ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
May 2017 Volume XLI Issue V

Next Chapter Meeting Sunday, June 18th @ Six Bends Harley Davidson at 10:30 a.m.

Helmet Bill HB6009 has been defeated!! ABATE takes the win again!!

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.

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

We are a non-profit organization of SUNDAY, JUNE 18TH @ 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: June 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.
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 Presidents Message and Report:
Brothers and Sisters,

Another month has come and gone and this will be the last chance for our Chapter
to fill the positions needed to operate our Chapter and fulfill ABATEs Missions,
including the four key positions required by State Organizational Laws to keep the
Charter and keep our Chapter open. These key positions are: President, Vice
President, Secretary and Treasurer. Though there are other positions just as
important to the operations of our Chapter, without these four positions which
establish the Board of Directors, then the Chapter must close. And let me say this
as well, this current Board has served this Chapter for several years now and many in the roles of 2-3 additional posts.
They have done more than what they signed up for and on more than one occasion. Though I hate to lose them, I
understand the changes that have come about in their personal lives prohibits their ability to continue on in their current
post. With that said, Ill go here:

Ill guess that some folks at hearing the Titles of these positions, automatically think of a full time if not a part time job
at the leastThis is not the case at all. Though you may be asked for information or required to make certain adjustments
or entries to the required documents throughout the month for their proper maintenance and accuracy and perform certain
duties, these positions should not require more than a 3-5 hours a month of time to perform and its not all at one
timesome may take even less. And though one post may appear to be more involved than others, with our Chapter
documents being automated in MS Office it simplifies the work even more. So really, anyone that has a computer at home
and some basic computer document experience has everything they need to fulfill the duties of these four key roles. Most
of these duties are performed at Chapter meetings and at newsletter time. And thinking that this will take up a lot of your
personal time is just not so. I have outlined below the duties of these key posts for all to read and hope that you will
inquire of your current board any questions you may have regarding these positions. Im sure that we must have some
Members in our Chapter with organizational experience and the motivation to step up and volunteer, rather than watch
our Chapter default. Last, I hope you wont be intimidated by the written description of these post, it just defines the
requirements for the post and sometimes they can sound like theyre more than they really are.

THE DUTIES OF THE PRESIDENT SHALL BE:

1. To perform the duties of chairperson at all Chapter/Board meetings.
2. To insure accomplishment of duties by other Chapter Board members in the time frame allotted.
3. Initiate such actions as are necessary to insure the orderly operation of the Chapter.
4. Act as spokesperson for the Chapter before all Business, Government, and Individual Organizations and
Agencies.
5. Ex-Officio member of every committee.
6. Will appoint a pro-tem to fill a vacant position until the next regular meeting when the membership can vote on
a person to fill the vacant position.
7. Exception: Treasurer will be replaced by vote of the membership only.

THE DUTIES OF THE VICE PRESIDENT SHALL BE:

1. To act as assistant to the President and to perform the duties thereof in the event the President shall be incapable
of performing those duties.
2. Chairperson of all committees.

THE DUTIES OF THE SECETARY SHALL BE:

1. To act as recording Secretary at all Chapter/Board of Directors meetings.
2. To insure completion of all Chapter correspondence, reports and required forms in a timely manner.
3. To receive, record and file records of all activities and business transactions of the Chapter.

THE DUTIES OF THE TREASURER SHALL BE:

1. To receive, record and account for all the Chapters funds in accordance with legal and Corporation policies.
2. To dispense Chapter funds in accordance with the policies established by the Chapter Board of Directors and to
maintain records of the same.
a) Withdrawals from the Chapters funds shall require two (2) signatures and the approval of the Chapter
Board of Directors.

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 b) The President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and Sgt-at-arms shall be authorized to sign checks.
c) No two (2) persons in the same household can sign the same check.
d) The bearer of the check may not be one of the counter signers.
3. Maintains and furnishes such financial records to the Chapter Board of Directors as may be required.
a) All financial reports must be sent to ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC., and must be mailed by the 5th of each
month.
b) All financial reports must be accompanied by original receipts, related paper work and all money owed.
c) All financial reports must have the Presidents and Treasurers signature.
4. Notifies the Chapter Board of Directors if Chapter funds fall below a minimum operating balance.

