ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
June 2016 Volume XL Issue VI

Next Chapter Meeting Sunday, June 19th @ Six Bends Harley Davidson at 10:30 a.m.

Members John and Fran Lupo

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

The only Motorcyclists Rights Organization in the State of Florida
Legislative News MSAP Instructors Community Service
ABATE: American Bikers Aimed Towards Education
We lobby and educate the Government and the general public to promote motorcycling in a safe and positive image.
ABATE of Florida, Inc. 2010 ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter. All rights reserved. ABATE of Florida, Inc.
and the Southwest Chapter do not condone drinking while riding or driving.
1

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

MISSION STATEMENT
We are a non-profit organization of
motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life.
We lobby and educate the government and the
general public to promote motorcycling in a
safe and positive image. We endeavor to enlist
the cooperation and participation of all
organizations and individuals that share a
similar interest in preserving our American
tradition of FREEDOM. We promote
motorcycle safety, training and political
awareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB OR
GANG. We fund our work through toy runs,
poker runs, campouts and other motorcycle
activities. We are your neighbors and friends
who work, pay taxes and get involved with our
community. We serve and support our country
and believe in freedom. We use all legal means
to protect our rights without infringing on the
rights of others.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING:

SUNDAY, JUNE 19TH @ 10:30 a.m.
at SIX BENDS HARLEY DAVIDSON
9501 Thunder Road
Fort Myers, FL 33913

MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE,

NEW ADVERTISERS AND/OR AD
CHANGE DEADLINE:
20th of the month for editorial and Board
approval

IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT
OUR GOALS
To become a powerful and viable political
force in legislative matters concerning the
motorcyclist;
To promote safe riding habits without
infringing on individual freedoms;
To motivate bikers to write letters to their
legislators before, during and after the
legislative session; and
To furnish our members with a newsletter to
keep all bikers informed in regard to upcoming
legislation.

Southwest Chapter Newsletter

Issue date: June 2016
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
PO Box 60745
Fort Myers, FL 33906
www.southwest.abateflorida.com

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of ABATE of Florida, Inc. and/or the
Southwest Chapter. The publication allows members to express their beliefs and opinions. ABATE of Florida, Inc., and the
Southwest Chapter accept no responsibility for the comments, opinions, or views contained in this newsletter.
Please direct correspondence in reference to this publication to: Heidi Szolga, Southwest Chapter, P.O. Box 60745, Fort
Myers, FL 33906-6745 or email at abateswc@yahoo.com.
Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes.

ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest Chapter

EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745
www.southwest.abateflorida.com

Presidents Message:

President: Moe Moser

ironcitysupplyco@yahoo.com / 412-999-3397
Vice President: Frankie Kennedy
Swchief2000@yahoo.com / 239-693-7035
Secretary: Gwynne Hickman
Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
Treasurer: Heidi Szolga
love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
Sergeant-At-Arms: Robb Rabell
thesawguide@yahoo.com / 239-458-3136
Membership Trustee: Charlie Fisher
cfisher1032@comcast.net / 239-772-3972
Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman
Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
Legislative Representative: Frankie Kennedy
Swchief2000@yahoo.com / 239-693-7035
Safety Director: Ed Lufkin
Ed@southwestchapter.com / 508-685-9220
Newsletter: Heidi Szolga
love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
Webmasters: Taylor Musburger
ABATE@musburger.net / 360-298-1921 and
Ed Lufkin, Ed@southwestchapter.com /
508-685-9220
Chapter Chaplain: Tom Provenzano
tprovenz@comcast.net
Products:
Chapter Rep: Moe Moser
Chapter Rep: Carl Nelson

Hello Southwest ABATE.

This is a reminder that our June 19 (Sunday)
Chapter meeting will be held at 10:30 am at Six
Bends H-D. We will hold an election to determine
our 2016/2017 chapter Executive Board. The
good news is that we will allow write-in
candidates the day of the election. This means that
if you have a last-minute burst of desire to serve
your Chapter for a year, you will have the
opportunity to declare yourself a candidate for
office. So, dont be shy- throw your hat into the
ring and let the cards fall where they may. Hows
that for a mixed metaphor?
The Southwest Florida Meeting of the Minds is
sponsoring the Saving LIveZ Ride on Sunday,
June 5. This is a no-cost ride that is intended to
raise awareness of the number of motorcycles on
the road in our area and of the need for everyone
to be more alert and less distracted. A party at
Fritzs Garage will follow. Please check the
Facebook page for details.
As the heat of summer rolls into Southwest
Florida, remember to drink lots of water while
youre out riding. Becoming dehydrated or
overheated will diminish your riding skills and
could put you in danger. Please be careful!
Ride safe- ride free, Moe

HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE

RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (MRO)
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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC./SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

GENERAL MEETING
Six Bends Harley-Davidson, Fort Myers on May 15th, 2016
Meeting called to order at 11:32 a.m.
Sergeant at Arms - Pledge of Allegiance and moment of
silence. There are 19 members present including 5 Board
members. Welcome, visitors, thank you for coming, and
welcome back Gator, a Life Member.
President's Report:
Our Vice President, Frankie, will be reporting the legislative
issues in the newsletter.
Moe call Congressman Clemens' office, the one who we
have been told by State that he hates motorcyclists and wants
to make wearing helmets mandatory again. He was not able
to speak with the Congressman, however his assistant said
she had not heard that he wants to bring the issue up, she had
not heard him talk about it.
Secretary's Report:
Motion was made by Carl Nelson to approve the April 17,
2016 minutes, seconded by John Lupo. Motion carried.
Treasurer's Report:
Heidi read the beginning and ending balance of our
account. The money that was deposited was from
memberships and donations at Bike Night. Our expenses
were for the newsletter, annual post office box rental and
money our chapter donated to the State that had
previously been approved by our chapter. She welcomed
everyone to look over the report if they wish at the end of the
meeting. Motion to approve made by Gwynne Hickman,
seconded by Bill Gross. Motion carried.
Membership Report:
Heidi reported we have 4 new life members and 4 annual
renewals. Two of the Life members were previously AtLarge members and one of the Life members was a prior
annual member.
Sergeant At Arms:
No Report
Old Business:
Moe asked everyone to purchase an advance ticket today for
the State party in October. Even if you can't attend, this is a
fund-raiser to keep ABATE viable because if the State office
cannot afford to stay open, all chapters will close as
well. The party is being hosted by 5 chapters, basically the
old 5-Star - Southwest, Peace River, Gator Alley, West Coast
and Estero. We are hoping for a really good turn-out at the
Peace River Campground. He also is selling tickets for the
gun raffle drawing, which will be in December. You must be
18 or older to purchase either of these tickets. The next
Planning Committee meeting will be June 12th at noon at the
Peace River Campground.
Voting was held regarding the proposed By-Law
amendments, whichever one succeeds will be in effect for a
minimum of 2 years. Moe read the 4 proposals and each
were voted on in turn; Proposal #1 - 2 in favor, all others
opposed; Proposal #2 - 13 in favor, 1 opposed; Proposal #3 1 in favor, all other opposed; Proposal #4 - 3 in favor, all
others opposed. Proposal #2 - "Annual dues remain at $20

and Life Membership remains at $150, with all money going to the
State and none to the Chapter" is favored by our Chapter and the
delegates will vote accordingly at the State Meeting. At this time,
the option to keep the dues the way they are now is not
available. Depending on how the State runs the voting at the State
meeting will determine if that will be an option.
Discussion was held on the proposal from Southernmost Chapter
that each chapter pay $850 per year to the State to cover the cost of
the insurance policy. This fee could be paid either monthly or
annually. Upon payment of the $850, the chapter would receive a
$650 credit towards event insurance for stationary events, not
parades. Right now, event insurance is $150 each, so the chapter
could hold 4 events without incurring additional insurance costs. A
vote was taken and zero were in favor, all were
opposed. Southwest Chapter opposes this proposal.
State Lobbyist: We are all aware that ABATE's State President is
also our paid lobbyist, currently receiving $50,000 per year and his
contract expires in October. Doc submitted a proposal for another
2 year contract for $36,000 per year, a reduction of $14,000/yr. No
other lobbyist proposals were submitted. Robb Rabell reported he
was not able to speak to Representative Dane Eagle to verify Doc's
claims regarding his lobbying efforts. A vote was taken to approve
Doc's proposed contract. Zero were in favor, all opposed.
Discussion was held as to what would happen if the lobbyist
contract gets voted down. There are several possibilities, again, it
depends on how the State handles the voting. Southwest Chapter
will vote NO to Doc's proposal at the State meeting.
There is an additional $2.50 fee that we pay with our motorcycle
registrations that is intended to go to motorcycle groups for safety
purposes. This line item in the State budget was approved by the
House and Senate, but Governor Scott vetoed it once again and
those funds will go into the State's General Fund. Thanks a lot
Governor!
Robb Rabell and Carl Nelson will set up the tent at Six Bends' next
Battle of the Bands. It was noted that we receive free storage at A1 Storage Shelters in exchange for advertising. Thank you Trudy
Rabell!
Due to Moe and Heidi being out of town, Carl and Frankie will be
the delegates at the June State meeting.
Gwynne will attempt to invite Senator Lizbeth Benacquisto to our
June Chapter meeting.
Darrin Brooks has asked for a sponsor to pay for the State
Legislative Report, which costs the State $1,200 per
year. Discussion was held and a motion was made by Gator (Don
Meredith) to send support in the amount of $100 to the State,
seconded by John Lupo. Motion carried.
The question was asked what are State's expenses? The most
expensive items are $20,000 for insurance, $50,000 for the lobbyist
and $1,200 for the Legislative Report.
Nominations are still open for the Executive Board of Directors
positions and the floor was turned over to Frankie Kennedy to
reopen and confirm the nominations. He noted that write-in
nominations can also be accepted the day of the voting in
4

