame and the strands of purple tinsel. But since she can't move her neck, or anything really, she settled for watching Santa approach her and place his sack on the kitchen table.

"Thank you, Santa," she said, tears brimming against her eyelids. "Thank you."

Standing nearby was George Sands, a Salem resident partially responsible for bringing about an early Christmas for Erikson and her children. An avid, life-long motorcyclist, he contacted Paul Cote, president of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, and asked them to donate money to Erikson.

The MMSF donates money to family members of motorcycle operators killed while riding. Already, the organization has raised and donated more than $700,000 to families across the state. Because of a stipulation in the organization's by-laws limiting who they can financially support, Sands' request was denied.

At a recent board meeting, more than 30 North Shore motorcyclists lobbied to suspend its bylaws and allow a donation to Erikson. The fund allotted $2,750 for her, with members present at the meeting ponying up another $800.

When Erikson heard the news and received the check, she felt she'd be able to provide a Christmas for her family. When she heard the news Santa would make a surprise visit a week early, she felt as if pieces of her life, having been shattered just six months ago, were finally fitting together again.

Christmas Past

There is very little Erikson remembers about the June 23 motorcycle accident which left her wheelchair-bound. She remembers riding behind her friend and passing him. She remembers it was a sunny day and she felt as if she were flying. She remembers seeing a squirrel in the road and swerving to avoid hitting him.

She doesn't remember hitting a patch of sand. She doesn't remember tumbling head over heels off of the bike and landing on her back and neck 40 feet from the sandy patch. She doesn't remember, despite wearing a helmet, how it felt when her neck broke in four places.

She woke up at Boston Medical Center where doctors told her that she had bruised her spinal cord, suffering nerve damage in the process. When asked whether she'd be able to ride a motorcycle, or walk, again, doctors were honest but not hopeful. Only with rehabilitation, and lots of it, would she be able to move without a chair underneath her.

Erikson and her family credit the community with rallying around her.

The Danvers Little League, along with Danvers Youth Football, Danvers High School Football and DHS Baseball spent two weekends building a ramp that circles her house, a new front porch, and modified her bathrooms. One room was enlarged and fitted with a hospital bed for Erikson to sleep in and a bathroom in which her wheelchair could fit.

The groups held a dinner and auction this past September, with the raised funds going directly to Erikson, but it was not enough to allow Erikson the life she and her family had grown accustomed to. Recovery and rehabilitation have proved costly. Christmas would have to go, as would many other items on her family's wish list.

Christmas Present

Her two youngest sons, Levi Stanley, 16, and T.J. Stanley, 12, stand, looking expectantly at the board games and toys spread out on the kitchen table. There's a radio-controlled train set and an acoustic guitar. A street hockey game and a camera. Two basketballs -- so the boys won't fight over them -- and a super soaker.

With one thumb, Erikson pushes her daughter's phone number into her cell phone. Her hand is curled and looks like an open parenthesis. She slowly lifts the phone to her ear and waits for her daughter to answer.

"Come over," Erikson said. "Santa's here."

Erikson puts the phone on the table and smiles. Her daughter, Kim McNutt, will bring her son, Erikson's grandson, Dylan, with her.

"I didn't know all of this would..." Erikson stopped talking. She looked from the piles of toys to Santa. "I don't know..."

Sands put a hand on her shoulder. "We brought Santa with us. You've got him a little early."

"I feel bad," Erikson said. "I stopped believing."

At the time of her accident, Erikson was studying to become a medical assistant. She had lost her job at the start of the year and was busy trying to figure out where her career path would next take her. She said she liked the thought of helping people get better.

Sands smiled at her and said, "I bet you will now."

Christmas Future

Believing in anything is difficult these days.

Her hands, Erikson said, feel like they're asleep most of the time. Her legs tingle and feel, alternately, burning hot and freezing cold. While she feels less of the left side of her body, she is able to move it more than she can move the right side of her body. A recent round of physical therapy had her taking her first unassisted steps while standing in a swimming pool.

Her insurance, though, requires pre-approval before she attends a physical therapy appointment. The ways it's been going for her, she said, for every two weeks of therapy she has, she must take three weeks off.

"I'm not going to get better quick," she said. "I need rehab endlessly. I have to start from scratch each time."

She's afraid of losing the ground she's slowly made. State Rep. Ted Speliotis has become involved and is attempting to make it possible for Erikson to have the number of therapy sessions she needs to allow her a chance to walk again. He said this week that he is hopeful to expedite the process to make it possible for her to have continuous coverage.

Erikson said Sunday she is also hopeful, and with Santa standing in her house and her children gathered around her, maybe, just maybe, anything is possible.

"What about you Wendy," Sands said. "What is it you want for Christmas?"

Standing in her kitchen are members of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, many of whom had never before met Erikson.

"I just want to get up. I want to walk again," she said. "In a split second, things can change. Life's not perfect, but in my opinion, I will walk again, just because I want to walk again."

December 19th - "Bikers Spread Holiday Cheer for Local Family"

BIKERS SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER FOR LOCAL FAMILY
SUSPEND BY-LAWS, DONATE TO PARALYZED RIDER

(DANVERS, MA) Santa joined a contingent of Essex County motorcyclists from the recently established “Survivor’s Fund” spent last Sunday afternoon at the Danvers home of Wendy Erikson, delivering presents and donations of more than $3,500 to help the single mother of four, who was paralyzed last June in a freak accident in Topsfield.

“This is what ‘Nelson’s Ride’ is supposed to be about,” said Christopher Cerino of Ipswich, “Riders helping riders.”

“Nelson’s Ride” began in 2000 as an annual event to raise awareness for motorcycle safety and donate to the children of Nelson Selig, an Essex resident killed in a motorcycle accident. In 2004, the Selig family said ‘thank you’ to the event organizers, and asked them to begin helping other Essex County families of riders in similar need.

The 5th annual “Nelson’s Ride and Concert” last August created an Essex County division of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor’s Fund (MMSF), and donated some funds to a family in Gloucester.

But its By-laws stated funds raised should go to “families of riders killed in accidents.”

On June 23rd, Erickson was riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle when it hit a patch of sand on the road and threw her forty feet, landing on her back and neck. Despite wearing a helmet, her neck was broken in four places, resulting in no movement of her arms and legs. Rehabilitation has been slow.

