The Spark is Still Alive

by Bill Roberge

I recently returned from the Family Campout at ABATE Acres. What a great time. When I got home and started to think about the things I saw, I realized that we are not the last generation that loves our way of life. I saw kids of all ages and all backgrounds having fun and taking care of each other. In no other setting would I have let my grandson take off with a bunch of kids I have never seen before. There were four wheelers, two wheelers, and a gator running from sunup to sundown. The spark is still alive. My grandson fell asleep with half a bowl of ice cream in his hands at movie night. Why is this story important? It proves to me that there is still a generator of kids out there that has our values and share our wish to be free. We need to find them and encourage them to think for themselves. To enjoy and respect freedom, as we do. The only way to do that is through the parents. So again, we are back to the same thing as always, get new members. We also need to continue our efforts to include the family in some of our activities. This will attract the younger members we are looking for. We also need to respect and include the people that got us to where we are. From what I saw at the Family Campout, old and young work very well together.

I think it’s very important for our members to attend and participate in as many ABATE activities and events as possible. I want to thank everyone that made the Family Campout the success that it was. I’m already looking forward to next year.

It’s also important for us to make our presence known in community events. We should be participating in as many local activities as we can. When you have something in your area you can help with, ask to be involved. Wear you ABATE clothing with pride. Thanks to the efforts of our products people over the years, we have the best clothing line in the motorcycling community.

We will be voting on some by-laws at the annual meeting in October. The changes are listed in the newsletter so be sure to look them over. For a by-law change you need to cast your ballot in person. If you see something you don’t agree with, show up and use your power to vote.

Again, don’t forget to get out and talk to people. Tell them about ABATE, the issues we face as motorcyclists, and encourage them to join in order to help preserve our way of life.

By the Way – Did you get yours? – I got mine.

Ride Safe, Ride Free, Ride with ABATE.

Bill