ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
November 2017 Volume XLI Issue IX

Next Chapter Meeting Wednesday, November 15th @ The Shell Factory at 7:00 p.m.

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

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

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

We are a non-profit organization of Wednesday, November 15th @ 7:00 p.m.

motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life.
We lobby and educate the government and the at THE SHELL FACTORY
general public to promote motorcycling in a 2787 N. Tamiami Trail
safe and positive image. We endeavor to enlist Fort Myers, FL 33903
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: November 2017
motorcyclist;
To promote safe riding habits without PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
infringing on individual freedoms; ABATE of Florida, Inc.
To motivate bikers to write letters to their SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
legislators before, during and after the PO Box 60745
legislative session; and Fort Myers, FL 33906
To furnish our members with a newsletter to
keep all bikers informed in regard to upcoming www.southwest.abateflorida.com
legislation.

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of ABATE of Florida, Inc. and/or the
Southwest Chapter. The publication allows members to express their beliefs and opinions. ABATE of Florida, Inc., and the
Southwest Chapter accepts no responsibility for the comments, opinions, or views contained in this newsletter.

Please direct correspondence in reference to this publication to: Heidi Szolga, Southwest Chapter, P.O. Box 60745, Fort
Myers, FL 33906-6745 or email at abateswc@yahoo.com.

Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes.
2
 Presidents Message:
ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest Chapter
Brothers & Sisters:
EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
Well, here we are in PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745
a new month & the www.southwest.abateflorida.com
Change in day &
time of our monthly President: Robb Rabell
meeting has proven thesawguide@yahoo.com / 239-458-3136
to have been a good
movethe turnout Vice President: Glen Pannenbakker
at the last Meeting was nothing short of glenpann@comcast.net / 215-416-5885
outstandingthanks to all for attending & keep up your
good work. Once again our Membership stepped up Secretary: Lily Arenas
in support of the Chapter, we sold a total of 10 Chapter abate14swfl@outlook.com / 239-362-8492
& earlier Christmas Run shirts, helping to recoup the
expenses of this years Veterans Christmas Ride. Thanks
Treasurer: Rob Cran
to all once more. And not just help for the Chapter, but
our donation to State Board was presented as well, at
239-888-3755
the last State Meeting. Next we now have a full BOD
once again. Sgt at Arms Glen has stepped up to accept Sergeant-At-Arms: Moe Moser
the V. Presidents post vacated by former VP Kevin & ironcitysupplyco@yahoo.com / 412-999-3397
former Membership Trustee Heidi has once again
returned to our BOD in her Membership post. Not to Membership Trustee: Heidi Szolga
mention our brother Moe, stepped up as Sgt. at Love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
Arms. Please welcome them back & thank them for
their continuous support of our Chapter. Now to Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman
this, as youve heard theres a couple of bills Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
introduced in the State House that were watching
closely for adverse amendments being added at the Legislative Representative: Ken Teddy Bear Miller
last minute. Please see our Legislative Report for all the Kenm0612@gmail.com / 239-771-8707
latest details, updates & status of these bills. Heres
some more good news: Southwest Chapters MSAP Safety Director: Ed Lufkin
instructors have been invited to the Motorcycle Vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
Advisory Council (RideSmartFlorida) at the
Florida Dept. of Transportation office in Tampa Newsletter: Heidi Szolga
to present ABATE of Floridas MSAP program. Our love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
goals for this presentation are tri-fold: First, were not
teaching the program to the staff, but rather to present it Webmasters: Taylor Musburger
as to what & how ABATE of Floridas Chapters are
ABATE@musburger.net / 360-298-1921 and
doing to promote Motorcycle Safety on the road; two,
Ed Lufkin, vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
promote the effectiveness of this program to achieve
ABATE of Floridas Crash Prevention goals;
and third to accentuate our need to receive the Chapter Chaplain: Tom Provenzano
Safety Funds that only Motorcyclist pay to the State, tprovenz@comcast.net / 239-267-8641
so that we can advance our MSAP program & other
Motorcycle Safety promotions to prevent loss of life. Products: Vacant
Well keep you all in the loop as to the developments
of our presentation. Now, the Downtown Ft. Myers Chapter Rep: Moe Moser
Bike Night is right around the corner so Ill reach Chapter Rep: Heidi Szolga
out for volunteers to assist, just email your Board &
well get you on the schedule. Well thats all I have for HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE
now, Head on a Swivel & be safe. RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (MRO)

