Let’s Keep the Ball Rolling

by Bill Roberge

The Flood Run along the Mississippi River is an annual fundraising event. Bikers from around the country participate and ride the flood run route to raise money for Gillette Children’s home in St. Paul, MN.

This ride started in 1965. 12 bikers rode 90 miles south to Winona, MN to help sandbag during the 1965 flood. Most of the original 12 spent the next several years in Vietnam, but all were back home by 1970. They decided to carry on the tradition. Him Noteboom named the ride the “Flood Run.”

I am pleased to report that Region 7C, with the help of a few members of Region 7D, had a presence at this year’s Flood Run. The turnout this year was a bit low, I think due to the expected thunderstorm prediction. Several bikers were interested in us and what we do and took applications with them to fill out and return. There were a large presence of club members that rode in and I am very pleased to say that many of them stopped by our table to say thank you for what we do. It is clear that they know who we are and that we are fighting for all motorcyclists and not just ABATE members.

I can’t stress enough the importance of taking part in activities in your own communities. It doesn’t matter if it is a large or small event. Just show up, wear your ABATE gear, and help where you can. Be sure to tell people who we are and what we do. I know many of you already attend these kinds of community/biker events to set up informational booths and I thank you for your efforts. This is how we gain members.

I want to give a shout out to Region 4A who recently sent in 24 memberships totaling $1,475. Six were new members and the rest were renewals. Great Job Region 4A. It looks like they got theirs! And Region 3A has made it their goal to double their regional membership this year. Let’s keep the ball rolling. Don’t forget to get yours. If you each find one member this year, we will be twice as strong as we are now. Everyone can get one.

Thanks for all you do on an individual or regional level. I am proud to be part of this fight for freedom.

Ride Safe, Ride Free, Ride with ABATE.

Bill