June. Nominations are as follows: President: Rob Cram

(Big Bird) and Rob Rabell - Rob Cran withdrew his
nomination and Rob Rabell still accepts. Vice-President:
Moe Moser still accepts the nomination, there were no
others. Secretary: Gwynne Hickman still accepts the
nomination, there were no others. Treasurer: Heidi Szolga
accepted the nomination, Rob Cran declined. There were no
others.
The other positions will be appointees after the new Board is
installed.

The nominations are Rob Rabell for President, Moe Moser for
Vice-President, Gwynne Hickman for Secretary and Heidi Szolga
for Treasurer. Nominations are closed.
Good of the Order:
Doug Sepanak congratulated Gwynne on her retirement from the
City of Cape Coral.
Time and place of next meeting:
10:30 a.m. June 19th at Six Bends Harley
Motion to Adjourn made by Carl Nelson, seconded by
Gator, Meeting adjourned.

Meet the Members

Name: John Lupo
ABATE member for 3 years
Employer: Retired Postal
Riding motorcycles for 4
years
Favorite food: Pizza
Favorite movie: Spaceballs
Favorite song: My Way
Three things youll always
find in my fridge: Cold
Cuts, Wine, Pickles
Person (alive or not) Id
most like to have dinner
with: Dalai Llama
People might be surprised to
know that I play guitar.

Name: Fran Lupo

ABATE member for 2 years
Employer: U.S. Post Office
Riding motorcycles for 4 years
Favorite food: Steak
Favorite movie: Moonstruck
Favorite song: Angry
American
Three things youll always find
in my fridge: Cold Cuts, Wine,
Pickles
Person (alive or not) Id most
like to have dinner with:
Donald Trump
People might be surprised to
know that I do crafts.

If you would like to be on the cover of an upcoming newsletter, submit your favorite picture of you and
your bike along with answers to the profile questions. A random drawing will choose our next
cover girl (or boy). Email all information to abateswc@yahoo.com.

Membership Report:
For the month of May we had 2 New Members and 1 Renewal
Memberships that will expire at the end of June are: Bill Gross. Please remember to renew. You can fill out
the membership form on Page 19 of this Newsletter and mail it to ABATE Southwest Chapter, PO Box 60745,
Fort Myers, FL 33906 along with cash or check for $20 annual or $150 life payable to Southwest Chapter or
come to our next Chapter Meeting on Sunday, June 19th, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at Six Bends Harley-Davidson or
come to the Battle of the Bands at Six-Bends Harley Davidson on Friday, June 24th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Each member should make an effort to sign up at least new one member per year we can double our
membership that way!
Safe riding everyone,
Charlie Fisher
Membership Trustee
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SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS

Kim Adair
Keith Baker
Bill Barber
Darrell Barnett
Denee Bartels
Karl Bartling
Karl Bartling, III
James Bogenrieder
Scott Blink
Chet Budz
James Burkholder
Nora Burkholder
Don Campbell
Ellen Campson
Frances Cazes
Wayne Cerra
Jonathan Conant
Terry Covington
Audrey Cran
Rick Cran
Rob Cran
Robert Cruz Crusan
Jim Crystal
Dan Curry
John DAgostino
Kim DAgostino
Biffle Davis
Lynne Davis
Mary Dicenzo-Porter
Al Diagiaco
Frank Disomma
Cindy Doak
Randy Eck
Marius Espeleta
Jeffery Fielder
Harry Foster
Leather Foster
Brian Galvin

