 ABATE of Florida Inc SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Celebrating Our 28
th
Year
Chartered September 10th 1980
WHO WE ARE
SMRO is an acronym for State Motorcycle Rights Organization. They are organizations
comprised of individuals who are dedicated to insuring personal liberties in our legislature. They
are dedicated to maintaining the lifestyle of motorcycling by working legislatively to promote
motorcycle awareness and road safety, and regaining lost liberties.
Emergency Team Numbers:
Frankie Kennedy
849-9065
Bob Litterello
542-2313
Robb Rabell
458-3136
Pastor Tom
267-8641
Vic Piorkowski
823-6159
Rob Cran
997-2852
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ABATE of Florida, Inc. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER BOARD of DIRECTORS
2008 - 2010
OFFICE
OFFICER
PHONE #
EMAIL
President:
Frankie Kennedy
849-9065
Vice President:
Bob Litterello
229-0428
Secretary:
Teresa Webster
458-1865
Treasurer:
John Spinella
220-0570
Sgt of Arms:
Vic Piorkowski
823-6159
Assistants:
Gator
Robb Rabell
281-1356
Chuck Berges
677-5261
Ron Berg
823-2173
Rob Assenzio
898-3964
John Spinella
227-0550
Vic Piorkowski
823-6159
Newsletter:
Robert A. Assenzio
898-3964
Shutter Bug:
Linda J. Assenzio
728-7423
Quartermaster:
Vic Piorkowski
823-6159
Assistants:
Bob Litterello
229-0428
Products:
(OPEN)
Safety Director:
Ron Berg
823-217334
Assistant:
John Spinella
227-0550
Legislative/PR/Com:
Ken Miller
772-5336
Event Coordinator:
Bob Litterello
229-0428
Assistant:
Larry Hollopeter
601-3162
Vendor:
Bob Litterello
542-2313
Coordinator:
State
Frankie Kennedy
849-9065
Representatives;
Teresa Webster
458-1865
Alternate State
Bob Litterello
542-2313
Representatives:
Pat Jablonski
Membership:
Trudy Rabell
458-3136
Assistant:
Sandy Rositano
574-6411
Webmaster:
Taylor Musburger
218-7244
Chapter Chaplain:
Tom Provenzano
267-8641
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ABATE of Florida, Inc
.
MISSION STATEMENT
We will lobby and educate the government and the general public to promote
motorcycling in a safe and positive image. We will endeavor to enlist the
cooperation and participation of all organizations and individuals who share
similar interest in preserving our American traditions of freedom. We will involve
ourselves in fund raising to achieve our goals.
GOALS AND PURPOSES
?
To print a newsletter to keep all bikers informed in regards to events
concerning motorcycle safety, legislation affecting motorcyclists as well as
any other motorcycle news around our state and throughout our country.
To become a powerful and viable political force in legislative matters
concerning motorcycles, motorcycle safety, and all motorcyclists’ rights.
To promote voter registration, to educate and motivate members to
become active in the legislative process.
To promote safe riding habits without infringing on the right of other
individuals.
To educate the public about motorcycle awareness and promote safe
driving habits while sharing the road with motorcyclists.
To provide lobbyist to represent ABATE of Florida, Inc. on the state and
national level.
IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT
This newsletter is the official publication of ABATE of Florida, Inc.
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER published monthly (12 times a year).
ABATE of Florida, Inc.-Southwest Chapter
PO Box 60745
Fort Myers, FL 33906
DISCLAIMER
The opinions or statements in this newsletter are not necessarily the opinions of
ABATE of Florida, Inc. or SOUTHWEST chapter.
Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. or SOUTHWEST chapters are NOT deductible
for federal income tax purposes ABATE SOUTHWEST chapter does
NOT condone drinking and riding while driving. ABATE of Florida Inc
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER everyone, as always I hope this newsletter finds all well
and in good spirits.
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Hi all,
always I hope this newsletter finds all in good health and
spirits.
Southwest Chapter had its annual Chili Cook off back on the first of February at
Harley Davidson of Ft. Myers, and if you were there you know it was a great time
for all. I have to say I was amazed with the number of entries in the contest;
there were a total of 16 the largest I have seen in many years. We had Scottie
taking home 1st place, our very own Teresa taking 2nd place, and Scott taking 3rd
place with our very own Mike taking an honorable mention for his 4th place finish,
which by the way was only 2/10
th’s
of a point off the mark.
Some of you broke your backs to make this happen you all know who you are I
want to say thank you to all that helped to make this a wonderful event. We
picked up a few new members, made some new friends, and hopefully gave
some folks some unforgettable memories.
Our most sincere thanks go to Ft Myers Harley Davidson for all their support and
the great prizes for the cook off, along with all else they did to make our event a
successful one.
As
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We brought out some bike games but could only get a few people to play after
some friendly coaxing. I hope the games start picking up at Victory Lane Café,
anyone with input please let me know what you think.
If you did
not see the slow races you sure missed some good stuff. I had the
opportunity of riding Bob Litterello’s bike in the slow races.
I could not reach the
ground so Vic let me use his bike and I was unbeatable as I proved this fact by
beating a guy on a trike not only once but twice. It was all in good fun and hope
you all had a great time.
Keep your eye open for the upcoming March Madness Bike Show at Victory
Lane Café on the 18th
of
March, be there or be square. Eight classes plus two
special trophies, check out the flier in the newsletter for more details.
There are problems coming out all over.
I recently heard Collier County is
cracking down as of the 1st of February on vertical plates. We need to address
this issue now as I fear Lee County may not be very far behind. With absolutely
no guidance from motorcycle riders the non riders get to make the rules and this
is what happens. More news on the horizon, Myrtle Beach has put city
ordinances in place to deter bikers from attending two very large annual events
held there. Read more about this in the legislative report. Get on board if you
want to make a difference we need all the help we can get. Here are a few other
things on the agenda that need to be followed closely; the SB968 stiffer penalties
bill. This bill has been added to other bills over the years but to no avail, we must
get something done on this matter we are being slaughtered out there and all our
representatives can do is raise the fine on the vertical license plates to in excess
of one thousand dollars. When someone turns left in front of us or rear ends us at
a traffic light the offender gets anywhere from an eighty to a one hundred dollar
fine, so the way I see it our representatives need schooling and where better to
receive their needed education than from the people of ABATE. Those guys must
feel as though the life of a biker is worth less than the improper display of a tag,
now that’s ridiculous. I do not care who you are you must agree that the current
level of fines and penalties pertaining to motorcyclists is not only unfair but
downright ludicrous.
The February state meeting was held in Pensacola, about six hundred and
twenty five miles from here. I had the pleasure of riding up with our Sergeant at
Arms, Victor Piorkowski, and Pat Jablonski. We had a great trip but it was long
and WET. The last one hundred miles took us over four hours because of the
rain and even though I hate riding with a windshield I promised the guys that from
now on any road trip over three hundred miles I will put the windshield on, it
definitely helps in the rain. Victor and Pat delegated the meeting for the chapter.
