ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
August 2017 Volume XLI Issue VII

Next Chapter Meeting Sunday, August 20th @ Six Bends Harley Davidson at 10:30 a.m.

FLORIDAS RAINY SEASON IS UPON US!

RIDING IN THE RAIN TIPS ON PAGE 17

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, AUGUST 20TH @ 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: August 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:
Hello friends,
The July Leadership Seminars were attended by the new Board of Directors & as
always the information provided to our newly elected Board was an essential part
of their transitions into their respective post. The Presidents/VP Meeting brought
us some new information on ABATEs Insurance coverage by American Income
Life. Their Public Relations Manager was there to brief us on how they can provide
this coverage to us & some of the other plans that American Income Life offers. We
will be inviting him to attend a Chapter Meeting so he can go over these plans in
detail. But the most important issue of the Presidents Meeting was in regards to ABATEs MSAP Safety money. We as
motorcycle riders, when we register our bikes, pay an extra $2.50 on the registration that is supposed to go into a program
that sets those funds in a trust, to be directly distributed to ABATE of Florida & other organizations for the specific purpose
of promoting motorcycle Safety & crash prevention programs. This is a fund that only motorcyclist pay, not automobiles
owners, just motorcycles. In 2007/2008 we received the appropriations & ABATE bought billboard ads, radio ads, flyers
among other programs that brought a reduction in motorcycle crashes & deaths. In 2008/2009 it was an indirect
appropriation to HSMV & 2009/2010 no appropriations were made. We received it again in 2010/2011 & 2011/2012. Now
in 2012/2013 our State House legislators appropriated the funds for us as usual, but it was vetoed by Governor Scott. Now
no appropriations were made 2013/2014/2015, but in 2015/2016 our legislators once again appropriated the funds for
ABATE, yet once more the Governor vetoed the Appropriation & at the Presidents Meeting we found out that once again
our Representatives had voted to distribute the funds to ABATE, but it was vetoed once again by the Governor. So our
State President & Lobbyist gave us a 3 option call for Chapter votes, to find out from ABATE Members what course of
action to pursue next. Option 1: Class action Suit, Option 2: A new bill to force the funds to be appropriated to the trust
fund for distribution or Option 3: An Amendment to force the appropriation of funds into the trust fund. I brought the vote
before the Chapter & explained the pros & cons of each option briefly. 1) A Class Action Suit could tie up this issue in
court for an undisclosed amount of time. 2) A new Bill might not make it through a committee & die without going
anywhere & last 3) An Amendment to appropriate the funds into the trust. The good thing about an Amendment is that it
can be attached to any DOT Bill that is heading for a vote on the floor. So this being the better of all options, the Chapter
voted for an Amendment to any DOT Bill. This will be brought to our Motorcycle Friendly Legislators for drafting.
Remember, this is OUR money, its an additional cost we pay in order to promote Motorcycle Safety Awareness & crash
deaths prevention programs. So I will keep you in the loop on this issue. One last point on this every year we dont get the
funds, Motorcycle deaths rise in the State. The years that we received the money, deaths & crashes went down. Last,
attendance at our Chapter Meetings has been down & when people dont attend they miss out on critical & vital information
you can only get at the meeting, some of which requires your vote & more than that you wont know whats going on with
your rights. Remember meetings are not just for members, so if you have company, friends or relatives you can bring
them. Our meetings are open to all. Thanks, hope to see you there.
Ride Safe.
Robb Rabell

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 Vice Presidents Message: ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest Chapter
EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
CHAPTER MEMBERS: PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745
www.southwest.abateflorida.com
REMINDER come one, come all to Victory Lane
Caf every Wednesday evening starting at 6:00 pm for President: Robb Rabell
dinner, drinks and conversation with your fellow thesawguide@yahoo.com / 239-458-3136
Chapter members.
Vice President: Kevin Kelsey
Hope to see you there. Kevinkelsey62@yahoo.com / 239-470-1442
Kevin
Secretary: Lily Arenas
abate14swfl@outlook.com / 239-362-8492