George Sands of Salem, an avid, life long motorcyclists, contacted the Survivor’s Fund members asking them to send a donation to Erikson and her family. Board members first had to refuse, based upon the non-profit By-laws.

“We all knew it was a lousy situation,” said Cerino, “and we all wanted to help but weren’t sure of the technicalities. George helped push us to find out how to get it done.” Cerino and Paul W. Cote of Amesbury, the MMSF President, sought advice.

At the MMSF Board Meeting December 11th, with over 30 area riders lobbied the MMSF Board to donate to Erikson, the Board voted to ‘suspend’ its By-laws, and voted to donate $2,750 to the Erikson family. Another $800 was collected that night from riders present to donate. The MMSF also will begin discussing hosting an event in March or April specifically for the Erikson family, hoping to enlist friends of Wendy and others in the Danvers community to help her situation.

“Nelson would be proud of these decisions,” said Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a long time friend of Nelson Selig and member of the MMSF Board.

The Survivor’s Fund Board is now planning the 6th annual Nelson’s Ride for Sunday, August 28, 2005, and will co-host an “Iron Mermaid’s Ball” at Woodman’s in Essex on February 12th. For more information on the events, see www.MassMSF.org or www.Nelsonsride.org.



	Press Archives - 2004-2005	Back to Current Press Page (2006-2007)
Join MMSF's mailing list for news of upcoming events, and announce- ments about issues that affect riders everywhere. Click here to sign up now! MMSF helps riders downed riders and their families all around Massachusetts. Please take a look at our past events to read about those in the riding community that we've helped.	February 22, 2005 - Texas Hold'Em Poker Tournament to promote motorcycle safety October 21, 2005 - Cote: Take a crash course for safety's sake September 14th, 2005 - Nelson's Ride Wrap-Up Meeting September 9th, 2005 - Nelson's Ride Rolls Right Along September 8th, 2005 - Motorcycle Event raises money for Trooper's Family August 1, 2005 - Nelson's Ride chooses new venue at the Topsfield Fairgrounds May 16th, 2005 - Motorcyclists Storm the Massachusetts State House April 15th, 2005 - Woman Hurt in Motorcycle Accident Rides Again February 14th, 2005 - Mermaid's Ball a Great Success February 11th, 2005 - A Very Special Ride February 11th, 2005 - Have a Ball February 10th, 2005 - Iron Mermaids Ready to Roll for Benefit Biker Fund January 27th, 2005 - Iron Mermaids encourage health care proxies/power of attorney forms January 6th, 2005 - Nelson's Ride Aids Danvers Family December 23rd, 2004 - Danvers Herald story "A Christmas Story in Danvers" December 19th, 2004 - "Bikers Spread Holiday Cheer for Local Family Date: Feb. 22, 2006 (Ipswich, MA) A silent auction and "Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament" fundraiser to purchase motorcycle safety and awareness signs and to help promote the 7th Annual "Nelson's Ride" (Sunday, August 27) will be hosted by the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County, on Saturday night, April 1st, at the Masonic Lodge at 70 Topsfield Road, Ipswich. Entry fee for preregistration is $100 a player, $125 at the door if seats are still available. Guest are free. Refreshments will be provided to players, and for sale to guests. Pay as you go beverages. Prizes as allowed by the Lottery Commission. For more information, or to register on-line or download a flyer and mail in registration form, is available at Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors' Fund or www.MassMSF.org. Capone's Poker Tables will provide the equipment and manage the Tournament. MMSF Board Members Dave Condon and Kelly Ferguson will manage the Event.The MMSF has donated over $25,000 in funds to Essex County area families of riders in need after accidents and during the holiday season. Its second mission is to help prevent accidents and injuries through safety and awareness programs. It will join the Registry of Motor Vehicles in promoting the Commonwealth's Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Period, the last week of March through the last week of April, when over 150,000 motorcycles will be coming out of winter's hibernation and be back on the roads. Only 150 seats are available for the Tournament. Satellite games begin at 6:00 p.m., and the main tournament begins at 7:00 p.m., on April 1st. Come on and play, bid on the auction items, and see your friends. If you have an item to donate for the auction, please e-mail Kelly Ferguson at Kmindless1@aol.com. Date: October 21,2005 - The Newburyport Current The tail end of the motorcycle riding season is coming. And this brings added dangers to motorcycle operators. For safety purposes, riders are reminded to be wary about leaves on the road. When wet, leaves are dangerous to the balance of motorcycles. Citizens are reminded to bag their leaves and not blow them onto the roads. Riders are reminded to dress in layers. Warm, sunny afternoons quickly turn into cold nights. Then add a “wind chill factor” to the open ride. Medically, your senses and reaction time decrease when you’re cold. Better to be over dressed, and warm, than cold with less reaction time. Late fall and winter months tend to give most of us “cabin fever.” One way to keep in contact with your riding friends and learn some new stuff would be to attend a “Bystander Assistant Program, a Crash Course for Motorcyclists,” offered in Massachusetts and New Hampshire by Accident Scene Management, Inc., a non-profit organization. It is endorsed by the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA). This intense, one-day course is taught by Gail and Dave Riley of Merrimac, MA. It seeks to teach motorcyclists (and motorists) what to do at the scene of an accident until professional help arrives, while reducing your own legal and financial responsibility. Its mission is to teach others some first aid to reduce injuries and fatalities. Upcoming courses: Oct. 22 at Honda Depot in Rye, NH; and Nov. 5 and 6 at Whittier Rehab in Westborough. Cost ranges from $30 - $40 per person. Groups of 15 or more can schedule their own date by contacting Gail Riley. For information, see www.accidentscene.net or contact Gail Riley at gsriley1@hotmail.com. For the 31st consecutive year, on Oct. 2, the MMA kick-started the toy donation drive for the Toys for Tots Program. If you missed the Ride, consider dropping off a toy or gift card at your local fire station. Between now and mid-December, the US Marine Corps Reserves need to collect the unwrapped toys, gift cards and money to be donated to families in need for the upcoming holidays. The program is one of the more reputable organizations, having less than 1 percent overhead. It is a program the Motorcycle Association and its members are proud to have been a part of over the past 31 years. We encourage all who can, to donate to this worthwhile program. Over 156,000 Massachusetts citizens-bikers are on the roads of Massachusetts. The Newburyport Current is committed to helping reduce accidents and injuries by bringing safety and awareness messages and news of motorcyclists' contributions to charities to our readers. To achieve these goals, we have invited