Robb
3
4
 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC./SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
GENERAL MEETING
Six Bends Harley-Davidson, Fort Myers on October 18, 2017
28 Members and 5 Guests
Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence
Call the Meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
Presidents Report:
Robb Thanked Members and Guests for coming to the
Meeting. Robb stated about: Fundraisers, Donation to
State, Expenses for Veteran Run and Bike Nights
Protocol for Events in how ABATE Members should
follow the rules from Events coordinators. Robb stated
that he brought up to the State Meeting, how they
should create a New MSAP Safety videos to address
new issues regarding the new technology coming
online in how dangerous it is: cell phone, texting, GPS
and everything else they are adding to Motor Vehicles
to distract while driving. Chapter shirts, Patches, Year
Pins and other items are for sale. Robb provided
information regarding FEMA (Federation European
Motorcycle Association) and MRF and how it relates to
us (he encouraged Members to go online and educate
themselves).
Vice-Presidents Report:
Glen an excused absent
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 John Lupo, seconded by Cathy Sapp, all in favor -
motion carried.
Treasurers Report:
Rob reported the beginning and ending balance of our
bank account and our expenses for the month. The
report is available for any Member that wishes to see it.
Motion to accept made by Don Tupper, seconded by
Carl Nelson, all in favor, motion carried.
Membership Report:
Robb reported that there were no new Members, 3
Members that were in delinquent status which, if not
renewed within the month, their Membership will
expire completely, and 3 Membership completely
expired. Discussion was brought to the Floor by Motion to Adjourn:
Members regarding using PayPal in the near future to Motion to adjourn was made by Don Tupper, seconded
collect Renewal Fees, pay for items, etc. by John Lupo. All in favor, meeting adjourned at 8:16
p.m.
Legislative Report:
Teddybear - his full report will be in the Newsletter
Safety Director Report:
Ed has an excused absent
Sergeant At Arms Report:
Moe stated that all is good - He announced that two
Members was celebrating their Birthday and proceeded
to lead the members in song wishing both members a
happy birthday.
Public Relations Report:
Gwynne stated that Punta Gorda Police Department
doesnt know yet if they can escort us for the Veterans
Christmas Ride. She was advised to follow up early
November. She did get confirmation from Lee County
Police Department that they will be there to escort us to
the Charlotte County line.
Delegates Report:
Heidi went through the events at the State Meeting on
October 14, 2017 and advised the State Meeting minutes
would be available through the Masterlink.
Old Business:
Due to Irma - The Fall Biker Bash to take place at the
Peace River Campsite in Arcadia on November 3-5 is
Cancelled.
New Business:
Open Floor regarding Grilling at Berts (Black Widow)
to raise donations (once a Month). Also, on Bike Night
on Tuesdays at the Fathoms to have a table which
ABATE Members used to have in the past but stopped
because the same Members were always volunteering.
It was noted we would have our safety/membership
booth at the Nam Jam Event to Salute Vietnam Veteran
at the Shell Factory on 10/22/17 from 12:00 6:00 pm.
ABATE will have the opportunity in be in the Veteran
Day Parade again this year in Cape Coral and anyone
would wanted to partake in the parade was to meet with
Robb following the meeting.
5
Legislative Report:
By: Teddybear

Good Evening Freedom Fighters,

The new salutation represents our new start time for out chapter meeting at the Shell Factory. We had a great turnout for our first
chapter meeting. I even was able to get re-acquainted with some old and dear friends.

The results of the Cape Coral City Council Primary are in and, for the winners, its now a one-month push to the finish for the
Nov. 7 General Election. Joe Coviello and Michael Hollow, two businessmen, advanced in the seven-candidate mayoral race with
31.42 and 18.27 percent of the vote respectively. John Gunter and Graham Madison Morris will tangle in District 1 after they got
45.67 percent and 35.48 percent respectively in the three-candidate Primary.

In District 4, Jennifer Nelson will face incumbent Richard Leon. Nelson culled 42.81 percent to Leon's 35.98 in the three-way
Primary. Meanwhile, candidates for Districts 5 and 6, races which did not appear on the Primary ballot, are now down to the
final run toward November. The candidates all say they are ready for the home stretch. As the only two candidates running for
the District 5 seat left vacant when the then-sitting council member, Rana Erbrick, resigned to run for mayor, James Schneider
and David Stokes did not appear on the Primary ballot. Both plan to run full bore from here to November. Incumbent Rick
Williams and challenger John Karcher, as the lone candidates for District 6, will do battle in the General Election Nov. 7.