Now, let me tell you this. Theres also some not so formal training by ABATE of Florida, which assists tremendously
the newly elected Board Members and appointees and provides tips and information to make their respective duties even
easier. And this training is just a couple to three hours on a weekend that many use as a getaway and get to meet other
Board of Directors from other Chapters and also become familiar with your State Board of Directors. So dont think we
just throw you out there without assistance. We are all here to work together and assist each other in order to promote,
preserve and defend our rights and our Missions as Bikers, ABATE Members and Americans. Your Chapter needs your
help now.

So Ill leave you with this, next months meeting will be the last opportunity well have to fill these posts and I would
hate to believe that Southwest, a Chapter of over 200 Members, defaulted into closure because it could not find four
people willing to serve on the Board of DirectorsThat, my Brothers and Sisters, after 36 years of hard work, would
really be a shame.

Thanks, Ride Safe.

Robb

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 Vice Presidents Message: 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

ironcitysupplyco@yahoo.com / 412-999-3397

Hello Southwest Chapter. Last week we received some Secretary: Gwynne Hickman
sad news. Chapter Member and brother John Perrone Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
died unexpectedly. John was only 47 years old and was
found unresponsive in his truck at work. It appears that Treasurer: Heidi Szolga
he suffered a heart attack. He leaves behind his wife
love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
Stacey and their four children.

Unfortunately, John had no life insurance. I am asking Sergeant-At-Arms: John Lupo

Chapter Members to step up and help our brothers the_loops@msn.com / 239-850-4905
family with funeral costs and day-to-day living expenses.
We, as bikers, attend many fundraisers each year for a Asst. Sgt-At-Arms: Don Gator Meredith, Jr.
variety of worthy causes. Each one of these events cost 239-245-3147
us anywhere from $20 to $100 with raffles, auctions, etc.
Now we have a chance to help one of our own. Please Membership Trustee: Heidi Szolga
make a donation of whatever you can afford. Every love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
dollar will go directly to Johns family and will be used
for absolute essentials. Im asking you to get your
Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman
checkbook out and to write a check payable to Stacey
Perrone and mail it to Southwest ABATE, PO Box
Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906. Heidi and I will see to it
that the checks are delivered to Stacey. Legislative Representative: Ken Teddy Bear Miller
Kenm0612@gmail.com / 239-410-3208
Thanks, Moe
Safety Director: Ed Lufkin
Vm101bat@gmail.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, vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220