Paul W. Cote of Amesbury, a vocal advocate, activist and fund raiser, to write monthly columns. Date: September 14, 2005 (Ipswich, MA) On Monday night, September 19th, the Stage Two Cinema Pub at 109 Rear Main Street in Amesbury will open and host the 'wrap up' meeting of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund and 6th Annual Nelson's Ride Planning Committee, beginning at 6:30 and ending by 8:30 p.m. (when the MMSF Board goes into executive session). All riders, local law enforcement, town officials and the media are invited to attend this 'wrap up' meeting to hear the final figures of the largest "Nelson's Ride" event, which took place August 28th out of the Topsfield Fairgrounds. Event video's done by Wendell Davis, Jr., will be shown on the Cinema Pub's large movie screen. Attendees are asked to address the MMSF Board and Event Planning Team Leaders, and tell us, in two minutes or less, what was good about the Ride and what can be improved upon for next year to make the 7th annual Nelson's Ride even better! We rely upon riders' input to help us make improvements. Nelson's Ride is an event done by riders for riders. Your input helps us. Last year, Ron G. of Saugus had his bike over heat while waiting in the Registration line. He told us about it and we think we improved upon the Registration with the East Coast Biker Chicks and Aces and Eights Motorcycle Club members handling entry to the event. Each year, parking and staging areas needed improvement. This year, with the Christian Motorcycle Association Essex County members, Vince and Dean, . . . we improved upon parking, staging and exiting. A few years ago, food was an issue, and we think we've addressed that. This is your meeting to let us know, what went right and what can be improved upon, see the video's and friends, and join in the planning for next year's event. Monday night, September 19th - 6:30-7:00 socializing, 7:00 SHARP meeting starts. Stage Two Cinema Pub, Amesbury (see link below). Attendance at the meeting is FREE. Pay as you order appetizers and beverages will be available. Donations always accepted. And if you have photos of the Ride, bring copies for us to post on the websites! If you've got an event coming up, bring your flyers! For more information, see www.cinemapub.com, www.MassMSF.org, or www.NelsonsRide.org. Nelson's Ride rolls right along (ONLINE EDITION - CLICK HERE) Friday, September 9, 2005 - Tri Town Transcript More than 1,900 motorcyclists rode in Nelson's Ride Sunday raising in excess of $35,000 for the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, for families of riders of Essex and Middlesex Counties killed in motorcycle accidents. "We're still tallying our numbers," said Chris Cerino of Essex, the charity's treasurer. Cerino reports depositing just over $35,000 in cash Sunday from the event. On-line advance sales and paying off event expenses won't be tallied until early September, he said, with other donations from vendors and those who couldn't make the event still coming in from the sixth annual 35-mile scenic Ride The Ride resulted in minor traffic delays for motorist who did not heed 'expect delays' warnings put out by the organizer's three weeks ago and heavily publicized by local newspapers," said Joe Sarge Komola, the Fund's route coordinator. George Fletcher of Gloucester won the trip for two raffle to Daytona Beach's Biketoberfest, Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 19-23. Al DePietro of Georgetown, a board member, sold more than 50 raffle tickets and was awarded a hooded event sweatshirt as thanks for his efforts. The winning ticket was drawn by the owner of Xtreme Transport, of Plaistow, NH, who donated up to two motorcycle slots to the fund for transport down to Daytona Beach and back The winner of the LoJack Anti-theft device, a Rockport resident, is deciding whether to accept it for his motorcycle or donate it back to the fund The winning ticket was drawn by a sales executive of the LoJack Corporation, who attended the E. Because of the security nature of the prize, the winner's name confidential. The all-volunteer group recognized Sunday night and Monday morning it committed an error, awarding only a $500 cash prize where $1,935 had been generated, and contacted the winner today to advise them $467.50 more was still due them. The annual event was staged at the Topsfield Fairgrounds this year, having become too large for Raymond's Field in Ipswich, where the Ride staged the past five years. Faye Brophy of Ipswich, the mother of Nelson Selig, addressed the crowd before the Ride and thanked them for their continued support of the mission of the Survivor's Fund, of 'riders helping riders.' Nelson's widow, Felicia Selig and the children of Nelson, attended the Ride also, privately expressing their thanks to the event organizers. A portion of the event's funds will be donated to the family of State Police Trooper Vincent Cila, of Wakefield, who died in a motorcycle accident in July. Before the Rider's left, a trumpet sounded "Taps," remembering the Trooper Cila followed by "Amazing Grace," in memory of Nelson Selig and other motorcyclists who had been killed the past six years. The fund recognized Neil Ted Raymond, who had donated his soccer field the past five years. State Senator Bruce Tarr delivered messages from Governor Romney and the Massachusetts Senate for Raymond, while Rep. Brad Hill delivered a House Citation honoring Raymond for his help with the event and Nelly's Bill, enacted last year putting a motorcycle awareness module in auto driver training schools. Riders were directed into a staging area until noon by the Christian Motorcycle Club, lead by their Essex County Chapter members, where attendees shopped at vendor booths, listened to Mission for a Minor band, and a safety briefing delivered by a rider who had a minor accident at last year's event. Komola reports along the route more than 1,000 citizens, young and old, lined the route waving American flags, cheering and applauding the riders. Cerino reports with event product sales handled by Betsy Murphy of Salem, silent auction items and other raffle products donated, more than $4,500 was raised, again, not including online advance sales and expenses. After the Ride returned to the Fairgrounds, attendees were treated to live music by the B-Street Bombers, and motorcycle skill contests/games where held lead by John Tarantino of Gloucester. Donations can continued to be made on-line at www.MassMSF.org and by mailing a check to the MMSF, P.O. Box 427, Salem, MA 01970. ================= Cycle event raised money for Trooper's family (ONLINE VERSION - CLICK HERE) Thursday, September 8, 2005 - Wakefield Observer More than 1,900 motorcyclists rode in "Nelson's Ride" last week, raising more than $35,000 for the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, for families of riders of Essex and Middlesex Counties killed in motorcycle accidents. A portion of the event's funds will be donated to the family of State Police Trooper Vincent Cila, of Wakefield, who died in a motorcycle accident in July. Before the riders left, a trumpet sounded "Taps," remembering the Cila, followed by "Amazing Grace" in memory of Nelson Selig and other motorcyclists who had been killed the