Billy Jo of Victory Lane Café has asked our chapter to help put together a poker
run for Danielle. Her house could be seen on the news a couple weeks ago, it
burned to the ground leaving her and her two young children homeless. Thank
God the family escaped without injury. The event is to take place on March 1st
2009, at Victory Lane Café along with a barbeque, silent auction and games etc.
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Please attend if at all possible, as this is for the barmaid that serves you so
graciously every Wednesday eve at bike night.
We have set the first date for a meeting to plan our annual Five Star Event. The
meeting will be held at Harley Davidson of Naples at eleven o’clock in the
morning. We will bring the information to our next chapter meeting. Our VP, Bob,
and our Sergeant at Arms, Victor, will be in attendance.
We had a few awards given out at the meeting; Audrey Cran for selling the most
bike tickets and Ron Berg for all his efforts in making our MSAP program the
great success that it is this school year. If not for Ron’s undying efforts we may
not have gotten back into the schools. Thanks again Ron you are greatly
appreciated. During this semester we were able to qualify a few more people to
become MSAP instructors thanks you guys for stepping up and helping us fill
these very valuable and necessary positions
In closing I would like to share an experience that I had on the road trip to
Pensacola. After riding for many hours we decided to stop for gas and to use the
rest room, well as I stated earlier it was cold and rainy so I was wearing chaps,
raingear, and about fifty pounds of soaking wet leather. Anyone ever having had
this experience knows it is pretty difficult to get out of these things in order to
relieve oneself. So that being said, as I was fumbling with all the zippers, belts
and straps there was someone continually wiggling the door handle. I stood silent
as long as I could until finally, thinking it was my riding companions on the other
side of the door just fooling around with me, with absolutely no hesitation I went
into a long rant from behind the closed bathroom door about how if that person
on the other side of the door wiggled that door knob one more time I would be
out to personally rip their @#$%^% head off. Well to my surprise when I flung the
door open there I found a young black man with dread locks, gold teeth, and
dressed up like a gangster backing away with his hands if front of him waving
frantically while hollering,
“I’m sorry mister I’m sorry.” Needless to say I had to
close the door because I was laughing too hard to respond.
It took me a few
moments to compose myself and when I exited the rest room not a word was
muttered by either of us. I sure hope that guy does not judge all bikers by that
one experience.
Thanks to all of you for making the Southwest Chapter the premier MRO
in the area. Till next time, ride safe.
Frankie
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Mr. Garcia,
I am writing you in hopes that you are looking for some insight into the
motorcycle safety and awareness issues currently on the upcoming legislative
agenda.
Please let me introduce myself my name is Frank M. Kennedy Sr., I am the
founder and chair of ROARS (Riders and Other Advocates for Road Safety), I
am also the President of the Southwest Chapter of ABATE. (American Bikers
Aiming Towards Education)
ABATE is this states only MRO, (Motorcycle Rights Organization) we have an
excellent MSAP (Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program) that we as an
organization have been bringing our presentation to the drivers education
programs all around our state. This past session we educated in excess of one
thousand students in the Southwest Florida area and I, for one, am certain that
we are reaching these young drivers
It is my intention to bring our program to young drivers and older ones all over
our state at venues in every county. Florida has grown tremendously in
motorcycle rider ship in the past six to seven years, swelling from approximately
forty thousand, seven years ago, to currently in excess of a million. These figures
include the estimated thirty to forty percent of riders out there that are not
licensed or improperly endorsed.
There are many issues facing us as riders, and one of the biggest issues is that
we are being slaughtered out there; statistics show that approx eighty five
percent of motorcycle fatalities are not the fault of the person operating the cycle,
but rather a person operating a motor vehicle and failing to yield right of way.
I am a very strong supporter of safety on our highways and saving lives is my
ultimate goal, if you can spare the time and are genuinely interested in learning
more please feel free to contact me, I would be more than happy to meet with
you and discuss this further at your earliest convenience.
Respectfully submitted,
Frank M Kennedy Sr.
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SOLO TRAVEL TIPS
by GLIDECHIC
Riding alone, I love it. I like riding with friends and small groups but it can be a hassle, different
personalities, riding styles etc. Some folks like to rush between stops, or take too long. A simple 2 hour
ride can turn into 4 hrs with strategy sessions rivaling Patton in WWII. Or they're rushing so fast, you
don't have time to savor and enjoy the ride.
Riding alone you can ride your own ride. Pace yourself in the way that suits you. Here are few of my tips
though. The following list are the basics I take with me whenever I take a trip, whether it's just a short
half-day/day, weekend or over several days.
Make sure you know where you going. Go over your route with a good map and make sure you keep it
with you.
Be sure that someone has a copy of your route and approximate arrival times.
Have designated check-in times.
Cell phone is a must. It is the most significant tool you can have.
But even if you're not mechanically inclined, keep some basic tools with you. I carry one of those multi-
headed screwdrivers. A couple of different size wrenches and Allen wrenches. Flashlight and fresh
batteries, road flares and pocket knife. I figure, well hell, if I don't know what to do with them, someone
who might stop to help will and I will at least have the tools they need.
Small first aid kit.
Bottle of water, fruit bars or trail mix.
Extra change of clothes, sweater, t-shirt, socks and rain gear.
Last and strictly optional depending on your comfort zone, conscience and training, I also travel with a
gun, 9mm Glock. I'm a daughter of a veteran Marine and a Texas born and bred mom. My pops started
taking us to the gun range by the time I was about 10. He wanted make sure his little girls knew how to
take care of themselves when he wasn't around.
I'm pretty comfortable riding at night but I try to limit it. It helps cut down opportunities for unexpected
encounters with Bambi's, other wild critters and drunk drivers. I plan most of my trips to leave early in the
morning to give myself plenty of daylight driving time.
This is about it. I'll post another time some of my solo travel adventures. I would also like to hear from
other riders who ride solo frequently and what they do.
EDITOR NOTE:
Some other tips that have been passed along in the forums:
Carry a calling card with you
Carry some quarters for a pay phone
Always advise someone of your trip plans and arrange a regular check-in schedule.
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ABATE of Florida, Inc.
02/07/09 – General Legislative Update – All Members
First – get geared up… The 2009 regular legislative session is nearing and all members and
Chapters need to make certain that communication channels are open and ready. This means
that local phone trees, voice shot programs, and email systems are ready to go.
Be sure and promote signing up on the Legislative Information Center email program. It’s
painless and should help greatly in providing quick actions by all. The direct link to the sign up
page: http://www.floridaabate.com/subscribe.htm It’s great that I can start this on a good note –
Stiffer Penalties Bill SB968 (http://tinyurl.com/c4omg6 ) – now filed by Senator Rudy Garcia.