Chapter Chaplain: Tom Provenzano

tprovenz@comcast.net / 239-267-8641

Products: Vacant

Chapter Rep: Moe Moser

Chapter Rep: Carl Nelson

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 21, 2017
15 Members, 1 Guest Present
Silence phones, Pledge of Allegiance, Moment of Silence
Meeting called to order at 10:32 a.m.
New members Ken Katcko and Kevin Kelsey were welcomed.
Presidents Report:
Robb thanked everyone who came to the Great Cycle Games
event at Sun Sports and thanks to Roger for his help at Ft. Myers will send out an e-mail to chapter members with more information.
Bike Night.
Vice-Presidents Report:
Moe reported that he went to the court appearance of Adam
Costello, who ran down motorcyclist Adam King. Nothing to
report other than there will be another hearing in June. Robb
discussed the 3 recent motorcycle crashes and the $2.50 fee that
we pay on our registrations. That money is supposed to be used
for MC Safety and Awareness; ABATE is asking for only about
10% of that for our programs. He asked that we all contact the
Governors office and ask him NOT to veto the line-item in the
budget that pertains to it. The e-mail address was previously e-
mailed to all members from Darrin on the State Board.
Secretarys Report:
Gwynne read the proclamation that was presented to our chapter
from the Board of County Commissioners at the May 2nd
meeting proclaiming May to be Motorcycle Safety and
Awareness Month. Gwynne stated the minutes of the last
meeting had been sent to the members in the newsletter and
asked if there were any corrections or additions. Being none,
she asked for a motion to approve. Motion was made by Don
Tupper and seconded by Carl Nelson, all in favor, motion
carried.
Treasurers Report:
Heidi reported the beginning and ending balances of our
account. Deposits were from memberships and donations at
Bike Night. Expenses were for the Sun Splash event,
newsletter, safety products, the delegates meeting and the
annual post office box fee. Everyone was welcomed to view the
report if they wished. Motion to accept was made by Carl
Nelson and seconded by Rob Cran, all in favor, motion carried.
Membership Report:
Heidi reported there were 3 new members in the month of April
and 3 new members so far for the month of May.
Public Relations Report:
Gwynne once again spoke about the presentation of the
proclamation by the BoCC. There were 6 of us who attended to
receive the proclamation, a copy of which will be attached in
this newsletter. She also made special mention of
Commissioners John Manning, the Chair of the Bocc, Brian
Hammon, who brought it forward to the Commission on our
account, and Larry Kiker, who was a biker himself until very
recently.
Legislative Report:
Teddy Bear reported the helmet bill and vulnerable road user
bills have both died and the safety money is still up for grabs.
Please review his report for more details.
Delegates Report:
Heidi talked about the Fall Biker Bash that will be held at the Punta
Gorda Campground November 3rd to 5th. There will be a ride
Saturday morning and biker games, tickets are $30 in advance or
$35 at the door and the gate fee includes primitive camping. She
Gun raffle tickets are still available.
Safety Director:
Ed reported he has reached out to several high schools but they
have not responded.
Sergeant-at-Arms:
John reminded everyone to check their bikes - tires, oil, fuel, etc.
before you ride. Do not let your guard down.
Products:
We still have some T-shirts and sleeveless button-down shirts
available in limited sizes. Please let Heidi or Robb know if you
want one.
Old Business:
Robb reminded everyone the Wednesday Bike Nights at Victory
Lane are still on-going and encouraged participation.
New Business:
Robb passed the floor to Moe to open the nominations for the
Board of Director positions. The elections will be at our next
meeting in June.
Nominations for President Robb Rabell accepted at our last
meeting. There were no other nominations; nominations for
President were closed.
Vice-President Teddy Bear nominated Rob Cran (Big Bird), who
accepted. Robb nominated Kevin Kelsey, who accepted. There
were no other nominations; nominations for Vice-President were
closed.
Treasurer Rob Cran nominated Heidi Szolga, who declined.
There were no other nominations; nominations for Treasurer were
closed.
Secretary Lynne Davis nominated Gwynne Hickman, who
declined. Carl Nelson nominated Lynne Davis, who declined.
There were no other nominations; nominations for Secretary were
closed.
Nominations were closed for this meeting. There will be one more
chance at next months meeting. It was stressed once again that
these four executive positions MUST be filled in order for our
chapter to remain open. Please step up and volunteer for one
year, its not hard if everyone does their part.
Motion to Adjourn:
Carl Nelson made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Don Tupper.
All in favor, motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 11:11 a.m.
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Father Toms Message:
Dear Fellow ABATE Members,
Hard to Label This Letter Youll Figure This One Out
How many times have we seen someone with a custom/uniquely made motorcycle or trike and
weve asked the question, Did you make it yourself?
Usually, you can tell the person who made it themselves or had significant input into the design,
etc before even getting the answer. The maker and owner of the scoot has a different glow
or sense of satisfaction about what he/she has made, as compared to someone who has just
plunked out the cash in an instant transaction.
For those of you who have made some accomplishments, without those accomplishments being
handed to you on a silver platter, you know what we are talking about.
For those who have not the talents or skills to weld or fabricate a custom motorcycle, please dont be discouraged. No need to be
jealous or envious of their talents... God has made all of us uniquely different. And, your talents and gifts lie elsewhere.
As one reads Psalm 73, we see that the writer may be fairly discouraged or jealous of others. He sees himself as someone righteous (a
good person) who has had to go through many struggles to achieve whatever stage he is at in life. When he sees others, especially the
wicked, growing and prospering with little or no effort (this is kind-of like the guy who easily puts out the cash for whatever he wants),
he becomes even more discouraged as he feels the wicked and the ones who dont know God, seem to be comfortable in their
situation, without much stress or adversity.
How many times have we become discouraged? How much do we complain? How many times do we become jealous because the
wicked seem to be getting ahead and were not? Are we envious over anothers talents? Is this something which is keeping you from
God?
Towards the end of the Psalm, the writers attitude changes. We need to know; the writer clearly knows God and has certainly taken
Him into his heart.
Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside.
22
I was so foolish and ignorant
I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you (God).
23
Yet I still belong to you;
you hold my right hand.
24
You guide me with your counsel,
leading me to a glorious destiny.
25
Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.
26
My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,
but God remains the strength of my heart;
he is mine forever.
27
Those who desert him will perish,
for you destroy those who abandon you.
28
But as for me, how good it is to be near God!
I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter,
and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do. (New Living Translation - NLT)
Do we allow what we see and have seen in the world, to keep us from a relationship with God? The devil has put some awful things
and distractions out there to make us question and complain. However, like the Psalmist, can you cut through the garbage and
see God for who He truly is?
Can you pray, My Lord God, my heart is bitter and Im all torn up inside. I give my heart to You. I now belong to you. Help me
to desire you more than anything else on earth. Hold me with your hand and guide me with your counsel. Keep me from being
distracted by the world, its pride, and accomplishments outside of your will. I receive your Son, Jesus Christ into my heart. I
accept what He did on the cross by dying in my place, for my sins. 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

