GEORGIA EDITORIAL
August already? It really is true that the older you get the faster time seems to fly past. The recent passing of Harley-Davidson of Clayton County owner and many others makes me realize that you can’t let the time fly by without grasping the opportunity to take the time for your family and friends. We are a busy society but hopefully never too busy just to say “I love you” to those that mean the most to us. Believe me, my Dad reminds me quite often that I need to work to live not live to work.
The month of August is bringing us some great opportunities to live a little. The Cruisin Calendar is packed full with some great activities. We have teamed up with R&R Trikes, Bikes & Accessories in Jasper, GA for a bike show that will get the month started on August 1. This is a first time event that will give you a chance to ride the beautiful Burnt Mountain area.
August 4-9 the 32nd National Bikers Round Up will roll into Atlanta Motor Speedway. The event is expected to draw nearly 100,000 into Metro Atlanta for the weekend. Then on August 21-22 we make our way into Alabama for the Rumble on Noble. Friday we kick off the weekend at Mt. Cheaha Harley-Davidson and then on Saturday we close historic Noble Street for our 5th Motorcycle and Music Streetfest. Tons of vendors and lots of great music by Jasmine Cain, Todd Simpson, JB Walker’s Cheap Whiskey Band and GRIP will make this an incredible show.
We close out the month in the Alpine Village of Helen, GA for the Georgia State HOG Rally. This year’s rally will offer the best riding of any of the HOG rallies ever held in GA. We are really excited to again be part of the rally. You do not need to be a HOG member to enjoy the vendor village but I recommend that if you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle for you to join HOG so you can participate in the other scheduled activities.
Sorry but your not going to get off this month without a few political notes, some of which are related to ABATE activities in AL and GA. First, I have to recognize Fat Dog, our AL Editor, for the contributions he is making to getting the AL ABATE up and running. Along with some great volunteers and the services of Stover, Stewart and Philips law firm that are making great strides in getting things going.
ABATE of GA needs your membership. Funds are low and we are getting ready to enter the 2010 political season. Lobbying efforts have to start now. They cannot wait until the Legislature convenes. On top of that the GA ABATE State elections are coming up in September. Join, vote and make a difference in motorcycle rights in GA. ABATE has been crucial for GA motorcyclists for over thirty years and with new regulations constantly coming at us we need to make ABATE stronger to protect our freedom to ride.
Involvement is crucial at all levels of government. As I’m finishing this, I have been to a local City Council meeting about the upcoming Rumble on Noble. It’s amazing all that takes place just at the City level and that only grows more complex as you move through County, State and Federal levels. If citizens continue to sit idly by, these people will continue to make crucial decisions that impact our daily living. Make phone calls, write letters, send faxes or emails to your Representatives. If they don’t vote your way, vote them out.
Be careful out there. We hope to see you soon out on the road.