Rock the Vote!

by John Reblin

It has been an exciting run through the month of May. It seems that every day is something different to look at, decide on and move on to the next project. The cold rainy weather has made getting those inside projects done that were pushed off for other things. But I see the list growing of other things that need to get started.

We got through May is Motorcycle Awareness Month and I participated in a few awareness rallies. Thank you to all that put on, promoted or participated getting the word out to Look, Look and Look again for motorcycles. It is important to make sure drivers realize that we are on the road again, enjoying what Wisconsin has to offer on our favorite mode of transportation.

It is also important to make sure that you are ready to get on the road. That you have the skills to navigate that motorcycle safely in your lane in a controlled manner. As you start to age, take into the equation your health and ability to get around on your own two feet besides maneuvering that motorcycle in and out of the parking spot or roadway. The riding season is starting out good in regard to crashes being down this year compared to the last 5 years, and our goal is to reduce motorcycle crashes and fatalities.

Discussing our favorite “mode” we also had our Future of Motorcycling Summit on April 24^th, and although we did not have a lot of the riding public join us, the room was busy with members and club people. Steve Panten did a great job setting this up over the last couple months. He and Dave Dwyer explained what is going on in Wisconsin, the country, and the world and what we are facing in the future.

Its election time. Wait didn’t that just end last year? Are you kidding me, we just got through a season of ads of political candidates! Yes, the presidential mid-term elections are coming along with the state elections. Growing up I was not that interested in the political thing, but as I got older, I saw the importance of having my vote heard and the influence of those elected on taxes, costs of goods, and other issues. It appears that as a state and country we are pretty close to being split among voters, with every person running looking at the minority of undecided voter. It seems that the pendulum swings from one extreme to the other every term or two, and it will be interesting to see where it swings this time. Study the candidates and reach out, ask questions and look for answers that closely align with your beliefs. I want to make sure that the people I support understand how important motorcycles are to me. I also want them to know that the ability to use them as we have been able to, with good, safe fuel and the idea that I don’t need to worry about other traffic not “seeing me” ranks high on my list.

But it is also election time at ABATE of Wisconsin with District Directors running for board seats. Check out who is running and ask questions about their thoughts of how they represent you in this organization. Are they helping out, keeping you informed, attending meetings, looking for input on the decisions they make? All good questions. They are here to help you and the region or district succeed. There are a couple of open seats. We would love to see someone do a write-in campaign to help out in those areas. If no one steps up to fill these seats, we will appoint from the board members to assist with all the areas.

After the District Directors are elected, we move on to State Officers and the At-Large Board members to fill out the board. I am inviting anyone with an interest or passion to consider running for one of these positions. If you are a member, you have the interest in protecting our freedoms, so take the next step in having our voices heard. There is some work involved naturally, but the same as any other group, it is satisfying work and a feeling of camaraderie working as a group to succeed.

Just as important to having people willing to create the time to fulfill one of these positions, it is just as important to have you vote! It is important to use your “voice” and select the candidate whether on the federal, state, local level or within this organization. Hopefully you will do this.

Things are going well at the land to get it ready for another season of camping and fun. Land warming is over and thank you to all that came up to get the land ready for another season. Remember this is the members land, make sure you use it. The facilities are open for use, and we welcome the membership to use it. If you have any questions or concerns reach out to Worm. He is in charge of the land and is usually there on many weekends puttering about repairing or building something.

But more importantly, the Summer Hummer is right around the corner, and we are inviting you to attend a kick ass party. The Hummer committee has been working overtime to come up with some great entertainment along with vendors to satisfy your needs. Set up a tent, pull in your camper, or consider the local hotel as your sleeping area and come up and enjoy the fun, music and friendship. The weather is going to be great, and the fun will be unlimited.

Time to hit the ground running, enjoy the weather, get out and ride, promote ABATE of Wisconsin and let’s talk at the Summer Hummer. Summer is here finally, let’s enjoy it!

Remember, Ride your own ride!

John