ABATE, North Dakota's motorcycle advocacy group and sponsor of the state's motorcycle safety program, is holding its annual state convention on Saturday.

Several speakers are slated for Saturday afternoon's event, which is being held at Bismarck's Ramkota starting at 1 p.m., according to ABATE marketing-promotions director Janet Frost.

North Dakota's motorcycle safety program director Michael Jay will provide an update on last year's activities and what can be expected in 2007. Sen. Tracy Potter, D-Bismarck, will give an update on the current legislative session and any impacts on ABATE and the state's motorcycle riders.

The keynote speaker is Glen Widup, motorcycle rider, coach and trainer for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and field supervisor for the Wyoming safety program.

ABATE of Montana member Linda Baldwin will explain an attempt in her state to mandate the wearing of helmets when riding and how it was defeated.

Finally, the International Peace Garden's Aggie Beuhler will give a report on the second annual ABATE of N.D. International Peace Garden Rally scheduled for June 29 through July 1.

There are about 2,000 ABATE members in district groups across the state.

The North Dakota Motorcycle Safety Program is now accepting applications for its classes designed for beginners and experienced riders.

The basic course has a charge of $50 and upon successful completion will qualify a rider for a state license. The class for experienced riders is $40.

There is still plenty of room in both, according to Frost, but it's best to get applications as soon as possible. These can be downloaded from the Motorcycle Safety Program Internet Web site at http://ndmsp.com.

The convention will conclude with a dance Saturday evening with the local group Taterz performing at 8 p.m. at the Ramkota. General public admission is $5 per person while ABATE members are charged $3 per person or $5 a couple.

(Reach reporter Gordon Weixel at 250-8255 or gordon.weixel@;bismarcktribune.com.)