ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
February 2018 – Volume XLI – Issue XIII

Next Chapter Meeting Wednesday, February 21st @ The Shell Factory at 7:00 p.m.

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. JOIN OR RENEW YOUR

The only Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization
in the State of Florida
MEMBERSHIP ONLINE!!
Legislative News ▪ MSAP Instructors ▪ Community Service
http://southwest.abateflorida.com/join.htm
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 Wednesday, February 21st @ 7:00 p.m.

motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of
life. We lobby and educate the government at THE SHELL FACTORY
and the general public to promote 2787 N. Tamiami Trail
motorcycling in a safe and positive image. Fort Myers, FL 33903
We endeavor to enlist the cooperation and
participation of all organizations and
individuals that share a similar interest in
preserving our American tradition of
FREEDOM. We promote motorcycle MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE,
safety, training and political awareness. We NEW ADVERTISERS AND/OR AD
ARE NOT A CLUB OR GANG. We fund CHANGE DEADLINE:
our work through toy runs, poker runs,
campouts and other motorcycle activities.
We are your neighbors and friends who 20th of the month for editorial and Board
work, pay taxes and get involved with our approval
community. We serve and support our
country 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
Issue date: February 2018
force in legislative matters concerning the
motorcyclist; PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
To promote safe riding habits without ABATE of Florida, Inc.
infringing on individual freedoms; SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
To motivate bikers to write letters to their PO Box 60745
legislators before, during and after the Fort Myers, FL 33906
legislative session; and
To furnish our members with a newsletter www.southwest.abateflorida.com
to keep all bikers informed in regard to
upcoming 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 via email at love_of_tigers@hotmail.com.

Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes.
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 President’s Message:
ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest Chapter
Brothers & Sisters: EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745
First let’s all
welcome Jaime www.southwest.abateflorida.com
Cerra as our new
Secretary, & Wayne President: Robb Rabell
Cerra returning to thesawguide@yahoo.com / 239-458-3136
our Chapter as
Membership Vice President: Glen Pannenbakker
Trustee. I know both Jaime & Wayne will be an asset to our glenpann@comcast.net / 215-416-5885
BOD. OK, As you know our yearly Freedom Ride is just a
few days away & though it’s earlier in the year (& probably Secretary: Jaime Cerra
colder) I personally looking forward to the Parade. There’s
JaimeCerra1114@gmail.com / 941-961-4086
still time to make your reservation if you decide to go & I
highly recommend the ride. Last month we delivered the
Gift Cards to the Veterans Home & as always we were Treasurer: Rob Cran
given a warm reception & thank you from the 239-888-3755
administrators at the home. I’ve received a copy of the
FHTSA & Florida DOT crash facts for 2016 which also Sergeant-At-Arms: Moe Moser
includes comparison data from 2014-2015. It’s 122 pages ironcitysupplyco@yahoo.com / 412-999-3397
of data broken down into many different categories &
vehicles. I have a separate report on this…look for it later Membership Trustee: Wayne Cerra
in this newsletter. Legislative Trustee Teddybear reported waynecerra@gmail.com / 239-989-3349
in our Meeting that Lee County had 99 motorcycle fatalities
in 2017. I just received confirmation that Teddybear’s
Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman
report is even worse than we thought. In 2017 there were
116 fatalities in Lee County. I have been invited to attend
Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
Lee Health’s Driving Down Fatalities motorcycle safety
coalition in a county wide effort to address this issue. This Legislative Representative: Ken “Teddy Bear” Miller
increase in fatalities is over 21% of the total fatalities, State Kenm0612@gmail.com / 239-771-8707
Wide, last year. I will keep you up to speed on this major
problem in our county. Now, I’ve mentioned in earlier Safety Director: Ed Lufkin
meetings, that I would draft a letter to our Governor in Vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
regards to our MSAP Instructors & our program, asking
Governor Scott to distribute portions of the Florida Safety Newsletter: Heidi Szolga
Fund to ABATE. Now, I have been informed by our State love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
President & Lobbyist that our Governor is very much in
favor of disbursing safety funds to ABATE this year. So
with that said, I will not be forwarding the letter to the
Webmasters: Taylor Musburger
Governor, instead I prepared a report on the Florida HSMV ABATE@musburger.net / 360-298-1921 and
Crash Facts most relevant statistics, as an “Open Statement Ed Lufkin, vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
to Governor Scott”. Please share that with your friends &
family. Next, our Paypal account is up & running so you Chapter Chaplain: Tom Provenzano
can renew your Membership or sign up new Members right tprovenz@comcast.net / 239-267-8641
on line, Membership Trustee Wayne will have more on that,
in his Membership report. Last, I’ve mentioned that I would Products: Vacant
be reaching out to private companies with fleet vehicles &
drivers in an effort to get them onboard with our MSAP Chapter Rep: Moe Moser
presentation for their drivers. I’ll inform you of the progress
Chapter Rep: Heidi Szolga
of this, at the next meeting.