Treasurer: Rob Cran

239-888-3755

Sergeant-At-Arms: Glen Pannenbakker

glenpann@comcast.net / 215-416-5885

Membership Trustee: VACANT

Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman

Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025

Legislative Representative: Ken Teddy Bear Miller

Kenm0612@gmail.com / 239-771-8707

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: Heidi Szolga

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 July 16, 2017
15 Members
1 Guest Welcome
Silence phones: Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence
Call the Meeting to Order 10:35 am
Presidents Report:
Robb provided new name badges for the board members. The Leadership
Training Seminar was last weekend at Ocala, and we had a good turnout
from our Chapter. Robb advised that at the leadership training, a
representative from American Income Life Insurance spoke that he
wanted to come to one of our Chapter meetings. The $4,000 accidental
death/dismemberment insurance is free to ABATE members with their
membership. They have four additional insurance plans available to
members. Their plans are reasonable and determined by your age. Robb
indicated that the free insurance was almost cancelled because they were
unable to contact members for possible additional policy sales. New
members will mail in the beneficiary card directly to American Income
Life Insurance. Doc is still working with the insurance company to
determine what will happen with existing members. Robb also discussed
the $2.50 Registration Fee that motorcyclists pay and where that money is
currently going. Only 2.5 percent is requested to go into a fund for
ABATE safety money. Questions regarding where the money has gone in
the past when Governor Scott vetoed the money for the general fund.
Regarding this money, Doc wants us to take a vote on: Option One: we
can file a class action lawsuit; Pro: Get that money and put it back in the
safety fund. The first year we had that money, we flooded the State with
radio ads, billboards, everything we could get our hands on regarding
safety awareness. Within that time motorcycle deaths dropped dramatic.
When the money was taken away from us the motorcycle death rate went
up. Con: it could be tied-up in court for many years before seeing any
money. Option two has 2 Scenarios: write a bill or write an amendment
to a bill. Pro: we can go to our motorcycle friendly representatives and
have them sponsor a bill that will put the money collected to go directly
into a fund for safety and education; Con: Once a bill is put on the floor,
if it does not come to a committee, then it dies and cannot be brought up
again until the next session, which is what happened with the helmet bill.
With an amendment, we can attach it to any Department of Transportation
bill that passes a Committee. Our State Lobbyist recommended an
amendment. Once Doc gets the votes from the President of each Chapter,
he will work with our motorcycle friendly representatives to get a draft
prepared.
Vice-Presidents Report:
Kevin has an excused absent.
Secretary:
Lily advised of a correction to be made in the minutes from last month,
noting Island Breeze as being her local Chapter of The Women in The
Wind. Motion to accept last meeting minutes with the correction made by
Lily Arenas, seconded by John Lupo. Motion carried.
Treasurers Report:
Rob reported the beginning and ending balance of our bank account
including expenses and advise the report was here for any member if they
wanted to see it. Motion to accept made by Lily Arenas, seconded by Heidi
Szolga. All in favor, motion carried.
Membership Report:
Membership is currently vacant. In June we had 5 New Members; 2
Renewals and one Member passed away in May.
Legislative Report:
Teddybear advised his full report will be in the Newsletter.
Safety Director Report:
Ed advised that he has heard from other schools to do safety and awareness
but has not heard from Mariner H.S. If anyone wishes to be a Certify MSP
Instructor now is the time because (easier process) you can do three classes
in a day. Any MSP representative can do a class wherever we can find
locations that want to listen. We dont have to just do safety education at
high schools. Ed shared that he saw in a FB post where you can put
reflective tape underneath a saddle bag or any other place which the bike
will reflect especially when the bike is upside down. The bike can
possibly be spotted sooner in the case of an accident/emergency. When you
ride at night, the tape will reflect the bike. Ed will post on our FB page
incoming events including flyers regarding Safety Awareness.
Sergeant At Arms Report:
Glen reminded members to keep in mind that we need to be courtesy with
everyone out there on the road. At the Training Seminar it was mentioned
about blind spots being the most common with motorcycle accidents.
Dont ride in someone elses blind spot, just adjust your speed and make
sure you can see them through their mirror. That way you know they can
see you as well. How you behave while riding reflects for all other bikers,
especially if you have ABATE attire on. Please keep that in mind!
Old Business:
Gun Raffle Tickets are available for $5.00 each. The drawing will be held
on December 9th. The Fall Biker Bash tickets are available. $30.00 gets
your two nights of primitive tent camping. You can camp via RV but you
must contact the campground as there is a separate discounted fee for
ABATE members. Our Chapter will do the registration again, so
volunteers are required. We will put the flyer on our FB page with details
and send an email out to the members. The public is welcome to this event.
Robb and Lily volunteered to assist at registration. Our Anniversary is in
September and we are looking for ideas to celebrate, suggestions of a chili
cook-off or any other ideas, maybe a Chapter party. A reminder that
members meet every Wednesday night at Victory Lane to meet up and
hang out. Come out, support and hangout with us on HUMP Day!
A vote was taken with regard to the safety money and it was a unanimous
vote by the members in attendance to write an amendment to attach to any
Department of Transportation Bill. Robb will report back to State.
New Business:
Robb voiced concern about members that dont attend the monthly
meetings missing out on important information and not getting a vote on
State matters. Also, some information they do have may be outdated or
incorrect. The Chapter is considering changing the day, time and/or
location hoping that will attract more members to attend our monthly
meetings. It is open to all members for any suggestions regarding the day
and location and would be greatly appreciated! Contact via email is best.
Continuing to share about ABATE and what we do is important for support
in order to move forward with legislative issues. Robb stated that ABATE
is not a charity organization, we are a motorcyclist rights organization and
that we do support other Chapters. Robb suggested that we should have
one fundraiser a month for example: poker run or biker games events.
Gwynne will assist Ed by contacting the school boards to promote Safety
Awareness Programs at the schools. Once a month an email will go out to
all Members reminding them of our monthly meetings.
Motion to Adjourn:
Motion to adjourn was made by Heidi Szolga, seconded by Carl Nelson.
All in favor, meeting adjourned at 11:31 am.
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 Saluting Vietnam Veterans and Honoring All Veterans