Sonny Gartrell
Steven Goldstein
Lynnda Gray
Larry Gullin
Bob Hall
Hans Holberg
Rodney Hollingsworth
Misti Hollingsworth
Harry Hoover
Jeff Hoover
Jonathan Hunt
George Huttman
Susan Red Huttman
Dan Jackson
Cindy C.J. Jordan
Frankie Kennedy
Ed LaCombe
Richard Leon
Julio Lopez
Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez
KD Marlowe
Don Meredith Jr.
Kenneth Miller
John Mitchell
Jay Monttetit
Moe Moser
Taylor Musburger
Carl Nelson
Steve Newton
Tami Newton
Terry Padilla
Bob Penn
Asuncsion Peppers
Richard Peppers
Kathleen Provenzano
Rev. Thomas Provenzano
Frank E. Rhorer
Bill Robinson
Janet Rolfe

Tabitha Rossi
Roland Salsberry
Bruce Scheiner
Juergen Wolfgang Schmidt
Jencye Schmitt
Jerry Schmitt
Elsie Seif
Doug Sepanak
Robert Simon
Kelly Smith
Roger Smith
Randall Spivey
Richard Stergulz
Sandy Stergulz
Grandpa Steward
Lynda Stewart
S. Wade Stogran
Russell Sullivan
Heidi Szolga
Scott Turner
Ruth Vorys
Teresa Webster
D. Payton Wells
Michael Wieland
Jama Wyatt
Steve Wyatt

Life Members Who

Have Passed Away
Jerry Barnett
Maggie Cran
Ginny DAsti
John Kennedy
Russell May
Rev. Rea Means
Jo Ann Miller
Jim Mozeleski

To become a Life Member contact the Membership Trustee on Page 3

Southwest Chapter Products

Chapter Patch Large (Members Only) $25.00
Chapter Patch Small - $7.00
Chapter Flag - $25.00
6

Legislative Report by Frankie Kennedy:

SPECULATION ABOUT SCOTT AS RUNNING MATE INCREASES
Most of the speculation around Gov. Rick Scott's political future has centered on a bid for the U.S. Senate in 2018, when
incumbent Democrat Bill Nelson will be up for re-election and facing a Republican-friendly midterm electorate that helped
Scott win two terms in the governor's mansion. But there are also growing rumors that Scott might be in the running for a
higher-profile position than taking one of 100 seats in the U.S. Senate --- that he could instead be the running mate for
Donald Trump if the real-estate mogul clinches the GOP presidential nomination, as seems increasingly likely. Trump
himself encouraged the rumors when, in an interview with The New York Times for a story published this weekend about
a possible vice presidential selection, "he briefly praised three governors as possible contenders," including Scott. The other
two names Trump listed were New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, one of the first major Republicans to endorse Trump, and
Ohio Gov. John Kasich, who's still running for president. Other media outlets have also contributed to the speculation.
Writing last week on the website of the conservative National Review, Jim Geraghty said Scott "might be the most intriguing
choice" for Trump's running mate. "Scott won two exceptionally nasty, hard-fought gubernatorial races and could lock up
the state for Trump --- giving him a win that John McCain and Mitt Romney could not achieve," Geraghty wrote. "Scott's a
relatively low-key, even-tempered figure among Trump endorsers; he may not have an overwhelming personality, but he
isn't likely to do much harm." The governor has kept up a rigorous travel schedule that would seem aimed at raising his
national profile. Scott is currently in California, one of several job-poaching trips he's taken to states with Democratic
governors. Over the weekend, he attended the White House Correspondents Dinner, one of the biggest annual social soirees
in the nation's capital. But Melissa Sellers, Scott's former chief of staff and a current adviser, dismissed the speculation
Monday. "The governor has made it clear that he has the job he wants and he won't leave it," Sellers said in an email. "Of