Well, I hope to see you in Tally. HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE
Ride Safe. RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (MRO)
Robb

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Membership
Report:
Welcome Freedom
Riders,

Already February
2018, did you
remember to renew
your membership this
year? Are you a former member or want to join our
Chapter? Now it's even easier than before with
PayPal. Pay your renewal or new membership
whether yearly or as a Life Member on line at your
leisure. No PayPal account? No Problem. Log into
our PayPal link here
http://southwest.abateflorida.com/join.htm and
once you open the app, you have the option to use
your credit card, not PayPal. PayPal is our medium
to get money into your Chapters bank account, that
simple.

At this time we'd like to welcome the following New

members: Joe Tarqueno, Bob Tarqueno, Rocco
Roccasalva, Ron Nelson and Carl Shipp. Renewing
members Dorian "Gully" Gulledge, Ted Prillwitz,
and Bob Paczkowski.

Memberships due to expire in February:

Lily Arenas, Ilia Basora, Stephen Carpinteri, Sandra
Cote, Mike Gloss, Becky Gloss, Bill Jolicoeur, Jerry
Leonard, Sherry Leonard, Gerry Mangina, Wendy
Mangina, Russell "Moe" Moses, Glen
Pannenbakker, Christy Rabell, Al Salafia, Rob
Sample, George Walla and Kevin Wilson.

Memberships must be renewed within 30 days of

expiration, All applications subject to approval.

Log in here and stay connected;

http://southwest.abateflorida.com/join.htm
(copy and paste this link)

See you on the road,

Wayne
Southwest Chapter ABATE Membership Trustee

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 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC./SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
GENERAL MEETING
The Shell Factory, North Fort Myers on January 17, 2018
Present at Meeting:
12 Members, 2 Guests
Sergeant-at-arms: Please silence your phones, Pledge of Allegiance, moment of silence for fallen brothers

Meeting called to order at 7:05pm President introduced Rick and Ann from the Shell Factory to discuss the February 10 th Bike
Night, due to the cancellation of the Cape Coral Bike Night. Rick showed where they would have parking and vendor set up.
There has been a band scheduled for that night as well. He asked for questions/concerns and those were discussed and resolved.
A meeting will be set up closer to the event date to determine where assistance is needed and ensure all is lined up properly.

President's Report: The Tallahassee Freedom Ride is coming up on February 12, 2017. Robb reported that he will be going up
on Saturday and if anyone wants to ride up with him, to let him know. Robb reported that the Chapter received a letter and donation
in memory of Todd Hudson, who was killed in a motorcycle accident. Robb also reported on the letter he indicated he was going
to send to Governor Scott on a personal level with regard to ABATE’s MSAP program. He prepared the letter and sent it to State
for review but it will not be sent due to the safety fund update. The safety fund has passed through the House and Senate once
again and we have been advised that the Governor is ‘in favor’ of it this year. We will see if he signs off on it for ABATE to
receive those funds. We’d like to get a small group of volunteers together to get the gift cards up to the Veterans’ Home that we
purchased for the veterans.
Vice President’s Report: Glen advised that the only thing he sees at this point is that we don’t ride. He understands the issues
with obtaining insurance and all the legalities, but he feels that we would have better participation in the Chapter if we do more
rides together as a group. He is going to start doing some planning and see what we can come up with as far as scheduling and
getting more rides planned.

Secretary's Report: Robb indicated that he has appointed Jaime Cerra as our new secretary, due to Lily Arenas needing to step
down. He took a vote of confidence and it was a unanimous vote in favor of Jaime Cerra as our new secretary. Last month’s
meeting minutes were printed in the newsletter and no noted changes or revisions were noted. A Motion to approve the minutes
of last month's meeting was made by Heidi and seconded by Teddybear. Motion carried.
Treasurer's Report: Robb reported that Rob Cran had an excused absence for the meeting tonight. Robb reported our beginning
and ending balance from December and reported on monthly income and expenses. A motion to approve was made by Glen
Pannenbakker and seconded by Teddybear. Motion carried.