The Shell Factory & Nature Park is Proud to present Nam Jam Fort Myers. This will be a
Family Event held on September 17th from 12pm-6pm. The Shell Factory is honored to partner
with the Invested Cape Coral Veterans Foundation to Salute our Vietnam Veterans and Honor all
Veterans. Admission is FREE, and the Event will feature Live Music with Chuck Peterson, A
Special Color Guard Ceremony, Tickets for 2 FREE draft Beers and FREE Hot Dog and Chips
during the BBQ for All Vets. Additionally, ALL Vietnam Vets will receive a special 50 Year
Vietnam War Recognition Package presented by the Cape Coral Veterans Foundation. Nam Jam
will also be recognizing several WWII Veterans who reside right here in our community. The
Shell Factory has wanted to sponsor this type of Event for some time as part of our Community
Outreach Program said Rick Tupper CFO/ Marketing Director. "Not only will we have FREE
Entertainment, but all Vets will get into The Nature Park FREE, receive a discount in our Retail
Store and a discount on our Sunday Italian Buffet which is available until 7pm". Nam Jam Fort
Myers will also feature a 50/50 Raffle with half going to the Winner and half going to the Cape
Coral Veterans Foundation. The entire day promises to be a time to Honor Veterans in a Family
Fun atmosphere. The Shell Factory & Nature Park, Your Family's Number 1 Dining &
Entertainment Destination. Located in North Fort Myers on HWY 41. Visit wwwshellfatory.com
for all The Shell Factory's Future Fun Family Events.

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Legislative Report:
By: Teddybear
Good Morning Freedom Fighters,

18 Candidates Qualify in Cape Elections - On the final day of candidate qualifying, incumbent District 1 City Councilmember
Jim Burch filed the necessary paperwork and paid the fees in the City Clerk's office Friday to be placed on the Primary Election
ballot for Sept. 12. Burch is seeking another four-year term representing his district. All 18 candidates running for City Council
or mayor have qualified. There are seven candidates running for mayor, four candidates in District 1, three candidates in District
4 and two each in District 5 and 6. Three sitting council members are seeking re-election while District 5 Councilmember Rana
Erbrick is vacating her seat to run for mayor. To qualify, candidates had to file a financial disclosure form, present a valid voter
registration card and pay the required fees for the office they seek. The seven candidates for mayor include Erbrick, Joe Coviello,
Derrick Donnell, Michael Hollow, Kevin Koch, April Freeman and Daniel Sheppard. Mayor Marni Sawicki is not running for re-
election. Graham Morris, John Gunter and James Foraker are challenging Burch for the District 1 council seat. Jeffrey Jones and
Jennifer Nelson are challenging incumbent Richard Leon in District 4. John Karcher is challenging incumbent Rick Willians for
the District 6 seat. James Schneider and Dave Stokes are running to fill the two years remaining in Erbrick's District 5 term.
Erbrick's resignation is effective Sept. 7 whether she is elected mayor or not.

