ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
April 2017 Volume XLI Issue IV

Next Chapter Meeting Sunday, April 23rd @ Six Bends Harley Davidson at 10:30 a.m.

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 does not condone drinking while riding or driving.

1
 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING:
MISSION STATEMENT

We are a non-profit organization of SUNDAY, APRIL 23RD @ 10:30 a.m.

motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life.
We lobby and educate the government and the at SIX BENDS HARLEY DAVIDSON
general public to promote motorcycling in a 9501 Thunder Road
safe and positive image. We endeavor to enlist Fort Myers, FL 33913
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 MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE,
awareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB OR NEW ADVERTISERS AND/OR AD
GANG. We fund our work through toy runs, CHANGE DEADLINE:
poker runs, campouts and other motorcycle
activities. We are your neighbors and friends
who work, pay taxes and get involved with our 20th of the month for editorial and Board
community. We serve and support our country approval
and believe in freedom. We use all legal means
to protect our rights without infringing on the
rights of others.
IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT
OUR GOALS
Southwest Chapter Newsletter
To become a powerful and viable political
force in legislative matters concerning the
Issue date: April 2017
motorcyclist;
To promote safe riding habits without PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
infringing on individual freedoms; ABATE of Florida, Inc.
To motivate bikers to write letters to their SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
legislators before, during and after the PO Box 60745
legislative session; and Fort Myers, FL 33906
To furnish our members with a newsletter to
keep all bikers informed in regard to upcoming www.southwest.abateflorida.com
legislation.

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 accepts 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.
2
 Presidents Message and Report: ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest Chapter
EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745
www.southwest.abateflorida.com

President: Robb Rabell

thesawguide@yahoo.com / 239-458-3136

Vice President: Moe Moser

As you know the Freedom Ride is coming up in 3 weeks & ironcitysupplyco@yahoo.com / 412-999-3397
so far we have 6 Members representing Southwest Chapter
on the Ride. Theres still time to get a room & join us on this Secretary: Gwynne Hickman
very important & enjoyable Ride to the Capitol. See enclosed
flyer for hotel information for those who wish to attend. Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
Which brings me to thiswe need staff for setup of the tent,
man the table & breakdown the tent for the Cape Coral Treasurer: Heidi Szolga
Bike Night on April 8th. Our Delegates are leaving on love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
Saturday & Im leaving very early on Sunday the 9th with
another small group. I will only be able to deliver the tent &
supplies for the Bike Night but will leave right after setup. I Sergeant-At-Arms: John Lupo
am calling for volunteers. the_loops@msn.com / 239-850-4905
We have received a letter from the Jacobson Veterans Home,
which we have included in this newsletter. VP Moe has Asst. Sgt-At-Arms: Don Gator Meredith, Jr.
forwarded copies to all our sponsors & has let them know 239-245-3147
how grateful the Home & our Chapter is for their support.
Last Week at the Ft. Myers Bike Night we had another Membership Trustee: Heidi Szolga
successful night for new Members, so let me send out a warm love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
welcome to all our new Southwest Chapter Brothers &
Sisters.
Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman
Our 1st fundraiser of this year is Sun Sports Great Cycle Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
Games on Saturday May 6th (see our flyer). There will be
bike games competitions for Trophies & a gift card for the
1st Place winner. There will be Food, Raffles & 50/50. I hope Legislative Representative: Ken Teddy Bear Miller
youll tell your friends & bring them along to support your Kenm0612@gmail.com / 239-410-3208
Chapter & our Sponsor.
Now a little bit of Chapter History; ABATE SW Chapters Safety Director: Ed Lufkin
official Bike Night started way back at the Victory Lane Caf Vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
on Hancock Bridge Pkwy. Well, after talking with Victory
Lane they would very much like to bring back the Bike
Night. So, starting April 5th & every Wednesday night from
Newsletter: Heidi Szolga
then on, Southwest Chapter will be at the Victory Lane Cafe love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
for our Official Wednesday Night Bike Night. Im asking all
Members to come out & support your Chapter & Victory Webmasters: Taylor Musburger
Lane & enjoy the food, drinks & camaraderie of being ABATE@musburger.net / 360-298-1921 and
among friends. See you all there & dont forgetcome
hungry!
Ed Lufkin, vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
Lastly, nominations for our Chapter BOD will open next
month, I urge you to step up & become a Board Member in
Chapter Chaplain: Tom Provenzano
support of your Chapter. There is training available for all tprovenz@comcast.net / 239-267-8641
newly elected & appointed Chapter Board positions so its
not a matter of not knowing what to do. If theres anything Products: Vacant
you would like to know about being an Officer in your
Chapter Board, just ask & well answer any & all questions
you may have. Well thats all I have for now.
Chapter Rep: Moe Moser
Chapter Rep: Carl Nelson
Ride Free & Safe
Robb
HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE
RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (MRO)
3
 Vice Presidents Message:

Hello Southwest Chapter.

