ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
September 2017 Volume XLI Issue VII

Next Chapter Meeting Sunday, September 17th @ Six Bends HD at 10:30 a.m.

Southwest Chapter ABATE

Celebrating 37 Years!!

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, SEPTEMBER 17TH @ 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: September 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:
Friends & fellow Riders,

Here we are in September & pretty soon well be starting the Cape & Ft.
Myers Bike nights again. Well, theres a possibility of changing our chapter
meeting venue & possibly the time & day as well well keep you all
informed as to any developments. Now before I move on, I will contact Mr.
Sauers of American Income Life to attend our next Chapter Meeting to
inform us on our Current Plan & other plans available to Members.

This time of year also marks the beginning of the election cycle for some of our Florida House Representatives
& State Senators, & there are several races that were watching, both for motorcycle friendly candidates & those
who wish to make riding a motorcycle so uncomfortable & expensive in a concerted effort to cause someone
thinking of riding a motorcycle, give up on the ideaIll call them foes. Also were watching legislation
amendments that are being Tweaked both in our favor & some not so favorable. So I encourage all riders to
join us & be informed.

With that said, let me go here. Not everything that sounds or appears to be in support of motorcyclist & their
rights may turn out to really be that way. Most Motorcycle Safety Programs Ive looked into, put the
responsibility of being safe, solely on the motorcyclist. They mention absolutely nothing about what Cagers
should do to prevent accidents. These programs say you riders should wear this, or put on that on your
clothes, or here, install these things on your bike. But when you look deep into their organization, youll see
what theyre really all about. Do it, youd be surprised at what you learn. Ive explained before, that a Safer
Crash premise cannot & should not ever be implemented in any motorcycle safety program, only Crash
Prevention & Avoidance should be the sole priority of any motorcycle safety program. Only educating the
public on how & where to LOOK for us will in fact reduce motorcycle/vehicle crashes, injuries & deaths. Ill
clarify that with this: in spite of all the safety features the government requires in modern automobiles, trucks &
SUVs, do any of these Safety features, actually prevent Accidents? Do they prevent Careless & Distracted
driving? Driving Impaired? Texting? and my all time favorite, Driving Stupid? No, I dont think so. And
please correct me if Im wrong but from what Ive been hearing about these self-driving & self-stopping car
safety systems, they DO NOT recognize motorcycles. I truly hope thats not the case. Nevertheless, imagine the
lives that could be saved, if our State representatives concentrated their efforts, time & energy on programs that
actually save lives. I know, I can just hear them now Bikers should share the responsibility of their safety!to
which I answer: We already do! Just SO YOULL NEVER FORGET, every motorcyclist in Florida,
ABATE Member or not, pays a $2.50 fee on top of the States motorcycle registration cost, a fee that is intended
to promote REAL Motorcycle Safety programs such as ABATE of Florida, Inc.s Motorcycle Safety &
Awareness Program (MSAP) & other Motorcycle organizations that promote REAL safety programs that truly
would save lives. And this fee only Bikers pay not Cagers, Truckers or SUVs only Bikers, and the past
several years the Safety Money bikers have paid in, has not been distributed to ABATE or any other Safety
Program. And let us hope it has not been used for some grant to some God-forsaken University to perform a
Safety Survey gathered by a group of non riding Experts telling us how to ride & what we should wear in
order to be SAFE. That would just be the end of it. So stay informed, join Southwest Chapter & be kept up-to-
date as to who in Tallahassee is really working for your Safety. Let your voice be heard so that when the
Politicians ask for your Vote (& of course, your money) remind them of this; Were still waiting on
oursSir!