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8
 Legislative Report:
By: Teddybear
Good Morning Freedom Fighters,

On May 5 the hankie dropped, signaling the official

end of the Florida Legislative Session for 2017.
However, legislators may be called back into a special
session to resolve the Medical Marijuana issue.
Unfortunately, when the legislative session ended
many bills died along with it, including both Vulnerable
Road User bills. The good news is that our safety money
is still alive and well, and sitting on the Governor's desk
waiting for his signature.
Gov. Scott hasn't indicated what he intends to do
with that money. Since this is his last term in office,
hopefully, he'll give it back to ABATE of Florida rather
than giving it to the Florida Department of Highway
Safety and Motor Vehicles (FDHSMV). Let's keep our
fingers crossed. As soon as we know anything on this, we
will let you know.
Now that the legislative session is over, the
upcoming elections will be grabbing everyone's
attention. Gov. Scott has indicated that he is considering
challenging U.S. Senator Bill Nelson for his seat. Sen.
Nelson will be very tough to beat, so Scott will have his
work cut out for him.
As you may recall, Sen. Nelson was one of the
primary authors of ObamaCare. He and the other
Democrat leaders wrote ObamaCare behind closed
doors, and refused to respond to questions regarding
ObamaCare by their constituents and other
Congressional leaders.
They also refused to respond to motorcyclists concerns regarding the loophole in the HIPPA Act. So Sen. Nelson is not
one of my favorite people.
Candidates are already lining up for the Florida Governor's race even though that race won't take place until next year.
The Democrats want that seat very badly, and are lining up some very high-profile candidates to challenge Republicans, including
Orlando attorney John Morgan, even though he hasn't filed or opened a campaign account yet.
Winter Park businessman Chris King plowed another $62,000 into his gubernatorial campaign in April, as he prepares to
do battle with former Congresswoman Gwen Graham, Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum --- and potentially other candidates ---
in next year's Democratic primary.
In all, King's campaign brought in $201,000 in April, with $62,000 of that coming from the candidate, according to a report filed
this week with the state Division of Elections. King also put $1 million into the campaign in March. The campaign reported
having about $1.18 million in cash on hand as of the end of April.