Please think about accepting a nomination for one of the

Board of Directors positions that will be open this year. You
would be committing to serving your Chapter for one year if
elected. In order for the Chapter to meet the requirements of
ABATE of Florida, Inc., the four Executive Board positions
(President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary) must all
be filled. If you have just recently joined, dont assume that
you arent eligible to run for an office. All organizations need
new people and new ideas. All you really need is energy and
enthusiasm. You can learn the rest!

While the mandatory helmet bill (HB 6009) hasnt gained

significant traction, its still important that our legislators
know that we oppose any attempt to restrict our freedom to
decide whether or not to wear our helmets. So, if you havent
yet called your legislators, please do so today. If you have
made the call, why not call again and reiterate your position.
It cant hurt and we dont want our legislators to forget about
us.

Try to come out to Victory Lane Caf on Wednesdays to eat,

drink and be merry with your Chapter brothers and sisters.
Especially you newer members it will be a great opportunity
for us to get to know you and vice versa.

Ride free thanks to ABATE,

Moe
Membership Report:
For the month of March we had 2 renewals and 18 new
members!!!!

To become a member, simply complete the application

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 $600
life payable to Southwest Chapter. Or come to either the
Fort Myers or Cape Coral Bike Nights or come to our
next Chapter Meeting on Sunday, April 23, 2017 at
10:30 a.m. at Six Bends Harley-Davidson.
Memberships that will expire at the end of April are
Michael Dolby and Patricia Heitz. Please see me about
your renewal.

Heidi Szolga
Southwest Chapter ABATE Membership Trustee
4
 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC./SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
GENERAL MEETING
Six Bends Harley-Davidson, Fort Myers on March 19, 2017
21 Members, 2 Guests
Pledge of Allegiance, Moment of Silence, please silence
phones
Meeting called to order at 10:30 a.m.
4 new members were welcomed and introduced themselves.
Presidents Report:
Robb talked about the upcoming Freedom Ride to Capitol Hill
in Tallahassee. Please let the Board know if you are going,
some of us are leaving Saturday, and some are leaving Sunday.
We need volunteers for the Cape Coral Bike Night, please let
him know if you can help. A letter from the Jacobson
Veterans Home was received and read into the record thanking
us for the donations from our annual ride totaling $2,420.
Robb thanked Moe for all his hard work and efforts in putting
the ride together. We signed up 18 new members at the Ft.
Myers Bike Night. Southwest Florida Bike Nights originated at
the Victory Lane Caf in N. Ft. Myers and we would like to
start them up again on April 5th. Robb also discussed the
requirement of the $10,000 medical insurance and proof
thereof. He has requested a clarification from our State Board
and has not yet received a reply.
Vice-Presidents Report:
At last months meeting, Moe handed out information
regarding our legislators and he reminded everyone to please
contact them
to oppose HB6009 if they have not already done so.
Nominations for Board of Director positions will be accepted at
the April and May meetings, the election will be in June. The
four Executive positions President, Vice-President, Treasurer
and Secretary MUST be filled in order to remain a viable
chapter. Robb will accept if nominated, but our present VP,
Treasurer and Secretary will not. Therefore, it is extremely
important for others to step up and support our chapter to keep
it from being closed.
Secretarys Report:
Gwynne stated the minutes from last months meeting were in
the newsletter and asked if there were any corrections. Being
none, a motion to accept was made by John Lupo and seconded
by Fran Lupo. All in favor, motion carried.
Treasurers Report:
Heidi reported the beginning and ending balances of our
account. Expenses were for the newsletter, mailing of the life
insurance information and State requirements. Income was
from donations and memberships. The report was made
available if anyone wanted to look at it. Motion to accept was
made by Gator and seconded by Carl Nelson. All in favor,
motion carried.
Membership Report:
Heidi reported there are 212 members in the Southwest Chapter
and we got 18 new members at Bike Night and we will continue our
membership drive for the next two Bike Nights.
Robb introduced our guest speaker Sherry Leonard, who is running
for Mayor of Cape Coral and gave us a short presentation and
invited anyone to speak to her after the meeting if they wanted.
Public Relations Report:
Gwynne reported she e-mailed Terri from the Lee County Sherriff
Office to see if they would like to participate in the May event at
Sun Sports, possibly set up a safety table and perhaps have their
motorcycle officers perform some of their special skills. May is
Motorcycle Safety and Awareness month and the County
Commissioners will present the Southwest Chapter of ABATE with
a proclamation at their Tuesday, May 2nd meeting at 9:30 a.m.
Please come to the meeting in Ft. Myers and support our chapter as
we receive this proclamation!
Sergeant-at-Arms:
John reminded everyone to check the oil and tires on their bike
before they ride. He mentioned that his wife, Fran, was promoted to
the Station Manager at the Tice Post Office. Congratulation, Fran!
Legislative Report:
There are three gun measures coming up. The first one transfers the
burden of proof to the prosecutors in a Stand Your Ground case.
The next one supports open carry if you have a concealed weapon
permit, and allows for carrying in airports, colleges and State
buildings. The third is the helmet bill, HR6009, which does not yet
(as of the 3/19 meeting) have a companion bill in the Senate.
Products:
Robb got prices for the large and small Chapter patches and he is
still waiting for prices for the T-shirts.
Old Business:
The fundraising event at Sun Sports is the Great Cycle Games
event May 6th. There will be 5 different bike games and everyone is
invited to participate including trikes and scooters, and prizes such
as trophies and gift certificates. We will need help judging the
games, so please let one of the Board members know if you will
step up and help out. Even though this is a Sun Sports event, we
will keep 100% of the proceeds (minus the share that goes to State),
so please come out and support your Chapter! Please check out the
Face Book page of Southwest Florida Riders and Friends for
more information.
New Business:
Moe and Robb have both been contacted by a few businesses that
are interested in hosting Bike Nights at their business. They will
follow up with them. Remember that the Wednesday Victory Lane
Bike Nights will begin April 5th please come.
Motion to Adjourn:
Motion to adjourn was made by Carl and seconded by Fran, all in
favor, meeting adjourned at 11:24 a.m.
5
Father Toms Message:
Dear Fellow ABATE Members,
Inner Character