course, he would always be willing to provide any insights from his experience in turning around Florida's economy.
Governor Scott is a long-time friend of Donald Trump's. They have known each other in the business world for many years
--- long before the governor first ran for office in 2010."
ACLU URGES SCOTT, BONDI TO FOLLOW FEDS ON TRANSGENDER ISSUE
The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida issued a letter Thursday calling on Gov. Rick Scott and Attorney General
Pam Bondi to reject arguments from social conservatives who say the state should ignore federal guidance on the treatment
of transgender students. ACLU of Florida Executive Director Howard Simon said allowing public school students to use
restroom facilities corresponding to their stated gender identity --- rather than their sex at birth --- "is not only required by
law, but it is also the right thing to do." The guidance last week from the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S.
Department of Justice has caused an outcry from social conservatives, who have pushed for Scott to defy the order and
Bondi to issue an opinion on whether the initiative is constitutional. Both have so far declined to get pulled into the fight.
Advocates on both sides of the transgender student debate argue that safety is an issue, with critics of the Obama
administration saying the guidance could lead to a breakdown in school discipline or even attacks. But echoing other LGBT
supporters, Simon said there is no evidence of critics' fears coming true, and that forcing students to use the restroom
corresponding with their sex at birth could also cause problems. "When transgender students are required to use separate
facilities, it does not go unnoticed by other students," he wrote. "Being separated from other students in this way would be
damaging to anyone, but it is especially harmful for transgender children." Last week, the ACLU filed a complaint with the
U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights, alleging that a resolution approved April 26 by the Marion County
School Board violates federal anti-discrimination laws. The resolution requires students to use restrooms that correspond
with their sex at birth.
FLORIDA BOATING ACCIDENTS UP IN 2015
Florida had 737 boating accidents last year, an increase of 103 accidents from 2014 --- though the number of fatalities
dropped, according to information released this week by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. In all, 55
people died in 2015, down from 73 the previous year. A news release issued Wednesday said people falling overboard is
the leading cause of death. A detailed report accompanying the release said Florida led the nation with 915,713 registered
vessels in 2015. "Many of the accidents in this report could have been prevented if the boat operators had paid attention to
everything going on around their vessel, maintained a proper lookout and if everyone had been wearing a life jacket," Capt.
Tom Shipp, of the commission's Boating and Waterways Section, said in a prepared statement.
STATE TO STUDY END OF 'NO-FAULT' AUTO INSURANCE
The state plans to undertake a study that would determine what would happen if Florida's no-fault auto insurance program
is scrapped. According to a request for proposals posted by the Office of Insurance Regulation, the study is expected to find
"the potential impact to Floridians if the personal injury protection coverage requirements were repealed and replaced with
varying levels of bodily injury coverage, or if the current requirements to purchase auto insurance were completely
7