past six years. "We're still tallying our numbers," said Chris Cerino of Essex, the charity's treasurer, with donations from vendors and those who couldn't make the event still coming in. The event on Aug. 28, held at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, was the 6th annual for the 35-mile scenic ride. No accidents or incidents were reported, according to organizers of Nelson's Ride. The Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund recognized Neil "Ted" Raymond, who had donated his soccer field the past five years. State Sen. Bruce Tarr delivered messages from Gov. Mitt Romney and the Massachusetts Senate, while Rep. Brad Hill delivered a House Citation honoring Raymond for his help with the event and "Nelly's Bill," which last year put a motorcycle awareness module in auto driver training schools The ride reportedly drew 500 more riders than last year. Attendees shopped at vendor booths, listened to the bands Mission for a Minor and the B-Street Bombers, heard a safety briefing and watched motorcycle skill contests. Cash prizes and various items were awarded through raffles. Donations can continued to be made at www.MassMSF.org and by mailing a check to the MMSF, P.O. Box 427, Salem, MA 01970. ================= Media Release - for immediate release - August 1, 2005 For more information, contact: Paul W. Cote, 978-535-8222 or claimscote@aol.com Chris Cerino, lmbsx@verizon.net (call Paul for phone) Jason Hallock, jason.hallock@vsea.com (call Paul for phone) Joe "Sarge" Komola, sarge1955@aol.com (call Paul for phone) Vince Silvia, vsilvia@silviasonline.com, (call Paul for phone) ========= (Topsfield, MA) One of the largest motorcycle charity motorcycle rides in Essex County has 'outgrown' Ipswich and is moving to the larger Topsfield Fairgrounds for its annual fundraising effort. "The 6th annual 'Nelson's Ride' will stage, ride out of and return to the indoor arena of the Topsfield Fairgrounds on Sunday, August 28th," announced Paul W. Cote of Amesbury, the events' promoter and president of the Essex County division of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund (MMSF). The annual ride, in memory of Nelson Selig of Essex, had been staged about a mile from where he was killed in May 2000 at Raymond's Field on Route 133 in Ipswich. The ride brought about passage of "Nelly's bill" last year, where motorcycle safety and awareness are now taught in auto driver training schools. "With 1,700 riders last year, and growing annually, we were taxing the Town of Ipswich and needed a larger indoor venue in the event of rain," said Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a member of the MMSF Board. "Nelson' Ride is a 'rain or shine' event for August 28th." The ride now benefits Essex County families of motorcyclists killed in accidents. "Since 2000, we've raised and donated over $50,000," said Chris Cerino of Essex, the Fund's treasurer. "We always hope we have many participants in the event, and few families applying for help." The Survivor's Fund has donated to families in Gloucester, Danvers, Lynn, and Salem since last year. Ride organizers have been working with the State and local police on the August 28 ride route. The MMSF's safety director, Joe "Sarge" Komola, mapped out a 35-mile route from Topsfield, through Danvers, Middleton, Boxford, Georgetown, Rowley, Ipswich and back to the Fairgrounds. "We've put up signs warning about temporary traffic delays on Sunday, August 28th, between noon and 2:00 p.m.," said Komola, to minimize the impact the charity ride has on traffic." Vince Silvia of Haverhill, the MMSF's clerk, says the ride planning committee has been meeting since last September planning out the event. In February, they got word the indoor arena at the Fairgrounds had an open date. "We jumped on it," said Silvia. "Every year, we put out over $6,000 in up-front expenses to insure and promote the event. We needed an indoor venue large enough to accommodate more than 1,500 motorcycles and cars." Ted Raymond of Ipswich, who allowed his field on Route 133 to be used the past five years for the event, will be this year's parade marshal. "We are grateful to Ted for his donations the past five years," said Cerino. "This year, we're honoring him as our 'marshal' and he'll ride up front. In addition to the Charity Ride, the bands "Mission for a Minor" will play during the staging period and the "B-Street Bombers,' who perform nationally, will entertain after the ride returns to the Fairgrounds; with food and product vendors at the event. For more information on the August 28th event, see www.Nelsonsride.org and www.MassMSF.org. May 16th, 2005 - Motorcyclists Storm the Massachusetts State House (Boston, MA) Several hundred motorcyclists are expected to parade and STORM the Massachusetts State House Thursday, May 19, participating in their motorcyclists lobbying day on numerous bills filed this session. Riders will gather at the Good Time Emporium in Somerville for political action committee (PAC) fundraising breakfast and briefings. At noon, they'll roll out riding to the State House to 'peacefully assemble and redress their grievances with their government.' Bills filed include opting out of the existing insurance system and accessing insurers to contribute to the motorcycle safety fund; helmet choice for adults; opening trails for off road riders, reduction of tolls two wheels pay, prohibiting 'banning of motorcycles' from public roads; and increasing civil and criminal penalties for those violating the right of way of other road users causing serious bodily injury or death. Bills filed to lower decibels limits will be opposed by the riding association. All riders are encouraged to take the day off, ride and voice their complaints with their officials Thursday, May 19th. "Be part of the solution," roared Paul W. Cote, one of the organizers of the event. Riders can donate at the staging area (9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (Good Times Emporium) in cash, check or credit card, to help advance riders' issues. WOMAN HURT IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT RIDES AGAIN - April 15, 2005 Salem Evening News Wendy Erikson plans to arrive at her fund-raiser on back of a trike By Michael Puffer, Staff Writer DANVERS - Wendy Erikson hasn't been on a motorcycle since the accident last summer that left her beloved Harley-Davidson a twisted wreck - and left her partially paralyzed and in wheelchair. But on Sunday, Erikson, 43, will arrive at a fund-raiser organized to help her buy therapy equipment riding on the back of a "trike" - a three-wheeled motorcycle. "I can't wait, it will be awesome," Erikson said. During the short ride from her Crane Street home to the Danversport Yacht Club, she'll be surrounded by other bikers. And the balmy forecast is perfect. For Erikson, it will be a taste of the carefree times of the past, when she was able to hop on her own Harley for long, relaxing rides. She's looking forward to feeling "the wind in my hair." Before the June accident, Erikson was always on the go. She hit the gym every morning, was studying full time to be a medical assistant and was an active supporter of her son's youth leagues. She also rode every chance she got - to medical assistant classes in