Summer Hummer Report

by Betty Roberge

2023 Sponsorship. We are still soliciting sponsors for the 2023 event. I cannot tell you how important this aspect of the Summer Hummer is to our organization. Some sponsorship applications have come in, but we are at about 28% of last year’s total and I know we can do more. I know we can achieve a total that is better than last year. Please reach out to businesses in your area that you think would be a good fit for us and approach them about becoming a Hummer Sponsor. Most of you have worked with dealerships and / or repair shops that might consider supporting us and getting some darn good advertising at the same time. Remember that sponsors will be advertised on our printed posters, flyers, schedule of events in addition to being mentioned on our Hummer page on the website and being mentioned on our social media outlets. Complimentary Summer Hummer tickets are also included in some levels of sponsorships. Also remember that the committee is asking each region to solicit a $500 outside sponsor from the area of the state that the region covers.

Krissy Bowe is doing an awesome job getting advertising out on ABATE social media platforms and really ramps up our advertising the closer we get to the event. Remember that sponsorship applications and fees need to be sent to Laurie Thompson by January 1st to be included on our posters which we print in January for February distribution. Let’s do our part and reach our 2023 Hummer goals!

Speaking of advertising…the best form of advertising we have is word of mouth. Please include the Summer Hummer as a topic at every meeting you hold and bring a group of members with you when you come in June. The Hummer committee has always said that if we could get at least 25% of our own members there we would be very successful. Honestly, I think we could do better than 25%. If we reach that goal and throw in a few members from outside of our organization well, that would be the WOW factor for us.

This year we are 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.

Entertainment

is in the process of being decided upon. We have filled the slot for Friday night with the Eliminators, a ZZ Top cover band. Saturday afternoon during the “Taste of Summer at the Hummer” will feature guitarist Gregg Hall. More band will be announced in future articles as contracts are signed and slots are scheduled.

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.

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 – our main focus right now is – sponsors – and vendors. If you have ideas, let us know.

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!