Mail ballots are expected to be sent out early, the Supervisor of Elections Office said. For more information or to request a ballot
visit lee.vote/tag/vote-by-mail/. The deadline to request a mail ballot is Nov. 2. They must be returned by 7 pm. on Election Day.
Early voting will take place from Monday, Oct. 30, to Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 am. to 6 pm. each day.

As I mentioned at our chapter meeting, I'll be tracking a full slate of issues in the upcoming Legislative Session. SB 346
Motorcycle and Mopeds Bill by Sen. Perry will have its first hearing in the Senate Transportation Committee Tuesday October
24th at 3:00pm. Sen. Baxley is on this committee and we will be watching this closely to see if anyone tries to change the bill. In
a quick synopsis the current proposed Bill would raise the age requirement of wearing a helmet of a person operating and or riding
on a moped or small motorcycle to 21 years old. (The current Florida Statute 316.211 is 16 years old.

HB 215 is the Autocycle Bill. This bill seeks to separate motorcycles from autocycles and would require the operator of an
autocycle to wear a seatbelt, and does not require the operator to have a motorcycle endorsement.

SB 116, the Vulnerable Road Users Bill, would require motorists to move over or slow down if a VRU, as defined in F.S. 316.027.,
is broken down on the side of the road.

DEMOCRATS CALL FOR `ASSAULT' WEAPON BAN

Sen. Linda Stewart, D-Orlando, and Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, will outline proposed legislation Wednesday that
would ban assault-style weapons in Florida. The Orlando lawmakers will hold a news conference at the Orange County

6
Courthouse and discuss incidents such as the Pulse
nightclub shooting in Orlando last year and the deaths of
at least 59 people in a shooting Sunday night in Las
Vegas, according to a news release. Smith on Tuesday
filed his version of the legislation (HB 219), while
Stewart filed a similar measure (SB 196) in August. The
Republican-dominated Legislature, however, has
repeatedly rejected gun-control measures in the past. A
proposal sponsored by Stewart and Smith during the
2017 legislative session to ban so-called assault rifles and
"large capacity" ammunition magazines was not heard in
House and Senate committees. The new legislation is
filed for the 2018 session, which starts in January.