Tewksbury or up to Laconia, NH, for Motorcycle Week. "I had it all," Erikson said. "It aggravates me." Everything changed with a simple afternoon ride through Topsfield. Erikson lost control of her bike on a quiet back road, clipped a telephone pole and was thrown nearly 40 feet. The single mother of four was rushed to the Topsfield Fairgrounds, where she was put in a Medflight helicopter and taken to a Boston Hospital. Today, Erikson struggles to use a walker. She's in constant pain. She can't control her hands, which are permanently clenched. A neighbor, family member, or home health aide prepares her food, dresses her and handles most daily chores. "There is not a lot of things I can do for myself," she said. But Erikson found a wealth of support from the community. Coaches and others involved with Danvers Youth Sports came together with Erikson friends last summer to build a new wheelchair ramp and deck that wraps around one side of her home. Volunteers also remodeled a first-floor sitting room into a bedroom and build a handicapped-accessible bathroom. "It was amazing all the people who helped me," Erikson said. "They came out of the woodwork. Doctors aren't' certain how far Erikson's recovery will go. Her spine is bruised, but not severed. If anybody could come back from such an injury, it is Erikson, said Nancy Skinner, a friend who met Erikson through the Little League in which both of their sons played. "I've never met anybody as strong as she is," Skinner said. "She does have her work cut out for her, but I'm sure she will walk again." And Skinner completely supports her friend's desire to climb back aboard a motorcycle. "I think its a beautiful thing she has the will to live and not just exist. Like not being afraid of things and not allowing something like that to hold her back," Skinner said. The prospect of being able to ride again, like Erikson desire to work again and reclaim her life, is an important motivating favor said Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivor's Fund President Paul Cote, the man organizing Sunday's benefit. "I really think it comes back to a philosophy if you fall down, you get back up," Cote said. "She has to have some goals to keep her forward momentum going, as opposed to giving up." Mermaid's Ball A Great Success - Feb. 14, 2005 (Essex, MA) More than 325 Essex County riders and supporters packed Woodman's Function Hall for the 2005 "Mermaid's Ball," Saturday night in Essex, hosted by the Iron Mermaids and the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County, raising more than $11,000 before expenses, for families of Essex County families of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured in accidents. Dianne Foster of Gloucester, was overwhelmed by the turnout. "This was very special," she said. "I want to thank all those who worked, attended and donated auction items to the event." People who took pictures of the event can log onto the Survivor's Fund website at www.MassMSF.org and send their photo's to the webmaster for posting. Within a week it is expected all photos will be posted. Survivor's Fund President Paul W. Cote of Amesbury thanked attendees while announcing that another MMSF event, "Wendy's TEAM", needed their support. A Dance will be hosted Sunday afternoon, April 17th, at the Danversport Yacht Club, to raise funds for 'in-home' rehabilitation equipment for Danvers resident Wendy Erikson, who was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident last season. Wendy, with some assistance, was able to walk in the front door of Woodman's Saturday night, rather than taking the back door handicap ramp with her wheelchair. "It was important to her to walk into Saturday's event with her head high," said Survivor's Fund Treasurer Chris Cerino of Ipswich, "and we are proud of her resolve." Cote said the April 17th event will be a 'community event,' enlisting the youth groups and business community of Danvers Wendy was involved with before her accident, to help in Wendy's rehab. "Wendy fully expects to walk and ride again," claimed Cote, "and we are going to do everything we can to assist her in achieving that goal." During the night, the Survivor's Fund recognized George Sands of Salem with a "ROAR of APPRECIATION" certificate, who had sold over 50 tickets to the Mermaid's Ball. "At every event, we have one or two people who come out of no where and do a TON to help out," Cote announced. "George Sands was this Event's person. He stepped up - and we appreciate his talents and ticket selling effort," said Cote. For more information of the Mermaid's Ball, Wendy's Event and Nelson's Ride, 2005, see www.MassMSF.org. A very special ride - By Frank Carini, with the Ipswich Chronicle (North Shore Online) Nelson's Ride began in 2000 as an event to raise awareness for motorcycle safety and money for the family of Nelson Selig, an Essex resident killed in a motorcycle accident in Ipswich. He left behind a wife and two children. In 2004, though, the Selig family said thank you to event organizers and asked them to use future Nelson's Ride money to help other Essex County families devastated by a motorcycle fatality or a serious injury. The annual event is the signature fund-raiser for the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County. Last year's fifth annual Nelson's Ride attracted more than 1,700 riders and raised $31,000. Also, proceeds generated from this Saturday night's Iron Mermaids' Ball will be donated to the Survivor's Fund. "We use that money to help families who have had a member killed or seriously injured in a motorcycle accident pay the mortgage and other bills until insurance kicks and they get back on their feet," says Amesbury resident Paul Cote, president of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County. There is an average of five motorcycle fatalities per year in Essex County, according to Cote. There also are numerous other accidents that result in serious injury, as was the case with Danvers resident Wendy Erikson. Last June, the single mother of four was riding her Harley-Davidson in Topsfield when she hit a patch of sand. She was thrown 40 feet, landing on her back and neck. Despite wearing a helmet, Erikson's neck was broken in four places. She's been a paraplegic since, and rehabilitation has been slow. Members of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund delivered presents and donations worth $3,500 to Erikson's Crane Street home a week before Christmas. "This is what Nelson's Ride is supposed to be about," says Ipswich resident Christopher Cerino. "Riders helping riders." The sixth annual Nelson's Ride is being planned for Sunday, Aug. 28. Have a Ball (North Shore Online Local News) The Cape Ann motorcyclist club the Iron Mermaids will hold a Mermaids' Ball from 8 p.m. to midnight this Saturday, Feb. 12, at Woodman's Hall in Essex. Proceeds from the club's second such event will go to the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County. Tickets ($20) are available, while supplies last, at the Cape Ann Veterinary Hospital, 462 Essex Ave., Gloucester; Robyn's Dog Grooming, 388 Main St., Gloucester; and Ipswich Music, 13 Hammatt St., Ipswich. The event will feature a silent auction and raffles. For more information about the