AUGUST 2011

Volume XLVI, Issue I

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Presidents Message Membership Report Renewals Events Legislative Report Minutes Calendar

SW CHAPTER TAKES ATTENDANCE TROPHY OUR LOGO CENTER STAGE FOR THE 2012 FIVE STAR

KRUSIN WITH KATI

DONATION JARS THROUGHOUT TOWN SOME LOCATIONS LISTED ON PAGE 20

HELP OUR SISTER WHO HELPS US STAY INFORMED

COME ONE COME ALL

DETAILS FOUND ON PAGE

ABATEof Florida, Inc.

PO BOX 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906

Southwest Chapter

southwest.abateflorida.com MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Name Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip Code ________________________________________________________ Email Address: Phone: ____________________________________________ _______________________________ (Include Area Code) YES NO YES NO _________ US Congress

May we use your phone number for our phone tree? Are you a registered Voter? _________ FL House Select ONE of the following: ____New/Renewal - Annual Membership Due $20.00 ____ Lifetime Membership $ 150.00

Please Lister your voting districts from your Voter Registration Card: _________ FL Senate

Name of Chapter you wish to join _________________________________________________

____ Transfer Membership to: ____________________________________________________ ____ Change of Address: ________________________________________________________ Signature __________________________________________________ Date: ____________ Sponsored by Chapter Member : _________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ CHAPTER USE Dues Paid by Cash Copy of By Laws Membership Expiration Check Money Order Mailed Date: Membership Card _________________________ _________________________ _________________________

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
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 2

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. MISSION STATEMENT

WHO WE ARE We are a non-profit organization of motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life. We lobby and educate the government and the general public to promote motorcycling in a safe and positive image. 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 safety, training, & political awareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB OR A GANG. We fund our work through toy runs, poker runs, campouts, and other motorcycle activities. We are your neighbors & friends who work, pay taxes, and get involved with our 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. OUR GOALS To become a powerful and viable political force in legislative matters concerning the motorcyclist. To promote the safe riding habits without infringing on individual freedoms. To motivate the bikers to write letters to their legislators before, during, and after the legislative session. To furnish our members with a newsletter to keep all bikers informed in regards to upcoming legislation. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of ABATE of Florida, Inc. and or the Southwest Chapter. This publication allows members to express their beliefs and opinions. ABATE of Florida, Inc. and Southwest Chapter accept no responsibility for the comments, opinions or views contained in this newsletter. Please direct correspondence in reference to this publication to:

Southwest Chapter Meeting Schedule

August 28th, 2011

@ 10 a.m. at Victory Lane Caf
Located at

4150 Hancock Bridge Pkwy., North Fort Myers, FL 33903

PRESENTLY, MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE IS THE WEDNESDAY BEFORE EACH CHAPTER MEETING FOR BOARD APPROVAL FOR SUBMISSIONS
NEW ADVERTISERS OR AD CHANGES MUST

15TH OF EACH MONTH

IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MONTHLY NEWSLETTER; ISSUE DATE: August 2011
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter

BE SUBMITTED BY THE

Wayne Cerra (cell) 239 989.3349

Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes. ABATE of Florida, Inc. 2010 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter All Rights Reserved ABATE of Florida, Inc. and the Southwest Chapter do not condone drinking while riding or driving