During the past two weeks, this area in which we live has experienced the threatening
and destructive capacity of wildfires.

We experienced evacuees, forced to leave their homes and most of their earthly
belongings, coming into a fire shelter, not knowing if their homes would still be standing
upon their return! To add to the stress, this same shelter would not accept pets. As such,
the pet owners spent the night in their cars with their pets and not sleeping inside the
shelter. The interesting thing is that not one complaint was heard!

The inner beauty of these people came through. Their attitude through this ordeal will help us work harder/smarter. And,
try to make life more comfortable for evacuees, should we help at another shelter.

Proverbs 4: 23 reminds us that no matter what issues we are going through, no matter where we are and/or on-the-road, to
Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. Who we are and how we come across to others
will project from our inner being. It will affect how people will respond and/or not respond to our causes, wants, and
needs.

Let our inner character shine as we trust the Lord to supply all our needs, according to His riches. Let us be positive as the
world is already full of too much negativity.

Please pray: My dear God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the God of Jesus... right now I come before You as a
sinner and ask forgiveness of my sins. I repent of those sins and ask that you help me through any temptations so as
not to commit them again. I believe that your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ paid for those sins on the cross and I receive
Him into my heart as Lord and Savior. I believe that Jesus died for me, He was buried for me, He rose for me, and He
is coming back for me. I open the door of my life to You. I look forward to the eternity you promise. Help me to finish
my life well, fulfilling the purpose you have for me, here on earth, in your service. In the name of Jesus... Amen.

If you have prayed this for the first time, will you please let us know? Give us a call to share your experience.