Membership Report: Wayne was excused from attendance. He did report that currently for January we have had four renewals
and two new members so far.

Legislative Report: Teddybear reported that Florida’s Crash facts are out. It was reported there were 500 motorcycle fatalities
for 2017 and that 20% of those fatalities occurred in Lee County. He advised that Legislators are up and running and have pushed
a lot through, which is unusual since this is an election year. He also advised that the legislators have also been dealing with the
sexual misconduct issues. Anti-motorcyclist Senator Clemmons was found to have an extramarital affair with a lobbyist and
immediately resigned his seat. Robb added with regard to the FL DOT crash statistics that have come out show 515 fatalities state
wide in 2016. He will be preparing a condensed updated with regard to the report for the newsletter.

Safety Director: Ed has just come back into town and is excused for this evening. Robb reported that he and Gwynne will be
covering the incoming semester at the schools. Robb also reported that he is starting to look into avenues of getting our MSAP
program out to other private companies versus just schools.

Products: We still have some long sleeve t-shirts available if anyone is interested.

Old Business: The Shell Factory Bike Night is tomorrow night. Heidi and Jaime are to be manning the bar for tips that go to the
Chapter. Also we have volunteers for parking, etc. and the Wicked Sisters will be handing out the wrist bands and giveaway
tickets.

New Business: As Cape Coral has cancelled their bike night due to a construction project on 47 th Terrace, The Shell Factory is
changing their February Thursday night bike night to Saturday, February 10th. Anyone interested in volunteering to assist with
staging, parking, etc., talk to Moe. We will also be doing the beer tent this night and all tips will be a donation to the Chapter.

Motion to adjourn made by Teddybear, seconded by Heidi. Meeting adjourned at 7:57pm.

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Legislative Report:
By: Teddybear
Good Evening Freedom Fighters:

Following a tumultuous year that witnessed the

Republican-controlled Florida Legislature get mired in
scandals and finger pointing, GOP leaders kicked off the
new session with 24 bills ready for floor action and
promising to clamp down on sexual misconduct and pass
sweeping education bills. The opening day brought
assurances from legislative leaders that they can quickly
find agreement on key issues, yet there were still signs of
the same fissures that pushed state government to the
brink of shutdown last year. House Speaker Richard
Corcoran, who is expected to run for governor this year,
gave a fiery speech where he declared that “we are the
storm” and the “house of reformers” as he outlined his top
priorities. Senate President Joe Negron, in a very
workmanlike fashion, went over a list of his own
priorities, including a higher education overhaul that
would permanently boost spending on Florida's lottery-
funded Bright Futures scholarships, which go to the
state's top-performing students. The session comes just
weeks after powerful Republican state senator Jack
Latvala and Democrat state senator Jeff Clemens resigned
amid sexual misconduct allegations. Now that Clemens is
gone, Florida motorcyclists might be able to get some
meaningful legislation passed. Negron vowed “zero
tolerance” for sexual harassment and said the Senate
would soon revamp its policies. Corcoran, who
repeatedly clashed with Latvala even before the allegations surfaced, predicted that the “Senate would have a revival” now
that Latvala is no longer in office. He also promised that the Senate would address the state's opioid crisis and pass legislation
to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Last year's session went into overtime amid a budget showdown between the
House, Senate and Gov. Rick Scott. It could happen again this year with finances tight and Republicans at odds over school
funding. On the local election front, Lee County voters will have their share of races on the ballot in August.
The school board will see four seats up for grabs including districts 1, 4, 5 and 6. So far, none of the incumbents have filed
for this year. Two candidates, Nicholas Alexander and Karen Watson, have filed to run in District 6.
The state attorney's race won't include an incumbent for the first time in 16 years. Steven Russell has announced he won't
run again. Former assistant state attorney Chris Crowley filed to run for the seat last year. Amira Fox, an assistant state
attorney based here in Fort Myers, filed to run for Russell's seat early in January. Two county commission seats are up for
grabs. Cecil Pendergrass has filed to retain his seat in District 2 and already has raised more than $211,000. John Heim is a
write-in candidate. Nobody has filed for the District 4 seat. Brian Hamman is the incumbent.
Michelle Graham, a Republican, will seek the District 79 House seat that Matt Caldwell is leaving. She is the only candidate
who has filed so far. Other races include public defender and a slew of county and circuit judges. Voters also are expected
to see a non-binding question about whether they are in favor of merging fire districts. Another possible item is voting to
make commission seats non-partisan. The primary election, which in Southwest Florida usually decides the winner in the
general election, is Aug. 28. The general election is Nov. 6. Also on the ballot in November will be several constitutional
amendment proposals. The “Voting Restoration Amendment” would automatically restore voting rights to felons who have
served their sentences, completed parole or probation and paid restitution. Murders and sex offenders would be excluded.
If approved by 60 percent of voters, as required for all constitutional amendments, the change would bring Florida in line
with nearly every other state in the nation. Black legislators have tried repeatedly to change state law to allow the automatic
restoration of rights. But the Republican-dominated Legislature either squashed or ignored the efforts. The change would
apply to people who complete their sentences in the future as well as an estimated 1.5 million Floridians, according to the
Brennan Center for Justice, which helped get the Florida initiative on the ballot.
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A bill to allow police in Florida to pull over and ticket drivers who are texting and driving was labeled a good idea by most
Florida drivers and others in Fort Myers. The Senate Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development Appropriations
Subcommittee voted 8-2 to back the bill (SB 90) after a requirement about recording race and ethnicity was added to the
bill. The amendment to collect the data would help determine if minorities are disproportionately ticketed for texting while
driving. The proposal, which has now cleared three Senate panels, must get approved by the Appropriations Committee
before it can go to the full Senate. The House version (HB 33), which does not have a similar race and ethnicity reporting
requirement, is a priority of Speaker Richard Corcoran, R-Land O' Lakes. Gov. Rick Scott lent some support to the
legislative efforts aimed at making texting while driving a “primary” offense. Scott didn't endorse the proposal or say he
would sign a bill. The House bill got unanimous support from members of the Transportation and Infrastructure
Subcommittee and awaits an appearance before the Judiciary Committee. Currently, motorists can only be charged with
texting and driving if they are stopped for other offenses, such as speeding. The House bill would allow motorists to text
while in stationary vehicles and would require law-enforcement officers to inform drivers they have a right to decline a
search of wireless devices. The measure would also prohibit officers from confiscating hand-held devices without warrants.
An effort to eliminate the state’s “no-fault” auto insurance system got rolling Wednesday in the Senate, amid concerns the
change would not significantly lower rates.