Mermaids' Ball or about the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund/Essex County, visit the Web site www.massmsf.org. Iron Mermaids ready to roll for benefit biker fund (Gloucester Times, front page) By Gail McCarthy - Staff writer The women attending this weekend's hottest ball won't be showing up for the event in a Cinderella-like carriage. After all, the ladies behind the Mermaid Ball prefer the roar of a motorcycle. The women, called the Iron Mermaids, organized Saturday's benefit at Woodman's in Essex for fun and to raise money for families in need as a result of a motorcycle accident. This will be the second Mermaids Ball hosted by the Gloucester group, which will bring on the Megawatts Blues Crushers to provide the music. The hostesses will don tails, fancy wigs and other adornments as they shuffle around the function room. "It's amazing what we came up with for our outfits," said Dianne Foster, an organizer. "For those interested, sea-faring attire is encouraged and men can do the Hawaiian thing. But it's all just optional." All proceeds will benefit the Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors' Fund and its newly created Essex County division, which grew out of the annual Nelson Selig benefit. Selig, an Essex resident, was killed in May of 2000 on Route 133 in Ipswich when a 19-year-old motorist crossed into Selig's lane and hit his motorcycle head on. Selig left behind a wife and two children. The benefit became so successful that his widow, Felicia Selig, asked that proceeds from future rides be shared with other families in need who reside in Essex County. Dianne Foster, an Iron Mermaid, said their women's motorcycle group grew out of the time they volunteered together for the Selig rides. Foster and two other Gloucester women, Ruth Kuykendall and Connie Marosi, collected the names of other Cape Ann women riders and founded the Iron Mermaids in 2000. Foster, who grew up on Reynard Street riding dirt bikes in Dogtown with her brothers, met Marosi at the Cape Ann Veterinary Hospital, where the two worked and quickly became friends. The dozen or so women met for weekly Tuesday night and weekend rides. "It was just a bunch of professional women who wanted to ride and we called ourselves the Iron Mermaids because we're from Gloucester and close to the sea," Foster said. The name of the group refers not to the metal but to the character of the women. "We have strong-willed women," Foster said. But shortly after the group was formed, a pickup truck hit Marosi on Oct. 5, 2001, leaving the 5-foot, 2-inch, 100-pound woman in a coma for a month. Police cited the truck driver for failure to yield at an intersection. Marosi never recovered from the brain injury and remains in a nursing home. Her two friends, Sullivan and Foster, witnessed the collision and never forgot it. The following February, the Iron Mermaids held their first ball to raise money to help pay for medical expenses. This year's ball will benefit the new division of the state motorcycle survivors' fund. "Another push for this ball is to raise awareness about health care proxies and the complications of catastrophic injury," Foster said. "If I can get at least one person to sign a health care proxy I'll feel like I've done something. People always say I'll get to it, but this one little piece of paper can make a world of difference." Foster wants to make sure that riders are aware of the legal document that would allow them to choose who will make their medical decisions for them. Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a motorcyclist of 27 years, serves on the board of the Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors Fund. He was a close friend of the late Nelson Selig and helped establish the Nelson Run benefit. "I've known the women who are in the Mermaids for years and they were a big supporter of Nelson's Run and they worked extensively on the committee. We're all working for the same cause, we want to help the families that are severely affected," he said. "I look forward to working with them. They have always been there for us and we'll be there for them. It's important to help each other." George Sands, a staunch supporter of the Iron Mermaids, already sold 55 tickets. "I want to help to do anything to support a motorcyclist that has catastrophic injuries from an accident or to help survivors of those killed," said the Salem resident. Sands, an equipment operator for the city of Salem, began riding a minibike at the age of 12 and graduated to a Harley-Davidson as an adult. The only time he went without biking was when he served in the military. He supports the efforts of motorcyclists teaming up to help fellow enthusiasts in dire need. "It's an unfortunate thing when this happens," he said. "Now the cyclists are banding together to help each other out." Tickets should be purchased in advance. To order, call Dianne Foster at (978) 282-9927, or they are on sale at Cape Ann Veterinary Hospital, Robyn's Dog Grooming and Ipswich Music. The cost is $20, with all proceeds to benefit the Massachusetts Motorcycle Survivors Fund. The evening features the Megawatts Blues Crushers, a silent auction and raffle. January 27th, 2005 - Iron Mermaids encourage health care proxies... Connie Marosi of Gloucester loved to ride her Harley with a group of other area women motorcycle riders. They called themselves "The Iron Mermaids" riding group. They shared the commonality of women riding. But in 2001, that love turned into a 4-year Court battle after a truck pulled out in front of the group while they rode over the Newburyport/Salisbury, MA, bridge, resulting in Connie being hit and going down off her motorcycle. Connie suffered a major head injury. She is currently housed at the Greenery Rehab in Middleboro. While she battles for rehabilitation services, her friends battle an estranged family for the right to be her guardian and provide care for her here on the North Shore. What the Iron Mermaid's and Connie's friends found, . . . Connie did not have a "Health Care Proxy, Power of Attorney, or Will," which would have dictated and directed a Court of what her wishes were, for her care and distribution of her assets, in the event of an accident or death. Without this direction, the Court got involved and the legal battle (and expenses of that battle), continue to this day, while Connie languishes on the South Shore. In 2002, Iron Mermaid sisters Diane Foster and Ruth Sullivan of Gloucester set up a "Connie Marosi Special Needs Trust," to donate money for 'extra care' for Connie, so money raised would not affect her Medicaid benefits. They hosted a "Mermaid's Ball" at Woodman's in Essex, MA, in 2002, and had a benefit concert in Ipswich in 2003. Both were great events for area riders to come pay their respects and donate a small amount which raised money for Connie's 'extra needs,' to make her a bit more comfortable. Connie and several Iron Mermaids were members of the first "Nelson's Ride" planning committee in 2000. They still contribute their energy and effort to the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund (MMSF) / Essex County, in helping raise funds "for our own." In October 2004, the MMSF Board voted to co-sponsor and associate with the Iron Mermaids