http://southwest.abateflorida.com/

PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906

Presidents report
Brothers and Sisters,

My first month as your new President has been busy. Ive been sending lots of e-mails to keep everyone informed. The 5 Star Event was well attended, the Band was great and a big thanks to all our vendors, Supporters and the BFC for hosting the childrens booth, but mostly thanks to all the people who participated from the other 5 Chapters and the people who passed through the gate to make it all happen. I also want to thank many Chapter members who kept the Southwest Chapters scheduled shifts filled. Thanks to Keith and Dylan Baker, Ken Diesel Coon, Ken Teddy Bear Miller, Tom Provenzano, Biffle Davis, Gene Vinci , Frankie Kennedy, Burnout and Gator. A special thanks goes out to those of you who worked alongside of me all weekend, you know who you are. Pirate Coast Cycles in Cape Coral had a great Grand Opening with many give a ways including a $1500.00 custom paint job. The Southwest Chapter was invited to set up a Safety/ Membership table and we met many new faces. Thank you to Keith, Dylan, Diesel and Gene for working the table and a big thank you to John Ottervanger and Bob Hoagland for having us. The upcoming months are filling up with something every weekend, from a ride to Key Largo on the 6 and 7th with a visit to Southernmost Wayne Cerra, President Chapter meeting on the 7th , the Spirit of 45 event on the 14th in Punta Gorda, a State Meet- Southwest Chapter
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ing on the 13th. All of us are feeling the effects of this economy but if you really love to ride, hang out with great people and even maybe, you meet new friends, then just come out for the ride. Every one of us are volunteers, period. No one expects any more than one can give, easily understood. So, I ask all of you to come out say hi and see whats going on and support us by attending events. Your Board is working hard to create great events without the great expense. Most will only cost a tank of gas. Please come out to your local bike nights, support events like the 5 star, the upcoming chapter birthday party and all the other rides and events we do. We are working on the upcoming birthday party celebrating our chapters 31st anniversary. The talks have begun and I will assure you this will be something not to miss. (Hint: Its a local 2 day event). All the details will be worked out and announced at our next chapter meeting August 28th. Many of us are attending local ABATE chapter meetings. As a chapter we can be strong but as a group we can be GREAT. Come on out and help support ABATE OF FLORIDA, Inc. There have been many accidents involving motorcycles in a very short time frame. Krusin with Kati and her husband Tom were involved with a vehicle where the driver used poor judgment and hospitalized our friends. Our thoughts are with them through their recovery. It is up to us to watch our surroundings and do the best we can to ride safe. A nice ride on a beautiful day is the price of a tank of gas, $30 bucks, a fine for distracted driver pulling out in front of a motorcycle injuring or even killing the motorcyclists $62 bucks, the cost to look twice then look again, PRICELESS. Have a great month and ride safe

Outgoing Board of the Southwest Chapter

NEW BOARD CONTACT SHEET TO BE POSTED AUG. 2011 ISSUE PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906 southwest.abateflorida.com
President Frank Kennedy 239.849.9065 swchief2000@yahoo.com Vice President Wayne Cerra 239.989-3349 tehi@comcast.net Secretary Scott R. Turner 239-633-5765 scott@turnerteamfl.com Treasurer Rob Big Bird Cran 239.997.2852 robertkcran@yahoo.com Sergeant At Arms Bob Burn Out Bob Penn 239.573.6487 crspenn88@yahoo.com Assistant Sergeant At Arms Pat Jablonski 203.232.2695 CTCracker@aol.com Quartermaster Vic Piorkowski 239.823.6159 pior10@yahoo.com Assistant Quartermaster Open Position Email Frankie in reference to this position @ swchief2000@yahoo.com Safety Coordinator Safety Coordinator Safety Coordinator Legislative Ken Teddybear Miller 239.693.7035 km_13219@yahoo.com State Delegate Frank Kennedy 239.849.9065 swchief2000@yahoo.com Alt. State Delegate Membership Trustee Webmaster Taylor Musburger 239.334.1620 ABATE@Musburger.net Products Open Position Email Frankie in reference to this position @ swchief2000@yahoo.com Advertising Vendor Wayne Cerra 239.541.8879 tehi@comcast.net Newsletter Editor Photographer Taylor Musburger 239.334.1620 ABATE@Musburger.net PR/Communications Ken Teddybear Miller 239.693.7035 km_13219@yahoo.com Events Vice President Wayne Cerra 239.541.8879 tehi@comcast.net Chapter Chaplain Tom Provenzano 239.267.8641 tprovenz@comcast.net Road Captain Robb Rabell 239.458.3136 topgun@embarqmail.com Road Captain Vic Piorkowski 239.823.6159 pior10@yahoo.com

ABATE of Florida, Inc.

HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MRO*

*MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

2010 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter All Rights Reserved Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Income Tax Purposes ABATE of Florida, Inc. and Southwest Chapter Does Not Condone Drinking and Driving
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 5

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 6

DEAR FELLOW ABATE MEMBERS

So many stories from Bikers about Hard Times... 2 Chronicles 7:14 As we attend meetings and motorcycling events, we are hearing so many stories about hard times, especially about personal financial famine. Then, we hear how the finances affect and/or exacerbate other, already deteriorating conditions... We are hearing more sad stories than we do the good ones. At the same time, we hear of and experience the deteriorating conditions in our country. Look how those conditions have affected the closing and financial ruin of motorcycle dealerships and the end of manufacturing of some bikes. Our country is just about financially bankrupt. Who thought that would ever happen? At the time of this writing, we are wondering if one of us, who receives Social Security, will receive his check, next month. Some of us have asked, "Has God begun removing some of His hand of protection? Has He removed some of the blessings?" If we look at scripture from the Old Testament, as people moved away from God and went their own way, God allowed their destruction and/or their enemies to defeat them. If we look in Jeremiah, Chapter 6, the fall of God's chosen people in Jerusalem is predicted. They are warned of impending doom, that the Babylonians will strip their land bare because of their covetousness, false religion, and shamelessness. It was a time of spiritual and moral decline. God asked them to walk in their old paths of righteousness. But, the opposite was taking place. So, God warned they would perish. In Chapter 7, the people were putting their confidence in the Temple, a building, rather than putting themselves in trust of God, who dwelt there.

The people in Jerusalem had forgotten the promise given earlier to King Solomon by God (2 Chronicles 7). God told Solomon, that in the event He allowed things to come against the people, He would offer a way to be restored, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." Do we want restoration for our country? Do we want a blessing that once it is given to our great country, will trickle down to all its inhabitants? Do we want a promised healing for our land? One final thought... we do not like to turn these newsletters into anything that seems remotely political. However, one of the interesting trends we are seeing from our own government, is that we seem, as a nation, to be "bumping heads" against Israel. It is also interesting to note that on March 10, 2010, the Japanese government made some demands against Israel's interests. It was exactly one year later, to the day that Japan suffered one of the worst earthquakes, one of the worst tsunamis, and suffered a nuclear disaster. In Genesis 12:2 and 3, God talks about Abraham and his new nation, "I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. NKJV The turning of our country can start with each one of us truly seeking God, as He has asked. We call ourselves a JudeoChristian nation. As such, we are part of a heritage that was given to Solomon and his people. Please pray. "Dear God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, 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. 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. Lord, please help me to learn how to effectively pray and be able to communicate all that is going on in the life you have given me. Teach me how to know your response and guidance, through your Holy Spirit. I ask that you will help me to humble myself and turn me away from any wicked ways. I pray for my country to be restored and for its people to turn back to You, in the Name of Jesus. Amen. "Blessings,

Tom and Kathy

Pastor Tom (Estero River ABATE Life Member and Southwest Chapter Chaplain) and Pastor Kathy (SW ABATE Life Member - Foursquare Chaplain)www.messiahsmessengers.org or tprovenz@comcast.net 239-267-8641
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 7

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS Keith Baker Darrell Barnett Denee Bartels Scott Blink Chet Butz James Burkholder Nora Burkholder Don Campbell Frances Cazes Wayne Cerra Jonathan Conant Terry Covington Audrey Cran Maggie Cran Rick Cran Rob Cran Robert Cruz Crusan Ginny DAsti Biffle Davis Mary Dicenzo-Porter Al Diagiaco Frank Disomma Cindy Doak Randy Eck

Brian Galvin Sonny Gartrell Lynnda Gray Bob Hall Harry Hoover George Huttman Susan Red Huttman Dan Jackson Cindy CJ Jordan Frankie Kennedy John Kennedy Ed LaCombe KD Marlowe Russell May Rev.Rea Means Don Meredith Jr. Jo Ann Miller Kenneth Miller Jim Mozeleski Taylor Musburger Terry Padilla Bob Penn Asuncsion Peppers Richard Peppers Kathleen Provenzano Rev. Thomas Provenzano

Bill Robinson Janet Rolfe Tabitha Rossi Roland Salsberry Jencye Schmitt Jerry Schmitt Bruce Scheiner Elsie Seif Robert Simon Kelly Smith Richard Stergulz Sandy Stergulz Grandpa Stewart Lynda Stewart Scott Turner Ruth Vorys Teresa Webster D. Payton Wells Michael Wieland Jama Wyatt Steve Wyatt