PUTNAM, GRAHAM GEAR UP FOR GOVERNOR'S RACE

Ending months of speculation, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam filed papers Monday to run for governor
in 2018. The Republican's entree into the race to succeed Gov. Rick Scott, forced to leave office next year because of term limits,
was little more than a formality.
Putnam, a former congressman who has served in the Cabinet post since getting elected in 2010, has long been considered
a GOP favorite for next year's gubernatorial nomination. In a statement released Monday, Putnam indicated he intends to make a
formal announcement later this month in his hometown of Bartow.
I consider myself one of the luckiest people in the world because I get to call Florida home. It's our responsibility as
Floridians to keep our economy at work, to increase access to high quality education, to fiercely protect our personal freedoms,
to keep our state safe, and to welcome our veterans home with open arms, he said.
Putnam filed his campaign papers Monday with the state Division of Elections, a day before former Congresswoman
Gwen Graham of Tallahassee is expected announce her intention to seek the Democratic nomination for governor at Miami Carol
City Park.
Putnam, 42, served for a decade in Congress before his election to the state Cabinet as commissioner of agriculture and
9
consumer services. Prior to his stint in Washington, Putnam served in the Florida House of Representatives.
Throughout his political career, Putnam --- a fifth-generation Floridian and a scion of a cattle and citrus family --- earned
a reputation as a straight-talking and affable Republican widely respected in the halls of the Capitol.

PUTNAM RETURNS TO ROOTS TO START GOVERNOR'S RACE BARTOW, May 10, 2017......... Standing in front of
a huge Florida flag covering the stately pillars of a century-old county courthouse with orange crates on the steps, Republican
Adam Putnam on Wednesday used a combination of small-town nostalgia, conservative politics and a deep knowledge of his
home state to launch his gubernatorial campaign.
I can't imagine a better place to announce I'm running for governor of the state of Florida, Putnam said, with his former
high-school principal and the Bartow High School Yellow Jacket band nearby and surrounded by family members and friends
who grew up with him in the Polk County town of less than 20,000 people.
We have to put Florida first so that we are more than a prize for a life well-lived someplace else, Putnam said. We can
make Florida the launch pad for the American dream.
Putnam, the state's agriculture commissioner and a fifth-generation Floridian, enters the 2018 race as the leading
candidate to replace Gov. Rick Scott, who will leave office because of term limits and is expected to run for the U.S. Senate.
Putnam, 42, brings a wealth of political experience to the campaign. Beginning as a 22-year-old, he served in the Florida
House and then moved to Congress, where he spent a decade and rose to the third-highest Republican leadership post in the U.S.
House.
He was elected to the state Cabinet in 2010 and will finish his second term as agriculture commissioner next year.
Robert Beattie, a 60-year-old Republican who worked nearly three decades in the phosphate industry as a welder, said
he likes Putnam's experience.
I appreciate that big time, said Beattie. His experience, his breadth and knowledge of what's going on in Florida.
In his 16-minute speech, Putnam, dressed casually in a long-sleeved blue-checked shirt and khaki pants, emphasized his
small-town roots, growing up in a citrus and cattle business that his family founded. He recalled the freezes of the 1980s that
devastated the crops.
I learned at an early age about riding groves late at night, checking pumps and checking temperatures and assessing
the damage the next morning and moving forward, he said.