Also, questions continue over the fate of the Senate proposal (SB 150) because of medical coverage requirements that are
not included in a similar measure (HB 19), which is teed up for a vote by the full House. The Senate Banking and Insurance
Committee on Wednesday voted 10-1 to support the bill by Sen. Tom Lee, R-Thonotosassa. It would repeal the no-fault law,
which requires motorists to carry $10,000 in personal-injury protection, or PIP, coverage to help pay medical expenses after
accidents. “I’m trying to make sure we don’t raise premiums on Floridians, but at the same token that we protect as many
options for consumers to get medical care in the event of an accident,” Lee said after the meeting. “It’s a balancing act.”
The proposal must still go before two more committees before reaching the Senate floor. Since a 2012 effort to reform the
no-fault system --- championed by Gov. Rick Scott and then-state Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater --- efforts have
increased in Tallahassee to replace it with a tort-based
system. The 2012 law, in part, required people involved
in crashes to seek treatment within 14 days, put a $2,500
cap on coverage for non-emergency conditions,
eliminated massage therapists and acupuncturists from
getting paid for medical coverage and set new
requirements for chiropractic visits. The 2012 changes
were considered a last-ditch effort to maintain the no-
fault system after rates increased because of fraudulent
claims. Lee’s measure would require motorists to carry
$5,000 in what is known as medical payments coverage,
or MedPay, and minimum amounts of bodily-injury
coverage that would increase over time. Sen. Rene
Garcia, R-Hialeah, called his vote for the measure a “soft
yes,” saying he will continue to seek lower projected
premium increases. “Insurance rates will go up for those
that have just PIP policies,” Garcia said. “So, that means
that a lot of us in the minority communities, for a lot of
us that live in South Florida, some of those rates for those
that have insurance just PIP-only policies, their rates will
go up.” Under Lee’s MedPay rules, people would be
required to seek medical attention within 14 days of
injuries occurring. Through an amendment, Garcia was
able to attach language to the bill that would allow
MedPay to also cover chiropractic and dental costs. Mark
Delegal, a lobbyist representing State Farm, which is
opposed to the Senate proposal, called Lee’s amended
measure “PIP version 2.0” and warned that the system
will remain “costly and inefficient.” “You’re throwing
that right back on it, with a broad spectrum of providers,
and without knowing the costs of that up front,” Delegal
said. It’s going to be unaffordable to a lot of people.”