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 9

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 11

MEMBERSHIP REPORT:
Welcome to our new members for the month of July: Jamie Foederer, Edward Joy, Bob Miller, Doreen Burns, Barbara Calao, Sean Higgins, Tim Haskell, Michael Gendron and Jason Fedrow. Welcome to renewing member Jim Rosser who has now been with the chapter for 8 years. Upcoming renewals for August: Lois Crusan. September renewals: Frances Jordan, John Piper, Susan Piper, Mary Player, Tom Player and Janise Turner. Wayne Cerra, Membership Trustee

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 12

4TH SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH SW CHAPTER MEETING

Motorcycle & Automotive

REPAIRS
Quality Workmanship

FRANKIE KENNEDY 239.849.9065

Thank you for your support Of The Southwest Chapter Of ABATE of Florida, Inc.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 15

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 17

MEETING MINUTES
SECRATARIES REPORT: Scott asked for a motion to accept the March minutes as written in the newsletter. Burnout 1st, Gator 2nd, motion carried. Scott also asked that everyone sign in. TREASURERS REPORT: We are officially caught up with the state on all reports. KC asked for motion to accept report subject to audit. 1st Burnout, 2nd Rob Cran. Motion carried. SARGENT AT ARMS REPORT: Staff is in place for 5 Star, please ride safe coming and going to 5 Star. Meeting called to order at 10:31AM with Pledge of Alle- MEMBERSHIP: Wayne reported membership is up, 10 giance and a moment of silence. Pastor Tom gave the new members and 3 renewals for June, 6 new members blessing. and 1 renewal for July all from recent bike nights Building membership with more events and bike nights PRESIDENTS REPORT: Introduce guest speaker, Jimi need chapter involvement, please come and support your Allen from American Life and our visitors from the Ca- chapter. loosahatchee Chapter. NEWS LETTER: Deadline for newsletter in Wednesday Jimi Allen spoke of the additional benefits and informed July 28th. All ads must go before board by the 15th of the us that a new beneficiary card needs to be filled out month to make the next newsletter. yearly. He asks that you speak with the rep that will be LEGISLATIVE: Reports are in newsletter. Elections are calling so you know all that is available. Jimis phone coming, please know your candidates. number is 239-210-8224 for any questions or concerns. SAFTEY: Birdie excused. Schools are coming up and Goals as your new President: Working together with all Estero will be joining us to get some of their members chapters by attending meetings and events working close certified. with the board to see things through and looking for member input to what they would like to see within our PRODUCTS: We now have chapter shirts for $13 each chapter. or 2 for $25. Ken states we are way through the first The next state meeting is September 13th; Frankie Ken- batch of shirts. We also have stickers $1 each, cozies, nedy is our rep and will be attending. price to follow and patches are also coming. WEB SITE: Taylor absent excused. Web site is updated VPs REPORT: Seminole Casino last Saturday was well with new officers. attended with 170 bikers, next one is in October. Past PR: Currently handled by Wayne and Gene but all membike nights have been successful. bers should promote Abate. Pirate Coast Cycles grand opening. We attended and out- OLD BUSINESS: Please turn in bike ticket money. We come was great. Please support them as they are one of still need a door prize worth $25 for the 5 Star event. our advertisers. NEW BUSINESS: Membership pins will be given out for Upcoming events: years with Abate. Next weekend July 29, 30 and 31, 5 Star Event. We need Good of the order: Thanks to Caloosahatchee for supportvolunteers for this event. Sgt at Arms needs 4 people, ing our meeting. We will be visiting other chapters Safety/Membership booth needs more volunteers for a throughout the year. couple hours each on Saturday Drawing was held for a shirt donated by Pirate Coast, August 6 & 7 ride to Key Largo with Estero River to at- winner was Carla Flack. tend Southernmost Chapter meeting on Sunday 50/50 winner was Ken Coons who donated his share back August 14th ride to the Sterling House to help support to the chapter. their Spirit of 45 celebration, we will set up a safety Motion to adjourn Burnout, 2nd Babs, motion carried. booth, need riders and volunteers Next big event to start planning, Chapter Birthday party Meeting adjourned 11:20 AM September, Im looking for a committee, please step up and help out Submitted by Scott R Turner State Bike tickets, those of you who took tickets, how are Secretary the sales going? Southwest Chapter Abate Meeting Minutes. July 24th 2011 Held at Victory Lane President - Wayne Cerra VP- Gene Vinci Treasurer- Todd (KC) Burns Secretary- Scott Turner Sgt, at Arms- (Burnout) Bob Penn 21 Members 8 Visitor