10
 He talked about raising his prized horned Hereford bull, named Georgia Boy, for a 4-H Club project in a pen that once
existed a few blocks from the courthouse.
Hard work. Responsibility. Perseverance. These are common values, Putnam said. But in our society today, they are
all too rare.
How well Putnam's agrarian roots resonate with Florida's urban voters remains to be seen. But talking to reporters after
his speech, Putnam drew connections between Florida's diverse regions.
As you know, Palm Beach is one of our top ag-producing counties in the state, and so is Miami-Dade. It's not us against
them, Putnam said. We have an opportunity to diversify our economy and build on our pillars of agriculture, tourism and
construction and create new opportunities so that young people who grow up in a town like Bartow don't have to leave to find
good work.
Sen. Kelli Stargel, R-Lakeland, said Putnam hit the right themes in his announcement speech. His message is right in
line with where Florida and the nation needs to be, Stargel said. We need to get back to the basics of who we are. We are about
family, personal responsibility and less government. That's his message, and it's the right message.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd reinforced Putnam's conservative credentials, calling him honest and ethical and
praising him for making it easier to apply for concealed-weapons licenses.
Because of Adam, today it is easier than ever to protect and defend your family and loved ones, Judd said.
Putnam said he would protect the Second Amendment rights of Floridians. In Florida, we take those seriously, he
said.
Putnam also said law enforcement officers and military veterans would be recognized and honored in his
administration. Echoing a Scott policy, Putnam said he would make Florida the nation's friendliest state for military members
and veterans.
With $7.7 million on hand in his Florida Grown political committee through March 31, Putnam already has a significant
financial advantage in the race. But he could still face Republican challengers, including House Speaker Richard Corcoran, a
Land O' Lakes Republican who said he is looking at the governor's race but will not make a decision until after the 2018 legislative
session. Putnam said he is prepared for a potential challenge.
I'm a Bartow-raised farmer, and I am a conservative, Putnam said. Anyone who wants to run for governor is more
than welcome to pack a lunch and come on.
On Thursday, Putnam will begin a 10-day bus tour that will take him across the state from Miami to Pensacola, ending
May 20 in Suwannee County.

CALDWELL TO RUN FOR AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER

Setting up a primary battle against fellow lawmaker Denise Grimsley, state Rep. Matt Caldwell announced Monday he
will run for agriculture commissioner next year. The announcement was not a surprise: Caldwell, R-North Fort Myers, has raised
hundreds of thousands of dollars in recent months for a political committee that could play an important role in his campaign. But
it formally sets the stage for a primary race against Grimsley, R-Sebring, with both candidates touting their long roots in the state
and ties to the agriculture industry.
As a seventh-generation Florida native and the descendant of Florida farmers and small business owners, this great state
has given my family so much," Caldwell said in the announcement. "I am seeking this opportunity to give back and to serve the
people of the great state of Florida." Republican Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam cannot run again for the Cabinet post
next year because of term limits and is widely expected to try to succeed outgoing Gov. Rick Scott. Voters also will elect a new

11
attorney general to replace term-limited incumbent Pam Bondi, while it remains unclear whether a siting state chief financial
officer will be on the ballot.
CFO Jeff Atwater is leaving office after the ongoing legislative session, and it remains unclear who will be appointed by
Scott to fill out Atwater's term --- and whether that person will run for election in 2018.
State Rep. Matt Caldwell on Monday formally launched his 2018 campaign for Florida agriculture commissioner, saying
he plans to build a grass-roots campaign across the state.
Caldwell, R-North Fort Myers, made the announcement at Sun Harvest Citrus in Lee County. He touted his conservative
credentials and discussed his family's deep roots in Florida. He also pointed to the importance of water issues in the state.
Our most precious asset, our water, will continue to define our success, Caldwell said. Balancing the demands of
growing cities with the needs of our farmers and our environment is the key issue on which the next commissioner of agriculture
must be the leader.
The kickoff event came two weeks after Caldwell announced that he was running for the Cabinet post.
He is poised for a Republican primary race against Sen. Denise Grimsley, R-Sebring. Orlando Republican Paul Paulson
also has opened a campaign account for the primary. Incumbent Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam cannot seek another
term in 2018 and is running for governor.

From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Washington, D.C.