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Lee’s proposal is estimated to initially raise rates about $4 a year, as the savings from the elimination of no-fault would be
offset by increases in premiums for bodily-injury liability coverage and uninsured-motorist coverage. “You could lower
insurance premiums, if that was our solitary goal, by gutting insurance coverage and having people drive around with almost
no coverage,” Lee said. “The question is what is the most efficient system?” The House measure sponsored by Rep. Erin
Grall, R-Vero Beach, faces opposition from some insurers, business groups and medical providers. It has been projected to
save motorists on average about $80 a year. Grall's proposal, which was backed by the House Commerce Committee in an
18-7 vote last month, would eliminate the system's limits on lawsuits. Drivers at fault in accidents would be fully liable for
damages, with the minimum bodily-injury coverage under Grall's proposal being $25,000 for damages for injury or death
of one person and $50,000 for injury or death of two or more people. Lee's proposal, starting Jan. 1, 2019, would set a
minimum of $20,000 for bodily injury protection that includes coverage for the injury or death of one person and $40,000
for injury or death of two or more people. Individual premiums would be expected to increase as the minimum coverage
would grow to $25,000 and $50,000 two years later and to $30,000 and $60,000 on Jan. 1, 2023.

REPUBLICAN DESANTIS LAUNCHES GUBERNATORIAL BID

U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis filed paperwork early last month, to formally enter Florida's 2018 gubernatorial race, after landing
praise from President Donald Trump, which amounted to a presidential endorsement, and rounding up a laundry list of
wealthy financial backers. DeSantis, a Palm Coast Republican, who currently represents Congressional District 6, opened
accounts that will allow him to raise money for a primary contest that already includes state Agriculture Commissioner
Adam Putnam and is expected to be joined by House Speaker Richard Corcoran. “As somebody who is a military officer,
an Iraq veteran, a proven conservative, and then with the support of the president, I'm in a position to exercise the leadership
that can build on the great work that Gov. Rick Scott has done to advance economic opportunity, reform education and to
drain the swamp in Tallahassee, which needs to be drained just like Washington,” DeSantis said during an appearance Friday
on the Fox News show “Fox & Friends.” An official campaign kick-off will occur later this month (January), a release from
his campaign said. So far, gaining support from President Trump has been disastrous for GOP candidates, as we have already
seen in Alabama and Virginia. Motorcyclists need to vote for “motorcycle-friendly” candidates. Congressman DeSantis
appears to be nothing more than a Trump “stooge” rather than a viable gubernatorial candidate. Adam Putnam, on the
other hand, has reached out to Florida motorcyclists and ABATE of Florida's members, as part of his gubernatorial campaign.
For me, my money is on Adam Putnam. Of course, that's just my humble opinion. You need to vote for the candidate of
YOUR choice. Just remember, VOTE LIKE A MOTORCYCLIST.

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

NEWS FROM THE HILL – Hearings on Automated Vehicles and Has Ford Heard Our Battle Cry????? The Senate
Commerce Committee brought its traveling tour to the auto show this week which is currently going on at the
convention center here in D.C. The show was the back drop for a hearing on self-driving cars. And boy was it popular! I
was in attendance along with 400 of my closest friends. Everyone from law enforcement to the disability community, to the
blind, to motorcyclists, to safety groups to trial lawyers and insurance companies want a piece of the action. I took copious
notes, observing that most Senators seemed on-board with the AV START Act. (Pssssst, that’s the bill in the Senate that the
MRF fought hard to get motorcycle language included for safety testing). The exception to those supporting the bill?
Senators’ Wicker (MS), Blumenthal (CT) and Markey (MA). One of the comments that I found interesting was the timeline
for when these types of vehicles would be the norm. Witnesses said within 3 years we’ll see truly automated vehicles
operating within geo-fenced areas…what the eff is that you ask? Think of it like a virtual geographic boundary, where when
an autonomous vehicle enters a particular area, it will start working. Other witnesses expected the technology to catch on
in urban areas first – think Manhattan and Boston – and then eventually spread to rural part of the country. The timeline for
this? Two decades insisted one witness. There was also plenty of discussion and acknowledgement that consumer trust was
“not great” (actually I would argue its downright piss pour among adults upwards of 40 at the moment) and that this concept
of consumer trust would be the biggest obstacle to getting these vehicles to market. One other thing that got me thinking –
the issue of privacy. Many have raised concerns about cybersecurity and at the hearing when this was discussed, some
suggested that a way to mitigate the threat of cybersecurity would be the ability of these vehicles to know who you are,
where you go and what you are doing. Which makes me think – can these two concepts; cybersecurity and privacy, even be
mutually exclusive? Or is it one over the other? Needless to say, lots of unanswered questions here. This is truly a new
frontier. With all the debate lately on autonomous vehicles, I was encouraged to come across a recent Ford patent
application for updated technology that would assist a driver to see the road in front of him. Though motorcycles weren’t
mentioned specifically, it should be noted that the illustrations that came along with the patent application included a
motorcyclist. You can see the full patent application here: http://www.freepatentsonline.com/20180017799.pdf