Ride Safe always,

Robb Rabell,
President Southwest Chapter ABATE of Florida

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 Vice Presidents Message:
CHAPTER MEMBERS:
REMINDER at our September meeting there will be
discussions and a vote regarding a change in meeting
venue and possible change in meeting day and time.
Also, the Chapter is looking to place an order for large
Chapter patches. To get the order placed, we need a
commitment of at least 10 patches to be purchased by
members. If you want a large Chapter patch, please
send an email to abateswc@yahoo.com and verify
your commitment to purchase a patch. Information on
the patch will follow should we get enough orders.
Hope to see you at the meeting.
Kevin
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: Kevin Kelsey
Kevinkelsey62@yahoo.com / 239-470-1442
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 August 20, 2017
17 Members - 2 Guest Welcome the Superintendent of Lee County Schools, to try to get into every
Silence phones: Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence for Cape Coral Schools to explain the importance of having Safety
the Fallen Soldiers and Awareness classes but have not had any response. Also, there
Call the Meeting to order 10:35 am will be a Saturday Safety and Awareness class available as needed.
Presidents Report:
Robb stated that we are still looking at the situation regarding an
Organization called Ride Smart Florida, a big promoter in putting
helmets back on our head. Last year there was a motorcycle safety
survey passed around to motorcyclist through emails with
questions on how to make motorcycling safer. The research that
was done by Ride Smart Florida reflected that since the helmet law
was repealed, motorcycle deaths increased, yet the years reflected
in their research were the years ABATE was not distributed the
safety month and we were unable to advertise our Safety
campaigns like we did in the three years that we did get the money
and the motorcycle death dropped. This was sponsored by
International University. Robb recommended to all Members to
educate themselves by going to Ride Smart Florida website and
see what they stand for. Robb pointed out the difference in the
premises is between safe crash and crash prevention crash
prevention is the only way we are going to stop Motorcycle deaths,
by making people aware that we are out there and teach them to
watch out for us. We do our part, we watch out for them and stay
out of their blind spot, we take motorcycle courses, we learn to ride
and we do everything we can to stay out of their way. But they
should do their part as well. Robb introduced a former Board
Member to the floor and welcome her back Birdie Clark, she
gave a brief history regarding her role as a Safety and Awareness
Director with ABATE.
Vice-Presidents Report:
Kevin did not have anything to report.
Secretary:
Lily 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 Don Tupper, seconded by Bob
Paczkowski, all in favor, motion carried.
Treasurers Report:
Rob unexcused absence President reported a donation income
and expense for the newsletter. The beginning and ending
balances of our bank account were not available at the meeting.
Membership Report:
Robb reported that there were no new Members or any renewals
this month the membership has remained the same as it was last
month.
Legislative Report:
Teddybear advised Members can read his full report in the
Newsletter.
Safety Director Report:
Ed stated that Robb, Gwynne and he taught four Safety and
Awareness classes at Ada Baker High School last week and
thanked Robb and Gwynne for helping. An E-mail was sent out to
Sergeant At Arms Report:
Glen stated that as a new Member one of the things he sees being
an issue is the participation of the Chapter Members which is
always the same Members attending the monthly meeting.
Members have discussed about different ideas - throwing out there
to everybody else - if you got any ideas, in how we can increase
participation by changing meetings location, times, dates, venue,
bike nights or anything, please approach any Officer and give us
your input.
Delegates Report:
Heidi provided a report from the State Meeting last month in Lake
County. She advised that the minutes would be in the Masterlink
for review if anyone had any questions. 2018 State Meetings were
set as follows: February in Tallahassee; April at Peace River
Chapter; June at Lighthouse Chapter; August at North Orlando
Chapter; October at Gulf Coast Chapter and December at Gator
Alley Chapter.
Old Business:
The Biker Bash November 3-5 starting at Noon at The Peace
River Campsite in Acadia. Live bands Friday night and
Saturday night, biker games Saturday afternoon and Christian
Motorcycle Association will be there on Saturday to do games with
the children (Children are not allowed in the ABATE area but they
will be set up across the road path). Pay in advance will be $30.00;
at the door is $35.00, for one day is $20.00 - Tickets are available.
Gun Raffle Tickets are also available $5.00; A Huglu Shotgun 12
Gauge Over / Under and a Henry Riffle 3030 Lever Action
drawing is on December 09, 2017.
New Business:
State Meeting October 14, 2017 in Port Charlotte Heidi and Moe
are attending everyone is welcome to join. Robb stated that
Christmas Ride is coming up and volunteers are needed to make it
a successful event. Robb opened the floor for the Chapter for any
suggestions or comments regarding doing the Christmas ride again
for the Veterans Home in Port Charlotte. Motion by Moe to have
the Christmas Ride for the Veterans, second by Don Tupper. All
in favor, motion carried. Heidi volunteered to do the registration
table, products and stay to do clean-up. Robb, Glen, Kevin, Carl
and Lily volunteered to do fundraiser, sponsors, clean-up or
whatever is needed - it will be on December 17, 2017.
State has again requested a 10% donation of each Chapters bank
account to assist with bills. A motion was made to give 5% to State
and that motion failed. A motion was made to give 10% to state and
that motion passed.
Motion to Adjourn:
Motion to adjourn was made by Heidi Szolga, seconded by Moe
Moser. All in favor, meeting adjourned at 11:52 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,
From Darrin Scribe Brooks