Blessings and hugs,

Pastor Tom (Estero River ABATE Life Member and Southwest ABATE Chapter Chaplain) and Chaplain Kathy (SW
ABATE Life Member)- tprovenz@comcast.net 239-267-8641

6
7
Legislative Report:
By: Teddybear
Good Morning Freedom Fighters:
Thanks to your efforts and without a companion bill in the Florida Senate, the helmet bill is 99% dead.
The Vulnerable Road User Bills, HB 541 and SB 432 have been assigned to committees. Members need to contact their representatives
in the Florida House and Senate and ask for their support.
In the first committee, the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, I don't see any member of the Lee County Legislative
Delegation on this committee.
In the second committee, the Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Rep. Dane Eagle of Cape Coral, sits on this committee. If you live in
Dane's District please contact his office and ask him to support HB 541.
In the third committee, the Government Accountability Committee, Rep. Matt Caldwell chairs this committee, and the sponsor of HB
541, Rep. Charlie Stone is the vice chair. If you live in his District, please contact Rep. Matt Caldwell's office and ask him to support
HB 541.
On the Senate side, SB 432 is scheduled to be heard in four committees. On the first three committees, the Senate Transportation
Committee, Criminal Justice, and the Appropriations Subcommittee on Criminal and Civil Justice, I don't see any members of the Lee
County Legislative Delegation sitting on these committees. However, you still need to contact your State Senators and ask them to
support SB 432 when it reaches the Senate floor.
The fourth committee is the Senate Appropriations Committee. Senators Lizbeth Benacquisto and Denise Grimsley sit on this committee.
If you live in their districts please contract their office and ask for them support on SB 432. They'll be glad to hear from you.
Here is a list of the members of the Lee County Legislative Delegation and their contact information. I recommend that you keep this
for future reference:
Rep. Matt Caldwell, Chair, T. Wayne Miller Jr. Building, 15191 Homestead Rd., Lehigh Acres, Fl. 33971. (239) 694-0161.
E-mail: Matt.Caldwell@myfloridahouse.gov. Legislative Assistant: Charlotte Codie. District Assistant: Priscilla Bezerra.
Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto, Vice Chair, 2310 First St., Unit 305, Fort Myers, Fl. 33901. (239) 338-2570. E-Mail:
Lizbeth.Benacquisto@flsenate.gov. Legislative Assistants: Matthew Hunter and Alexis Mansolo.
Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, 32999 East Tamiami Trail, Suite 203, Naples, Fl. 34112. (239) 417-6205. E-Mail:
Passidomo.Kathleen@flsenate.gov. Legislative Assistants: Becky Kokkinos, Kevin Comerer, and Sandra Mummert.
Rep. Dane Eagle, 1039 SE 9th Place, Room 310, Cape Coral, Fl. 33990.
(239) 772-1291. E-Mail: Dane.Eagle@myfloridahouse.gov. Legislative Assistant: Paige LeBoutillier. District Assistant: Kelsey Gorry.
Rep. Heather Fitzenhagen, 2120 Main Street, Suite 208, Fort Myers, Fl. 33901. (239) 533-2440. E-Mail:
Heather.Fitzenhagen@myfloridahouse.gov. Legislative Assistant: Edward Metzger. District Assistant: Allison Hopkins.
Rep. Ray Rodrigues, Alico Lake Commons, 17595 South Tamiami Trail, Suite 218, Fort Myers, Fl. 33908. (239) 433-6501.
E-Mail: Ray.Rodrigues@myfloridahouse.gov. Legislative Assistant: James Mullin. District Assistant: Jasmine Villanueva.
Sen. Denise Grimsley, 205 South Commerce Ave., Suite A, Sebring, Fl. 33870. (863) 386-6016. E-Mail: Grimsley.Denise@flsenate.gov.
Legislative Assistants: Marty Mielke, Anne Bell, Andrea Jahna, and Jae Williams.
Last month it was reported that an issue had surfaced regarding proof of required insurance coverage. According to State, this is what
happened. A motorcyclist was pulled over for speeding. He was not an ABATE of Florida member. Apparently he mouthed off at the
cop during the stop, not a good idea. The officer asked him for proof of health insurance because he wasn't wearing a helmet, which he
couldn't produce.
The motorcyclist was cited for speeding, failure to produce the required health insurance coverage, and not wearing a helmet. Generally,
police officers won't ask you for proof of insurance for not wearing a helmet unless they have a good reason to.
According to State, this was an isolated incident and as near as anyone can figure out, the motorcyclist brought it on himself. The moral
of this story is, if you're going to break the law, take the citation and keep your big yap shut.