The bill allows for fines, incarceration, and license suspension for those causing injury or death
to a motorcyclist. Read the present (2/7/09) text here: http://tinyurl.com/b77j35 A letter thanking
Senator Garcia for his support and his filing of this bill can be found at:
There been much discussion and scares thrown around the Internet concerning the CS/SB40a
appropriations bill that was ultimately signed by the Governor on January 27
th
. It’s not nearly as
bad as some would have you believe. In fact, we came out of the battle in pretty good shape. It
was inevitable that the funds from motorcycle registrations would have to be expropriated.
They were originally used for the creation and support of the MSF Motorcycle Training Program.
Since this program is no longer financially supported by Tallahassee, the funds would have to
be reassigned, dissolved, or absorbed elsewhere in the State Budget.
Personally, I think we lucked out, but only because our Lobbyist stayed on top of the process. In
fact, he and I had twenty-two conversations during this negotiating period in an effort to keep the
fund intact and available for future programs. When it was all over, the funds are still collected,
placed in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund, and still made available for Driver
Improvement and Safety Awareness Campaigns.
The Doom-Sayers out there are concentrating on the word placed on line 121 of the bill text
(
http://www.floridaabate.com/Library/Library/CS-SB40a.pdf) – which now uses the word “may”
instead of exclusive. While I also do not like the change, it does still provide the flexibility of
negotiating funding for programs that are important to Motorcycle Safety. We’ve always had to
fight for the proper use of funds, so what is new here? It is also important to realize that since
the MSF program is no longer funded, more is now available for future Safety and Awareness
programs.
How about CS/SB12a – another appropriations bill now in effect that some claimed to “target”
motorcyclist… This bill increased the fines levied for traffic violations with the intent to provide
additional funding to the court system. I find no targeting of motorcyclist in this bill. It does mean
that if you are cited for a traffic violation, you will probably pay more. This bill increased many
different areas for all vehicles.
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The most controversial part of the increase is because of one of our most controversial laws –
the violation for having a vertical tag on a motorcycle – the results of HB137/SB802 from last
year. The increased fines were applied to FS318 sections that involve this law. I can only tell
you to change your tag if you’re concerned out this. Keep in mind that even if the “new tag law”
is amended, and the horizontal wording removed, it will still be illegal to have a vertical tag in
Florida – the fines substantially less though. (see FS 316.605)
As for the “tag law”… rumor has floated around that this was already “repealed –
revoked – amended – grandfathered”…
THIS INFORMATION IS NOT TRUE
!
The legislative session has not even begun… please do not spread these rumors.
On the National side… Congressional House Bill 6908 has expired. This bill was titled “Health
Insurance Restrictions and Limitations Clarification Act of 2008” and was geared to force
insurance companies to disclose any coverage limitations in advance of insurance purchase. My
discussion with Jeff Hennie with MRF has indicated that the HIPPA Correction Act, now two
years old, will be reintroduced.
In closing… I ask you to keep me informed of any rumors out there, and do not spread them
without some verification. It really is amazing the information I receive and the assumptions that
people make. I spend as much time in knocking down bad information as I do obtaining the
good stuff.
Do not hesitate to send me information or questions. I will do all I can to respond to those that
are supporting our agenda and helping to maintain accurate information.
Visit the LIC Site and review additional files listed in “Legislative News” (big yellow box – can’t
miss it), or scan the “Library” – you’ll probably learn stuff… try:
http://www.floridaabate.com/Video/GovernmentLesson.html … for example.
See You at Bike Week…
Mike “Radar” Price
State Legislative Director
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
352-359-3005
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Hello Brothers and Sisters
that the weather is nice for riding please be
safe, and watch out for all the northerners
that are here.
We had are first meeting for the Five Star Event.
We are going to have our Bike Show on the 18th
of March, so come and
show your support, and let’s have a good time.
At the end of this month and first week of March is “Daytona Bike Week”,
then the end of April is “Leesburg Bike Fest”, so most of the board will be
in Leesburg, so the MEETING will be CHANGED to the THIRD SUNDAY
OF APRIL. If anyone would like a ride to
Leesburg, Peggy and I are
going up on Friday morning.
TILL NEXT TIME RIDE SAFE
Now
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MSF to Manage PA Motorcycle Safety
Courtesy of Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Thursday, January 29, 2009
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has been awarded a
new four-year contract by the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania to continue to administer the state's
motorcycle safety program through 2012.
"The MSF is extremely proud to have the opportunity to continue to serve the motorcyclists of
Pennsylvania under the guidance of Penn DOT," said Robert Gladden, director of program
administration for MSF. "Our focus has been on continual improvement of the Pennsylvania
Motorcycle Safety Program, and that will remain our overriding goal over the next four years."
Established in 1984, the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program has been managed under
contract with the MSF since 1999. Over the course of the contract period, the PA Motorcycle
Safety Program has seen a reduction in costs to the state while increasing training availability.
There were 28,996 riders trained using MSF's Basic Racecourses curriculum in 2008.
For more than 35 years, MSF has been the nation's preeminent motorcycle safety organization,
with a growing international presence. More than 400,000 riders nationwide take training each
year using Motorcycle Safety Foundation curriculum, which is available in all 50 states, and
used by the Armed Services to train military personnel worldwide. Including the Pennsylvania
program, MSF currently manages four state motorcycle safety programs that deliver training to
more than 100,000 students annually - nearly a quarter of all riders trained in the United States.
"We look forward to another four years working with Penn DOT," Gladden said. "But most of all
look forward to continuing to serve the community of current and prospective motorcyclists of
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania."
The Pennsylvania program currently employs 12 full-time and more than 500 part-time staff,
including MSF-certified Rider Coaches, in the state.
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Tidings Fellow Members, Friends, and Bikers,
we are and another quarter of the calendar has
passed. They say time goes by fast when you’re
having fun. That is what it is all about, having fun, that
is why the people that make this chapter tick have to be recognized as not
only dutiful members but pillars of this chapter.
I would like to say something that I feel is very important to mention.
I like the dutiful
handful of members, put time in at what I like or choose to do. We do the best we can
and hope it is appreciated not only by the board but by the entire membership, after all if
there is no gratitude for the attempt then why continue. Then you have certain members
who, at every chance it seems, take advantage, and to top it off slight the member who
is making an effort to satisfy. This practice if left uncorrected is like a cancer, and
eventually will destroy the ongoing efforts of those who are participating. I for one will
not tolerate it anymore, if said member has something to comment on, and does not
have the decency to approach me in a civil manner to discuss it, I have no use to even
acknowledge that member.
Ralph Waldo Emerson quotes, “There can be no high
civility without a deep morality”
I make the effort with the hope that satisfaction is
derived not only by me but by all who enjoy this publication, and I will continue to
produce to the best of my abilities with the hope my efforts are appreciated.
Lets all continue to enjoy what this chapter has to offer by pulling together and doing
what we can to make it the continuing success that it has been. I hope to see some new
faces at the various events that are taking place in the coming months, remembering
participation is what it is all about.