The total fee to run for a council seat is $426, which includes a filing fee of $100 plus the Election Assessment fee of 1 percent
of the annual salary of $32,600 ($326). The total fee to run for mayor is $516, including a $150 filing fee plus the 1 percent
assessment fee of the mayor's salary of $36,600 ($366). Three candidates who previously announced a run for office have
withdrawn, leaving 18 candidates overall. The primary election is Sept. 12. The general election is Nov. 7. Early voting dates for
the primary are Sept. 5-9 and from Oct. 30-Nov. 4 for the general. Cape Coral municipal elections are non-partisan, citywide
elections, meaning all registered voters may cast a ballot in all races regardless of party affiliation and the district in which the
voter resides. All candidates must be continuous, full-time residents of the city for the entire calendar year preceding their
qualification for office and must also reside in their respective districts. Full terms are for four years.

Burch to withdraw from District 1 race - Incumbent Jim Burch said today he will withdraw from the District 1 City Council
race. While he remains confident in both his re-election bid and his ability to continue to serve the city well, he said there are
other matters to which he would like to devote time. "I think it's unfair to the city to commit to four years if there are others I

7
would like to do," Burch said. He is comfortable with the remaining slate for the seat. "I feel confident when I leave, the city is
in good hands," he said. "I feel good about the people coming in. I think the candidates, overall, generally speaking, are qualified
to hold the District 1 seat."

Freeman announcement causes stir in Cape mayors race. - The Cape Coral mayoral race has heated up with the
announcement that former U.S. Congressional candidate April Freeman will throw her hat into the ring, making her the sixth
announced candidate for the seat held by Marni Sawicki, who is not running for another term. Freeman, who filed her preliminary
paperwork in June, ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2014 and 2016 as a Democrat. What does this mean for the November
election? That depends on who you ask but political analysts agree - for Freeman, there are pros and cons. Political consultant
Joe Mazurkiewicz, who also previously served as mayor in Cape Coral, said her presence will force the remaining candidates to
raise their game as she has an edge in running for a major office. "I'm happy when anyone puts their hat in the ring for local
office. She will probably raise the level of debate because of her experience and practice in debate. I hope she does,"
Mazurkiewicz said. Sawicki also saw Freeman as an interesting candidate, but wasn't ready to give an opinion one way of the
other. "It will be a matter of what her platform is and what she brings to the table," Sawicki said, adding she knows Freeman
well as a fellow Democrat. "There are enough in the race now where there's something for everybody. Is it a game-changer?
No." Many of the debates in which Freeman has taken part have concerned federal issues. There is no formal record on where
she stands on local issues such as LCEC or Bimini Basin.

Terry Miller, political consultant, said he's not surprised to see this "career candidate" run in another race, and her name
recognition should help her. But in a mayoral race, where there's little money to campaign with, it isn't as pronounced. "Typically,
you would give the advantage to the candidate with the highest name recognition. You won't see a lot of money in a mayoral
race, and what you do see would be incumbents who already have a fundraising base," Miller said. "The fundraising here is split
between many people." Miller said Freeman's party affiliation will work against her although being a Democrat did not affect
Sawicki's bid when she ran for the non-partisan seat four years ago because Sawicki had almost no pre-election name recognition.
"Having run for Congress several times as a Democrat, she will be remembered as one and that will hurt her in the election,"
Miller said of Freeman. "She has a chance to get through in such a crowded primary because the top two will go on to the General

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Election, but it will be hard for her to win, not because she's a failed Congressional candidate, but because her ideals don't match
with her constituents. They'll see a liberal Democrat." Miller added that mayoral elections have typically seen low voter turnout
(it was 17 percent in 2013), which could play in her favor. He said Freeman will have to embolden the base Sawicki went after
in her victory. "Sawicki ran against a very unpopular mayor (John Sullivan) and she ran on views the constituents care about, not
as a Democrat. In this instance, Freeman is running in a pack and has a track record, and that will hurt her," Miller said.
Mazurkiewicz said with or without Freeman, anybody can win. "When there's no incumbent in the race, it's always wide open.
She doesn't add anything or take anything away at this point," Mazurkiewicz said. Freeman joins former city council member
Derrick Donnell, current council member Rana Erbrick, Michael Hollow, Joe Coviello, Daniel Sheppard, and Kevin Koch on
the list of qualified candidates. Sherry Leonard announced her intention to withdraw from the race in early June.