repealed." The no-fault system is commonly referred to as "PIP," which is shorthand for personal-injury protection coverage.
The objective of the study, which was first reported by The Palm Beach Post, is also to determine the effect of a 2012 law
intended to reduce fraud in the no-fault system. An actuarial consulting firm is expected to be awarded the contract for the
study on May 27, with the study expected to cost up to $125,000. A draft of the study's findings is expected to be completed
by Aug. 26, with a final report presented to Gov. Rick Scott, the Senate president and House speaker on Sept. 2. Under the
decades-old no-fault system, motorists are required to carry personal-injury protection coverage that includes $10,000 in
medical benefits.
STATE SAYS COURT SHOULD REJECT 'DOCS V. GLOCKS' CHALLENGE
With a closely watched hearing little more than a month away, state attorneys have filed a final brief arguing that physicians
have not shown they have legal standing to challenge Florida's controversial "docs vs. glocks" law. The brief, filed last week,
came as the full 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is scheduled to hear arguments June 21 in the case. The 2011 law, backed
by groups such as the National Rifle Association, seeks to restrict doctors from asking questions and recording information
about patients' gun ownership. A coalition of plaintiffs, including individual doctors and medical groups, filed a federal
lawsuit arguing the law violates First Amendment rights. A federal district judge sided with them, but a three-judge panel
of the appeals court upheld the law in three rulings. The full appeals court then agreed to take up the case. In the brief filed
last week, the state argued that the plaintiffs do not have standing, at least in part because they have not shown the Florida
Board of Medicine would discipline them for the gun-related conversations they want to have with patients. The state's brief
also contended the law does not violate the First Amendment. "The act's goals are not only substantiated; they are
compelling,'' the state brief said. "The act shields patients who own firearms from purposely irrelevant record-keeping,
questioning, discrimination, and harassment, and thereby furthers the state's compelling interest in protecting citizens'
fundamental right to keep and bear arms for defense of self and state." But in a brief filed last month, attorneys for the
plaintiffs argued the law violates the First Amendment rights of physicians to discuss safety-related issues with patients. "In
(the law), the Florida Legislature does what no legislative body has done before or since; it prevents doctors from providing
patients with truthful advice to keep their families healthy and safe --- speech that is recommended as standard protocol by
national medical associations,'' the plaintiffs' brief said.
JUSTICES GIVE GREEN LIGHT TO STOPS OVER LICENSE PLATES
In a case that started with a dangling tag light, the Florida Supreme Court made clear Thursday that police officers have
broad authority to pull over motorists whose license plates are not fully visible.
Justices, in a 5-2 decision, rejected an appeal from Jermaine D. English, who was stopped by Orlando police because a tag
light and wires were hanging down over the license plate on a vehicle he was driving. Evidence found during the stop led to
English being charged with possession of cocaine, marijuana and paraphernalia.
In seeking to suppress the evidence, an attorney for English contended that police did not have cause to stop the vehicle. But
the Supreme Court upheld a 2014 decision by the 5th District Court of Appeal, which found that state law requires numbers
and letters on license plates to be "plainly visible at all times."
A major part of the dispute centered on whether the law applies only to license plates that have been defaced or covered in
substances, such as grease, that would prevent them from being easily read --- or whether it also applies to situations such
as bulbs and wires hanging down.
"We conclude that the plain language of (the section of state law) is clear and unambiguous, and requires that a license plate
be plainly visible and legible at all times without regard to whether the obscuring matter is on or external to the plate,'' said
Thursday's ruling, written by Chief Justice Jorge Labarga and joined by justices R. Fred Lewis, Peggy Quince, Charles
Canady and Ricky Polston.
But Justice James E.C. Perry, in a dissent joined by Justice Barbara Pariente, wrote that the law was intended to prevent
motorists from "physically altering or obscuring the license plate."
"Under the majority's view, the licensing statute could lead to potentially outrageous results," Perry wrote. "For example,
families and avid bikers who utilize rear bike racks will now be guilty of unlawful activity if any part of the bicycle or
bicycle rack --- or the nylon straps which are used to secure the bike to the rack --- covers the license plate. The possibilities
under which law enforcement may now detain drivers under this statute are limited only by the imagination, potentially
placing in the hands of law enforcement unfettered discretion to enforce the statute."
8