SW CHAPTER TAKES ATTENDANCE TROPHY OUR LOGO CENTER STAGE FOR THE

2012 FIVE STAR

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 19

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. CHAPTER MEMBERS, Katie and Tom Ridderman of Krusin with Kati, were involved in an accident and have both suffered serious injuries. Donation jars have been set up across our area. Some locations are: Pirate Coast on Viscaya, Southwest Motorcycles and American Cycles both on Pine Island Rd., BRC Choppers and Palladen Cycle both on Pondella Road. CONDOLENCES TO ABATE MEMBERS:
To Frankie Kennedy: Sorry to hear about your brother. We wish you the best, if we can help let us know. Friends forever, Rob & Lyn

Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida, Inc.

Southwest Chapter Birthday Party Details to be determined Christmas Run Sunday, December 11th, 2011 Details to be determined

My thoughts are with you and your family at this time of reflection. Babs

A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT AND THANKS TO OUR LOCAL EVENT PROMOTERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF OUR MRO

BIKE FOR SALE 2007 SUZUKI 10,000 MILES .. $2,000

Our Caring Circle

will be posted each month. This month please keep in your thoughts and prayers the following members and their loved ones.

Burnout Bob and Marsha Penn 239.573.6487 Teddy Bear km_13219@yahoo.com Brenda Berg (823-2173), Lyn & Rob Assenio, Trudy & Robb Rabell (458-3136), Jim Rosser (283-5301) Theresa Baker (549-3409) Kevin Baker
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 20

LEGISLATIVE REPORT August 2011 Good Morning Freedom Fighters:

From ABATE of Florida, Inc., David Lockdown Rich

PRESS RELEASE Killer of Four Motorcyclists Going to Prison For Life and Then Some Sumter County, FL, July 7, 2011 On March 13, 2010 Paul Sermons got drunk, got into his truck, and decided to drive down County Road 476 in Sumter County, FL. The traffic in front of him going slower than Sermons wanted, he began passing other vehicles. The two motorcycles coming in the other direction had no chance. Sermons hit both bikes ejecting all four riders; with one rider being launched into the windshield of the truck Sermons was passing. All the motorcyclists were killed. On June 10, 2011, Sermons was found guilty of four counts of DUI Manslaughter and one count of driving on a suspended drivers license. A few weeks later on July 6, 2011, the Honorable Judge Hallman had Sermons in his courtroom for the last time. By the time this final hearing was over, it was decided; Paul Sermons would never again walk as a free man. Not only did Judge Hallman sentence Sermons to life in prison, he sentenced Sermons to one life sentence for each of the four people he killed as well as pulling his drivers license for life and many fines and fees. ABATE of Florida members from many chapters were at every hearing throughout this case. Our members were there to offer support to the victims families from the beginning to the end of the hearings and trial. The Court recognized our presence from our members being in the courtroom to asking potential jurors if they were ABATE members. Although justice was finally served in this case, all must understand that in the end, there were no winners. ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Floridas largest Motorcyclists Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide. ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and include many elected officials. Our missions are to educate the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general. To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone. ADVISORY HOME OWNER & CONDOMINIUM OWNER ASSOCIATIONS AND MOTORCYCLES July 13, 2011 - It has come to the attention of ABATE of Florida, Inc.'s State Board of Directors that some motorcyclists have encountered problems regarding parking and operating motorcycles within some deed restricted communities in Florida. Please be advised that assuming the Home Owners/ Condominium Owners Association's Governing Documents