Until the next time, ride safe and proud.
Rob Assenzio
Editor
Here
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Date: February 25, 2009
Location: Victory Lane Café
Called to order @ 10:02am
20 members
3 guests
Pledge Allegiance and moment of silence for lost brothers and sisters.
President: Frankie Kennedy
1.
Frankie talked about the vertical tags law & the HIPPA bill. Please read Masterlink for
details.
2.
July 25, 2009 is the date for the Five Star Event-more details to follow.
3.
Unanimous vote was “no” to States request to increase the Life membership to
$350.00 from $150.00.
4.
State meeting was discussed again see your Masterlink for details.
5.
Guest from Caloosahatchee Chapter Larry and Marion talked about a upcoming
event. See the flyer in the newsletter on the Florida Everblades motorcycle expo.
6.
“March Madness Bike Show” is set for March 18th, 2009, at Victory Lane Café.
Vice-President: Bob Litterello absent-excused
Secretary: Teresa Webster
Motion to accept the minutes from last month was approved. 1st – Rob C. and 2nd John
S. 2nd.
Treasurer: John Spinella
1.
Motion to accept the treasury report subject to audit 1st – Rob R. and 2nd by Big Bird.
2.
Chili cook-off was a success.
3.
Membership: Trudy Rabell
4.
3 new members and 3 renewal for this month.
Products: OPEN (Frankie)
Come and check out OUR table at OUR bike night at Victory Lane Café.
Legislative- PR Communications: Teddy Bear
See the newsletter for Kenny’s report.
Newsletter Editors: Rob and Lyn Assenzio
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Advertising: OPEN
1.
This position has been reopened due to lack of interest.
2.
We have a new advertiser thanks to Cruz and Lois. Check the newsletter for the
aPizza Grill ad!! Show your ABATE card and receive a discount!!
Safety: Ron Berg
Ron was awarded with a certificate for outstanding performance in his Safety director
position. Thanks to Ron’s hard work Southwest Chapter has reached 1,000 students
with the MSAP program.
Website: Taylor Musburger
Taylor is doing a great job on the website please check it out and let him know!
Chapter Chaplin: Tom Provenzano (absent excused)
Pastor Tom and Kathy are setting up for the Church crash for today.
Old, New Business and Good of the Order
1.
Audrey Cran was given a certificate for selling the most bike tickets.
2.
We are supporting a poker run for Danielle’s family that their house burned down
losing all of there belongings. That is this Sunday March 1, 2009. Cruz and Lois are
going to run the stop at aPizza Grill and Vic and Todd are going to man the stops at
Victory Lane Café.
3.
Leaving in 10 mins to attend a funeral for a Baily Scholz – Gator Alley member.
Motion to adjourn @ 11:01- Motion by Trudy and 2nd Rob A.
Respectfully submitted by Teresa Webster-Malibu Barbie
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You are invited to join us for the
Escort of the Moving Tribute
On Thursday, March 12th.
The Bonita Springs Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4254 takes pride in hosting The Moving
Tribute, to allow Veterans and citizens of Southwest Florida to honor those ‘Who Gave All’
during the on-going War on Global Terrorism.
The panels that make up the Tribute list the names of our fallen troops of Desert Storm, Desert
Shield, Beirut, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Several panels also honor responders and civilian
casualties of 9/11. See their web site for photos and more information:
The display will be presented for public viewing on March 13th and 14th at the Post Home from
9:00 am to 9:00 pm. The Post is located at 10972 K-Nine Drive in Bonita Springs. K-Nine Drive
is off Race Track Road, which provides access to the Naples/Fort Myers Dog Track from Bonita
Beach Road. There will be no charge for viewing the Tribute on either day, but donations to the
Tribute will be appreciated.
On March 14th, the Post will also host the Veterans of Foreign Wars Florida District 13 Annual
Picnic. Food and beverages will be sold, music will be provided, and a Horse Shoe Tournament
will be held.
CONTACT:
DON & SHERI THOMPSON
10670 WOOD IBIS AVE, BONITA SPRINGS
Home: 239-947-0102
Cell: 239-405-1389 or 239-405-1388
Driving south on Route 41, you would turn LEFT onto Old 41 Road. The RIGHT at the first
traffic signal onto Bernwood Parkway then LEFT again onto Bernwood Drive. Travel to the end
of this road, past the Charter School. You will be traveling parallel to Old Road 41. The
Marshalling Area would be at the end of Bernwood Road, before it exits back onto Old Road
41. There should be plenty of room for everyone to line up, and this is where the Sheriffs will be
meeting us for an escort through the City and on to the VFW. The Sheriffs plan to be there
between 4 and 5 pm. The Link below will take you to a map of the staging area from Route 41
in Bonita Springs.
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MARCH
ERNIE MAROON
DOUG ROSSI
APRIL
RAYMOND CODERO
JIM DOLAN
BARBARA HOLLOPETER
LARRY HOLLOPETER
ROBET POHLE
FRANK STORY
MAY
ROB ASSENZIO
JIM HOGUE
CINDY JORDAN
MARY PLAYER
THOMAS PLAYER
ROBB RABELL
TRUDY RABELL
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On Tue, 1/13/09, Abate President whitesandspres@hotmail.com
wrote:
From: Abate President <whitesandspres@hotmail.com>
Subject: Consider where the money comes from and why it is earmarked-before you vote.
To: "Jimmy Patronis Rep" <jimmy.patronis@myfloridahouse.gov>
Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2009, 9:54 PM
Representative Patronis,
After a review of the information coming from the Special Session it appears that monies
earmarked for motorcycle safety and education will be accessed by the Florida Department of
Highway Safety for reasons other than highway safety.
Last year when we contacted you and requested that you reconsider your vote for HB137 you
indicated this was in the best interest of the motorcyclist due to the number of deaths occurring
on the roadways.
Now you want to take the very funds that come from "OUR" motorcycle endorsements and divert
them to uses other than what the statutes dictate. These funds are specifically earmarked for
safety as per the Florida Statute:
322.21 License fees; procedure for handling and collecting fees.--
(1) Except as otherwise provided herein, the fee for:
(c) The renewal or extension of a Class E driver's license or of a license restricted to motorcycle
use only is $20, except that a delinquent fee of $1 shall be added for a renewal or extension
made not more than 12 months after the license expiration date. The fee provided in this
paragraph shall include the fee for driver's education provided by s. 1003.48.
(d) An original driver's license restricted to motorcycle use only is $27, which shall include the fee
for driver's education provided by s. 1003.48.
1003.48 Instruction in operation of motor vehicles.--
(1) A course of study and instruction in the safe and lawful operation of a motor vehicle shall be
made available by each district school board to students in the secondary schools in the state. As
used in this section, the term "motor vehicle" shall have the same meaning as in s. 320.01(1)(a)
and shall include motorcycles and mopeds. Instruction in motorcycle or moped operation may be
limited to classroom instruction. The course shall not be made a part of, or a substitute for, any of
the minimum requirements for graduation.