Hey Everyone,

The new version of the Vulnerable Road Users bill has now been filed in the Florida Senate. It is SB 116 by our friend
Sen. Baxley. This bill has new language and covers more areas which should facilitate support from more legislators.
I have attached a PDF version of the bill which can also be found here:
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2018/116/BillText/Filed /HTML The House version will be coming out soon
and will be the same language. I will notify you once it is. Granted, this is not a stiffer penalties bill, and does not
mention motorcycles specifically. It is a Vulnerable Road Users bill and includes ALL VRU's including motorcycles.
Florida law defines motorcycles and motorscooters as Vulnerable Road Users.

SB 116 will amend the Move Over Law to include VRU's and require vehicles to slow down or move over when a
VRU is broke down on the side of the road, which will make our lives a lot safer out there. This represents a significant
departure from strategy employed in the past by ABATE of Florida. Hopefully, it will be a lot more successful. If
passed, it will allow us to build on it for the future and make our roads a lot safer for all of us.

On a sadder note, former state Sen. Greg Evers, described Tuesday as a down-home gentleman, died Monday night
in a single-vehicle accident near his home in Okaloosa County, a family spokeswoman said. On behalf of the family
of former state Sen. Greg Evers, it is with great sadness that we announce his passing, spokeswoman Sarah Bascom
said in a prepared statement. The family asks for your prayers as they deal with this sudden loss. Bascom

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said the accident occurred near Baker, where Evers, 62, had a farm. She said funeral arrangements would be announced
later. Greg passionately represented his district for many years in both the House and Senate, Senate President Joe
Negron, R-Stuart, said in a statement. He was especially dedicated to the men and women of his community who
were serving or had served in the military, as well as our fellow Floridians across the state who serve as corrections
officers. The Pensacola News Journal reported that authorities said Evers drove off Griffith Mill Road in Okaloosa
County sometime late Monday, with the car found submerged in a roadside creek Tuesday afternoon. Evers was the
only person in the vehicle, and the News Journal quoted a Florida Highway Patrol lieutenant as saying it appeared
Evers failed to negotiate a curve in the road. A native of Milton, Evers, a Republican, served nine years in the Florida
House before his election to the Senate in 2010. Evers left his Senate seat last year to make a bid for the U.S. House
but lost the Republican primary to U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz. Tributes and condolences poured in Tuesday from elected
officials and others who knew Evers for his work as a state lawmaker. Ann and I are heartbroken to learn of the
passing of Sen. Greg Evers, Gov. Rick Scott tweeted. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family. Sen.
George Gainer, R-Panama City, said Evers was a dedicated public servant and an even better friend. He will be greatly
missed, Gainer said in a tweet. Go rest high on that mountain. Gus Corbella, a lobbyist and former Senate chief of
staff, called Evers one of a kind. A down-home gentleman who always kept his word, Corbella said in a tweet.
In addition to his advocacy for corrections officers and on criminal justice issues, Evers was a staunch defender
of Second Amendment rights. In 2014, he authored the so-called Pop-Tart bill, which prohibits schools from
disciplining students who play with simulated weapons. The bill was inspired by the suspension of an 8-year-old
Maryland boy for biting a Pop-Tart into the shape of a gun. More recently, Evers made a bid for an appointment to the
Florida Public Service Commission, although he was not chosen as a finalist last week. In interviews with a Public
Service Commission nominating council, Evers underscored his rural roots and independence. Farmers never make
any money, Evers said, when questioned about the lack of reported income from a farm supply business. You know,
if we made money then we'd become entrepreneurs. I'm pretty much my own man and I make up my own mind.
Senator Greg Evers was a champion for Florida motorcyclists throughout his entire tenure in both the House and
Florida Senate, fighting for stiffer penalties to be imposed against negligent drivers who injure or kill motorcyclists.
Our heartfelt prayers go out to the family for their loss.