in hosting the 2005 Mermaid's Ball, for Saturday night, Feb. 12, 2005 at Woodman's Hall in Essex, MA. In honor of Connie, and as a recommendation to all, the Iron Mermaids strongly encourage adults to make arrangements and obtain a Health Care Proxy, Power of Attorney, and Will. Just about any attorney can prepare these documents. Most charge from $150 to $400, or more. For persons who have purchased tickets for the February 12, 2005, "Mermaid's Ball" at Woodman's in Essex, MA, the Mermaids have secured a discount of legal fees for preparation of these documents at a total cost of $125.00, from the Law Offices of Joseph S. Provanzano of Peabody. Provanzano was a sponsor of Nelson's Ride, and is the General Counsel for the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA). Persons with tickets to the Mermaid's Ball can call Provanzano's office at 978-535-8222 to schedule an appointment. Persons wishing to buy tickets to the 2/12/05 Mermaid's Ball can go to www.MassMSF.org and purchase them on-line or print out and mail in a completed form and their check, before 2/7/05. Tickets are available for purchase at Cape Ann Vet Hospital (462 Essex Ave., Gloucester), Robyn's Dog Grooming (388 Main Street, Gloucester), and Ipswich Music (13 Hammatt Street, Ipswich) and will be available for purchase at Provanzano's office (16 Bourbon Street, Peabody) up to Thursday, Feb. 9th, or until the 300 available are sold out. Appointments with Provanzano's office should be made before February 28, 2005 for this discounted price for preparation of Health Care Proxies, Powers of Attorney and Wills. It generally takes two meetings to prepare and finalize these documents. Even if you don't take advantage of this limited-time offer for low cost preparation of these documents, buy your tickets to the Mermaid's Ball in advance as the 300 available are selling out. For more information, see www.MassMSF.org. 'Nelson's Ride' aids Danvers family - Thursday, January 6, 2005 (link to story in Ipwich Chronicle) Santa joined a contingent of Essex County motorcyclists from the recently established "Survivor's Fund," spending last Sunday afternoon at the Danvers home of Wendy Erikson. They delivered presents and donations of more than $3,500 to help the single mother of four, who was paralyzed last June in an accident in Topsfield. "This is what 'Nelson's Ride' is supposed to be about," said Christopher Cerino of Ipswich, "Riders helping riders." Nelson's Ride began in 2000 as an annual event to raise awareness for motorcycle safety and donate to the children of Nelson Selig, an Essex resident killed in a motorcycle accident on Essex Road in Ipswich. In 2004, the Selig family said thank you to the event organizers and asked them to begin helping other Essex County families of riders in similar need. The fifth annual "Nelson's Ride and Concert" last August created an Essex County division of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund (MMSF), and donated some funds to a family in Gloucester. But its bylaws stated funds raised should go to "families of riders killed in accidents." On June 23, Wendy Erickson was riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle when it hit a patch of sand on the road and threw her 40 feet, landing on her back and neck. Despite wearing a helmet, her neck was broken in four places, resulting in no movement of her arms and legs. Rehabilitation has been slow. George Sands of Salem, an avid lifelong motorcyclist, contacted the Survivor's Fund members asking them to send a donation to Erikson and her family. Board members first had to refuse, based upon the non-profit bylaws. "We all knew it was a lousy situation," said Cerino, "and we all wanted to help but weren't sure of the technicalities. George helped push us to find out how to get it done." Cerino and MMSF President Paul W. Cote of Amesbury sought advice. At the MMSF board meeting Dec. 11, after more than 30 area riders lobbied to donate to Erikson, the board voted to suspend its bylaws and donate $2,750 to the Erikson family. Another $800 was collected that night from riders present. The MMSF also will begin discussing hosting an event in March or April specifically for the Erikson family, hoping to enlist friends of Wendy and others in the Danvers community to help her. "Nelson would be proud of these decisions," said Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a longtime friend of Nelson Selig and member of the MMSF board. The Survivor's Fund Board is now planning the sixth annual Nelson's Ride for Sunday, Aug. 28, and will co-host an Iron Mermaid's Ball at Woodman's in Essex on Feb. 12. For information, visit www.MassMSF.org or www.Nelsonsride.org. December 23rd, 2004 - Danvers Herald (link to story and photo) A Christmas story in Danvers By William Henderson/ whenders@cnc.com Thursday, December 23, 2004 This past Sunday, Santa Claus did without his reindeer and sleigh, pulling up to his Crane Street destination in a white pick-up truck. He stepped out of the truck, dragging behind him a white plastic sack filled with toys donated by North Shore residents. He walked into the house without knocking, the white sack slung over his shoulder. Wendy Erikson, a paraplegic since a June motorcycle accident, looked at Santa and slowly smiled. Her eyes brimmed with tears. She called out for her sons: "T.J. Levi. Boys, Santa's here." If she could swivel her neck, she'd see the empty space underneath the Christmas tree displayed in her living room. She'd see the stockings hung along the door frame and the strands of purple tinsel. But since she can't move her neck, or anything really, she settled for watching Santa approach her and place his sack on the kitchen table. "Thank you, Santa," she said, tears brimming against her eyelids. "Thank you." Standing nearby was George Sands, a Salem resident partially responsible for bringing about an early Christmas for Erikson and her children. An avid, life-long motorcyclist, he contacted Paul Cote, president of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, and asked them to donate money to Erikson. The MMSF donates money to family members of motorcycle operators killed while riding. Already, the organization has raised and donated more than $700,000 to families across the state. Because of a stipulation in the organization's by-laws limiting who they can financially support, Sands' request was denied. At a recent board meeting, more than 30 North Shore motorcyclists lobbied to suspend its bylaws and allow a donation to Erikson. The fund allotted $2,750 for her, with members present at the meeting ponying up another $800. When Erikson heard the news and received the check, she felt she'd be able to provide a Christmas for her family. When she heard the news Santa would make a surprise visit a week early, she felt as if pieces of her life, having been shattered just six months ago, were finally fitting together again. Christmas Past There is very little Erikson remembers about the June 23 motorcycle accident which left her wheelchair-bound. She remembers riding behind her friend and passing him. She remembers it was a sunny day and she felt as if she were flying. She remembers seeing a squirrel in the road and swerving to avoid hitting him. She doesn't remember