In going to the Supreme Court, English's attorney argued that the 2014 ruling by the 5th District Court of Appeal conflicted
with an earlier decision by another appeals court. That decision, by the 2nd District Court of Appeal, found that police could
not stop a vehicle because a trailer hitch blocked the view of a license plate, according to a brief filed last year by English's
attorney.
The Supreme Court majority, however, sided with the 5th District Court of Appeal and rejected the earlier ruling.
"The plain language of (of the section of law) requires that a license plate be 'clear and distinct' and 'free from defacement,
mutilation, grease, and other obscuring matter;' it does not suggest that matter external to the license plate may constitute a
permissible obstruction under the statute,'' Labarga wrote.
From The AMA
WASHINGTON, D.C. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has withdrawn its plan to regulate the emissions from
motor vehicles, including motorcycles, built or used exclusively for racing. The EPAs change of plans resulted from intense
pressure brought by the American Motorcyclist Association, the Specialty Equipment Market Association and other
organizations and racing sanctioning bodies. Issued in July 2015, the final Phase 2 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards
and Fuel Efficiency Standards for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Engines and Vehicles contained what the EPA described as
clarifying language that would have placed new restrictions on competition-only vehicles. The AMA joined SEMA and
other groups to oppose this proposed new restriction and to support a bill in Congress to prevent EPA regulatory intrusion
into motorsports. Five members of Congress introduced a bi-partisan bill, the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports
Act of 2016 (H.R. 4715), that would prevent the regulation of street bikes and other motor vehicles converted into
competition-only racers. The AMA included language in the RPM Act that specifically exempts competition motorcycles
from EPA regulation. More than 3,000 AMA Action Alert subscribers sent more than 10,000 messages to their
representatives and senators, urging them to support the RPM Act. Despite the EPAs withdrawal of its plan to regulate the
emission of competition-only motor vehicles, the AMA and SEMA believe the RPM Act remains an important piece of
legislation because it would prevent the EPA from ever initiating action to regulate emissions produced by race-only
vehicles.
WASHINGTON, D.C. The proposed 2017 volumes under the Renewable Fuel Standard were submitted by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency to the White House Office of Management and Budget for review. The RFS proposal
includes 2017 renewable volume obligations for renewable fuel, advanced and cellulosic biofuels and 2018 biodiesel.
Following OMB review, the proposal is published in the Federal Register and is open for public comment. The EPAs
deadline for issuing a final rule is Nov. 30.
U.S. Reps. Bill Flores (R-Texas), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Steve Womack (RArk.) and Cedric Richmond (D-La.) introduced H.R. 5180, the Food and Fuel Consumer Protection Act of 2016 today.
The American Motorcyclist Association supports this bill.
The bipartisan legislation would cap mandated ethanol content in the nations fuel supply at 9.7 percent and institute a
provision that automatically reverts the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys annual Renewable Volume Obligations to
the previous years percentage if the EPA misses its Nov. 30 deadline. And, finally, the bill would ensure commercially
available cellulosic and advanced ethanol has a place under the 9.7 percent cap.
In other words, the bill would stop the federal government from forcing E15 fuel (15 percent ethanol by volume) into
the market. Capping the ethanol mandate helps ensure the availability of safe fuels like E10 and a continuing place in the
market for ethanol-free gasoline (E0) for older motorcycles. This is important, because the last RVO rule issued by the EPA
decreased the E0 supply to just 130 million gallons from 9.2 billion gallons in 2016, despite the fact that the demand for E0
doubled.
Tell your representative to support H.R. 5180.
From MFR.
Proposed Expansion of E15 Fuels Could Endanger Motorcyclists
In March 2016 a bill was introduced in Congress that would provide grants for developing the infrastructure to deliver fuel
containing more than 10 percent ethanol. Introduced by U.S. Rep David Loebsack (D-Iowa), the Renewable Fuel
Utilization, Expansion, and Leadership Act (H.R. 4673, otherwise known as the REFUEL Act) would provide federal
grants for the purchase and installation of equipment (pumps, storage tanks, pipes, etc.) specifically for dispensing fuel
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containing covered renewable or alternative energy. This equipment would be key in expanding the availability of E15
fuel, a blend of gasoline that includes up to 15 percent ethanol. In cooperation with our Sustaining State Motorcycle Rights
Organizations, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) opposes the implementation of any fuel blend that contains
anything higher than a 10 percent ethanol content without further research on the effects of these blends on motorcycle
engines. To date, none of the motorcycles in use in the United States are certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency to operate on fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol, and use of E15 fuels in motorcycles may damage fuel
systems and void manufacturers warranties. Because this bill directly violates the Agricultural Act of 2014 (also known as
the FARM Bill) that prohibited funding for special ethanol blender pumps, and because E15 fuels can damage motorcycles,
the MRF encourages you to contact you U.S. Representative and ask him or her to oppose H.R. 4673.
THE ETHANOL ISSUE CONGRESSIONAL ACTIVITY AND STRIKING A BALANCE
WASHINGTON, DC There is no shortage of legislative proposals addressing ethanol blends in the nations capital. So
far in the 114th Congress alone, there have been 16 different measures that would address the use of ethanol blends in fuel.
Last weeks activity added one more to the tally, the Food and Fuel Consumer Protection Act of 2016 H.R.5180.
Introduced by Congressman Bill Flores from Texas, the proposal would institute a cap on the ethanol content in fuel.
Presumably, the bill would stop what many are concerned about; an uncomfortable creep towards a higher content of ethanol
in gasoline, which could have the effect of voiding many motorcycle warranties. However, it is unclear what the proposals
chances of passage are, especially given a number of other pending measures that aim to do the exact opposite (see the
REFUEL Act, H.R. 4773). What is certain, is that the issue of ethanol in fuel is controversial and will not be easily solved.
The position of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), instead of being "pro" or "anti" ethanol, has been one of concern
about the effect of higher ethanol content in fuel. The MRF seeks to strike a balance between the various opposing federal
bills; instead calling for a policy that emphasizes research on ethanol blends. Encouraging new research, specifically targeted
towards motorcycle engines as well as the effect on internal combustion, could help alleviate the concerns of motorcycle
riders, as well as motorcycle manufacturers.
Current discussions taking place in the halls of Congress can be used as an opportunity to learn more about the short and
long term effects of ethanol on small motors, as well as open a dialogue with the manufacturers of motorcycles, to better
understand their concerns in using a higher ethanol content in motorcycle fuel systems.