STATE GRAPPLES WITH INCREASE IN CREDIT-CARD SKIMMERS

THE CAPITAL, TALLAHASSEE, July 25, 2017......... Credit-card skimming devices at Florida gas stations, stores
and ATM's are on a dramatic rise this year. State figures show 315 skimmers had been discovered at Florida gas pumps
through July 18, compared to 120 skimmers discovered through the first seven months of 2016. That represents a 160
percent increase in the illegal devices used to collect consumers' credit- or debit-card information. This year's seven-
month total already far exceeds the 219 reported devices in all of 2016 and the 169 skimmers found in 2015, according
to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

At a press conference in Orlando this month highlighting the problem, Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam noted
that his inspectors and law-enforcement officers have documented a continued rise since 2015 in the devices, which
are typically placed inside gas-pump cabinets. Since that time, we have seen a steady trend upward, an increase in
the number of skimmers being found around the state on these gas pumps, Putnam said. If undetected, each skimmer
is capable of collecting credit- or debit-card data from 100 consumers, with each losing an average of $1,000 to
electronic theft, according to Putnam's agency., which is responsible for gas-station inspections. Palm Beach County
has the most reported skimmer locations this year with 58, followed by Broward County with 57, Miami-Dade County
with 26 and Pinellas and Volusia counties, each reporting 12 devices.

Although there appeared to be a correlation between larger counties, with more cars and gas stations, and the detection
of skimmers, that isn't always the case. Brevard County, with 11 skimmer locations, had more than the combined totals
of Duval County, with five, and Hillsborough County, with four.

In the majority of cases, one skimmer device was reported at each location. But some had multiple skimmers, including
a New Smyrna Beach gas station where four skimmers were found on July 11, records show. Putnam has been working
with the Legislature, the Florida Retail Federation and the Florida Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store
Association the past few years to curb the illegal activity.

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In 2016, the Legislature passed a law that toughened penalties for credit-card fraud and required security devices on
gas pumps, including the use of security tape to alert store employees and consumers about pump tampering. This
year, the Legislature passed another law making it illegal to possess skimmer-device equipment. As the third-largest
state with 10,000 convenience stores and more than 100 million tourists visiting each year, Florida presents
significantly more opportunities for skimming devices to be used, said Scott Shalley, president of the Florida Retail
Federation, after Gov. Rick Scott signed the latest anti-skimming legislation (HB 343) last month. Putnam said the
industry has taken steps to protect gas pumps from tampering, including moving away from a universal key system
that allowed access to pumps in different locations. He said the newest stores and gas stations are deploying technology
that will shut down pumps if they are opened without authorization.

But Putnam said skimmer criminals are growing more sophisticated, with some now using devices where credit-card
data can be downloaded remotely, eliminating the need to retrieve skimmers from inside the pumps. Unfortunately,
like many forms of criminal activities, the bad guys continue to evolve just like the laws continue to evolve, Putnam
said. But Putnam also said there are some very simple things that the traveling public can do during this summer
traveling season to protect themselves. Among the recommendations are using cash to pay for gas; using credit cards,
which typically have more consumer protections than debit cards if fraud occurs; using pumps closer to the stores, as
skimmer criminals are more likely to target remote pumps; and avoiding pumps if the cabinets are open or if security
tape is broken or appears altered. This is not a crime limited to Florida, but unfortunately it is a crime that we are
seeing growth in and an increasing number of these devices are being found, Putnam said.

NOTE: So far, in Lee, Charlotte, and Collier Counties, 8 skimmer devices have been found. Last year, 2016, a total
of 10 skimmer devices were found in the tri-county area. Motorcyclists need to be cautious when filling your tanks.
At least one skimmer related arrest has been made in Cape Coral.

CORCORAN SEEKS TO PULL PLUG ON PUBLIC FINANCING

House Speaker Richard Corcoran announced Wednesday that he wants to repeal part of the Florida Constitution that
provides public financing for statewide election candidates. Corcoran, R-Land O'Lakes, and House Commerce
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Chairman Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, announced they are asking the Florida Constitution Revision Commission to place
the repeal on next year's general-election ballot. The commission, which meets every 20 years, has the power to directly
place proposed constitutional amendments on the ballot. Corcoran has appointed nine of the 37 commission members,
meaning his proposals are likely to carry a lot of weight with the panel. "This (public financing) is a gross waste of
taxpayer money and is nothing more than welfare for politicians, Corcoran said in a statement. You really have to
be clueless or just plain selfish to accept money from our state coffers that could go to our schoolchildren, first
responders, or be put back in the pockets of our taxpayers. Boyd said more than $10 million in public financing has
been spent by candidates on political consultants, TV ad buyers and politicians instead of school kids, substance abuse
treatment or veterans since 2010. That is unacceptable, and repeal of the provision in the Constitution is the way to
end this practice, Boyd said. A public financing amendment was adopted by voters in 1998 by a 64 percent to 36
percent margin. It was placed on the ballot by a prior Constitution Revision Commission.

FELON RIGHTS INITIATIVE TOPS $500,000 IN JULY

A political committee seeking to get a felons' rights initiative on the 2018 ballot raised $500,936 in July, with $250,000
coming from the American Civil Liberties Union, according to a newly filed finance report. The committee, Floridians
for a Fair Democracy, also spent nearly $662,000 during the month as it tries to collect enough petition signatures to
put the issue before voters in November 2018. The committee had $93,000 on hand as of July 31. The initiative, if
approved, would automatically restore voting rights for all nonviolent felons who have served their sentences,
completed parole or probation and paid restitution. Felons convicted of violent crimes, such as murder, would not be
eligible.

The committee still needs to submit about 700,000 valid petition signatures to the state to meet the overall requirement
of 766,200 signatures, according to the Florida Division of Elections website. Along with money from the ACLU, the
committee received $150,000 last month from The Advocacy Fund, a San Francisco organization.

From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation:

NEWS FROM THE HILL Infrastructure Package Stalled? Plus Driverless Car Bills Zoom Through Energy
& Commerce

As a candidate, President Trump pitched revitalizing the nations infrastructure (and creating jobs while doing
it) as a key priority of his agenda. For motorcyclists, the idea of a major infrastructure revamp could be a two-edged
sword. On one side, the possibility of better road conditions and more favorable riding settings; while on the other, we
tried and true MRF lifers know that the safety-crats will undoubtedly use this big package to slide in language
affecting our right to ride. Because of this, your MRF has been keeping a close watch on these discussions as they
develop. However, Trumps ambitious public works plan is fast becoming an afterthought. It remains stuck at the end
of the legislative line according to the staffers Ive spoken with on Capitol Hill. Theyve told me its behind a number
of other must dos including negotiations over the budget, the debt ceiling, a tax overhaul, a new push to toughen
immigration laws and the seemingly never-ending story of trying to find a replacement for the Affordable Care Act.
Mr. Trumps team has yet to produce the detailed plan he has promised to deliver very soon. This is despite talk
from Democrats and Republicans alike that this could be an important win on his agenda. The current rumor is that we
may see an outline of a plan come falland when this announcement does come, your MRF will be at the ready to
make sure your voice is heard.

