ABATE of Michigan President ~ Gary Kopta

Hello everyone, 

 It looks like spring may have sprung. Hopefully you have your motorcycle ready to go. There are plenty of things to do this year. ABATE has Pizza and Pop, the Field Meet, the Freedom Rally and the Bike Raffle. You also have region meetings to attend to learn what's going on in the state. Look in the Michigan Rider to find the events and rides that other regions are putting on. You don't have to be a member to a certain region to attend their function. 

 In case you didn't notice, we have a new products team.

Kim and Bob MacLennan have stepped into the products department and are sorting through the items and plan to be up and running soon. They are asking for patience as they are getting things together the way they want to run it. Kim and Bob also have become Trustees along with Trish Shattuck and Lois Shock. Thank you to all that have stepped up to help out.

 I also want to thank Sally for doing the Products for 9 years. Products is a very difficult job for not alot of pay.

 Bear and the Legislative Committee have been working on our insurance bill (still) plus a few other things are in the works. More on that later.

 Sherri is in the process of getting the bike tickets out to all the members. You should receive some in the mail. Please buy them or sell them or send them back. These tickets help to pay for our lobbyist which is one of the main reasons we ride free in Michigan. Remember when you sell or buy your tickets your region gets credit on the rocker.

 I am hearing from regions that they are getting more members already.

That's great news. I know that my 50 x 50 program is going to be difficult to accomplish but I really believe that it can be done. If you see a motorcycle rider at the gas station ask them if they are an ABATE member. You should always carry a membership form with you to hand out. 

 I believe that the next big event will be Pizza and Pop. It is scheduled for May 13. The Pizza and Pop event is a big one. It's the only event that you can actually sit one on one with your own elected official and eat a piece of pizza and talk about our issues. I know for a fact that everyone at the Capitol looks forward to this event. 

 Hope to see you there, ride safe we need you all!