Today’s economic times have more motorcyclists on the road than in the past. Even with gas
prices dropping we are trying to pinch every penny to make ends meet and one way is saving on
fuel costs.
If you look at the number of endorsed motorcyclists in the State of Florida and the number of
riding days that we have compared to the miles driven you will see that this money needs to be
spent in saving the lives of those who choose to ride on 2 wheels compared to 4.
Please take the time to be informed bout the vote you make before taking money away from
motorcycle safety and education. Refer to the following site:
http://www.flhsmv.gov/hsmvdocs/CS2007.pdf "Motorcyclist and passenger fatalities remained
the same at 550 for 2007 as they were in 2006." And as the numbers reflect, there was a large
increase in rider ship between the years.
The number remained the same because of motorcycle education and awareness. Just recently
the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles began their statewide billboard and poster
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campaign for motorcycle awareness. Please continue this trend, do not turn your back on the
motorcyclists of this state. One life is worth all of the money spent!
Please review the statistics on Right of Way violations by cars and trucks against motorcyclists. If
one life is spared or if no-one has to loose a limb because a driver said "I didn't see the
motorcyclist” then the money is well spent in educating the public as to the awareness of
motorcyclists. http://www.flhsmv.gov/hsmvdocs/CS2007.pdf
Here are the motorcycle monetary contributions taken from
STATEWIDE REVENUES BY FEE TYPE
JULY 2007 thru JUNE 2008
DESCRIPTION County Retained State Revenue TOTAL
MOTORCYCLE
ENDORSEMENT 0.00 1,031,705.00 1,031,705.00
Motorcycle Specialty
Plate 0.00 3 69,070.00 3 69,070.00
Motorcycle Safety
Education 0 00 1, 669,207.50 1,669,207.50
STATEWIDE BASE TAX BY VEHICLE TYPE
JULY 2007 THROUGH JUNE 2008
TRANSACTIONS REVENUE
MOTORCYCLE 625,566
MOPED 6,356
33,840.33
ANTIQUE MOTORCYCLE 22,402
228,849.95
GROUP TOTAL
654,324 $6,331,524.18
Please use OUR MONEY for the greater good of the contributors....the Motorcyclists.
Diana L. Woods
Proud to be a motorcyclist fighting for my rights!
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LEGISLATIVE REPORT March 2009
Good Morning Freedom Fighters
:
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
02/07/09 – General Legislative Update – All Members
First – get geared up… The 2009 regular legislative session is nearing and all members
and Chapters need to make certain that communication channels are open and ready.
This means that local phone trees, voice shot programs, and email systems are ready to
go. Be sure and promote signing up on the Legislative Information Center email
program. It’s painless and should help greatly in providing quick actions by all. The direct
link to the sign up page: http://www.floridaabate.com/subscribe.htm
It’s great that I can start this on a good note – Stiffer Penalties Bill SB968
(http://tinyurl.com/c4omg6) – Now filed by Senator Rudy Garcia. The bill allows for fines,
incarceration, and license suspension for those causing injury or death to a motorcyclist.
Read the present (2/7/09) text here: http://tinyurl.com/b77j35 A letter thanking Senator
Garcia for his support and his filing of this bill can be found at:
There been much discussion and scares thrown around the Internet concerning the
CS/SB40a appropriations bill that was ultimately signed by the Governor on
January 27th. It’s not nearly as bad as some would have you believe. In fact, we came
out of the battle in pretty good shape. It was inevitable that the funds from motorcycle
registrations would have to be re-appropriated. They were originally used for the creation
and support of the MSF Motorcycle Training Program. Since this program is no longer
financially supported by Tallahassee, the funds would have to be reassigned, dissolved,
or absorbed elsewhere in the State Budget. Personally, I think we lucked out, but only
because our Lobbyist stayed on top of the process. In fact, he and I had twenty-two
conversations during this negotiating period in an effort to keep the fund intact and
available for future programs. When it was all over, the funds are still collected, placed in
the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund, and still made available for Driver
Improvement and Safety Awareness Campaigns.
The Doom-Sayers out there are concentrating on the word placed on line 121 of the bill
text (http://www.floridaabate.com/Library/Library/CS-SB40a.pdf ) – which now uses the
word “May” instead of exclusive. While I also do not like the change, it does still provide
the flexibility of negotiating funding for programs that are important to Motorcycle Safety.
We’ve always had to fight for the proper use of funds, so what is new here? It is also
important to realize that since the MSF program is no longer funded, more is now
available for future Safety and Awareness programs.
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How about CS/SB12a – another appropriations bill now in effect that some claimed to
“target” motorcyclist… This bill increased the fines levied for traffic violations with the
intent to provide additional funding to the court system. I find no targeting of motorcyclist
in this bill. It does mean that if you are cited for a traffic violation, you will probably pay
more. This bill increased many different areas for all vehicles.
The most controversial part of the increase is because of one of our most controversial
laws – the violation for having a vertical tag on a motorcycle – the results of
HB137/SB802 from last year. The increased fines were applied to FS318 sections that
involve this law. I can only tell you to change your tag if you’re concerned out this. Keep
in mind that even if the “new tag law” is amended, and the horizontal wording removed, it
will still be illegal to have a vertical tag in Florida – the fines substantially less though.
(see FS 316.605)
As for the “tag law”… rumor has floated around that this was already “repealed –
revoked – amended – grandfathered”…
THIS INFORMATION IS NOT TRUE!
The legislative session has not even begun…
please do not spread these rumors.
On the National side… Congressional House Bill 6908 has expired. This bill was titled
“Health Insurance Restrictions and Limitations Clarification Act of 2008” and was geared
to force insurance companies to disclose any coverage limitations in advance of
insurance purchase. My discussion with Jeff Hennie with MRF, has indicated that the
HIPPA Correction Act, now two years old, will be reintroduced.
In closing… I ask you to keep me informed of any rumors out there, and do not spread
them without some verification. It really is amazing the information I receive and the
assumptions that people make. I spend as much time in knocking down bad information
as I do obtaining the good stuff.
Do not hesitate to send me information or questions. I will do all I can to respond to
those that are supporting our agenda and helping to maintain accurate information.
Visit the LIC Site and review additional files listed in “Legislative News” (big yellow box –
can’t miss it), or scan the “Library” – you’ll probably learn stuff… try:
http://www.floridaabate.com/Video/GovernmentLesson.html … for example.
See You at Bike Week…
Mike “Radar” Price
MRF E-MAIL NEWS Motorcycle Riders Foundation
Washington, DC 20002-4980
www.mrf.org (website)
Contact: Jeff Hennie, Vice President of Government Affairs, MRF
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Stimulus Bill Passes House and Senate
Friday the 13th is traditionally a day known for fright and bad luck.
However, Friday, February 13th 2009 could be a departure from that point of view,
especially if you are in the market for a new motorcycle.
