Here at D1W, a couple of names ring out as a display of the very essence of what makes ABATE more than just an illusion.  These two people represent the brotherhood/sisterhood of what makes ABATE work.  They live the tie that binds.  Naturally I am speaking of Bill and Linda Washburn, a couple of the founding members of District 1 West.  Yes, they were there in the beginning and have been steadfast, ever diligent, always conscious of the needs of their brothers/sisters, and always willing to utilize their tireless efforts for any task needed.  They epitomize the biker spirit.  My life and many others that I know are much more enriched by having known by this couple.

I guess that you guys are stuck with being a part of our lives from that first day until the end of time and many thanks to you both.

 If given the opportunity, you should see Linda dressed as a witch or taste her cooking.  As I have learned from these two, they just get better and better.  Ask them about their grandchildren and their eyes will sparkle until you will just about need shades!  This couple loves to ride, meet new people, and see new places.  They too feel that everyone has a story.  When first meeting this couple, you will immediately be taken back to a time of family, honesty, and honor.

 Bill has served his country with honor.  He and Linda have been an honor to their community serving in many capacities.  Linda has served as a director for local Ovarian Cancer Awareness and Research.  The list of their civic experiences reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ in North Georgia.  Bill and Linda have served as officers in D1W where they were instrumental in getting our group to today and many of our accomplishments would have not been possible without their guidance and support.

 Now, another adventure presents itself to the Washburn couple.  By the time of this printing, Bill and Linda will be retiring!  Yea buddy,,,,,,,,, no more punching the clock,,,,,,,,,,, Bill will be downsizing to just one boss,,,,,,,,, Linda (I know because I am married too)!  There you have it, a time for celebration; a time for great joy; and a time for excitement. 

 Here is the plan:  Bill and Linda have a very luxurious fifth wheel motor home and a late model Ford Dually and a late model Motorcycle.  These things are needful and they plan to add a trailer.  The not needful things are what will not fit into the needful things and therefore will be removed from possession.  You know things like house, furniture, automobile, some tools, mowers, appliances,,,,,,,, anything that will not fit into the needful things.  Yep, sell it, get ride of it, got to go!  Then tour the country side.  Set up somewhere and stay until the mood hits to move somewhere else.  Have a base camp and tour on the bike.  This is truly a dream that many of us have. 

 So, there you have it.  We are very proud that Bill and Linda have this terrific opportunity and are young enough to enjoy it.  On the other hand, we are saddened selfishly because we will not see them as regularly as we have become very accustomed.  This couple was always visiting when someone was ill or just needed their spirits lifted.  However, this is a two edged sword and now we have many other destinations to target on our rides when available.  I guarantee you that it is worth a long trip to share in this type of brotherhood.  Our thoughts, prayers, best wishes, and unyielding allegiance is there should the need arise.

 OK, OK, OK, it will be a couple of months before they take off on their big adventure.  Even though they will be retired and liquidating assets (not needful things), they will be in upper New York state somewhere near Niagara Falls where Bill will be helping to take care of his sister who is very ill.  See, still ever being honorable and loyal!  We love you guys.

   Is a ride to Niagara Falls considered an overnight bike trip?  Make a terrific Poker Run!

We meet the fourth Monday of each month at the Dari - Dip in Lafayette Ga. at 6pm. Come join us for dinner and see what we are all about.  We are a family  oriented group.

We are planning a trip to Washington D.C. in May 2010. if you would like to go or want more information visit our events page. Members go to the members page for motel info and contacts . 

We have reserved 17 rooms out of 18 so far.
If you haven't made your reservations yet, PLEASE make them ASAP so we can get an accurate count.
You can cancel your reservations 24 hrs. before the trip with no charge if something happens and you can't go.
Also, we have blocked out rooms for the first night stop in Roanoak. You will need to make your reservations for that room also. Go to the members page for that information as well . Don't forget to let Barry know when you reserve your room.

 Abate Dist. 1 West members if you have pictures or something of intrest you would like to have put on our Web Site send it to me or bring it to our next meeting.

If you have questions about an upcoming ride or event you can E-mail me at Eugenebell2000@yahoo.com 

As a service to other clubs and MRO's we will be glad to list you upcoming rides and events on our calendar. 

ATTENTION MEMBERS IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE PASSWORD FOR THE MEMBERS CONTACT PAGE.    E-MAIL ME.