EVEN WITHOUT ANNOUNCEMENT, SCOTT RUNS FOR SENATE

THE CAPITAL, TALLAHASSEE, July 12, 2017......... Calling Gov. Rick Scott's likely bid for the U.S. Senate an "open secret"
would be a misnomer --- there's no secret there, open or otherwise. Scott continues to sprint across the state for official events
that easily double as campaign swings --- this week alone, he's done a pair of ceremonial bill signings and two events to highlight
law-enforcement pay raises he signed into law last month. The only mystery is when the governor will make his 2018 plans
official. Observers say there's no hurry. "Because he's potentially the biggest name in that race on the Republican side, he can
take his time, really," said Aubrey Jewett, a political science professor at the University of Central Florida. Scott has repeatedly
brushed off questions about when he might run, saying the public is "tired of long campaigns." He also has personal experience
to draw on: Scott announced his first run for governor as virtual unknown in April 2010 before beating Attorney General Bill
McCollum in an August GOP primary and Democrat Alex Sink in the general election that November. This time, Scott would
probably need to start a little bit sooner. "He can probably push it into late in the fall. Obviously, he is running already," said Rick
Wilson, a Republican strategist.

The governor began laying the groundwork for a possible campaign months ago. He has kept intact his first fundraising
committee, Let's Get to Work, which has raised more than $11.5 million since Scott won re-election in 2014. At the federal
level, Scott has announced he would chair the New Republican super PAC, saying the goal of the committee "is to make the
Republican Party Great Again" --- part of an overall Scott theme of tying himself closely to President Donald Trump. In addition
to trips across the state, Scott has traveled to Washington, D.C., and continues to raise his profile on national issues. On Monday,
Scott held a "Venezuelan Freedom Rally" in Miami to slam the authoritarian regime of President Nicolas Maduro. "Today, as
hundreds of people rallied together, a clear message was sent to Maduro and his gang of thugs: the movement will not be silenced
--- freedom and democracy will thrive in Venezuela," Scott said in a statement released by his office Monday. "Basically, his
actions and his words have made it pretty clear that he intends to run, and his bank account makes it clear that he intends to run,"
Jewett said.

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Democrats have also shown they have no doubt that Scott is running. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has
hammered the governor repeatedly over the past few months. On Wednesday, they slammed "Self-Serving Scott's self-
promotional press tour" on law-enforcement pay raises, saying Florida officers still make less than many counterparts in other
states. "Rick Scott's self-serving agenda has taken Florida to the bottom of the nation in household income and wages --- and
under Scott even Florida's brave law enforcement officers make less than almost anywhere else in the country," said David
Bergstein, a spokesman for the committee. U.S. Bill Nelson, the Democratic incumbent who Scott would face next year, has also
taken a few subtle and not-so-subtle jabs at the governor. Still, no formal announcement seems to be in the works. After being
governor since January 2011, Scott also lacks one of the key reasons for an early announcement --- making sure voters, and
particularly campaign contributors, know a candidate's name. "He's already run statewide twice," Wilson said. "He's already got
a lot of name ID." Scott has held off longer than his predecessor, former Gov. Charlie Crist, who announced in May 2009 that he
would seek a U.S. Senate seat the following year. But Crist also faced something Scott does not, so far: a credible primary
challenger. In the 2010 U.S. Senate race, former state House Speaker Marco Rubio drummed Crist out of the Republican Party
and then went on to win a three-way general election campaign. For now, no other high-profile Republican has made serious
noise about challenging Scott for the Senate nomination if he wants it. "I don't know that him announcing earlier is going to scare
anyone off who's not already scared off," Jewett said. Still, Wilson said, even Scott can't wait forever. "You have to put your toe
in the water at some point," he said, "or you attract other people into the game."

From Megan Ekstrom Motorcycle Riders Foundation:

NEWS FROM THE HILL August Recess DELAYEDbut Will Anything Get Done?
In case you didnt know, the U.S. Congress takes a much-needed and very well-deserved break (SARCASM) every August. Our
elected officials use the month to take some personal time, but mostly they spend their days at fundraisers or meet with constituents
at the home office (side note August is a GREAT time to set up meetings with your legislators). However, some recent
shenanigans will almost certainly curtail that this year.