hitting a patch of sand. She doesn't remember tumbling head over heels off of the bike and landing on her back and neck 40 feet from the sandy patch. She doesn't remember, despite wearing a helmet, how it felt when her neck broke in four places. She woke up at Boston Medical Center where doctors told her that she had bruised her spinal cord, suffering nerve damage in the process. When asked whether she'd be able to ride a motorcycle, or walk, again, doctors were honest but not hopeful. Only with rehabilitation, and lots of it, would she be able to move without a chair underneath her. Erikson and her family credit the community with rallying around her. The Danvers Little League, along with Danvers Youth Football, Danvers High School Football and DHS Baseball spent two weekends building a ramp that circles her house, a new front porch, and modified her bathrooms. One room was enlarged and fitted with a hospital bed for Erikson to sleep in and a bathroom in which her wheelchair could fit. The groups held a dinner and auction this past September, with the raised funds going directly to Erikson, but it was not enough to allow Erikson the life she and her family had grown accustomed to. Recovery and rehabilitation have proved costly. Christmas would have to go, as would many other items on her family's wish list. Christmas Present Her two youngest sons, Levi Stanley, 16, and T.J. Stanley, 12, stand, looking expectantly at the board games and toys spread out on the kitchen table. There's a radio-controlled train set and an acoustic guitar. A street hockey game and a camera. Two basketballs -- so the boys won't fight over them -- and a super soaker. With one thumb, Erikson pushes her daughter's phone number into her cell phone. Her hand is curled and looks like an open parenthesis. She slowly lifts the phone to her ear and waits for her daughter to answer. "Come over," Erikson said. "Santa's here." Erikson puts the phone on the table and smiles. Her daughter, Kim McNutt, will bring her son, Erikson's grandson, Dylan, with her. "I didn't know all of this would..." Erikson stopped talking. She looked from the piles of toys to Santa. "I don't know..." Sands put a hand on her shoulder. "We brought Santa with us. You've got him a little early." "I feel bad," Erikson said. "I stopped believing." At the time of her accident, Erikson was studying to become a medical assistant. She had lost her job at the start of the year and was busy trying to figure out where her career path would next take her. She said she liked the thought of helping people get better. Sands smiled at her and said, "I bet you will now." Christmas Future Believing in anything is difficult these days. Her hands, Erikson said, feel like they're asleep most of the time. Her legs tingle and feel, alternately, burning hot and freezing cold. While she feels less of the left side of her body, she is able to move it more than she can move the right side of her body. A recent round of physical therapy had her taking her first unassisted steps while standing in a swimming pool. Her insurance, though, requires pre-approval before she attends a physical therapy appointment. The ways it's been going for her, she said, for every two weeks of therapy she has, she must take three weeks off. "I'm not going to get better quick," she said. "I need rehab endlessly. I have to start from scratch each time." She's afraid of losing the ground she's slowly made. State Rep. Ted Speliotis has become involved and is attempting to make it possible for Erikson to have the number of therapy sessions she needs to allow her a chance to walk again. He said this week that he is hopeful to expedite the process to make it possible for her to have continuous coverage. Erikson said Sunday she is also hopeful, and with Santa standing in her house and her children gathered around her, maybe, just maybe, anything is possible. "What about you Wendy," Sands said. "What is it you want for Christmas?" Standing in her kitchen are members of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor's Fund, many of whom had never before met Erikson. "I just want to get up. I want to walk again," she said. "In a split second, things can change. Life's not perfect, but in my opinion, I will walk again, just because I want to walk again." December 19th - "Bikers Spread Holiday Cheer for Local Family" BIKERS SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER FOR LOCAL FAMILY SUSPEND BY-LAWS, DONATE TO PARALYZED RIDER (DANVERS, MA) Santa joined a contingent of Essex County motorcyclists from the recently established “Survivor’s Fund” spent last Sunday afternoon at the Danvers home of Wendy Erikson, delivering presents and donations of more than $3,500 to help the single mother of four, who was paralyzed last June in a freak accident in Topsfield. “This is what ‘Nelson’s Ride’ is supposed to be about,” said Christopher Cerino of Ipswich, “Riders helping riders.” “Nelson’s Ride” began in 2000 as an annual event to raise awareness for motorcycle safety and donate to the children of Nelson Selig, an Essex resident killed in a motorcycle accident. In 2004, the Selig family said ‘thank you’ to the event organizers, and asked them to begin helping other Essex County families of riders in similar need. The 5th annual “Nelson’s Ride and Concert” last August created an Essex County division of the Massachusetts Motorcyclists Survivor’s Fund (MMSF), and donated some funds to a family in Gloucester. But its By-laws stated funds raised should go to “families of riders killed in accidents.” On June 23rd, Erickson was riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle when it hit a patch of sand on the road and threw her forty feet, landing on her back and neck. Despite wearing a helmet, her neck was broken in four places, resulting in no movement of her arms and legs. Rehabilitation has been slow. George Sands of Salem, an avid, life long motorcyclists, contacted the Survivor’s Fund members asking them to send a donation to Erikson and her family. Board members first had to refuse, based upon the non-profit By-laws. “We all knew it was a lousy situation,” said Cerino, “and we all wanted to help but weren’t sure of the technicalities. George helped push us to find out how to get it done.” Cerino and Paul W. Cote of Amesbury, the MMSF President, sought advice. At the MMSF Board Meeting December 11th, with over 30 area riders lobbied the MMSF Board to donate to Erikson, the Board voted to ‘suspend’ its By-laws, and voted to donate $2,750 to the Erikson family. Another $800 was collected that night from riders present to donate. The MMSF also will begin discussing hosting an event in March or April specifically for the Erikson family, hoping to enlist friends of Wendy and others in the Danvers community to help her situation. “Nelson would be proud of these decisions,” said Jason Hallock of Gloucester, a long time friend of Nelson Selig and member of the MMSF Board. The Survivor’s Fund Board is now planning the 6th annual Nelson’s Ride for Sunday, August 28, 2005, and will co-host an “Iron Mermaid’s Ball” at Woodman’s in Essex on February 12th. For more information on the events, see www.MassMSF.org or www.Nelsonsride.org.

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