were created within Florida State Statutes, they carry legal weight and are enforceable in court. When purchasing a dwelling within a community or condominium that is run under an Association, make sure to read and understand the Documents related to the Association and your rights as a Property Owner under the Documents. Florida law has specific time limits under which the Documents must be reviewed prior to a related property sale. You don't want to find out too late that you are not allowed a specific pet, more than a certain number of house guests at a time, a truck, a motorcycle, or the ability to rent your unit. These are common prohibitions in some Florida communities and condominiums. If you do not fully understand these documents or have any questions, you should consult an attorney. Legislative Updates: From Darrin Scribe Brooks "Educate and inform the whole mass of the people... They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty." ~ Thomas Jefferson SCOTT'S LEGISLATIVE WORK IS DONE With the signing Tuesday of SB 404, Gov. Rick Scott concluded his role in the legislative process by taking action on the final bill passed by lawmakers in the 2011 legislative session. Out of 2,186 bills, resolutions and memorials filed, lawmakers sent the governor 277 general or local bills. Of those, he vetoed 11 (including line items in the budget) and let a single bill (HB 437), a food fight between automotive manufacturers and dealers, become law without his signature. Scribe's Comment: Only 12.67% of all the Bills filed even passed both House and Senate. Hey everyone, another non-motorcycle news item. I am interested in this item because I am originally from Topeka Kansas where Westboro Baptist Church is located. growing up, I vaguely knew some of the Phelps kids. The house or compound that old man Phelps lived in always flew the flag upside down and would not let the kids socialize with anyone that was not in their "church". ROONEY FILES FUNERAL PROTEST BAN A measure prohibiting picketing or protesting within a certain distance of a funeral, burial or memorial service of military service members and certain others was filed last week by Rep. Patrick Rooney, R-West Palm Beach. The measure is filed in response to protests by members of Westboro Baptist Church, who have picketed the funerals of services members. The bill (HB 31) filed by Rooney also would ban the picketing of funerals of emergency response workers, children, and elected officials.
-Legislative report continued on page 23
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HARIDOPOLOS DROPS OUT OF U.S. SENATE RACE Senate President and Republican candidate Mike Haridopolos dropped his bid Monday for the U.S. Senate. "Today, I am announcing that I will no longer be a candidate for the United States Senate, nor will I seek any other office this year or next. Instead, I am re-dedicating myself to finishing the job you sent me to do here in Florida." News from the AMA... On February 28, 2011, Representative Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) introduced H.R. 748. This bill would prohibit the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from authorizing the use of gasoline containing greater than 10 percent ethanol in certain vehicles. The Energy and Environment Subcommittee of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, chaired by Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), will be holding a hearing entitled "Hitting the Ethanol Blend Wall: Examining the Science on E15" on July 7 at 2:00 pm EDT. In October 2010 the EPA approved E15, a new gasoline formulation that contains up to 15 percent alcohol by volume, for use in model year 2007 and newer light duty vehicles (cars, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles). In January 2011, it added model year 2001-2006 light duty vehicles to the approved list. As a motorcyclist, you need to be very careful because currently most on- or off-highway motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are not approved for use of this fuel. The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is concerned about E15 because it combusts at a higher temperature than gasoline that contains a lesser amount of ethanol. In engines not designed to dissipate this additional heat, engine damage in the form of premature wear can result. This is a concern for all motorcycles and ATVs, and particularly for the air-cooled engines found in many machines. Moreover, use of E15 can void the manufacture warranty. SHERIFF MIKE SCOTT TO RUN FOR RE-ELECTION LEE COUNTY - Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott has confirmed that he will run for re-election. Scott says he plans to make a formal announcement and file the paperwork later, but he hasn't said exactly when. Three candidates have already filed their papers to run for the position. They are Lee Bushong, Timothy Fisher, and Christian Meister. FOUR FILE TO RUN IN RACE FOR HOUSE 75 SEAT Two more candidates jumped in the race for state House 75, bringing the field to four seeking the post Rep. Trudi Williams, R-south Lee County, gives up after next year because of term limits. Republican Ray Rodrigues of Estero, and Libertarian William Tolp of North Naples filed their papers for the seat which allows them to start raising money - but both also say they'll be watching to see how the district lines may change.