9
10
Another company that’s finally at least MENTIONING motorcycles? Waymo – that’s Google’s self-driving car project who
recently voluntarily filed their safety report with the government and in it, they (hallelujah!) discuss motorcycles – the
geographic shape of and profile of in their testing in Mesa, Arizona and so far, its been working…fingers crossed! Here is
the link to the Waymo report: https://waymo.com/safetyreport/

EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES – Infrastructure Plan Leaked, Chaos Ensues Despite being on his checklist of
priorities for the first 100 days of his presidency, President Trump has released few details on his infrastructure
proposal…that is until now. And “released” probably isn’t the right verb to use. “Leaked” would be more applicable. The
transportation world was abuzz this week when a 6-page document was obtained by a local D.C. news publication who
promptly released it to the public. It offers a glimpse of what may be the next major package of legislation Congress debates.
(that is, after we figure out how to fund the government past February 8…ya know, no big deal!) According to the document,
there would be about $200 billion (that’s right, you saw a B and not an M) which would be divvied up to states (about half)
rural infrastructure needs (about a quarter) with the remaining for “transformative” projects. The other thing that caught
many eyes? TOLLING. The leaked memo says that states should have the flexibility to collect interstate tolls and utilize
toll for their infrastructure needs. This has been a big no, no – there is a current ban on tolling existing interstates with a few
exceptions. The Alliance for Toll-Free Interstates, of which the MRF is a member, quickly fired out a statement saying that
if true, the plan is NOT good policy and they would actively fight against it. The other rumor on the street? That a gas tax
increase could help financing of the package. What are your thoughts on this? As citizens, drivers and most importantly
RIDERS, I’d like to hear your perspective. Thumbs up or down on an infrastructure package? And if up, how do we pay for
it? Tolling? Gas tax? Charge it to America’s credit card? Shoot me an email to tell me your thoughts – remember, I work
for YOU: Megan@mrf.org

MRF NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS: You should have received a ‘Call to Action’ this week. This was a special one that
comes directly from our Board Chairman and the legend himself, Kirk ‘Hardtail’ Willard. With the support of the MRF
Board, he is asking that you (yes, YOU reading this) to take a few minutes to answer this 13 question survey about
motorcycle profiling: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NMPS2018

This survey is being conducted by our friends at the Motorcycle Profiling Project and is intended to capture data from 2017.
You may not think completing this is important, but I assure you it very much is. The data that this survey captures helps
paint a picture for us. It tells us if motorcycle profiling is on the rise (guess what, it is!) and where it is occurring. We take
this data and turn it into advocacy talking points. It helped get the anti-profiling resolutions introduced in the Senate and
House of Representatives and is also helping to persuade more supporters. So please - help us, help you by taking a few
minutes to complete the survey. It’s totally anonymous and you should feel free to share the link with your friends/family
and anyone who rides.

STATE NEWS – Proof That the West Coast is the Best Coast… Only kidding! Sorry to all my buddies on the eastern
seaboard! There was some truly outstanding news this week from Arizona and California where each state made progress
on legislation to combat motorcycle profiling. In California, a state legislator confirmed she would introduce a bill to address
the issue. This will be a key one to watch, folks. California is the NUMBER ONE state with incidents of motorcycle
profiling. In fact, according to last year’s national survey that the Motorcycle Profiling Project put out, 54% of ALL cases
were reported in California alone. Arizona is 4th with the highest incidents following behind Texas and Florida
according to the MPP data I analyzed. And while I don’t have bill language in California yet, here is the link for the bill in
Arizona that was just dropped. https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/70205?SessionId=119 Great work to both
states!