Bikers Roll into Texas With a Unified Voice: End Motorcycle Profiling

Washington D.C. - The roar of hundreds of motorcycles echoed through the halls of the Texas State Capitol in Austin. This
year, January 23rd, marked the day where bikers from all walks of life, representing all corners of Texas and beyond gathered
together in unity to send a strong message to lawmakers: end the unconstitutional practice of motorcycle profiling.
Citing a survey by the Motorcycle Profiling Project completed last year, instances of profiling of motorcyclists is on the
rise in the U.S. With a participation level of over 5,000 motorcyclists nation-wide, over 50% reported being unjustifiably
stopped by police at least once while riding their motorcycles.
According to state laws passed in Washington and Maryland, motorcycle profiling is defined as, the arbitrary or illegal
use of the fact that an individual rides a motorcycle or wears motorcycle-related attire as a factor in deciding to stop, question,
take enforcement action, or make an arrest.
Dozens of other states have already introduced similar legislative proposals in 2017. Even the U.S. Congress addressed
the issue in 2016 through the introduction of a bill in the House of Representatives.
Though its unclear if the Texas Legislature will introduce an anti-profiling bill, the dynamic between law enforcement
and the motorcycling community continues to be tense after an incident in 2015 in the state that left nine dead and hundreds
arrested.
But despite the controversy in Texas, many see value in continuing to raise concerns over motorcycle profiling on a
national scale; especially considering the outcome in the states that already passed anti-profiling laws.
In Washington state, which passed their profiling measure in 2011, reported incidents of motorcycle profiling have
dropped approximately 90% since legislation was passed into law. And in Maryland, though the law was only passed last year,
preliminary reports suggest the number of incidents of motorcycle profiling are down.
Back in Austin, motorcyclists communicated these statistics to any lawmaker that would listen. Riding a motorcycle or
wearing a leather jacket doesn't make me a criminal. said Russell Radke, a member of the National Council of Clubs, the
National Coalition of Motorcyclists, and a member of the Board of Directors to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. Radke is
also the International Vice-President for the Soldiers for Jesus Motorcycle Club. We need to send a strong message to
lawmakers unlawful profiling of motorcyclists will not be tolerated.
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has led the fight in Washington, D.C. To bring awareness to the issue.
Through work with its partners within the Anti-Profiling Action Group, the MRF will continue to advocate in 2017 for a
national solution to end the practice of the profiling of motorcyclists and support its members at the state level in their own
advocacy efforts.
The well-established leader in the anti-profiling movement and the force behind the Motorcycle Profiling Project,
David Double D Devereaux also attended the Texas events speaking at the State Capitol rallying the crowds; Motorcyclists
view the State of Texas as ground zero in the effort to preserve motorcyclist's civil liberties and the fight against profiling and
discrimination...they have chosen to stand up and fight for their liberties.

Quote of the month: What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight it's the size of the fight in the dog.
Dwight D. Eisenhower

See you in the wind,

'TEDDYBEAR'

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 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

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 June, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 1 2 3
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Victory Lane State Meeting
Bike Night 2pm
6pm - ?? St. Augustine,
FL
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

Chapter Mtg 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Six Bends-10:30 Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

25 26 27 28 29 30
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

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

2 3 5 6 7 8
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Chapter Victory Lane
Meeting-Six Bike Night
Bends-10:30am 6pm - ??

23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

30 31

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

ADVERTISING RATE SCHEDULE

AND APPLICATION

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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.
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Forward this completed form and payment to above P.O. Box. Checks payable to Southwest Chapter
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17
The Great Cycle Games . . .
was held at SunSports Cycle & Watercraft on Saturday, May 6, 2017. The challenge was on as
those of us tried our hand at skillfully riding through the five different courses. First place was
taken by Mopar of Peace River Chapter, Second place was taken by Dave Adams of Peace
River Chapter and Third place was taken by our own Southwest Chapter President, Robb
Rabell. Michael of Sun Sports and the Southwest Chapter Board thank all those who
volunteered their time and energy at this event.

First place, Mopar (left)

Peace River Chapter

Second Place, Dave Adams (center)

Peace River Chapter

Third Place, Robb Rabell (right)

Southwest Chapter

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

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
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