This week, Sens. David Perdue (R-Ga.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Kennedy (R-La.) Mike Lee (R-Utah), Mike Rounds (R-
S.D.) and Luther Strange (R-Ala.) held a press conference calling on the Senate to cancel August recess. The reasoning? There is
so DAMN MUCH TO DO. Here is what the White House has asked the Hill to do immediately: 1) Pass a repeal of Obamacare
before August recess. 2) Lift the debt ceiling before August recess. 3) Agree on the outlines of a broad-based overhaul of the
nation's tax code before the August recess. 4) Clear outstanding executive and judicial branch nominations. The problem? As of
this writing, there are 11 legislative days scheduled until the August recess begins. Obamacare repeal is in a tough spot. Congress
is extremely unlikely to lift the debt ceiling before the August recess. And I can't see any agreement on the horizon on tax reform.
But to give credit where due, Senator Majority Leader Mitch McConnell did make the announcement that the Senate will break
with longstanding precedent and delay the start of its August recess until the third week of the month in order to continue to work
this summer. Now, I understand at home, you may be saying SO WHAT THE EFF? I work every August! (You and me both, my
friends). But this breaks a long-standing precedent in D.C. and has everyone talking.

This D.C. insiders opinion? GOOD. There is a lot to be done, so lets roll up our sleeves and get there. And if they want to pass
the MRFs profiling resolution while theyre around this August, we certainly wouldnt be opposed to that!

EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES Guardrail Fail and Ethanol Talk - Families of people who have been killed
by driving into a guardrail they say is dangerous have brought a lawsuit against the Lindsay Corporation, which makes the X-
LITE model guardrail device. Lawsuits recently filed say that the rails impale vehicle passengers and have been linked to several
deaths across the country since last year. There are approximately 14,000 X-LITE units in use in at least 29 states and Puerto
Rico. Lindsay Chief Executive Officer Rick Parod discussed the lawsuit recently stating that, We stand behind X-LITE and will
vigorously defend these claims. Parod went on to say that their product has passed crash and safety tests in accordance with
federal standards. Notably, while the product is still eligible to be purchased using federal transportation funding, Parod said,
Lindsay is replacing the X-LITE in its lineup this year with products that meet a newer set of federal safety standards. Your MRF
pays close attention to issues surrounding guardrails considering the needs of our membership. Well watch this as it develops
and report out accordingly.

Waitwhat? EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt had a gift for ethanol producers this Independence Dayhe stayed a continuation
of the Obama administration's requirement that 15 billion gallons of ethanol go into the nation's fuel system. Hold on though,
folks dont sharpen your knives just yet. Pruitt reduced overall advanced biofuels in 2017, kept advanced biodiesel steady in 2019,
and cut by about a quarter the cellulosic ethanol mandate for fuels from agricultural products that have a much smaller carbon
footprint. What does that mean in plain speak? Pruitt has opened the door to significant changes down the road, suggesting that
an analysis of a "reset" of the ethanol volumes allowed under the law may be in order. The EPA is asking for comment on imported
ethanol and biodiesel, and for an examination of the market for zero percent ethanol. KEEP IN MIND ITS ONLY A
PROPOSAL.the EPA often modifies its proposed volumes when it issues a final rule. Now the agency has until November 30th
to take comment and produce a final rule. The clock is ticking and your MRF is watching.

10
NEWS FROM THE STATES: TEXAS Announces Motorcycle Crash Analysis Findings - More news from the lone star state
this week. Researchers at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute announced their completion of a five-year analysis of
motorcycle crashes in the state. Though we encourage you to read the full report (link below) some quick factoids from the
announcement include an increased likelihood of crashes in urban settings versus rural (however those crashes that occur in rural
areas are more severe); 40% of riders in crashes have no M license certification; and, of fatal motorcycle crashes, 44% involved
an impaired rider. A friendly reminder that these stats are exclusive to Texas and that there are many other statisticsread the
reportgive me your feedback! The full study can be accessed by going to: www.looklearnlive.org/wp-
content/uploads/2016/12/MOTO_ReportRev1a.pdf

MRF NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings in August and MOTM - Though your elected officials are looking at a
shorter August recess this year (see the first story), the last two weeks of the month, they are likely to be home in their districts.
What does this mean for you? ITS A GREAT TIME TO MEET WITH YOUR CONGRESSPERSON. If you attended Bikers
Inside the Beltway, a short meeting in the district office is an ideal time to follow up on all of those issues the staffer promised to
look into. Sufficient time has passed since the end of May so you can go in and say, HEY whats the final word? Can you
sign on to our profiling resolution? Push for the RPM to go to the floor? Make some responsible changes to the ethanol mandate?
Finally fix the definition of a motorcycle? And if you DIDNT attend Bikers Inside the Beltway (first of all shame on you!) then
here is your chance to make up for it and schedule a meeting with your elected officials in your home state and share your concerns
as riders! Dont know who to call for an appointment? Let me help! (megan@mrf.org) Dont know what to say? Weve got you
covered. The MRF recently posted all of our issue summaries that we lobbied on this year. Print these off, study them up, make
your appointments and PREACH. You'll find the summaries at: mrf.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/BITB-Issues-
Summaries.pdf