'TEDDYBEAR'

8
Cape Coral Mayor Marni Sawicki announced late last month that she will not seek re-election. She cited a desire to focus my energies
on building my company when my term ends in a lengthy Facebook post explaining her decision. Her term expires in November,
shortly after the general election set for Nov, 7.
People still ask me what inspired me to run for mayor of the 10th largest city in Florida...and my response is, and always will be, I knew
I could make a difference.
With a politically active mother, I was taught at a very young age that if you don't like something change it. It's that simple.
When I ran for office my platform consisted of three core messages: Increase transparency and accountability of city government,
strengthen our local economy, and improve our communities quality of life.
While keeping my campaign promises, I've remained committed to listening to our community by hosting 15 Mayor's Night Out Town
Hall meetings throughout my term in addition to numerous other speaking engagements throughout the years.
Sawicki became the first female mayor in 2013 after edging incumbent John Sullivan by 121 votes. She was sworn in to a standing
ovation on Nov. 18 that year.
Five candidates have filed so far to run for the office that Sawicki is vacating: Derrick L. Donnell, Rana M. Erbrick, Michael Hollow,
Kevin Koch, and Sherry Leonard.
Sherry and her husband Jerry recently joined the Southwest Chapter and was our guest speaker at last months chapter meeting. As the
September primaries get closer, I'll keep an eye on the races in the Cape and keep you informed.
10 Top Issues to Watch During the 2017 Session
TALLAHASSEE 2017.... Florida lawmakers have returned to Tallahassee for the March 7 start of the legislative session. They will
grapple with hundreds of bills during the 60-day session, while also trying to reach agreement on a state budget that will top $80 billion.
Here are the top ten issues to watch.
BUDGET: Gov. Rick Scott has proposed an $83.5 billion budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1, up about $1.2 billion from the
current year. In the proposal, Scott called for $618 million in tax cuts, increased education spending and cuts in hospital funding. But
the proposal has met skepticism from some lawmakers, who are concerned about projected budget shortfalls in the coming years.
DEATH PENALTY: Florida's death penalty has been on hold since 2016, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that part of the death-
penalty sentencing system was unconstitutional because it gave too much power to judges, instead of juries. The Florida Supreme Court
struck down part of a legislative attempt to fix the system because the changes did not require unanimous jury recommendations before
people could be sentenced to death. The House and Senate, however, appear to be ready to quickly pass a bill during the 2017
session that would require such unanimous jury recommendations.
9
ECONOMIC DEVELOPEMENT: Gov. Rick Scott and House Speaker Richard Corcoran, R-Land O' Lakes, have battled
publicly for weeks about the economic development agency Enterprise Florida and tourism-marketer Visit Florida. Scott wants
to provide $85 million to Enterprise Florida for business incentives and $76 million to Visit Florida. But Corcoran opposes the
funding and has gone as far as to back abolishing the public-private agencies.
EDUCATION: Senate President Joe Negron, R-Stuart, has made a top priority of revamping the higher-education system. The
Senate is expected to quickly pass a bill that, in part, would expand the use of Bright Futures scholarships and tighten graduation
standards for universities and state colleges. In the kindergarten through the 12th-grade system, Corcoran has called for expanding
school-choice programs, and lawmakers are expected to look at proposals to reduce the amount of time public-school students
spend on standardized tests.
GUNS: The House and the Senate could be moving towards passing a measure that would shift a key burden of proof from
defendants to prosecutors in stand your ground self-defense cases, a change backed by The National Rifle Association. Several
other high-profile gun bills have been filed, such as a proposal that would allow people with concealed-weapons licenses to carry
guns on college and university campuses. The fate of such proposals likely will hinge on whether they can pass the Senate.
GAMBLING: The House and Senate have taken dramatically different positions in heavily lobbied bills that would make changes
in the gambling industry. The House proposal focuses on reaching agreement on a gambling deal with the Seminole Tribe of
Florida that could lead to money going to the education system. The Senate, however, wants to take steps that could expand
gambling, including allowing slot machines in eight counties where voters have approved the machines in referendums.
HEALTH CARE: As it has done in recent years, the House is pushing a series of bills that would scale back regulations in the
health-care industry. A heavily lobbied issue focuses on whether to eliminate the certificate of need process, which requires
approval from the Agency of Health Care Administration before new hospitals, nursing homes, and hospice facilities can be built.
Among other issues in the Legislature is a proposal that would clear the way for direct primary care agreements, which involve
patients contracting directly with doctors for care, cutting out the role of insures.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA: Lawmakers will try and agree on a plan to carry out a voter-approved ballot initiative that broadly
legalized medical marijuana in the state. The Legislature in recent years approved medical cannibus for limited types of patients,
but the November ballot initiative will allow doctors to order medical marijuana for an array of conditions such as cancer, epilepsy,
glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Crohan's disease, Parkinson's disease, and
multiple sclerosis. A closely watched legislative issue involves how many nurseries will be able to get licenses to grow, process
and dispense medical marijuana. In a new wrinkle on this, it seems that they want to include medical marijuana for pets too. Can
you imagine your kitty having the munchies after giving him his meds?
WATER: Negron has proposed a controversial $2.4 billion plan that involves buying land south of Lake Okeechobee to try and
ease polluted discharges from the lake into waterways on the and west coasts of the state. The proposal, which includes creating
a reservoir to store water moved south from the lake, is opposed by the powerful sugar industry and has received a cool reception
in the House. Negron represents parts of the state's Treasure Coast that have been hit hard by polluted discharges from the lake.
WORKERS' COMPENSATION INSURANCE: After the Florida Supreme Court last spring ruled that two parts of the
workers' compensation insurance system were unconstitutional, regulators approved a 14.5 percent rate increase that started hitting
businesses in December. Business groups are lobbying for changes that could help hold down rates. But the workers' compensation
system is highly complex, and a major debate will focus on whether to limit fees paid to attorneys who represent injured workers.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
My Daddy was an old-fashioned Southern Democrat born and raised in Georgia. Both Mom and Dad were politically active when
I was growing up, and one of the things my Daddy taught me about politics was the only sure-fire way to get the attention of a
bureaucrat and politician is to rattle their cages, a philosophy I carry with me to this day.
So it shouldn't be any surprise that it brings a smile to my face when I see President Trump rattling the cages of the powers-that-
be in Washington, D.C.
At a recent Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), Trump aid Stephen Bannon called for the deconstruction of the
administrative state, the phalanx of agencies that combine executive, legislative, and judicial functions in contravention to our
constitutional design.
It is a worthy cause, one Republicans are advancing through legislation to require congressional approval for major regulations.
Trump has advanced the cause too, by nominating to the Supreme Court Neil Gorsuch, who wishes to rein in the agencies.
Further action to restore self-government would be welcome. Perhaps Trump's next step could be to scale back the powers of the
International Trade Commission or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Bringing about a lot more transparency
and accountability to these bureaucracies would be more than welcome.
From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Washington, D.C.