Father Toms Message:

Dear Fellow Abate Members,
No Greater Love
At The Tail of the Dragon?
Several years ago, my youngest brother, my son, grandson and I,
headed off on one of those bucket list motorcycle trips for about six
or seven days. From Florida, we headed up the east coast, rode the
barrier islands and the ferry boats past Cape Hatteras, and ended up in
Kitty Hawk, NC, before going west into Tennessee.
The Tail of the Dragon Deals Gap (319 curves in 11 miles) was
our next destination! It is located in a treacherous mountain pass at
the Tennessee/North Carolina border. Portions of the 1958 film
THUNDER ROAD were filmed on the Tail, along with TWOLANE BLACKTOP in 1971, and a television segment of Discovery
Channels HELL ROADS in 2011.
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Either there would be a rescue or the possibility that remains would be removed.
Midway through our ride, we encountered emergency vehicles parked along the side of the road, where a motorcycle left
the road and had headed down a very steep and deep ravine. Apparently, one or two of the first responders had to descend,
at considerable risk, a couple of hundred feet into the ravine to locate and attend to the rider. Either there would be a rescue
or the possibility that remains would be removed. If it wasnt for the first responders and their rescue and/or medical training,
the outcome would be less than desirable. I didnt see any civilians headed down to assist. They could have ended up as
victims, themselves!
What makes some people risk their lives in order to save others? Some dont even think of themselves and just do what
they think needs to be done. Sadly, some lose their lives in the process. Think about the daring rescues of Coast Guard
responders removing people from the roofs of buildings, while the water from Hurricane Katrina was up to the rooflines. I
remember a video to where the helicopter was working in amongst power lines and the female Coast Guard responder, while
trying to rescue others, nearly fell off the roof! As a young boy, I witnessed a man rushing to a car that had just flipped over
on the highway. There was smoke and the imminent possibility of flames and explosion. The man rushing to the car was
my father, who pulled the driver out and clear of danger, thinking nothing of his own safety. He could have stayed in the
comfort and safety of his car with his family. Coast Guard responders and the responders at Deals Gap could have chosen
another profession.
Some dont even think of themselves and just do what they think needs to be done. And, some lose their lives in the
process.
Jesus said, Greater love has no one than this: to lay down ones life for ones friends. John 15:13 - New International
Version (NIV)
God, our Father, left the comfort of Heaven and His heavenly family. He became a man in the form of Jesus to be among
the people He loves. More importantly, he came to die for us and taste Hell, in order to reconcile us back to Himself. He
knew what the outcome on earth would be. Unlike the first responders, there would be no training to give Him a margin of
safety. He had to die. Romans 3:23 says that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. And, Romans 6:23 says
that the wages of sin is death. So, either it was the death of Jesus or the eternal death of us in order to pay.
In the Old Testament, we can see where the Jews had sacrificed spotless lambs to atone for ones transgressions. And, that
God would soon send a Messiah/Savior to cover all transgressions. The promise was fulfilled in 2 Corinthians 5:21 when,
God made Him (Christ), who knew no sin, to be sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
Im sure that if you were the one at the bottom of the ravine in Deals Gap, you would accept the help the first responders
were providing, rather than just lay there and die. Right? Therefore, can you now accept and receive in your heart what
Jesus did for you, to rescue you? Can you now see His love for you? For God so loved the world that He gave His one
and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the
world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. 18 Whoever believes in Him is not condemned John
3:16-17 NIV
if you were the one at the bottom of the ravine in Deals Gap, would you accept the help the first
responders were providing, rather than just lay there and die?
Please pray this, with your whole heart, Dear God, my Heavenly Father, I confess that I am a sinner and have been
separated from You. I ask forgiveness of my sins. I repent and accept this gift of repentance and want to be free in you. I
confess with my mouth that your son, Jesus is my Savior and died for me. I believe in my heart that You raised Him from
the dead. I receive Jesus into my heart and ask Him to become the center of my life. I ask, in the Name of Jesus. Amen." If
you have prayed this and/or wish to talk, call us at 239-267-8641
Blessings,
Pastor Tom (SW ABATE Chaplain and Estero River ABATE Life Member) and Chaplain Kathy (SW ABATE Life
Member) Foursquare Chaplains - 239-267-8641 or email: tprovenz@comcast.net
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JUNE, 2016
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Fathoms
Bike Night

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State Mtg.
Inerstate
Chapter

6-9pm
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10:30am Chpt. 19
Mtg. Six Bends HD

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6-9pm
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Battle of the
Bands Six
Bends HD

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JULY, 2016
Sun

Mon

Tues

Fathoms
Bike Night

Wed

Thurs

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14

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1

16

30

6-9pm
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13

10:30am
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Chapter
Meeting - Six
Bends HD

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6-9pm
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Battle of the
Bands Six
Bends HD
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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

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ABATE of Florida, Inc.

Southwest Chapter
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Southwest.abateflorida.com

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