Riders Keep Close Eye on Infrastructure Legislation, WASHINGTON, DC Though modernizing the nations infrastructure
has been a looming issue for the federal government for decades, there has been increased emphasis since the 2016 presidential
elections when then-candidate Donald Trump pledged a significant investment to the issue. He came one step closer to his promise
when the White House released its principles for an infrastructure package along with the presidents FY18 budget request. The
principles outline $200 billion in infrastructure investments.

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For motorcyclists, the area of infrastructure is one of interest. Roads, highways, bridges are all well utilized by motorcyclists,
yet many of these are considered structurally deficient. More importantly, because the concept of infrastructure is so broad,
some policymakers will offer proposals that they have championed for years that they hope to include in an infrastructure
vehicle. Many of these could very well include seemingly unrelated efforts in the name of safety. Often, large legislative
packages are viewed as opportunities to slip in provisions related to highway safety. These riders (no pun intended) are
easy to miss in a large legislative package, but the effects are far-reaching. In addition to maintaining a vigilant eye on what
gets stuck into an infrastructure package, there is also concern that President Trump will pursue a proposal to lift a federal
ban that prevents tolling on existing lanes of interstate highways: Tolling is generally restricted on interstate highways.
This restriction prevents public and private investment in such facilities, the White House fact sheet says. We should
reduce this restriction and allow the states to assess their transportation needs and weigh the relative merits of tolling assets.
Supporters say its a way to charge motorists directly for the roads that they use. Alternatively, others fear that if they dont
pay for the infrastructure through toll roads, they will pay at the pump via a gas tax.

While an infrastructure plan is easy to talk and campaign about, it doesnt mean it is easy to write, pass through Congress,
or sign into law. Although Republicans currently control the House, Senate, and presidency, several factors stand as
roadblocks to any major piece of legislation becoming law. Despite a polarized Congress and busy legislative schedule,
however, there is a real appetite for considering a major overhaul to the nations infrastructure, and plenty of room for
negotiation to help make it possible.

EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES Alcohol Ignition Interlocks for Motorcycles? - Recently, NHTSA
released a report titled, Examining the Feasibility of Alcohol Ignition Interlocks for Motorcycles. The report looks at
alcohol ignition interlocks and the limited use in motorcycles and identities their limited use including availability for
motorcycles, weather, battery power and secure storage. The purpose of the report should be noted: Motorcycle fatalities
increased from 3,270 deaths in 2002 to 4,612 deaths in 2011. In 2011, 30 percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal
crashes had blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) of .08 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or higher, more than for any other type
of vehicle. Therefore, it is appropriate to examine the feasibility of wider use of alcohol ignition interlocks to help reduce
alcohol-related crashes and fatalities on motorcycles. Though the MRF never condones or supports drinking and riding, one
could surmise that the safety-crats could take this to the next level, advocating to make alcohol ignition interlocks required
for all motorcycles. This is something the MRF would take aggressive countermeasures against. To read the report summary,
go to the link below: https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/documents/812406_ttalcoholinterlocksformotorcycles

MRF NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Senate Motorcycle Caucus Launch - On Wednesday evening this week,
motorcycle manufacturers, advocates and supporters gathered in the Capitol to celebrate the launch of the newly chartered
Senate Motorcycle Caucus. Led by Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), the caucus will focus on
issues that impact both riders and industry manufacturers. Your MRF was invited to attend the launch and was encouraged
by the conversation in the room especially by Senator Gary Peters a co-chair of the Caucus. Its really about
awareness for carsusually an automobile is not paying attention and runs into you, so we want to raise this issue for folks.
We have every right to be on the road with automobiles. Peters went on to also say that the Caucus would be an outlet for
him as he paves the way for legislation on self-driving vehicles. However, he made one thing very distinct; Let me be clear,
we dont EVER WANT automated motorcycles! Reps from Harley-Davidson agreed. Senator Joni Ernst, the Republican
co-chair said her intentions behind starting the caucus were to help drive the conversation on infrastructure. President Trump
has pushed for a major infrastructure package during his term and Sen. Ernst indicated that the Motorcycle Caucus could
help to spur those discussions. The MRF will continue to stay engaged in Caucus committee activity and will report out
relevant information.