10
Lawmakers Respond to Motorcyclists' Concerns Over Lack of Representation on Motorcyclist Advisory Council
Washington, D.C. When last year's highway bill passed into law, motorcyclists worked hard to re-establish the Motorcyclist
Advisory Council (MAC). By design, the MAC was created to coordinate with and council the Administrator of the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA) on infrastructure issues that affect motorcyclists. So, it came as a shock when the FHWA
announced in January they would only dedicate one seat out of a possible ten to a motorcyclist on the Council. Instead the other
nine seats were to represent experts in road design, construction, safety, and engineering.
Riders from across the nation sounded the alarms calling on their elected officials to correct what was viewed by many as not
only a misstep by the Agency, but a sharp turn away from the congressional intent behind the statute of the highway bill itse lf.
Officials in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate agreed.
Approximately one month after the announcement about the composition of the MAC was issued, letters were sent to the newly
confirmed Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao asking her to ensure that a balanced makeup of the MAC be guaranteed to
address motorcyclists' concerns. The bipartisan Senate letter, led by Senators Tammy Baldwin, (D-WI) and Dan Sullivan, (R-AK)
included a total of ten signatories including that of John Thune, (R-SD), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation which has jurisdiction over transportation-related matters.
The U.S. House of Representatives issued its own letter to Secretary Chao outlining its concerns with actions by the FHWA,
asking the Secretary to go as far as to delay future activity of the MAC until a fair and balanced composition could be reached.
The House letter led by Representatives' Tim Walberg, (R-WI), Mike Burgess, (R-TX), Mark Pocan, (D-WI), and Donald
Norcross, (D-NJ) stated,
It is critical to allow motorcyclists to have a strong voice on this Council. These are the individuals who have experience and
can provide a motorcyclist's insights on the challenges and benefits of our roadways. Depending on where they live, riders have
unique experiences and are differently impacted by roadway and barrier design, and construction, among others.

In total, over thirty-five lawmakers signed onto the letters representing sixteen different states.

