From a press release issued by the AMA:

AMA PRESENTS FIRST ‘MOTORCYCLING ADVOCATE AWARD’ TO UMBENHAUER

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has honored Charles Umbenhauer, ABATE of Pennsylvania’s state lobbyist, with the first AMA Motorcycling Advocate Award, for his untiring efforts in the fight to protect motorcyclists’ rights. The award was presented by AMA Board of Directors Chairman Rick Gray on January 24, 2004, at ABATE of Pennsylvania’s annual Leadership and Legislative Seminar in Harrisburg.

The AMA Motorcycling Advocate Award, the Association’s top honor for government-relations activities, was created to recognize AMA members who work as advocates before lawmakers and government officials, to promote motorcycling and protect its future.

Umbenhauer, a 22-year AMA member, has been the state lobbyist for ABATE of Pennsylvania for more than two years. He previously served as the
organization’s state legislative coordinator for 14 years, and has been active in fighting for motorcyclists’ rights since 1980. In 1986 he
founded ABATE of Pennsylvania’s BIKEPAC, the nation’s first motorcycling-related political action committee.

“Charlie Umbenhauer represents the most positive aspects of advocacy for motorcyclists,” said AMA Chairman Gray. “His interests are not
single-focused. Rather, they encompass everything from mandatory helmet laws to insurance issues and toll reductions. He has never burned political bridges by being partisan or offensive on a single issue; understanding that in the future, today’s opponent is tomorrow’s friend. He has respect from all with whom he has dealt. Motorcyclists are lucky to have him as our representative.”

AMA President Robert Rasor noted that it was particularly appropriate for Umbenhauer to be the first recipient of this award. “Individual
involvement and perseverance are the keys to success for motorcycling advocates. Charlie’s many years of commitment, unselfish involvement and dogged determination make him the ‘poster boy’ for all motorcycling advocates.”

Umbenhauer said he was surprised to receive the award, and honored not only because it was presented during ABATE of Pennsylvania’s 19th annual Leadership and Legislative Seminar, but also because it was presented by Rick Gray, a longtime friend.

“A lot of people have asked me, ‘What in the world keeps you going?'” Umbenhauer added. “It’s the love of motorcycling, and the fact that
we’ve been able to make a difference.”