Congress passed a massive spending bill (HR-1) the largest ever passed by any US
Congress February 13, 2009. The bill is supposed to revive an ailing economy and put
out of work Americans back into a job.
There is one tucked away provision that should appeal to motorcyclists, a tax break for
purchase of a new –not used- motorcycle.
Here is the breakdown:
* From now until the end of 2009 any one will be able to deduct all state and local taxes
from the purchase of a new motorcycle so long as the purchaser makes less than
$125,000 a year as a single tax filer or $250,000 for those filing jointly.
* The deduction applies to new motorcycles with a purchase price of up to $49,500 and
a gross vehicle curb weight of less than 8,500 lbs.
* This is what is known as an "above the line deduction" which means all taxpayers are
eligible whether the purchaser itemizes other deductions or not.
This deduction also applies to passenger cars, light trucks and recreational vehicles so
long as they meet the same qualifiers.
So what are you waiting for? Go do your part to jump start the economy and buy a new
bike.
The bill has passed the US Congress and now heads to the President for his signature
before becoming law. The MRF is not taking an official position on HR1.
Gas Went Up; Deaths Went Down
With fewer people on the roads, 30 percent fewer people died in 2008.
The number of fatal crashes on Lee County roads dropped more than 30 percent in
2008, and officials say high gas prices played a role in that decrease.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, 70 people were killed in Lee in 2008, down
from 106 in 2007. The number of motorists on Lee County roads was about 8 percent
lower in 2008, according to Lee County's Metropolitan Planning Organization.
That decrease can be attributed to the jump in gas prices, said Sgt. David Petracca of
the Lee County Sheriff's Office traffic unit. Prices at the pump spiked up to $4 a gallon
during the summer and stayed about level for some time before going down toward the
end of 2008.
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"When they were up at $3.50 and $4 a gallon, people definitely were driving less," said
David Pojero, AAA division manager.
Even now that gas prices have sunk under $2 per gallon for regular unleaded, drivers
are still hesitant to spend more time on the roads, according to Pojero.
"I think the fear is still lingering a bit," he said.
Gas prices also have prevented drivers from speeding and driving erratically because
they know that wastes fuel, Petracca said.
"They're a little more cautious," he said.
Petracca also attributed the lower number of fatal crashes to the increase in traffic
enforcement. The sheriff's office wrote 70,436 traffic citations in 2007, and expects the
total number written in 2008 to be more. That number will not be available until later this
month.
The traffic unit beefed up patrols in 2008, Petracca said, targeting more areas residents
complained about for traffic issues.
Drivers will be more inclined to obey traffic laws if they know a deputy could be at the
next corner, waiting to nab them for driving too closely to another vehicle or changing
lanes without signaling, Petracca said.
"You're seeing less of the aggressive-type driving," he said, citing personal experience.
At least 17 percent of the reported fatalities were in crashes involving motorcycles,
although final numbers have not been calculated by the Florida Highway Patrol. The last
four fatal crashes investigated by the sheriff's office involved motorcycles.
Petracca said crashes involving motorcycles tend to increase as more people come to
Lee County for the winter months. Even if people are staying off the roads, more people
still mean more traffic, which can lead to drivers becoming more distracted and not
keeping an eye out for motorcycles on the roads.
"Anytime you put more traffic on the roads you're obviously going to see more crashes,"
he said.
The dangers of the road are a reality at Harley-Davidson of Fort Myers, where
motorcycle safety is emphasized in classes taught at the showroom on Colonial
Boulevard.
Instructors tell students the importance of wearing the right gear, including helmets,
boots and long sleeves, said Karla Newjahr, a rental agent at the showroom.
Newjahr said it is vital motorcyclists remember safety when riding.
"You're less visible and more vulnerable to anything," Newjahr said.
One of those motorcyclists who lost his life on a Lee County road was Shawn Temple,
an 18-year-old Alva resident who was killed Dec. 21 when the motorcycle he was riding
struck a sedan on the southbound on ramp of Interstate 75 at State Road 80.
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Temple, 18, a Riverdale High School senior, was wearing a helmet, as was his friend
Elizabeth Selenke, 16, of Fort Myers, who was taken to Lee Memorial Hospital in a
coma.
"I can't imagine what either of them could have thought at the time that happened," said
Tina Boone, Selenke's aunt.
On Thursday, Selenke was taken to the Florida Institute for Neurologic Rehabilitation in
Wachula, and is showing improvement, Boone said.
"Already her eyes are open, she blinks once for 'no' and two for 'yes'," Boone said.
Lee County Fatal Crashes
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, fatal crashes in Lee County have decreased
more than 50 percent since 2005.
In 2003, there were 121 fatal crashes. In 2005, there were 150. In 2008, there were 70
fatal crashes in Lee County.
See you in the wind,
“TEDDYBRAR”
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Motorcycle Law Changes
You need to know.
you are well aware Splittin' the Breeze prides itself on trying
to keep you up to date with what’s going on in our local
community. Some of you may or may not be aware that
back in October of 2008, Florida revised statute 316.2085 in regards
to some laws that pertain to motorcycles and mopeds. They did this
through the authority of House Bill 137 and some very laws and fines
have been put in place that you, as a rider or visitor to Florida, need
to be aware of.
Specifically of importance to most of you that visit this site will be subsection 2
and 3 in regards to proper riding of a motorcycle or moped and proper display of
a tag. Until recently, the Collier County Sheriffs department, as well as some of
the other law enforcement agencies, have not strictly enforced the change to the
statute unless they witnessed a act of carelessness or reckless endangerment,
or were unable to read the tag on your motorcycle or moped when in a seated
position in their patrol car behind you. For the majority of you these changes
may not effect you, but for others, such as people with custom bikes, you need to
read this article very carefully. Many of the custom bikes come with the license
plate placed in a vertical position from the factory. During the last 4 months riders
have argued that they should not receive a ticket when the motorcycle came from
the factory with the license plate frame in a vertical position, many to no avail.
Depending on the officer, some have been cut some slack, some given warnings,
and others have been cited. In essence, it was up to the individual officer you
were dealing with and the attitude you took with him as to which of these 3
options would happen to you. Well, in a memo released by the Collier County
Sheriffs Departments Community Traffic Safety Team on Friday, January 30th,
you will see that effective February 1st, 2009 they will begin to start enforcing the
statute much more aggressively. Below you will find a copy of the memo from
them, the actual copy of the revision of the statute, along with the effective date
that it was signed and placed into law.
There was an challenge issued to the Florida Attorney General asking for a
clarification of the statute, and you may see his response by clicking here Florida
Attorney Generals response to House Bill 137. At this point, my interpretation to
this matter is that regardless of whether the bike came from the factory or not,
the vertical display of a tag is now illegal and a enforceable offense. ABATE of
Florida is working hard to bring this matter back to the floor, as well as some of
the other verbiage in the revised House Bill. The problem that we face is that
until this law is changed, the Collier County Sheriffs Department has taken the
As
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stance that they will begin enforcing this statute effective Sunday, February 1st
2009 as well as issuing the fines as provided for in this revision to the statute.
I urge each of you to read the following and help spread the word to anyone that
you see to whom this new position by the C.C.S.O. may effect. Although I have
not talked with anyone from law enforcement departments in our surrounding
areas as to whether they also will be now enforcing this statute more strictly, I
highly urge you not to ignore this issue. My best advice to you is to contact
whomever you take your bike to for service, parts and accessories be it Harley
Davidson, Everglades Motorcycles on any of the other competent shops in town
and work with them to get a "Legal" frame to display your tag.
316.2085 Riding on motorcycles or mopeds.--
(1) A person operating a motorcycle or moped shall ride only upon the
permanent and regular seat attached thereto, and such operator shall not carry
any other person, nor shall any other person ride on a motorcycle or moped,
unless such motorcycle or moped is designed to carry more than one person, in
which event a passenger may ride upon the permanent and regular seat if
designed for two persons or upon another seat firmly attached to the motorcycle
or moped at the rear or side of the operator.
(2) A person shall ride upon a motorcycle or moped only while sitting astride the
seat, with both wheels on the ground at all times, facing forward, and with one
leg on each side of the motorcycle or moped. However, it is not a violation of this
subsection if the wheels of a motorcycle or moped lose contact with the ground
briefly due to the condition of the road surface or other circumstances beyond the
control of the operator.
(3) The license tag of a motorcycle or moped must be permanently affixed
horizontally to the ground and may not be adjusted or capable of being flipped
up.
(4) No person shall operate a motorcycle or moped while carrying any package,
bundle, or other article which prevents the person from keeping both hands on
the handlebars.
(5) No operator shall carry any person, nor shall any person ride, in a position
that will interfere with the operation or control of the motorcycle or moped or the
view of the operator.
(6) A person under 16 years of age may not:
(a) Operate a motorcycle that has a motor with more than 150 cubic
centimeters displacement.
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(b) Rent a motorcycle or a moped.
(7) A violation of this section is a no criminal traffic infraction, punishable as a
moving violation as provided in chapter 318.
History.--s. 1, ch. 71-135; s. 1, ch. 76-31; s. 9, ch. 87-161; s. 320, ch. 95-148; s.
7, ch. 96-414; s. 164, ch. 99-248; s. 2, ch. 2008-117.
Note.--Former s. 316.108.
Effective Sunday, February 1, 2009, the fines for violations of sub-sections (2)
and (3) will be as follows;
1st offense:
$1,148.00
2nd or subsequent offense: $2,648.00
Sgt. Thomas Humann
Collier County Sheriff’s Office
Office: (239) 530-9770
Fax: (239) 530-9729
FLORIDA STATUTE INFORMATION
CHAPTER 2008-117
Council Substitute for House Bill No. 137
An act relating to operating a motor vehicle; creating s. 316.1926, F.S.; creating
additional offenses regarding motor vehicle operation;
amending s. 316.2085,
F.S.; requiring an operator of a motorcycle or moped to maintain both wheels on
the ground at all times; requiring that the license tag of a motorcycle or moped be
affixed horizontally; amending s. 318.14, F.S.; providing additional penalties for
certain
offenses; providing for a specified fine and revocation of the person’s
privilege to operate a motor vehicle; providing an effective date.
Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
Section 1. Section 316.1926, Florida Statutes, is created to read:
316.1926 Additional offenses.—
(1) A person who violates the provisions of s. 316.2085 (2) or (3) shall be
cited for a moving violation, punishable as provided in chapter 318.
(2) A person who exceeds the speed limit in excess of 50 miles per hour
or more in violation of s. 316.183(2), s. 316.187, or s. 316.189 shall be
cited for a moving violation, punishable as provided in chapter 318.
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Section 2. Subsection (2) of section 316.2085, Florida Statutes, is
amended,
subsections (3) through (6) of that section are renumbered as
subsections (4)
through (7), respectively, and a new subsection (3) is added to that section, to
read: 316.2085 Riding on motorcycles or mopeds.—
(2) A person shall ride upon a motorcycle or moped only while sitting astride the
seat, with both wheels on the ground at all times, facing forward, and with one
leg on each side of the motorcycle or moped. However, it is not a violation of this
subsection if the wheels of a motorcycle or moped lose contact with the ground
briefly due to the condition of the road surface or other circumstances beyond the
control of the operator.
(3) The license tag of a motorcycle or moped must be permanently affixed
horizontally to the ground and may not be adjusted or capable of being flipped
up.
Section 3. Subsection (13) is added to section 318.14, Florida Statutes, to read:
318.14 Noncriminal traffic infractions; exception; procedures.— (13)(a) A person
cited for a violation of s. 316.1926 shall, in addition to
any other requirements
provided in this section, pay a fine of $1,000. This
fine is in lieu of the fine
required under s. 318.18(3)(b), if the person was
cited for violation of s.
316.1926(2).
(b) A person cited for a second violation of s. 316.1926 shall, in addition to any
other requirements provided in this section, pay a fine of $2,500. This fine is in
lieu of the fine required under s. 318.18(3)(b), if the person was cited for violation
of s. 316.1926(2). In addition, the court shall revoke the
person’s authorization
and privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period
of 1 year and order the
person to surrender his or her driver’s license.
(c) A person cited for a third violation of s. 316.1926 commits a felony of the third
degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s.
775.084. Upon conviction, the court shall impose a fine of $5,000, revoke the
person’s authorization and privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of 10
years, and order the person to surrender his or her driver’s license.
Section 4. This act shall take effect October 1, 2008.
Approved by the Governor June 10, 2008.
Filed in Office Secretary of State June 10, 2008.
Ch. 2008-117 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch. 2008-117
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March 2009
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
Bike Week
Continues
2
3
4
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
NITE @
VICTORY
LANE
5
6
7
Daytona
Bike Week
wraps up
Rats Hole
Custom
Chopper
Bike Show
8
9
10
11
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
NITE @
VICTORY
LANE
12
13
14
Fort Myers
Downtown
Bike Night
15
Act 2009
Annual
Poker Run
16
17
St.
Patrick’s
Day
18
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
“March
Madness”
VICTORY
LANE
19
20
21
Free Lunch
Everglades
Motorcycles
Darla
Lathrem
Fallen
Heroes Event
22
SouthWest
Chapter
Meeting
Rolling
Thunder
Chapter 2
Chained
Eagle Run
23
24
25
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
SHOW @
VICTORY
LANE
26
27
Estero
River
ABATE
Legendary
Party
28
Bikers vs.
Brainers
Final
Round
29
Bad to the
Bone Bike
Fest
30
31
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April 2009
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
NITE @
VICTORY
LANE
2
3
4
Billybob's
Annual
Lap
Dance
Run
5
Chrome
Divas Ft.