11
Still, other lawmakers including Representatives' Ted Budd, (R-NC), and Mark Sanford, (R-SC), called the Federal Highway
Administration directly speaking with Michael Griffith, Director of the Office of Safety Technologies within the Agency and the
contact for the MAC according to the Federal Register notice. Both registered their opposition on the composition of the Council
though reported the response from Griffith was limited.
The Federal Highway Administration is accepting nominations to the MAC through February 23. It is unclear as to whether they
will look to increase the number of motorcyclists on the Council despite the concerns expressed by various lawmakers and the
motorcycle community at-large.
Leading the charge on this issue is the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, the Washington, D.C.-based organization for states'
motorcyclists' rights organizations as well as clubs and individual riders.
President of the Board of Directors Kirk Hardtail Willard explained the impetus for the organization's strong stance on this
issue.
Motorcyclists deserve robust representation on bodies handling issues that affect their community. It's a scary world for riders
when this all-important dialogue between the federal government and the motorcycling community may very well take place
among bureaucrats who have never swung a leg over a motorcycle.
WASHINGTON, D.C. In October of last year, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DoT) unveiled a new initiative dedicated
to eliminating all traffic-related deaths in thirty years. Road to Zero is the concept that achieving zero traffic-related deaths is
achievable through new policies and solutions.
First initiated in Sweden in 1997 as Vision Zero the program has been adopted by many European countries. The U.S. version
made progress last year with the holding of a symposium and invited speakers to discuss the challenges and choices with the
concept. The event also offered the participants the opportunity to partake in breakout sessions to discuss proposed actions on
how to achieve the lofty goal.
The only entity representing the motorcycling community present at the symposium was the Motorcycle Riders Foundation's
Vice-President of Government Affairs, Megan Ekstrom.
Megan was invited to participate in one of the breakout sessions focused on how to create a safer environment for other roadway
users with modes of transportation outside of traditional automobiles.
Working directly with DoT officials, Megan emphasized the need to prevent crashes rather than concepts focused on how to have
safer crashes. Specifically, she addressed the need for additional training and awareness programs for other drivers teaching
them strategies on how to be alert, identify, react and react with motorcyclists on the road.
She suggested that this could be achieved by targeting education towards new drivers on the road and even encompassed in driver
education programs as well as included as part of the testing for drivers' licensing requirements. These sort of activities and
strategies could help make motorcyclists safer on the nation's roadways and help contribute to achieving Road to Zero's goals.
Other participants in the coalition emphasized alternative approaches; most centered around how to crash safer rather than avoid
crashing. Dr. Grant Baldwin, Director of the Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention at the National Center for Injury
Prevention and Control within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) spoke to participants touting the requirement
of universal helmet laws as one of the Agency's key recommendations in achieving zero traffic deaths.
As the Road to Zero initiative moves forward, there will undoubtedly be opportunities to shape the program in different ways.
For the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, their emphasis will be focused on how to prevent crashes between motorcycles and
automobiles and measures that can be taken suggesting that education and awareness to prevent crashes is the preferred strategy
for the motorcycle community.
Quote of the month: Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes... the
ones who see things differently They're not fond of rules... You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but
the only thing you can't do is ignore them because they change things... they push the human race forward, and while some may
see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the
ones who do. (Steve Jobs)
See you in the wind,
'TEDDYBEAR'

12
13
14
 SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS
Kim Adair Sonny Gartrell Tabitha Rossi
Keith Baker Steven Goldstein Roland Salsberry
Bill Barber Lynnda Gray Bruce Scheiner
Darrell Barnett Larry Gullin Juergen Wolfgang Schmidt
Denee Bartels Bob Hall Jencye Schmitt
Karl Bartling Hans Holberg Jerry Schmitt
Karl Bartling, III Rodney Hollingsworth Elsie Seif
James Bogenrieder Misti Hollingsworth Doug Sepanak
Scott Blink Harry Hoover Robert Simon
Chet Budz Jeff Hoover Kelly Smith
James Burkholder Jonathan Hunt Roger Smith
Nora Burkholder George Huttman Randall Spivey
Don Campbell Susan Red Huttman Richard Stergulz
Ellen Campson Dan Jackson Sandy Stergulz
Frances Cazes Cindy C.J. Jordan Grandpa Steward
Wayne Cerra Frankie Kennedy Lynda Stewart
Jonathan Conant Ed LaCombe S. Wade Stogran
Terry Covington Richard Leon Russell Sullivan
Audrey Cran Julio Lopez Heidi Szolga
Rick Cran Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez Scott Turner
Rob Cran KD Marlowe Ruth Vorys
Robert Cruz Crusan Don Meredith Jr. Teresa Webster
Jim Crystal Kenneth Miller D. Payton Wells
Dan Curry John Mitchell Michael Wieland
John DAgostino Jay Monttetit Jama Wyatt
Kim DAgostino Moe Moser Steve Wyatt
Biffle Davis Taylor Musburger
Lynne Davis Carl Nelson Life Members Who
Mary Dicenzo-Porter Steve Newton Have Passed Away
Al Diagiaco Tami Newton
Frank Disomma Terry Padilla Jerry Barnett
Cindy Doak Bob Penn Maggie Cran
Randy Eck Asuncsion Peppers Ginny DAsti
Marius Espeleta Richard Peppers John Kennedy
Jeffery Fielder Kathleen Provenzano Russell May
Harry Foster Rev. Thomas Provenzano Rev. Rea Means
Leather Foster Frank E. Rhorer Jo Ann Miller
Brian Galvin Bill Robinson Jim Mozeleski
Janet Rolfe
To become a Life Member contact the Membership Trustee on Page 4