EX-SENATORS PITCH VOTING RIGHTS

AMENDMENT
Former state Senate Democratic leaders Arthenia Joyner
and Chris Smith have filed a measure with the
Constitution Revision Commission that would restore
voting rights to felons who have served their time and
completed any other post-prison requirements. Joyner, a
Tampa lawyer, and Smith, a Fort Lauderdale lawyer, are
members of the commission, which can place state
constitutional amendments directly on the 2018 general-
election ballot. Under the proposal, voting rights for
convicted felons would be restored upon completion of
all terms of a sentence including parole and probation.
Felons convicted of murder or a sexual offense would be
excluded from the automatic voter restoration under the
amendment. As we've seen in numerous hearings
throughout the state, Floridians strongly support allowing
fellow citizens who have completed their sentences, paid
every fine, and done everything required of them, to rejoin society and regain their right to vote, Smith said. Joyner said the
current clemency process takes five to seven years and is arbitrary and biased. It disproportionately impacts lower- and middle-
income Floridians --- many of them sentenced for non-violent crimes --- and continues to segregate them from fully participating
in the democracy we celebrate. This needs to end, she said. The measure will have to win support from at least 22 members of
the 37-member Constitution Revision Commission to be placed on next year's ballot. It would require support from 60 percent of
the voters to become effective. In a separate process, voting rights groups are advancing a similar initiative, although it will have
to gain more than 700,000 valid signatures by early next year to be placed on the November 2018 ballot.
FELONS' RIGHTS INITIATIVE TOPS 200,000 SIGNATURES
With continued financial backing from the American Civil Liberties Union, a ballot initiative to restore felons' voting rights has
topped 200,000 petition signatures submitted to the state, according to the Florida Division of Elections website. The political
committee Floridians for a Fair Democracy had submitted 209,079 valid signatures as of Wednesday morning. It needs to submit
a total of 766,200 signatures to get the proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2018 ballot. The proposal 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 American Civil Liberties Union
contributed $100,000 to the initiative in September, almost all of the $100,392 raised by the committee during the month,
according to a finance report posted this week on the Division of Elections website. The ACLU has contributed more than $1.4
million to the initiative.
LAWMAKERS TO AGAIN CONSIDER `NO FAULT' REPEAL
A long-discussed proposal to repeal Florida's no-fault auto insurance system is headed back to the Legislature in 2018. Sen. Tom
Lee, R-Thonotosassa, filed a bill (SB 150) this week that would repeal the no-fault system, which requires motorists to carry
$10,000 in personal-injury protection, or PIP, coverage. In its place, Lee's bill would require motorists to carry bodily-injury and
medical-payment coverages. Lawmakers have repeatedly considered revamping auto-insurance laws in recent years and passed a
2012 measure aimed at curbing fraud and lowering rates in the PIP system. But in a prepared statement this week, Lee pointed to
continuing problems with fraud and high insurance premiums. While well intentioned anecdotally, Florida's Motor Vehicle No-
Fault Law has resulted in widespread fraud, abuse and a complex litigation process, Lee said. Since its enactment (in the) `70s,
the value of the PIP benefit has eroded, while Florida's auto insurance premiums continue to rise.
7
TEDDYBEAR'S NOTE: Currently, motorcyclists are exempt from Florida's no-fault insurance system. If passed, I don't know
what impact this would have on motorcyclists. Right now, motorcycle insurance is fairly affordable, depending on what your
needs are. The only exception is uninsured, under-insured motorist coverage, which only becomes affordable if you stack your
policies.
VETERANS HEALTH PROGRAM PROPOSED
Saying Florida has the infrastructure and capacity to serve the health care needs of our veteran community, a Republican senator
Friday proposed a program that would allow veterans to tap into the state Medicaid managed-care system as an alternative to the
federal Veterans Health Administration system. The bill (SB 440), filed by Sen. Rene Garcia, R-Hialeah, would direct the state
Agency for Health Care Administration to seek federal approval of the program. Under the proposal, veterans could voluntarily
decide to get services through managed-care networks used by the state Medicaid program instead of through the federal VA
system. The bill, filed for the 2018 legislative session, said state funds could not be used for the program. We want to work with
the federal government to provide additional options to Florida's veterans, Garcia, chairman of the Senate Children, Families
and Elder Affairs Committee, said in a prepared statement. Instead of spending more tax dollars to build facilities, we want to
offer the federal Department of Veteran Affairs access to Florida's robust network of providers who are already caring for nearly
4 million recipients.
CRC MEMBER: CHANGING WRITE-IN LAW `RIGHT THING TO DO'
Although she is a Republican, Florida Constitution Revision Commission member Sherry Plymale explained in an opinion piece
this week why she is supporting a write-in candidate proposal that was originally offered by a Democrat. Sometimes there are
issues that shouldn't be a matter of politics and should be addressed because it is the right and ethical thing to do, Plymale wrote
Thursday on the TCPalm website. On Monday, Plymale agreed to sponsor a proposed constitutional amendment from Palm Beach
County State Attorney Dave Aronberg, a Democrat, that would let all voters participate in primaries if the only general-election
opposition comes from write-in candidates. Currently, the presence of write-in candidates in general elections closes primaries,
shutting out many voters from deciding races. In closed primaries, only Republican voters can cast ballots in races involving
Republican candidates, and only Democratic voters can cast ballots in races involving Democratic candidates. It's important to
note that a write-in candidate has never won any major election in Florida and they don't pay filing fees or collect petitions when
qualifying for office, Plymale wrote. This makes it all too easy for individuals to close primary elections by propping up write-
in candidates to create an unfair political advantage. While noting she and Aronberg have different political backgrounds, she
said they both agreed the write-in loophole has been allowed to exist for too long and closing it is the right thing to do for
Florida voters. Plymale's amendment (P11) will be considered by the Constitution Revision Commission's committees. It must
gain at least 22 votes from the full commission before it can advance to next year's general-election ballot, where it must win at
least 60 percent support to be enacted.
8
CLOSED PRIMARY ELECTIONS DRAW SCRUTINY
As Florida's population grows and more residents shun traditional party affiliations, voters are befuddled, if not angry, about the
state's closed-primary system, including the use of write-in candidates, three local elections supervisors testified Wednesday.
When it comes to the primary election, our voters are confused, Broward County Supervisor of Elections Brenda Snipes told
the state Constitution Revision Commission's Ethics and Elections Committee. Many new voters move to Florida from other
states with more open voting systems as opposed to Florida's closed primaries, which are restricted to voters who are registered
with parties. Florida is one of nine states using a closed-primary system. We have people coming from all over the country, and
they bring with them the experiences that they have had and what they know, Snipes said. It's difficult for them to understand.
Adding to the confusion is that more voters are opting not to join the Republicans or Democrats but register with no party
affiliation or in a host of minor parties. No-party affiliation is the fastest growing segment of the electorate and is particularly
popular with young people, with more than one out of every four Florida voters falling into that category. But no-party voters
can't vote in Democratic or GOP primaries, although they can cast their ballots in non-partisan primary races and in general
elections. Florida has a provision that opens primaries to all voters when all of the candidates are from the same party and there
is no general-election opposition. But it has been undermined by a state Division of Elections ruling, upheld by the courts, that
says the presence of a general election write-in candidate closes primaries, even if only one party has a primary election. The net
effect of the so-called write-in candidate loophole is that the primary winner ends up as the only name on the general election
ballot, virtually assuring a win.