Rodrigues, vice chairman of Lee County's Republican Executive Committee, has run for countywide office twice before, for elections supervisor and school board, and lost in the Republican primary. Although David Mulicka, a Cape Coral businessman, also is in next year's primary and has commitments and support among GOP elected officials and party activists, Rodrigues said he won't consider Mulicka an opponent in the smaller House district. "Until redistricting is done, no one knows who'll be running against whom anyway," Rodrigues said, noting he believes south Lee could be divided to create a new district that takes in some candidates now in the 75 race. Mulicka, who started campaigning in February, raised about $35,000 in campaign donations from 100 local voters in the quarter that ended June 30. That makes a total of about $52,000 in his campaign treasury, including a loan of about $7,000. Rodrigues said he believes there's plenty of time in the campaign, and he also has name recognition from his earlier races. Rodrigues, 41, is married, and works as business manager for the College of Arts and Sciences at Florida Gulf Coast University. If elected, he said he can serve in the Legislature and do the university job. But he plans to step down as party vice chairman early next year. Libertarian Tolp said he lives just inside the district line that extends into Collier County. Although Republicans have a strong registration advantage in the district, Tolp said he believes a Libertarian should appeal to people in both parties, and especially those who are disappointed with elements of their party's performance. Because of their emphasis on limited government, he said, Libertarians are fiscally conservative -"true conservatives, not like some Republicans," he says - and socially liberal in their belief government should stay out of someone's private life. A Fort Myers native, Tolp, 41, is married and works in Web design and video production, and also as a professional musician. Also in the GOP primary is Victor Dotres, who works for Collier County schools. Republican Hopefulls: Another new candidate has emerged for the congressional District 14 seat held by U.S. Rep. Connie Mack IV, R-Fort Myers. Records show Timothy John Rossano of south Lee County filed his papers as a Republican candidate. Rossano did not respond to calls and emails; several other GOP party officers, activists and elected officials said they were not familiar with him. His Facebook page says he's 46, and includes this: "This is my statesman page. I hate the word politician. I am not a politician. Politicians lie like rugs. I tell the truth in my campaigns. Even if it hurts me."
-Legislative report continued on page 26
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August 2011
Sun 1 Mon 2 Tue Bike Night at
THE JOINT 6 - 9 PM

Wed 3 Bike Night at 4

Thu 5

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Paradise Tiki and Victory Lane

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SPIRIT OF 45
SEE PAGE 6

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28 29 SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING

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THE JOINT 6 - 9 PM

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Paradise Tiki and Victory Lane

A pessimist, they say, sees a glass of water as being half empty; an optimist sees the same glass as half full. But a giving person sees a glass of water and starts looking for someone who might be thirsty. ~ G. Donald Gale
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September 2011
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Paradise Tiki and Victory Lane

25 26 SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING

27 Bike Night at
THE JOINT 6 - 9 PM

28 Bike Night at
Paradise Tiki and Victory Lane

29

30

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 25

LEGISLATIVE REPORT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Many politicos expect Southwest Florida will get a new congressional seat after redistricting next spring, meaning one seat Mack will run for and a new one with no incumbent. Those considering a campaign, or who've said they will run, include state Rep. Paige Kreegel, R-Punta Gorda; Lee County Commissioner Tammy Hall; Sanibel businessman Chauncey Goss, and former Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp. Delegates: Past delegates to Florida's previous Republican presidential debates and straw polls say the experience is priceless; being sought after by GOP presidential contenders is an experience they wouldn't want to miss. This year, most Lee County Republicans who wanted to be delegates for the September event lucked out: All they had to do was register and show up. Those who took just those two steps will indeed be delegates to Presidency 5 in Orlando.

It worked like this: Each county got a certain number of delegates based on Republican voter registration. Lee County got 115. Of that total, 25 percent would be chosen by party leaders, and 75 percent, or 86, would be chosen by a random drawing June 25. About 170 people registered for the drawing, said Ray Rodrigues, vice chair of the Lee County's Republican Executive Committee. But they had to be present to win, and only 75 showed up, he said. So those 75 automatically became delegates, and party leaders are filling in remaining slots with an eye towards rewarding active volunteers in the 2010 presidential race, Rodrigues said. People at the meeting have a good idea of at least some delegates' identities, but names are not being officially released yet. The state party intends to release all delegates' names at once, Rodrigues said, partly to help ensure all candidates get the delegates' names at the same time. See you in the wind, TEDDYBEAR

3 TYPES OF DEADLY DRIVING DISTRACTIONS Visual Manual Cognitive

Visual - taking your eyes off the road Manual - Taking your hands off the wheel Cognitive - Taking your mind off what youre doing
Distracted driving is any non-driving activity a personal engages in that has the potential to distract him/her from the primary task of driving and increase the risk of crashing. While all distractions can endanger drivers safety, texting is the most alarming because it involves all three types of distractions. Other distracted activities include, Using a cell phone, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, grooming, reading (including maps), using a PDA or navigation system, watching a video, changing the radio station, cd, or mp3 player.