On Thursday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee considered a bill on driverless cars that, tackled
some contentious issues like balancing the roles of federal and state governments and granting exemptions from federal
motor vehicle safety standards. H.R. 3388 is one in a series of bills that the Committee is examining in its efforts to
regulate this fast-growing sector. Of note, an amendment was added during Thursdays markup which required vehicle
manufacturers to provide consumers with clear information on new cars' self-driving capabilities and limitations.

This would address the concerns of many (including others on the road LIKE RIDERS) that individuals who use
these types of vehicles wont know when the computers stop and they have to take over! This type of confusion could
have disastrous consequences. H.R. 3388, or the SELF-DRIVE Act was voted on 54 0 with no one opposing. You
can review the Committees work below. The bill now heads to the House floor.

https://energycommerce.house.gov/news-center/press-releases/subdccp-examines-potential-self-driving-cars-and-
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timeframe-deployment

EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES A Need for Speed

This week, the federal safety watchdog, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), released statements saying
that speeding is a big blindspot in America's road safety efforts. To change that, it's issuing a new set of
recommendations for federal and state officials. According to the draft report released earlier this week, more than
112,500 people lost their lives in speed-related crashes from 2005 to 2014, accounting for 31 percent of all traffic
deaths in America over that period.

Let me break it down for youthe NTSB says excessive speed kills and our federal and state officials arent doing
enough to address the problem. So along with the report, the NTSB issued safety recommendations to the US
Department of Transportation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal Highway
Administration, the Governors Highway Safety Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the
National Sheriffs Association. The NTSB also recommended action from seven states that prohibit automated speed
enforcement, 28 states without automated speed enforcement laws, and 15 states with automated speed enforcement
restrictions. So what does all that mean for riders? Better get ready to smile I predict more speed cameras in the days
ahead.

Quote of the Month: Politicians and diapers must be changed often.... and for the same reason. Mark Twain.

See you in the wind,

'TEDDYBEAR'

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12
Father Toms Message:
Dear fellow ABATE Members,
A Fresh Look
How many times have I told the story about my second scoot and the lessons learned? That old
Triumph Bonneville sitting in pieces, all over the floor of my grandmothers carport Never
seeming to come back together And, when it did, never running right
Being young and dumb, thinking I had all the answers, I was always looking into the solutions I
thought I had. The word here is, I or me. Once in a while, something worked out and much of
that was due to circumstance or luck. The more of me put into the equation, the worse it became.
The pieces really began to come together when I began looking at the schematics from the maker and got some help from others
who knew the makeup of the motorcycle, much better than me. I began to listen and benefit from others wisdom and experience.
Much of our lives and our spiritual conditions are the same as that motorcycle drama. The more we look at what we are facing,
the trials, and situations, etc and rather than turning it over to the Lord for answers, the more troubled and hopeless we will find
ourselves.
Who made us? And, who knows us better than ourselves? When will we finally let go and let God in our lives? God, through
His Son, Jesus, became man and died to take those burdens from us.
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and youll recover your life. Ill show you
how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with mewatch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I wont lay
anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and youll learn to live freely and lightly. (The Message Bible)
Matthew 11:28-30
Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And
God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.
(The Good News Translation) Philippians 4:6-7
Please pray this, with your whole heart, Dear God, I accept you as my heavenly Father. I confess that I am a sinner and have
been separated from You. I ask forgiveness of my sins. I repent and accept this gift of repentance and I wish to be free in you. I
confess with my mouth that your son Jesus is my Savior and died for me. I believe in my heart that You raised Him from the
dead. I receive Jesus into my heart and ask Him to become the center of my life. I ask, in the Name of Jesus. Amen." If you
have prayed this and/or wish to talk, call us at 239-267-8641
Blessings,
Tom and Kathy
Pastor Tom (SW ABATE Chaplain and Estero River ABATE Life Member) and Pastor Kathy (SW ABATE Life Member)
Foursquare Chaplains - 239-267-8641 or email: tprovenz@comcast.net

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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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 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 - ??

October, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 State Mtg. 14
Port Charlotte
Cape Coral
Bike Night
5-10pm
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Chapter
Meeting-Six
Bends-10:30am

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

16
 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.

17
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 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
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