04/02/08

I am proud to say I was reelected by unanimous vote at the March BOD. I know this does not mean everyone agrees with me, but that they have enough confidence in what I'm doing. Also elected were Bette Stewart as our new Corporate Secretary and Johann Forbus as Sgt of Arms.

Since my last report we have been busy with our Helmet Choice Bill. Since the untimely passing of Mike Hays, our Legislative rep, the duties of lobbyist have fallen to me and Scott McColpin of  Tennessee Valley Charter. We have been busy going back and forth to Nashville. Also helping us with ideas and support is Carol Simpson. The legislative report on the web site has information on our legislative effort.

We have two new Charters - Iron Mules, with Director Donna Riddle and Northwest, with Director Donnie Wayland. Our membership is growing and our treasury is doing well, too. We are united in working together to promote CMT/ABATE to the public and potential members. We have events coming up - the swap meet on April 19 in Nashville, and on April 26, the new Northwest charter has an event.  So does Northeast.

I attended an event with Jack Jones from Nashville, held in Crossville TN. They have officially started the 1st annual Welcome Home for Vietnam Veterans. Twenty six other states have so far picked up on this. It occurs on March 29 each year, which is the anniversary of the last troops leaving Vietnam 35 years ago. This is long overdue and the fact it has taken this long is Unforgivable.  There were speeches, vendors, music, a Native American drum circle, and much needed healing and comradeship. In December, at the events portion of the BOD, I will ask that we keep this weekend open, and organize a ride from across the state to this two day event. So in closing, I simply want to say: