Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida May 2016

8/17/2019 Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida May 2016

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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTERMay 2016 – Volume XL – Issue V

Next Chapter Meeting Sunday, May 15th @ Six Bends Harley Davidson at 10:30 a.m.

MAY IS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH !

Chapter Founding Member Rob Cran

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 do not condone drinking while riding or driving.


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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.MISSION STATEMENT

We are a non-profit organization ofmotorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life.We lobby and educate the government andthe general public to promote motorcycling ina safe and positive image. We endeavor toenlist the cooperation and participation of allorganizations and individuals that share asimilar interest in preserving our Americantradition of FREEDOM. We promotemotorcycle safety, training and politicalawareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB ORGANG. We fund our work through toy runs, poker runs, campouts and other motorcycle

activities. We are your neighbors and friendswho work, pay taxes and get involved withour community. We serve and support ourcountry and believe in freedom. We use alllegal means to protect our rights withoutinfringing on the rights of others.

OUR GOALS

To become a powerful and viable political

force in legislative matters concerning themotorcyclist;To promote safe riding habits withoutinfringing on individual freedoms;To motivate bikers to write letters to theirlegislators before, during and after thelegislative session; andTo furnish our members with a newsletter tokeep all bikers informed in regard toupcoming legislation.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING:

SUNDAY, MAY 15TH @ 10:30 a.m.

at SIX BENDS HARLEY DAVIDSON9501 Thunder Road

Fort Myers, FL 33913

MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE, NEW ADVERTISERS AND/OR AD

CHANGE DEADLINE:

20th of the month for editorial and Boardapproval

IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT

Southwest Chapter Newsletter

Issue date: May 2016

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BYABATE of Florida, Inc.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTERPO Box 60745

Fort Myers, FL 33906www.southwest.abateflorida.com

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 accept 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, For

Myers, FL 33906-6745 or email at [email protected].

Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes.

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.montaukfriendsoferin.org/images/graphics/Image%20Icons/flag_banner.png&imgrefurl=http://www.clipartsheep.com/banner-graphic-flag-red-navy-blue-plaid-gingham-baby-boy--clipart/dT1hSFIwY0RvdkwybHRaekF1WlhSemVYTjBZWFJwWXk1amIyMHZNRE15THpJdk56a3pNemt6TWk5cGJGOHpOREI0TWpjd0xqVXhNREF6T0RFeE9GOW1aR042TG1wd1p3fHc9MzQwfGg9MjcwfHQ9anBlZ3w/&h=638&w=1860&tbnid=vU4GvlutSO-psM:&docid=rilgG2D7Oy-U5M&ei=CniBVt_VAYy5eeThi9gH&tbm=isch&ved=0ahUKEwjfgpzPkP_JAhWMXB4KHeTwAnsQMwiNAShRMFEmailto:[email protected]


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ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest ChapterEXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES

PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745www.southwest.abateflorida.com

President: Moe [email protected] / 412-999-3397

Vice President: Frankie [email protected] / 239-693-7035

Secretary: Gwynne [email protected] / 239-246-2025

Treasurer: Heidi [email protected] / 618-616-0870

Sergeant-At-Arms: Robb Rabell

[email protected] / 239-458-3136

Membership Trustee: Charlie [email protected] / 239-772-3972

Public Relations: Gwynne [email protected] / 239-246-2025

Legislative Representative: Frankie [email protected] / 239-693-7035

Safety Director: Ed [email protected] / 508-685-9220

Newsletter: Heidi [email protected] / 618-616-0870

Webmasters: Taylor [email protected] / 360-298-1921 and

Ed Lufkin, [email protected] /508-685-9220

Chapter Chaplain: Tom [email protected]

Products:

Chapter Rep: Moe MoserChapter Rep: Carl Nelson

HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE

RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (MRO)

President’s Message:

Hello Southwest ABATE. As you’ve heard, ourorganization is at a critical point. The State officetreasury is barely at an operational level. In an effortto get back on sound financial footing, two fund-raising activities are underway. The first is theChristmas gun raffle- tickets are $5 each and get you

a chance to win one of two guns- a Henry lever-action 30-30 rifle or a Huglu 12-gauge over/undershotgun. Please consider buying tickets and hopefullyyou’ll own a new gun or two this year.

Secondly, and more important in my opinion, is theFall State Biker Bash. Plans are underway for thisweekend event to be held at Peace River RVCampground October 7-9. Please see the flyer in thisnewsletter for details.

I’m asking every Chapter member to buy a $30advance sale ticket for this party and to do so now.I’m asking this regardless of whether you end upattending or not because this cash infusion is what weneed as an organization to keep our State office openand to maintain our influence in Tallahassee. Wehave about 6,000 members statewide and if only halfof us buy an event ticket, we’ll generate $90,000 ofrevenue towards regaining our state treasury. I believe that almost all of us can squeeze $30 out ofour budgets to keep this organization going. If we get

the support we need, we’ll get back on trackfinancially and have a great party as well!

Please bring $30 to our Chapter meeting May 15 and pick up your ticket. Checks are acceptable and should be made payable to Southwest Chapter ABATE ofFlorida.

God bless the USA and may we all ride free.Moe

http://www.southwest.abateflorida.com/http://www.southwest.abateflorida.com/http://www.southwest.abateflorida.com/


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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC./SOUTHWEST CHAPTERGENERAL MEETING

Six Bends Harley-Davidson, Fort Myers on April 17, 2016Called to order at 10:34 a.m. Sgt. at Arms - Pledge of Allegiance, moment of silence, please silence your phones. There are 23 members present.

President's Report: We need 2 volunteers at the Six Bens May 20th Battle of theBands for our members tent 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Moe hascommitted $400 from our treasury for the State party inOctober. Each of the 5 chapters have agreed to put in $200seed money for the October party and another $200 for theState meeting, which will be at the State party October 7, 8and 9. He asked each member to buy a ticket for the State party at $30 pre-sale or $35 at the door. We are pushing for pre-sales as soon as the tickets are available so we will havean approximation of how many might attend.There were 3 main topics discussed at the State meeting inApril:1) The State Party

2) By-law amendments to bring back to the chapters3) Raffle tickets for 2 shotguns at $5 each. There will be 2guns raffled off and the winner will have to be at least 18years old and pass a background check.Heidi has the cards for the $4,000 accidental death anddismemberment insurance, which will get paid to your estateunless you fill out the beneficiary card and name a specific beneficiary. However, if you fill out one of these cards, youcan expect a call from an insurance agent trying to sell youadditional insurance. You do NOT need to meet with theagent.

Highlights from the State meeting:

Boots stated they are looking for a new insurance company.They announced the winners of the $7/$2/$1 K raffle. Theywere not anyone from our Chapter. The State made a profitof approximately $5,500 on the raffle.Heidi has tickets for the gun raffle. The drawing will be atthe December 10th State meeting.Membership - Grace is looking into starting an incentive package for memberships. More info is forthcoming.Doc talked about the Vulnerable Riders bill - it failed in theSenate. He finally spoke with Senator Clemons who advisedDoc that he plans to introduce a bill to require helmets in theState of Florida.The Safety money was passed in the Senate and the House,

but was vetoed by Governor Scott.By-laws changes - It was tabled and scheduled to come backat the June meeting.There was an idea brought forward to charge each chapterannual dues. This was sent back with the Chapters for a vote.A motion was made to ride to Tallahassee in April for theFreedom Ride.State Board election nominations were made as follows:Doc for President; Darrin Brooks for VP; Shelly forSecretary; Patti for Treasurer with an assistant; Marcus forSergeant at Arms; Laurie for Membership; Sally for PublicRelations; Dan for the Web-site; Products – none; Darrin forLegislative Report; Larry for Legal Counsel; Victor forSafety.

Leadership training for all those elected to Board positions will beheld in July.

Vice President Frankie:

The Vulnerable Riders Bill failed. No other report.

Secretary's Report: A thank you note from Peace River Chapter was read into therecord.Motion was made to approve the minutes from the March meetingwas made by John Lupe, seconded by Rob Crane. Motion carried.

Treasurer's Report: Heidi read the March Treasurer's report, giving an explanation ofall the expenses and credits. She welcomed everyone to come and peruse the report if they so wished. Motion to accept the reportmade by Carl and seconded by Rob Crane. Motion carried.

Membership Report: Charlie gave the membership report for March. There were 2 newmembers and 3 renewals.

Sergeant at Arms: Great news - his wife's cancer is in remission!!!

Old Business:

Regarding the State party in October, there will be a PlanningCommittee meeting Sunday, May 1st at noon at Peace RiverCampground. Everyone is welcome to come and be part of thecommittee. Members, please buy tickets for the event at $30 each,which includes tent camping. Beer will be sold for $2.00 each and

they are checking on the sale of liquor. There will be a scavengerhunt, swap meet and live music.

Frankie Kennedy re-opened nominations for our Chapter'sExecutive Board.President - Rob Cran (Big Bird) and Robb Rabell acceptVice President - Moe Moser accepts, no other nominationsSecretary - Gwynne Hickman accepts, no other nominationsTreasurer - Heidi Szolga accepts, Bob Crane declines. No othernominations

Only those 4 Executive Board members have to be elected, allother positions can be appointed by the Board. Nominations are

closed for today and there will be another round at the Maymeeting, and we will vote in June. There can be a write-incandidate at the June meeting as well, if someone decides at the lastminute they would like to serve.

New Business: There were 4 proposals to the amendments for dues. We will readthese today and table them for a vote at the May meeting. Presentlythe annual dues are $20, with $10 going to State and $10 to theChapter and Lifetime is $150 with $100 going to State and $50going to the Chapter.

Proposal #1:Annual dues $20 with $10 to State and $10 to chapter. Life


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members will be $600 with $400 going to the State and $200 tothe Chapter.Proposal #2:Annual dues $20 and Life member dues $150, with all moneygoing to the State and none to the Chapter.Proposal #3:Annual dues $20, all money goes to the State. Life member isremoved as a buying option, but there will be an "earnedstatus". If you have served ABATE either on the Board or as anactive participant for 5 or 10 years, each Chapter Board can make3 submissions and the State will choose 3 to receive the Lifemember status. Life members will need to make an annual $10donation to the State.Proposal #4:Annual dues $30 with $20 going to State and $10 going to thechapter. Life member is $300 and all the money goes to the State.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness month.

Ideas were discussed for fundraising: Chili Cook-off, spaghetti

dinner, etc. Please bring ideas forward. Big Bird offered to cookthe spaghetti dinner.

New By-Law Proposals: Currently, the State pays $20,000 per year for insurance and hopeto be repaid by each chapter as they pay $150 for eachevent. Southernmost Chapter proposed the State require eachchapter to pay $850 per year to the State (it can be paid monthly)for insurance. They will then get $650 credit towards theinsurance and the chapter will not have to buy additionalinsurance for up to 4 events. However, not many chapters put on4 events per year that require insurance, so it might go back to

each chapter buying their own insurance for the events theyhold. This will be voted on at our May meeting.

Our lobbyist's contract goes through the end of October. TheState was supposed to have solicited proposals from lobbyists, but our President Doc was the only one who submitted a proposal. Secretary Gwynne read into the record the lobbyist proposal submitted from Doc. Discussion was held regardingkeeping the lobbyist or not.

Heidi and Moe will not be able to attend the June 11th Statemeeting in Sebring, so Frankie and Carl will go in theirstead. Everyone is welcome to attend. It will be at the ElksLodge in Sebring.

Big Bird will be the next cover guy on our newsletter and Johnand Fran will be the month after.

We will keep our meeting time at 10:30 am it seems to work wellfor everyone.

Good of the Order: Bill brought up that ABATE's mission statement should bechanged - where it says "Bikers" it should be changed to"Riders". The verbiage will be double checked for accuracy.

The 4 proposed amendments will be sent out via e-mail toeveryone from Moe.

Motion to adjourn made by Charlie Fisher, seconded by RobCran, motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 11:54 a.m.


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SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS

Kim AdairKeith BakerBill Barber

Darrell BarnettDenee Bartels

Karl BartlingKarl Bartling, III

James BogenriederScott BlinkChet Budz

James Burkholder Nora Burkholder

Don CampbellEllen CampsonFrances CazesWayne Cerra

Jonathan ConantTerry Covington

Audrey CranRick CranRob Cran

Robert “Cruz” Crusan Jim CrystalDan Curry

John D’Agostino Kim D’Agostino

Biffle Davis

Lynne DavisMary Dicenzo-Porter

Al DiagiacoFrank Disomma

Cindy DoakRandy Eck

Marius EspeletaJeffery FielderHarry Foster

Leather FosterBrian Galvin

Sonny GartrellSteven Goldstein

Lynnda GrayLarry Gullin

Bob Hall

Hans HolbergRodney HollingsworthMisti Hollingsworth

Harry HooverJeff Hoover

Jonathan HuntGeorge Huttman

Susan “Red” Huttman Dan Jackson

Cindy “C.J.” Jordan Frankie Kennedy

Ed LaCombeJulio Lopez

Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez“KD” Marlowe

Don Meredith Jr.Kenneth MillerJohn MitchellJay MonttetitMoe Moser

Taylor MusburgerCarl Nelson

Steve NewtonTami NewtonTerry Padilla

Bob PennAsuncsion Peppers

Richard PeppersKathleen Provenzano

Rev. Thomas ProvenzanoFrank E. RhorerBill Robinson

Janet Rolfe

Tabitha RossiRoland SalsberryBruce Scheiner

Juergen Wolfgang SchmidtJencye Schmitt

Jerry SchmittElsie Seif

Doug SepanakRobert SimonKelly SmithRoger Smith

Randall SpiveyRichard StergulzSandy Stergulz

Grandpa StewardLynda Stewart

S. Wade StogranRussell Sullivan

Heidi SzolgaScott TurnerRuth Vorys

Teresa WebsterD. Payton WellsMichael Wieland

Jama WyattSteve Wyatt

L if e Members WhoHave Passed Away

Jerry Barnett Maggie Cran

Ginny D’Asti

John Kennedy Russell May

Rev. Rea Means

Jo Ann Miller

Jim Mozeleski

To become a Life Member contact the Membership Trustee on Page 3

Southwest Chapter Products

Chapter Patch Large (Members Only) $25.00Chapter Patch Small - $7.00

Chapter Flag - $25.00


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Meet the Member Name: Rob Cran a/k/a Big Bird

ABATE member for 32 years

Age: A lot more than people think

Employer: Retired

Riding motorcycles for 40 years

Favorite food: Meatloaf and noodles

Favorite movie: It’s a Wonderful Life

Favorite song: I love you truly

Three things you’ll always find in my fridge: Soda,

sandwich makings, condiments

Person (alive or not) I’d most like to have dinner

with: my mom

People might be surprised to know that I am also a

member of the Fort Myers Power Squadron

If you would like to be on the cover of an upcoming newsletter, submit your favorite picture of you andyour bike along with answers to the profile questions. A random drawing will choose our next

“cover girl” (or boy). Email all information to [email protected].

Membership Report

For the month of April we have 4 Life Members and 4 New Annual Members. Two of the Life Members were previously At-Large and have joined the Southwest Chapter. One of the Life Members was a prior annualmember.

Memberships that will expire at the end of May are: Larry D’Angelo, Donna Hancock, Victor Hancock, Mark

Kennedy, Steven Morris and Robb Rabell. Please remember to renew. We’ll be at the Fathom’s Bike Night onTuesday, May 3rd from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm; the Fort Myers Bike Night on Saturday, May 14 th from 5:00 pm to10:00 pm; at Six Bends Harley-Davidson for our Chapter Meeting on Sunday, May 15th at 10:30 a.m.; and atSix-Bends Harley Davidson for the Battle of the Bands on Friday, May 20 th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Each member should make an effort to sign up at least new one member per year – we can double ourmembership that way!

Safe riding everyone,Charlie FisherMembership Trustee

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Legislative Report by Frankie Kennedy

EVERS, GAETZ POISED FOR PANHANDLE BATTLE In what could be one of the state's most hotly contested congressional primary battles, state Sen. Greg Evers said Monday he isrunning for an open Northwest Florida seat being vacated by veteran U.S. Rep. Jeff Miller. Evers, a Baker Republican, entersan already-crowded GOP field, which includes state Rep. Matt Gaetz and James Zumwalt, an Iraq war veteran who also servedas an aide to Miller. After toying with the possibility of running for weeks, Evers on Saturday filed a statement of candidacy for

Congressional District 1 with the Federal Elections Commission, setting up what could be a grudge match with fellow statelegislator Gaetz, who announced his candidacy for the seat almost a month ago. "After prayerful consideration, I'm humbledand honored to announce my candidacy for CD 1. Many of the residents of the Panhandle have asked me to run because weneed someone that will uphold the Panhandle values in D.C. As a lifelong resident of the Panhandle, I'm ready to carry ourmessage to D.C., just as Jeff Miller did," Evers told The News Service of Florida in a telephone interview Monday. Evers, a 60-year-old farmer, said he intends to formally announce his entrance into the race at a press conference Tuesday morning inMilton. Evers in 2001 won a special election for the state House, where he served until his election to the Senate in 2010. The

Northwest Florida district --- one of the state's most conservative --- abuts the Alabama border and spans Escambia, Okaloosa,Santa Rosa and Walton counties and includes most of Holmes County. The winner of the Aug. 30 GOP primary is almostcertain to go to Washington, and a match-up between Gaetz and Evers could result in the type of political slugfest that thePanhandle is known for. Gaetz has already raised more than $350,000, including putting more than $100,000 of his own moneyinto the race. But Evers, known among reporters for a droll wit delivered in a thick Southern drawl, didn't flinch when askedabout Gaetz's campaign war chest. "The last time I checked, it's the voters that elect, not dollars," he said.

***Please remember that Greg Evers has been a HUGE supporter of ABATE since the beginning of his career. Hewould continue to be a HUGE ally to all motorcyclist if elected to the US Congress. We would have another pro-motorcyclefriend in Washington to help us battle ethanol, motorcycle only checkpoints, NHTSA and whatever else may come down theroad.

SCOTT SIGNS TREATMENT, MILITARY BILLSGov. Rick Scott on Friday signed two bills that are expected to help people get mental-health or substance-abuse treatment andmake it easier for military personnel from Florida to vote. Scott also vetoed a controversial overhaul of alimony laws (SB 668).With those moves, Scott finished acting on all 272 bills --- including the state budget --- approved by the Legislature this year.He signed all but three. The treatment measure (SB 12) includes what is known as a "no wrong door" policy, which wouldallow people who need mental-health or substance-abuse treatment to get it no matter how they enter the systems --- whetherthrough criminal offenses or personal crises. To do that, the bill would create central receiving facilities to function as single

points of access to emergency care and intervention services. Senate Health and Human Services Appropriations ChairmanRene Garcia, R-Hialeah, sponsored the bill, with House Children, Families and Seniors Chairwoman Gayle Harrell, R-Stuart,and Rep. Kathleen Peters, R-Treasure Island, spearheading the issue in the House. The military-related measure (SB 184)creates a task force to review the development of an online voting system for overseas military voters as a way to returncompleted absentee ballots. The new law, sponsored by Sen. Aaron Bean, R-Fernandina Beach, and Rep. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, also requires landlords to act within seven days on lease applications submitted by service members. The bill alsomakes clear that former members of the Florida National Guard are eligible for the Florida Veterans' Hall of Fame.

NRA SEEKS VOICE IN OPEN-CARRY COURT BATTLE The National Rifle Association is seeking to file a friend-of-the-court brief in a Florida Supreme Court case that challenges theconstitutionality of a state ban on people openly carrying guns. The NRA on Thursday filed a motion asking for permission tofile a brief in the challenge brought by Dale Norman, who was arrested in 2012 in Fort Pierce while openly carrying a gun in a

holster. After a jury found Norman guilty of a misdemeanor charge, the 4th District Court of Appeal upheld the state's ban onopenly carrying guns, ruling it does not violate constitutional rights to bear arms. The NRA's motion did not present extensivearguments, but the document said it is "critical that this (Supreme) Court hold that the open and peaceful bearing of arms isconstitutionally protected conduct." In the motion, the NRA also noted it was "deeply involved" in supporting Floridalegislation this year that would have allowed people with concealed-weapons licenses to openly carry firearms. That legislationwas approved by the House but died in the Senate Judiciary Committee. The Supreme Court has allowed the national groupEverytown for Gun Safety to file a brief in the Norman case. That group opposes the open carrying of guns and used its brief totrace a long history of restrictions, saying "Florida's law does not even implicate the Second Amendment --- let alone violateit." The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments in the case June 8.

ALL 2016 SESSION BILLS HAVE REACHED SCOTT All 272 bills approved by the House and Senate during the 2016 session have now been sent to Gov. Rick Scott, with thedelivery Monday of a measure (SB 668) that would set up a new formula for judges to decide alimony payments. As of


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Monday afternoon, Scott had signed 207 of the bills. That included a wide-ranging transportation bill (HB 7027) that thegovernor approved Monday. The signed bills include an $82 billion budget (HB 5001) for the fiscal year that starts July 1. Scotthas only vetoed one bill (HB 1355), which would have created an authority to manage and operate city-owned GainesvilleRegional Utilities. Scott objected to a part of the bill that would have provided compensation to appointed board members ofthe authority.

SCOTT SIGNS BILL TO LOWER CONCEALED WEAPONS FEES The cost to get concealed-weapons licenses will be reduced under a bill signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Rick Scott. The

measure (SB 772), one of 14 bills Scott signed, reduces the license fee from $70 to $60 on the initial application and from $60to $50 for renewals. With nearly 1.5 million concealed-weapons licenses currently issued in Florida, the change is projected toreduce state revenue by $2.99 million next fiscal year, according to a Senate analysis of the bill. Agriculture CommissionerAdam Putnam, whose agency oversees concealed-weapons licenses, has said the measure is part of efforts to make theapplication process "more convenient and affordable."

This is from The MRF For Immediate Release - April 21, 2016

Modified Motorcycles Potentially Under Attack

Members of both Houses of Congress have introduced proposed legislation that would protect the rights of Americans tomodify their vehicles for racing purposes. Dubbed the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2016 (RPM Act, H.R.4715 and S. 2659), this legislation would ensure that converting any motor vehicle (including street motorcycles) into acompetition-only vehicle remains legal.

This proposed legislation became necessary after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, under the guise of maintainingemissions as outlined by the Clean Air Act, announced plans to regulate the conversion of street motorcycles and other motorvehicles into race vehicles. This attempt is reminiscent of the EPA's efforts back in 2003 to regulate motorcycling throughanother unrelated proposed regulation aimed at heavy equipment, steam engines and diesel engines that would have prohibitedowners from changing anything on their motorcycles except for paint color or chrome.

Through the Color and Chrome initiative, the MRF was successful in separating motorcycles from the EPA’s regulations andcreated exemptions to protect the custom and aftermarket industries and our lifestyle. On April 15, 2016, the EPA announcedthat, under pressure from Congress, it would drop the language from its proposed regulations; nevertheless, it shows the clearintent of the EPA to attempt to overstep its bounds, as outlined by the Clean Air Act, in an effort to strip motorcyclists of therights to modify their motorcycles as they see fit.

The MRF urges its members to contact their U.S. Representative and Senator and ask them to support H.R. 4715/S. 2659, theRecognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2016, so that the EPA makes no further attempts to erode motorcyclists’rights.

