 Hello,
We are coming into November and the riding season is quickly coming to an end. There will still be days that we can ride but until spring shines on us again those days could be few. November is also a time to honor our Veteran’s. To all of you that have served or have a loved one that has served, you have Kandie and my undying gratitude. November 11, Veteran’s Day, is intended to thank our living veteran’s for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to the United States national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who have served, not only those who have died, have sacrificed and done their duty. Have you ever considered where we would be with out the sacrifice these individuals have made? We live in a country that honor’s God and that cherishes freedom.
Where else can you freely question our leaders with out the worry about our government penalizing you? I would encourage all of our United States citizens to exercise their right to do just that. With out this right we run the risk of a dictatorship. Along with these Freedom’s we also need to act responsibly. Attack on our leader’s character is not justifiable means to correct short comings you see. Now you may ask then how do I hope to effectively correct issues. You do this by working within our system. I hear so often that “our government” is the problem. Our Government is you and I. Get involved. I don’t expect you to run for office unless you feel a calling to do so. I do feel it is our responsibility though to let our leaders know how we feel on issues. Responsible individuals not only identify issues but provide a couple positive solutions to be considered by all members at the appropriate times. Also remember that we are a Democratic Society and we are operating by a majority vote of our peers.
GWTA has grown to mean two very important thing to me, Family &Friendship. It has always been my goal as your State Director to serve you, the member. Nebraska GWTA is a very vital part of our National GWTA and I believe that we, Nebraska GWTA, is the strongest state in the GWTA nation. Why are we so strong? Our strength lies in our members values. Most people would refer to our values as mid western values. We are always there to help a friend in need. Our compassion is unequaled. Our work ethic can not be matched. Our sense of responsibility is unwavering. I do not take all this lightly, we have a responsibility to our selves and to the rest of GWTA as members of this organization to speak up and make sure our leaders hear our views. I have had many conversations with others concerning how tolerant we have become in an effort to become politically correct. Yes we do need to be tolerant of other ideals as we are all different and all bring something different to the table. What we have some how failed to remember is we can be tolerant and explore different thinking with out jeopardizing our own ideals. There is nothing wrong with disagreeing on an issue. We should never have to compromise our believes to accommodate the believes of another person or group.
Chapter elections are going on in several of our chapters now. I want to thank all of you that have served on the State Staff as a Chapter Director or as a State Officer. Your work is very much appreciated. I have been an officer in my chapter and it was one of the most rewarding activities I have done. By becoming an officer in your chapter you show a commitment to those in your chapter that you want to become more involved and to help. Take the time to thank those that have served in your chapter, with out their help and support can you imagine what your chapter would be like, or would it even exist? I also need to thank those that have run for office in the chapters. We will have several new Chapter Directors this year and all of them have run for office because of where they see GWTA going and they want to help lead in that direction.
Kandie and I have been your Nebraska State Director for two years now. We have had a wonderful time being your representative. I have always tried to represent all of you and to serve your needs. I know that at times I have disappointed some of you and I offer my apologies for that. This had been a very humbling experience and at times I have wondered if I am truly the right one to be your representative. Kandie and I have had a lot of your support and help and we can not thank you enough. I have given this considerable thought and I believe this is the position for me to hold right now to serve Nebraska GWTA the best. Kandie and I do plan on remaining as your State Director for the next year. I again would like to thank all of you for your support and your help.
Kandie and I both wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving.
Rick & Kandie Hinrichs
Gold Wing Touring Association
Nebraska State Director’s
E-Mail Rick
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