ONLINE VOTER REGISTRATION SET TO START IN FLORIDA

On Sunday, Florida will join 35 other states in offering online voter registration to its residents. Florida Secretary of State Ken
Detzner announced Thursday that his department is ready to launch the RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov website in compliance with a
2015 law that required online registration to be available by Oct. 1. Detzner, who originally opposed the policy, said the
Department of State has been working over the last two years, in cooperation with the 67 supervisors of elections across the state,
to implement an online voter registration website that provides Floridians with a secure and more easily accessible way to register
to vote. The right to vote is sacred in our country and I hope that with this new and convenient method, more Floridians will
register to vote and engage in the electoral process, Detzner said in a statement. Residents can register to vote at the website or
update their current registrations or they can fill out and print a registration form that must be turned in to a local supervisor of
elections. Voters will need a Florida driver's license or state identification card and the last four digits of their Social Security
numbers to register online, according to the Department of State. State elections officials said multiple safeguards are being
used to verify the registrations and to protect personal information, including the use of a state-of-the-art firewall, data
encryption, captcha boxes, which are designed to thwart bots, and session time-outs after inactivity.

From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation:

NEWS FROM THE HILL Progress on Infrastructure, Ethanol Wheeling and Dealing
Months (and months and months) after the Administration pitched a $1 trillion infrastructure package, White House officials
met with key players (i.e. Committee Chairman John Thune) this week to discuss what the proposal could look like. Details from
the meeting were kept quiet except for a vague comment from another power player, Senator Dan Sullivan from Alaska, who said
the bill would address roads and transit, (gee, thanks). Though no one has been willing to discuss timing, my insiders opinion is
that several things will have to happen first. Congress will have to pass a budget which is likely to eat up the remainder of the
time before the holidays and then there is that pesky minor issue of MAJOR COMPREHENSIVE TAX REFORM. Many in
Washington are saying that you have to check that box first to free up some $$$$ to help offset the cost of the infrastructure
package.

My take? Dont hold your breath. Still, Ill be keeping a close eye on discussions and especially when pen goes to paper. Thats
because wide-ranging and far-reaching packages like what is being discussed with infrastructure are notorious for being loaded
with seemingly innocuous safety provisions that get stuck in at the very last minute, but give riders a lot of grief

This week, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chief Scott Pruitt met with Senators from Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota
and Kansas. What do those states share a common bond over? CORN. And lots of it. Senators Ernst, Grassley, Fischer, Rounds,
Sasse, Thune and Pat Roberts met with Pruitt for almost an hour where they discussed the issue of ethanol and campaign promises
that were made they want the Administration to make good on. Thats a pretty bitter pill to swallow for Scott Pruitt who has
VERY close ties to the oil industry, which (not surprisingly) isnt a big fan of corn on the cob. Though there has been no shortage
of meetings on the subject, (and congressional bills to fix it), this meeting sticks out for me. Several of Trumps picks to head
various departments and positions within the EPA were slated to be confirmed in the Senate this week. Then, just hours after the
ethanol meeting, the vote for these confirmations was postponed. A close source says that Sen. Grassley is threatening to hold up
several EPA nominees if the EPA doesnt start providing more support for ethanol. Ill keep you posted as this develops. It doesnt
look great for those who are concerned about the proliferation of ethanol in the marketIve already heard from several folks
that a bargaining chip might be to allow consideration of a bill that would permit year-round sales of ethanol.