Southwest Chapter Products

Chapter Patch Large (Members Only) $25.00

Chapter Patch Small - $7.00
Chapter Flag - $25.00

15
 April, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Victory Lane Cape Coral
Bike Night Bike Night
7pm - ?? 5-10pm
State Mtg. 9 Freedom 10 11 12 13 14 15
Tallahassee Ride to the Victory Lane
2:00 pm Capitol Bike Night
7pm - ??
KSU 9am
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Victory Lane
Bike Night
7pm - ??

10:30am 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Chapter Victory Lane
Meeting-Six Bike Night
7pm - ??
Bends
30

16
 May, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 Sun Sports 6
Victory Lane Great Cycle
Bike Night Games
7pm - ??
9am-4:30pm
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Victory Lane Fort Myers
Bike Night Bike Night
7pm - ?? 6-10pm

14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Victory Lane
Bike Night
7pm - ??

21 22 23 24 25 26 27
Chapter Victory Lane
Meeting-Six Bike Night
Bends-10:30am 7pm - ??

28 29 30 31
Victory Lane
Bike Night
7pm - ??

17
 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
Southwest Chapter P.O. Box 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906

ADVERTISING RATE SCHEDULE

AND APPLICATION

6 Months 12 Months
BUSINESS CARD $ 55.00 $ 80.00
QUARTER PAGE $ 85.00 $135.00
HALF PAGE $145.00 $245.00
FULL PAGE $200.00 $375.00
Please submit all artwork in PDF or JPEG format. Email advertisement artwork/information and/or questions to
abateswc@yahoo.com. All advertising MUST be approved by ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter.
Ad renewal payments must be received by the 10th of the renewal month or ad will be discontinued.
Forward this completed form and payment to above P.O. Box. Checks payable to Southwest Chapter
Business Name:
Address:
Business Contact: Business Phone:
Cell Phone: Email:
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE:
Print Name: Ad Start Date:
Duration of Ad: Ad Renewal Date:
Date Payment Received: Form of Payment:
DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. OR SOUTHWEST CHAPTER ARE NOT TAX DEDUCTIBLE AS
CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTION FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES.

18
 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Southwest Chapter
P.O. Box 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906
Southwest.abateflorida.com

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
SEE PAGE 4 FOR MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE INFORMATION

Name (Please Print Legibly):

Mailing Address:

City State Zip Code + Four

Phone: (Include Area Code):
May we use your phone number for our phone tree? YES NO
Email Address:
Are you a registered Voter? YES NO
Please list your voting districts from your Voter Registration Card:
FL House FL Senate US Congress
District

Name of Chapter you wish to join: Southwest Chapter

If you are a member of more than one chapter, please designate your home chapter

Select ONE of the following:

New/Renewal Annual Membership Due $20.00
Lifetime Membership $600.00
Transfer Membership to:
Change of Address:
Signature: Date:
Sponsored by Chapter Member:
Memberships are open to anyone 18 years of age or older. All members receive with their paid membership a membership
card, our bi-monthly Masterlink magazine, Chapter Newsletter, Chapter voting privileges and personal involvement in
Statewide legislative actions and their freedom to ride.
CHAPTER USE
Dues Paid by Cash Check Money Order
Mailed Date: Membership Card Make Checks Payable to:
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Copy of By Laws Southwest Chapter
Membership Expiration
19
20