MRF NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS – Senate Panel on Motorcycles and Autonomous Vehicles Announced
As I’ve reported in previous issues, your MRF has worked HARD to tell lawmakers that riders are concerned about self-
driving vehicles. And to make our voice even louder, we’ve done a lot of these meetings with Harley-Davidson Motor
Company. We’ve been successful in getting the word out – so much so that the Senate Motorcycle Caucus has decided to
hold a briefing on this exact topic in February. Lawmakers will gather together at 12pm on February 8 to discuss exactly
HOW motorcycles and riders are being considered when it comes to the regulation of autonomous vehicles. We’ve helped
get a solid panel together with riders, researches, and reps from NHTSA and the like. Invitations have started to circulate,
and the buzz is spreading. If you’d like to push your lawmaker to attend the briefing (or send his staff) send me a note and
I can forward you the invite to make sure it’s on their radar. Shoot me an email at megan@mrf.org.

11
P.S. You’re Too Old to Care About Helmet Laws - Did I catch your attention with that headline? I certainly hope so. In case
you don’t follow us on Facebook, we posted an image this week that I took while at an annual transportation conference I
attended in Washington, DC. The conference, which brought together 13,000 professionals from the U.S. and abroad to
discuss transportation-matters, held a meeting on motorcycle policy and what’s happening globally. While I was in
attendance a document was passed around with minutes from the last meeting. I thumbed through to see on the last page
there was a paragraph about the importance of helmet laws and some commentary from several individuals that now is the
time to strengthen helmet laws because “anti-helmet people” (pretty sure he is referring to us) are “getting older” and
therefore less opposed to legislation. Huh? I’d be interested to know what YOU think about that. And if our Facebook views
of this post (13,000 and counting) are any indication of how you might feel, I could capture that in one word: PISSED.

Folks, this is why we need you – many say our greatest days are behind us. We talk about the victories we held onto 20
years ago, but I can assure you that we hold on to those by the skin of our teeth. There is a constant threat that requires
constant vigilance and we need MEMBERS to support our work in D.C. We need the support financially and we need
human capital. If you’re reading this, it’s because you are a Member of the MRF. But don’t just write your $30 check and
call it a day – continue to support our cause. Participate in our Calls to Action, spread the word about the MRF, sign up a
friend (or 5!) to become an MRF member and for the love of God – don’t give up. Because that’s what THEY are waiting
on.

Here is a copy of what was said: A gentleman from European asked about the climate in the US with respect to helmet
laws. He pointed out that helmets have been shown to work and that it’s surprising the number of states that don't have
strong helmet laws. He wondered about the extent to which the safety community is continuing to work toward helmet
laws. Someone from North Carolina, where there is a strong helmet law stated the belief that we should be trying harder to
strengthen helmet laws. He pointed out that there have been recent attempts to weaken North Carolina's helmet laws and
that they have managed to combat those effectively. He believes that the environment may have changed since many laws
were repealed. As the original anti-helmet people get older, they may be becoming less opposed. It may be time to revisit
helmet laws. But if nobody tries, it won't help. Chanyoung pointed out that there was a recent attempt to reinstitute a
helmet law in Florida after it was weakened in 2000, suggesting that the environment may be changing.

See you in the wind,

'TEDDYBEAR'

Florida Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles

2016 Crash Facts
“An Open Statement to Governor Scott”
Governor,
In 2016 Our State suffered 10,331 Motorcycle Crashes, resulting in the statistical facts below:
1. 545 Fatalities of both rider & passenger 5. 2,211 non incapacitating injuries with Helmets
2. 8,998 Injuries to the same 6. 255 Fatalities with no Helmet
3. 267 Fatalities with DOT compliant Helmets 7. 1,115 Incapacitating injuries with no Helmet
4. 1,238 Incapacitating Injuries with Helmets 8. 1,697 non Incapacitating injuries with no Helmet
These Statistics Sir, are from our State’s own Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles. You can find them on page 4 & page 13 of
the Safety Report. Yet, here’s the most grave of all Statistics:
In 1017, Lee County suffered 116 motorcycle deaths. All these Statistics Sir, are unacceptable.
And as long as we continue to believe that Legislation & Safety Equipment are going to solve this problem, we’re just fooling
ourselves. And I’ll add this, just because our MSAP program is not be presented by ‘Certified Educators’, I can tell you as an
Instructor myself that, ABATE’s MSAP Volunteer Instructors, ride on the front lines in traffic every day. This alone, makes
them most certainly qualified to explain to the general public, how & why you keep running us over!
Governor, the only sure way to reduce fatalities is to Prevent the Crash. That’s what ABATE of Florida’s Chapters focus on;
Motorcycle Safety through Crash Prevention by Education.
With that said, I’ll close with this; “We need our Safety Programs funded Sir…We need this Now!”
Robb Rabell,
President Southwest Chapter-MSAP Instructor
12
For The Good Of The Order:
Southwest Chapter's Safety Booth 'set-up' crews are in need of a convertible hand truck/cart that will haul at least 50 Lbs. If
any Members have one they no longer use, please consider donating it to Southwest Chapter. Or if you wish to acquire one
and donate it, that would be great as well. We may also take 'Item Specific' donations to be used towards purchasing one.
Members, please note that SunSports is now offering 10% Discount on parts & merchandise. Just show your
Membership Card at Check Out. Please thank Lisa Pennewaert of SunSports.
Thanks,
Robb Rabell
President