9
10
EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES NHTSA STUFF
Our buddies at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (aka NHTSA) have been busy as of late. Theyve certainly
been keeping my schedule jam packedLast Friday I attended the one-year anniversary party of the NHTSA Road to Zero
initiative. (And yes, for the record I was invited because I get along with *mostly* everybody). They even had a damn cake...But
I digress. They wanted to gather everyone in a room so we could pat ourselves on the back for all the good work we did. When
they said this (yes, they really did say it) I looked around the room to see if anyone was smirking like me. (there was possibly one
guy in the back but I think he might have wandered in from the streets). Truly, Im not entirely sure what we did. Theyve given
out some grant money, they drafted ONE policy statement, and raised awareness. Yeahamong themselves. Seriously though,
I love the ideazero traffic deathsthats admirable. But its sort of like communismgreat idea on paper, f***ing disaster in
real life. Im honestly not sure where this coalition is going, but Ill continue to stay vigilant, attend their meetings, eat their
celebratory cake and question them as to why their logo doesnt include a motorcycle: If youre reading this on Friday October
20, there is a good chance that at this exact moment I am sitting at DoT headquarters wanting to gouge my own eyes out. Why? I
am at all day public workshop listening to entities discuss potential challenges with a Voluntary Safety Assessment. Whats that
you ask? Its an element in NHTSAs latest document, A Vision for Safety which addresses testing and deployment of automated
vehicles. Go here for more info: https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/documents/13069a-ads2.0_090617_v9a_tag.pdf

But back to the issue: Im not sure why a voluntary safety assessment would cause automakers so much heartburn. For Christ
sake, its VOLUNTARY. Which, in the opinion of the MRF, is the biggest problem with the whole thing. How can you expect
corporations to do the right thing when something is only voluntary? You cant. Which is why your MRF has been pushing
lawmakers to make this mandatory and ensure that riders are an important element and consideration when assuring a self-driving
cars safety. NHTSA will take comments on the proposal for another month. Check your inboxes in the next few weeks as I am
beginning to draft comments that we can all send to NHTSA telling them what we think of this.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH: This is one of those cases in which the imagination is baffled by the facts.
Sir Winston Churchill 1941.
See you in the wind,
'TEDDYBEAR'

11
12
Father Toms Message:
Dear fellow ABATE Members,
How Will it End or Begin?
We spend our whole lives preparing or getting ready for something. It could be getting
ready for school, a vacation, a major purchase (buying or building another motorcycle),
getting ready to go out for the evening, looking forward to advancement in our job,
education, marriage, obtaining an endorsement on a license or certificate, retirement, or
a career. There can be nothing wrong with worthwhile pursuits, as many of them
indicate that we are practicing good stewardship of the lives God has given us.
Every faculty you have, your power of thinking or of moving your limbs from moment to moment, is given you
by God. If you devoted every moment of your whole life exclusively to His service, you could not give Him
anything that was not in a sense every moment of your whole life exclusively to His service, you could not give
Him anything that was not in a sense His own already.
C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

However, while we are preparing for and/or taking care of this earthly life and its goals, we should ask ourselves,
What have we done to prepare for eternity?
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and lose his soul? - Mark 8:26
Store your treasure in heaven. The treasures in heaven cannot be destroyed by moths or rust. And thieves
cannot break in and steal that treasure. - Matthew 6:20 International Childrens Bible (ICB)

A balanced life is one of stewardship which includes taking care of todays needs within Gods plan for us, plus
preparation for a life of eternity totally in Gods presence. How will our lives on this earth end and will we be
ready to begin eternity?

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

13
 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 3

Southwest Chapter Products

Chapter Patch Large (Members Only) $25.00

Chapter Patch Small - $7.00
Chapter Flag - $25.00

14
 November, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Fort Myers Bike

Night
5-10pm
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Chapter
Meeting-The
Shell Factory-
7:00 pm
19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30

15
 December, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 State Mtg. 9
Treasure Coast
CC Bike Night
5-10pm
10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Veterans 17 18 19 Chapter 20 21 22 23
Christmas Run- Meeting-The
SunSports-KSU Shell Factory-
at 12:15pm 7:00 pm
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
 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Southwest Chapter
P.O. Box 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906
Southwest.abateflorida.com

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
SEE PAGE 3 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
18
19
20