OPPONENTS TAKE AIM AT 'DOCS V. GLOCKS' LAWDoctors and physician groups filed an 86-page brief this week asking a federal appeals court to reject a controversial Floridalaw that would restrict doctors from asking questions and recording information about patients' gun ownership. The brief cameas the full 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals prepares to hear arguments June 21 about what has become known as the "docs v.glocks" law. The state filed a brief last month urging the court to uphold the law. The plaintiffs' brief filed Monday argued, in

part, that the 2011 law violates the First Amendment rights of physicians to discuss safety-related issues with patients. " In (thelaw), the Florida Legislature does what no legislative body has done before or since; it prevents doctors from providing patients

with truthful advice to keep their families healthy and safe --- speech that is recommended as standard protocol by nationalmedical associations,'' the plaintiffs' brief said. "If (the law) is allowed to stand, it sets precedent for states, at the bidding ofother industries or special interests, to prevent doctors from speaking to patients about risks posed by other dangerous productsor activities. The First Amendment does not allow the state to single out and censor one topic (firearms), or one group (doctors,or patients), or to so interfere with the doctor-patient relationship." The full appeals court agreed in February to take up thecase, after a three-judge panel issued three rulings upholding the constitutionality of the law. The law, backed by groups suchas the National Rifle Association, includes a series of restrictions on doctors and other health providers. As an example, it seeksto prevent physicians from entering information about gun ownership into medical records if the physicians know theinformation is not "relevant" to patients' medical care or safety or to the safety of other people. The NRA filed a friend-of-the-court brief last week that said it championed the law after members were asked intrusive questions about gun ownership duringvisits to doctors' offices. The NRA brief described the law as "a modest regulation of the medical profession that does notinfringe upon First Amendment rights."


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ather Tom’s Message

Dear Fellow ABATE Members,

Can’t Solve Your Motorcycle Issues?

There are many issues that can take place with motorcycles. You will possibly

relate with us when we say that we had a so-called “Custom” motorcycle trike.The word “custom” sounds unique and cool. However, sometimes, the issuesthat go along with it are bleak and seem cruel.

Life is almost like that custom cycle, because each one of us is different fromeveryone else, even if we go through similar issues. Each one of us is uniqueand requires special attention, just as that custom trike did.

What are the issues facing you today? Finances? Marriage? Children? Health? Relationships?

“…the biggest obstacle in solving real issues, is going back to humanity for the answers.

It seems like humanity is its own worst enemy.”

We believe the biggest obstacle in solving real issues, is going back to humanity for the answers. It seems like humanityis its own worst enemy. The scriptures clearly tell us that not one of us is perfect or has the perfect answers to our most pressing issues (Romans 3:23). Man’s answers and understanding of the issues are flawed. Even the most advancedminds will usually change their minds on an issue and/or make modifications of their stated position. Or, if they arereally wrong and something doesn’t go right, they will find some sort of excuse to pass it off. Just take a look at the politicians, which many think so highly of, who claim to have all the answers.

There is only one person, clearly documented in history that was without any fault whatsoever. That was Jesus Christ(2 Corinthians 5:21) (Hebrews 4:15). He was God who became a man (John 1:14) (John1:1). God made us (Genesis1:29-31). We are unique and different “Custom made” (Psalm 139:13) (Job 10:8). Therefore, why can’t we go to Him to help solve the issues we face? First, we need to pray (Matthew 6:9-13) (John

14:13). Don’t make it a formal prayer. Make it conversational, as if you were talking to your best friend (Matthew 6:7).If you have not done so, before all else, receive Him into your heart (see below).

“…problems and the issues you face are invitations for the Lord to come into

your life…”

Will you please consider and take the attitude that your problems and the issues you face are invitations for the Lord tocome into your life to help resolve them? For He says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears myvoice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” (Revelation 3:20).

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock…”

How long has He been on the outside waiting for you to let Him in?Please pray this, with your whole heart , “Dear God, 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,Pastor Tom (SW ABATE Chaplain and Estero River ABATE Life Member) and Pastor Kathy (SW ABATE LifeMember) Foursquare Chaplains - 239-267-8641 or email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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MAY, 2016Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat

1 2 3Fathoms

Bike Night

6-9pm

4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14Fort MyersBike Night

6-10pm

10:30 am 15Chapter Mtg.Six BendsHD

16 17 18 19 6-9pm 20Battle of theBands – SixBends HD

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22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://happybirthdaycakeimages.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Happy-Mothers-Day-3.gif&imgrefurl=http://happybirthdaycakeimages.com/happy-mothers-day-pictures-2016/&docid=Tzm-TPjwI70rOM&tbnid=I2VJUVLxXZ9kWM:&w=640&h=381&ei=jOvuVv-iGMrXeKeZofgJhttps://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.sagusa.org/userfiles/files/Memorial-Day-2015.png&imgrefurl=http://www.sagusa.org/newsevents/memorial-day-memo.aspx&docid=AXinWONP7bep2M&tbnid=XoAx0BNJrTDQKM:&w=350&h=233&ei=4-vuVqPWI4K6ecrsuPgBhttps://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.sagusa.org/userfiles/files/Memorial-Day-2015.png&imgrefurl=http://www.sagusa.org/newsevents/memorial-day-memo.aspx&docid=AXinWONP7bep2M&tbnid=XoAx0BNJrTDQKM:&w=350&h=233&ei=4-vuVqPWI4K6ecrsuPgBhttps://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://happybirthdaycakeimages.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Happy-Mothers-Day-3.gif&imgrefurl=http://happybirthdaycakeimages.com/happy-mothers-day-pictures-2016/&docid=Tzm-TPjwI70rOM&tbnid=I2VJUVLxXZ9kWM:&w=640&h=381&ei=jOvuVv-iGMrXeKeZofgJ


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JUNE, 2016Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat

1 2 3 4

5 6 7FathomsBike Night

6-9pm

8 9 10 11

12 13 Flag Day 14 15 16 17 18

10:30am Chpt. 19Mtg. Six Bends HD

20 21 22 23 6-9pm 24Battle of theBands – Six

Bends HD

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https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjY3fbZhoXMAhXGJCYKHa3lB6UQjRwIBw&url=https://zoom50.wordpress.com/2011/06/18/happy-fathers-day/&bvm=bv.119028448,d.cWw&psig=AFQjCNGo7if4gkHA0KpyX7D7OXExlXRGAw&ust=1460411302122598http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiyupfphYXMAhXH7SYKHeswB4wQjRwIBw&url=http://www.nssdp.com/event/flag-day/&psig=AFQjCNGCAwPYckd_OH3hIjZTj2tg-bps2w&ust=1460411201798825


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https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.montaukfriendsoferin.org/images/graphics/Image%20Icons/flag_banner.png&imgrefurl=http://www.clipartsheep.com/banner-graphic-flag-red-navy-blue-plaid-gingham-baby-boy--clipart/dT1hSFIwY0RvdkwybHRaekF1WlhSemVYTjBZWFJwWXk1amIyMHZNRE15THpJdk56a3pNemt6TWk5cGJGOHpOREI0TWpjd0xqVXhNREF6T0RFeE9GOW1aR042TG1wd1p3fHc9MzQwfGg9MjcwfHQ9anBlZ3w/&h=638&w=1860&tbnid=vU4GvlutSO-psM:&docid=rilgG2D7Oy-U5M&ei=CniBVt_VAYy5eeThi9gH&tbm=isch&ved=0ahUKEwjfgpzPkP_JAhWMXB4KHeTwAnsQMwiNAShRMFE


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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.Southwest Chapter ▪ P.O. Box 60745 ▪ Fort Myers, FL 33906

ADVERTISING RATE SCHEDULE

AND APPLICATION

6 Months 12 Months

BUSINESS CARDQUARTER PAGEHALF PAGEFULL PAGE

$ 55.00$ 85.00$145.00$200.00

$ 80.00$135.00$245.00$375.00

Please submit all artwork in PDF or JPEG format. Email advertisement artwork/information and/or questions [email protected]. All advertising MUST be approved by ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter.

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.

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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ABATE of Florida, Inc.Southwest Chapter

P.O. Box 60745 ▪ Fort Myers, FL 33906Southwest.abateflorida.com

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONSEE 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 CongressDistrict

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 $150.00

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 membershi

card, our bi-monthly Masterlink magazine, Chapter Newsletter, Chapter voting privileges and personal involvement inStatewide legislative actions and their freedom to ride.

CHAPTER USE

Dues Paid by Cash Check Money Order

Mailed Date: Membership Card Make Checks Payable toABATE of Florida, Inc

Southwest ChapterCopy of By Laws

Membership Expiration


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Documents

Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida May 2016