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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 August, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Victory Lane State
Bike Night Meeting
6pm - ??
Tavares, FL
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

20 21 22 23 24 25 26
Chapter Victory Lane
Meeting-Six Bike Night
Bends-10:30am 6pm - ??

27 28 29 30 31
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

September, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Chapter Victory Lane
Meeting-Six Bike Night
Bends-10:30am 6pm - ??

24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Victory Lane
Bike Night
6pm - ??

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 TIPS FOR RIDING IN THE RAIN
1. If you are going to put on rain gear, wear the proper rain
gear. It needs to be able to breath but still not allow water to
creep in. If you can, visible rain gear is even better, whether
orange, yellow and/or reflective. Remember, the rain makes it
even harder than usual for cars to see you.
2. If you wear a helmet and can where a visor that covers your
face, since rain above 30 mph is going to hurt you, try using
the wax that you polish your bike with to keep droplets off your
visor. An alternate option if you dont wear a helmet is to wear clear safety glasses, as they fog even less. You
can also put wax on them and/or spray them with Rain-X to help keep the rain off.
3. Make sure your tires are correct for riding in the rain, in other words, do not go out riding in the rain with
slick tires.
4. When rain first starts after many days of dry weather, its when its the most dangerous since theres a lot of
oil and dirt on the road. Wait an hour or two for the rain to wash away the oil/dirt before riding since the road
surfaces are at their slipperiest. If its just drizzle, then the road will remain slippery.
5. Watch the road. What used to be kind-of slippery is now very slippery. Stay off of things like painted lines,
manhole covers, metal plates and even tar snakes. If you do find yourself caught on one of these, avoid hard
braking or acceleration just roll over it without any sudden inputs.
6. Watch out for puddles. Yes, it can be fun riding through one, but since the water hides the surface you just
dont know what you are riding into. Can the puddle in fact be a 3 feet deep hole? Do you want to find out the
hard way? If you cant avoid riding through a puddle, hold the throttle steady, keep the bike upright, and dont
touch the brakes.
7. When riding and you see a colored rainbow on the ground, watch it. Those magical, colorful swirls are just
slippery oil pools of death. Do not aim for the rainbows. They tend to be worst at intersections, where vehicles sit
for a while and leak oily puddles, so be extra careful when youre stopping at or crossing through intersections.
8. Find a dry line. When available, try riding in the tire tracks of vehicles in front of you. A cars wheel can act
like a plow, pushing water on the road out of the way for a brief moment. Soak up that dry pavement while you
can!
9. Railroad crossings are to be taken as straight as possible. Remember the railroad tracks are metal, and wet
metal is slippery. Straighten your bike.
10. Harsh, abrupt acceleration, braking or steering can quickly eat up your limited traction. Make all your inputs
smooth and gentle. If you need to urgently apply your brakes, pump them so that you do not start aquaplaning
and try to apply more rear brake than normal. If your front wheel starts sliding youre done for, if your rear wheel
slides you can easily correct.
11. Give yourself more space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Braking distances are much longer in
the rain and you cant count on having traction when you need it. Plus, you need time to scan the road ahead and
choose your lines if you need to avoid an accident.
12. Relax when riding. Clinging to the bars with a death grip will do three bad things: a) tire you out faster, b)
exaggerate the effects of any movements you make, and c) keep your suspension from working as it should.
Remember that your bike is designed to handle small bumps and wiggles, so let it do its job. Besides, relaxed
riding is much better.
13. Do one thing at a time. In normal conditions, we often combine several actions at once, such as accelerating,
shifting, or trail braking while turning. In the rain, focus on separating these actions (i.e., finish your deceleration
before you turn into a corner.) That will reduce the traction demands on your tires.
14. An obvious piece of advice, but here it is anyway: reduce your speed! In many countries legally you need to
reduce speed by some 10-20% when it rains, and there are good reasons for it.
15. When lightning starts up, if you can, stop riding. Head for cover (dont stop below a tree).

Riding in the rain will at times be necessary and you should not stop riding just because it is raining. Relax
and enjoy the ride. You are after all riding a motorcycle and that is fun. ENJOY IT.
17
 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
Southwest Chapter P.O. Box 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906

ADVERTISING RATE SCHEDULE

AND APPLICATION

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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

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