A Better-Looking Year Ahead

by Bill Roberge

We are in the process of changing the computer system that we use to manage membership information. This new system will allow me to have access to all membership information from home or anywhere that has internet access. I will be able to send information to regional reps, such as current and expired members lists, by email. You won’t have to wait for the post office.

I was concerned at first about security and privacy of our member’s information. Now that I have started working with the program, I no longer have this concern. In all areas, whether they be in membership, finance, or any other area we choose to use, only those with clearance will have access to our data. You will still receive a notice to remind you to pay your dues. You will be able to pay online with the new system and will also be able to select automatic renewal and have your credit card or debit card on file pay your dues each year. Just to make it very clear, you can still renew and sign-up new members the way we have always done it by filling out the membership application in the tri fold or newsletter and then paying with check or in some cases with cash. You can send it in, or hand it to me when you see me at a meeting or event. We are not changing anything, just giving you more options to choose from. As with any new system I’m sure there will be a few bugs to work out so bear with us, but so far it seems to be going pretty well. The system we are using is called Wild Apricot.  I’m not sure where these computer programmers come up with these names, but I’m sure they must have a reason.

At least things are looking better for 2021 than they did last year. We have some good things coming up, Officer’s Training, the Heartland S.T.E.A.M. Conference, the Summer Hummer and of course, spring. Remember, as a member of ABATE the more you participate in things, the better we will do as an organization. Let’s have a lot of fun this year and make some money to support our main purpose of Legislation, Safety and Education.

As the weather starts to get warmer and we get out more, don’t forget to tell other bikers about ABATE and what we have to offer. Be sure to thank and support all of the businesses that give us so much support during the year.

We have many challenges to face in the years to come. We must keep our freedom to be on the road riding and the only way we can do that is by staying strong by growing our membership numbers. Numbers count.

Bill