DISTRACTIONS CHANGE WITH TECHNOLOGY!

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 34

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SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 31

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Thank you to

Victory Lane Caf

For your support Of Southwest Chapter

LOOK
TWICE
FOR THOSE

DRIVERS WHO DONT

Southwest Chapter
@ 10 a.m. at
Located at

August 28th, 2011 Victory Lane Caf

4150 Hancock Bridge Pkwy., North Fort Myers, FL 33903
southwest.abateflorida.com

Chapter Meeting

FYI

A bill that requires that juries consider the cause of the accident when determining who to hold responsible for enhanced injuries caused by car defects was signed by Gov. Rick Scott on Thursday. The bill (SB 142) was heavily lobbied for by Ford Motor Co. and other car makers who argued that without it, jurors were not given a full picture of what happened in an accident. But groups like the Florida Justice Association, which represents trial lawyers, said jurors will be swayed by emotional, irrelevant testimony that is unrelated to the enhanced injuries caused by defects in the car. The new law effectively reverses a Florida Supreme Court decision called DAmario v. Ford and was closely watched by the legal community. Scribe's Comments: Recently, my State Senator Garrett Richter, explained this new law in a way that may help us in court when a motorcyclist is killed by the fault of a vehicle driver. Sen. Richter says that in the past the jury

would only hear that "The airbag in Joe's car did not fully deploy when his car hit the telephone pole resulting in Joe's untimely and unnecessary death!" With this new law the jury will be able to get more information and can now hear, "Joe had a blood alcohol level 3 times the legal limit and was traveling at over 90 mph on a two lane winding road at night. Due to his alcohol level and rate of speed Joe crossed the center line forcing an on coming car / motorcycle to swerve into a ditch killing the driver / rider. At that point Joe missed the curve and his car hit the telephone pole with such force that it shattered the pole causing it to land on top of Joe's car and crushing his skull." This law can help us when the driver who hits and kills a motorcyclist is either a repeat offender of running stop signs, failure to yield, or was doing something shortly before that ended up causing the crash. Darrin "Scribe" Brooks,

MISSION STATEMENT ~ ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. WHO WE ARE . . .

We are a non-profit organization of motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life. We lobby and educate the government and the general public to promote motorcycling in a safe and positive image. 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 safety, training, & political awareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB OR A GANG. We fund our work through toy runs, poker runs, campouts, and other motorcycle activities. We are your neighbors & friends who work, pay taxes, and get involved with our 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.

SUPPORT

CHAPTER EVENTS

OUR GOALS . . . To become a powerful and viable political force in legislative matters concerning the motorcyclist. To promote the safe riding habits without infringing on individual freedoms. To motivate the bikers to write letters to their legislators before, during, and after the legislative session. To furnish our members with a newsletter to keep all bikers informed in regards to upcoming legislation.

ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter

PO BOX 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906

southwest.abateflorida.com

ADVERTISING APPLICATION
Name of Business: __________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________ Business Phone: _____________________________ Contact: ______________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________ Phone:______________________ Cell: __________________________ Email: ______________________________________________________ Type of Ad: Business Card Quarter Page Half Page Full Page Duration of Ad: ____________________ Start Date of Ad: _____________________ Stop Date of Ad: ______________________ Authorized Signature: __________________________________________________ Print Name: ______________________________________________________ Type of Payment: Check _________ Check Number __________ Cash ___________

Advertisement Pricing
Business Card 6 Months 12 Months $55.00 $80.00 Quarter Page $85.00 $135.00 Half Page $145.00 $245.00 Full Page $200.00 $375.00

Full page 12 month advertisers will receive an additional 2 months FREE All advertisers will also receive a one year ABATE of Florida, Inc. membership which also includes a $4,000.00 accidental death policy All artwork must be submitted in PDF or JPEG format All advertising MUST be approved by the Southwest Chapter of Abate of Florida, Inc. For further information please contact

Rob Cran 239.997.2852 robertkcran@yahoo.com