Get Those Posters Out There

by Betty Roberge

Posters are done and were distributed at Officer’s Training last month. We have the main Summer Hummer event poster and also have a “Taste of Summer” poster. Extra copies are available through the office by calling Marie, or let me know and I will be sure your needs are filled. In addition to the posters, we have small Hummer business cards that will fit in anyone’s pocket. This is a great way to get the word out because you can hand them out wherever you are and they can be “pocketed” for future reference. On our side of the state we have a spring Flood Run along the Mississippi from La Crosse to the Twin Cities. That is my great opportunity to hand these out, so if you happen to be at any biker events between now and the Hummer, keep these on hand. Like we’ve always said word of mouth is our best friend right now. Thank you to our Hummer sponsors. Without these businesses and people our event would not be as successful as it is. We exceeded what was raised last year and that is definitely a good thing! Be sure to thank them when you see them.

This year’s sponsors include: Hupy and Abraham, Modern Disposal Systems, Harley Davidson of Madison, Magneto’s MC, Craft Masonry, Inc., Husch Blackwell Strategies, Suburban Motors, State Bank of Chilton, Elkhorn Saloon, Roadhouse-Neceedah, Road Track and Trail, Roger “Bug” Woodke, Sunset Tavern, Beedle’s Bar & Restaurant, Club La Mark, Cousins Subs, Gaier Construction, Julie & “Worm” Grasse, The Highground,

Jo & Mike Halvorson, Jensen’s Towing, Moraine Motel, Ray Ray’s Bottom’s Up Bar, Region 4C, Rooster’s Roadhouse, Smiling Moose Saloon & Grill, and Danny & Dawn Stoddard.

One way to attract members to the Hummer is to invite them to come and see the new Pavilion. Membership has worked very hard at fundraising to get this building built and paid for and they should be anxious to get a look and see the asset that it is for us. Remember that we are still short on 100% paying off the building, so keep your fundraising hats on for another few months and let’s git ‘r done. Another way the committee has thought of in attracting some new people is to give away two free tickets to members who’ve never been to the Hummer before. How are we going to do this? We have given 2 complimentary tickets to the Regional Reps of each active region. They have the authority to distribute them to members that have never been at the Hummer before. If you are reading this and haven’t been to this event, go to your regional meeting and find out how you can qualify.

Day Passes. This year ABATE is offering day passes EACH DAY to anyone who wants to come up for one day only. The cost of a day pass is $30. Day pass attendees will have an exclusive parking area by the gate house and must leave by the end of each day. If you come for one day and decide to stay for two, you will have to buy another day pass for the second day at an additional $30.

Advance Tickets are available for purchase now on Wild Apricot. Be sure to take advantage and save yourself a little cash. There is also an order form on page 10 of the newsletter if you are not inclined to purchase tickets on line.

Entertainment is wrapped up and is as follows: Thursday night-Gregg Hall and the Wrecking Ball. Gregg says if the house is rockin’ they will keep playing…..so let’s make some noise! Friday early evening has Sammy Ray Marshall followed by The Eliminators, a ZZ Top cover band. Saturday afternoon during the “Taste of Summer at the Hummer” will again feature guitarist Gregg Hall. Gregg was extremely popular last year during the taste and is a perfect fit for our group. Then on Saturday night we will feature the Zac Matthews band who’s tunes will be more of a country/rock genre.

Just a reminder that our vendor coordinators are always looking for new vendors. If you know of someone that would work for our rally, be sure to forward that info to Lauri Shakal (715) 306-0048, Betsy Jennings (715) 533-8085, or Kay Johnson (715) 512-0062 so they can contact the vendor and get them set up.

If you haven’t heard yet, Bar Stool Racing is BACK! This has always been a favorite part of the Summer Hummer. We had an inquiry from a member last month asking what the rules for racing are. Well, they are very laid back. Anyone can join in with their own stool. Check in with Worm and he will point you in the right direction.
Not only is bar stool racing back, but so is Beer Bobbing and a Tattoo Contest. And new this year is a Pin-Up Girl opportunity. Ladies will have the chance to “pose” with bikes in the bike show and have their pics taken for a small fee. Details are still being worked out but be sure to order your fishnet stockings girls.

In addition to Bar Stool racing, we are adding a Bean Bag Tournament, both individual and team. Start practicing your arc, so you can get it in the hole! Shannon Kayhart is in charge of that activity. Contact him to sign up yourself or your team when we get closer to June. Entry fees will be posted in future Hummer newsletter articles.

Start thinking of where your talents lie and consider working a shift or two next June. It’s a great way to meet people and cultivate life-long friendships. Take it from someone who knows. Volunteer by contacting the people below.

Bar Area Leads: Brad Shakal (725) 306-0105 or Jay Goecks (715) 315-0070

Bike Show Lead: Gary Krueger (920) 994-4638

First Aid Lead: Chrissy Cartwright (608) 354-9265

Gate Lead: Bill Roberge (608) 769-5337

Grounds Lead: Robert “Worm” Grasse (920) 912-1789

Security Lead: Danny Stoddard (920) 217-3639

Taste of Summer Lead: Dawn Stoddard (920) 639-5037

Treasury Lead: Laurie Thompson (424) 940-5883

Vendor Leads: Lauri Shakal (715) 306-0048 Betsy Jennings (715) 533-8085 or

Kay Johnson (715) 512-0062

So, to recap – Hang up those posters and spread the word. It’s starting to get real.

As always, forward any and all Hummer ideas, comments – good or bad – and suggestions to:

“Worm” at Robert.grasse59@gmail.com or to Betty at news30letter@outlook.com

SEE YOU IN JUNE 2023!