Father Tom’s Message:

Dear Fellow ABATE Members,
Good Enough?
No matter how hard we try, we will never find nor produce the perfect motorcycle. There is always
something that breaks, needs to be fixed, wears out, needs to be redesigned, etc…
No matter how hard we try, we will never be perfect. There is always something not right with our lives
and the conditions and situations which surround or invade us. We see the “innocent” suffer as well.
Many feel like giving up, as though there is nothing to live for. As we get older, the issues of physical
and mental health exacerbate and magnify everything else.
The only thing or person that was perfect, living in this world was God, in the form of His Son Jesus. If you read accounts of Him, you
cannot find even the slightest fault. He was the perfect gift when He came upon this earth, in order to justify us and make us right with
God. He was the mediator or intermediary so that God could accept us, as we are, if we accept Him as Lord and Savior. And, if we
accept what he had done on the cross, as a sacrifice for us and all our imperfections…
There is no way we can become perfect ourselves. We look at all the rich people and wish we had all their material possessions and
their money. Yet, the richest families have all the miseries and unhappiness we can think of. Many rich people will tell you some of
their biggest thoughts include, “If I only had a little more.” The so-called good looking people are always complaining, “If I could have
straight hair… Be a little taller or shorter… If I could lose or gain weight… If I didn’t have this condition or that condition… If I
could have a better looking or acting spouse…” There is no such thing as the perfect spouse. However, if the Lord is the center of your
home, then your spouse is perfect for you… even, with all the imperfections he or she may have…
Even with all the imperfections of the world to include earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, etc… there will come a day when
God will create a new heaven and a new earth. – Isaiah 65:17 and Revelation 21:1 Don’t you want to be a part of that and be part of
enjoying it with Him? Wouldn’t you like to be with Jesus and ride those streets of gold on your motorcycles instead of hitting all the
potholes and people hanging a left in front of you? Only partially kidding here… However, there will be streets of gold for believers in
the near future because the Word of God proclaims it! – Revelation 21:21 Maybe the scripture scholars got it wrong in the translation
and Jesus will return to earth with His believers on a white Harley instead of a white horse! - Revelation 19: 11-16
The world is only a brief test with all of its imperfections. And, those imperfections are because of sin. The exciting part of all this is
that we are going to be able to give a testimony one day about how God brought us through the test. Wouldn’t you rather go through
the test with Him, than without Him?
If we can trust, accept, receive, and believe, we can be good enough to make it through.
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how
to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything
heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll 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

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

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
 February, 2018
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 SunSports 2- 10
Stroke Vintage
Motorcycle Show
(flyer-pg 8)
---------------------------
Cape Coral Bike
Night 5-10pm

11 12 13 14 15 16 17
st
State Mtg. 21 Annual Shell Factory
2pm Freedom Ride- Bike Night
Tallahassee 9am 5-10
(Flyer on Pg. 10) Tallahassee
18 19 20 Chapter 21 22 23 24
Meeting
Shell Factory
7:00 pm

25 26 27 28

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 March, 2018
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 Haus of 3
Trikes and
Bikes Grand
Opening
(flyer-pg 4)
Haus of 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Trikes and Fort Myers
Bikes Grand Bike Night
Opening 6-10pm
(flyer-pg 4)

11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Shell Factory
Bike Night
5-10

18 19 20 21 22 Shell 23 24
Chapter
Factory –
Meeting Shell
Budweiser
Factory
Clydesdales
7:00 pm 4-7 pm
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 our
Newsletter Editor Heidi at love_of_tigers@hotmail.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:
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AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE:
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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
*Renew Online at: http://southwest.abateflorida.com/join.htm*

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION*
SEE PAGE 3 FOR MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE INFORMATION
Name (Please Print Legibly):
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City State Zip Code + Four

Phone: (Include Area Code):
May we use your phone number for our phone tree? YES NO
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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
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*All applications are subject to approval. 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
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