Myers
Hooters
and
Scooters
Run
6
7
8
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
NITE @
VICTORY
LANE
9
10
11
6th Annual
Easter
Bunny Toy
Run
Cape Coral
Bike Night
12
Easter
Sunday
13
14
15
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
NITE @
VICTORY
LANE
16
17
SFMC
Spaghetti
Dinner
18
Special
Forces MC
Ride and
Fund Raiser
SFMC Ride
and Fund
Raiser
19
Gator Alley
ABATE
Casino Run
Pat Healey
Fallen
Heros
Poker Run
20
21
22
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
SHOW @
VICTORY
LANE
23
24
Emerald
Coast
Bikefest
and Drags
Leesburg
Bike Fest
25
Adopt a
Troop
Benefit
26
27
28
29
SOUTH
WEST
CHAPTER
BIKE
SHOW @
VICTORY
LANE
30
31
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Chapter Chaplain Tom
Bikers Enjoying
The Handiwork of God
In the last few years, we have done many bike blessings. Usually, during the prayer portion of
the blessings, we make mention of riding our motorcycles and enjoying the creation God allows
us to ride in. We are blessed with really great riding weather, almost 365 days of the year. If the
weather turns bad while we are riding, we can ride through until we get to the good “stuff” on the
other side. How many of us have ridden at night and marvel at the stars and the “heavens?”
If you really take the time to enjoy God’s creation on a motorcycle (it sure beats riding in the
cage), then take time to read the scriptures, which were written thousands of years ago by David.
David must have had some prophetic knowledge that bikers would sometime in the future, appear
on the earth! Ha, Ha!
Now, just imagine David having been transported to our time and riding on his motorcycle as he
is calling out...
In the Contemporary English Version of the Bible (1995) from the American Bible Society, it
reads, “¹
The heavens keep telling the wonders of God, and the skies declare what He has
done. ²
Each day informs the following day; each night announces to the next. ³
They don't
speak a word, and there is never the sound of a voice.
4
Yet their message reaches all the
earth, and it travels around the world. In the heavens a tent is set up for the sun.
5
It rises
like a bridegroom and gets ready like a hero eager to run a race.
6
It travels all the way
across the sky. Nothing hides from its heat.”
If we take time to read the account of creation in Genesis, we will begin to understand the
handiwork of God as He takes nothing and forms something really beautiful, as well as functional.
In the same way God can take our empty lives and give them purpose. Many scientists see the
process of creation, being a form of organizing the chaos of all the elements. In the same way
God can take our lives, which many times seem like they are in chaos, and organize them into
something of what we never could have imagined, something as beautiful as the heavens. When
we ride our bikes and enjoy His creation, we accept it the way it is. In the same way, why can’t
we further accept His provision for us? By allowing Jesus Christ into your life, let Him finish the
creation He started in you!
Please pray this prayer: "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. I ask, in
the Name of Jesus. Amen."
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has
gone, the new has come!"
Blessings,
Tom (Estero River and Southwest ABATE Life Member and SW Chapter Chaplain) and Kathy
(SW ABATE Life Member) - Top of the Document – tprovenz@comcast.net - 239-267-8641
PS. The next Biker Bible Café is set for April 3rd, 7:45 PM in our home. Be there!
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ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
P.O. Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721
Voice & Fax: (386) 943-9610
January 31st, 2009
Senator Rudy Garcia
414 Senate Office Building
404 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
Dear Senator Garcia,
I wish to say “Thank You” on behalf of the entire Motorcycling Community, for your filing
of Senate Bill 968 on
January 26th, 2009.
Far too long, the motorcyclist of Florida, have suffered with petty fines and petty
sentencing for those that cause serious injury or death resulting from a vehicle crash.
ABATE of Florida, Inc. (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) looks forward to
working with you, the assigned Committees, and other Legislators, as this important
piece of Legislation moves forward.
If I can be of any service with information, statistics, or life experiences, which may help
with this bill, please feel free to contact me at any time. I will personally provide any
support needed as well as our State Board, Chapters and our statewide membership.
Again, thank you for your continued support of Motorcyclist in our Great State of Florida.
Sincerely,
Mike “Radar” Price
State Legislative Director
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
352-359-3005
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Two Big Locations!!!
Harley-Davidson of Fort Myers
2160 Colonial Blvd,
(1/4 mile EAST of US 41)
Fort Myers Florida
(239) 275-4647
Harley-Davidson of Naples
3645 Gateway Boulevard
(1/4 mile WEST of I-75)
Off Pine Ridge Road
Naples Florida
(239) 594-5504
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FOR SALE:
Side by side refrigerator 100.00
Call Frankie @ 849-9065
FOR SALE:
Two (2) Bedroom dresser w/3 large drawers plus decorative shelf; Dark walnut
laminate; approx. 30”W x 19”D x 44”H; Excellent shape; $125 each.
China Hutch / Buffet; lots of storage; lighted display w/glass shelves and etched
glass doors; medium oak laminate; good shape; $450
Electric Scooter; Not pretty but works well; Has 2 batteries for longer trip times;
One tire needs repair; $350
Regulation size pool table w/accessories; reconditioned bar table; slate top, felt
in good shape; needs cleaning; custom built rack for cues and chalk. $800 OBO;
NO muscle or transport available.
Antique Pedestal desk; Oak; 7 drawers (1 file size); in excellent shape. $400
(239) 772-5336 ask for Teddy Bear or Dragon Lady.
_________________________________________________________
FOR SALE:
Classic 1985 BMW 650, Black w/ 8,050 original miles, has been garage kept.
Only $3,750.00. Can see pictures on request. Brand new cover included.
Call Robert K. Cran (Big Bird) @ 239-997-2
FOR SALE:
Bow Flex, excellent condition. $350.00 Nordic-Trac Treadmill. $550.00
Call Lyn @ 239-728-7423.
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Membership Report: February 2009
Welcome New Members: We hope that you choose to get involved with this growing and fun
chapter…Joel Bachhuber, Scott R. Brown, Larry Crews
Thanks for your renewals: Ronald Cox, Marcia Penn and Pat Jablonski
Expired and/or Delinquent Members: If you know any of these folks please encourage them to
REJOIN or renew with SOUTHWEST CHAPTER!!!!
Brian Beuerman, Michael Baez, Melynda (M0) Buglio, Steve Casterman, Ronald Cox, Merle
Clark, Allan Lane, Michael Miller, Mike Stewart, Beverly White, Brad White and Robert Yoho,
Brenda Berg, Tom Greenfield, and Steve Morris
If you are not receiving your newsletter or Masterlink, PLEASE CONTACT me to make sure your
information is correct. If you have moved your newsletter will not be forwarded………
Your membership expires on the last day of your Anniversary month……..
Delinquent renewals must be received no later than the Chapter meeting of the month following
your anniversary date in order to maintain renewal status otherwise you will be enrolled as a new
member……………
Anyone who would like to recycle his or her first year pins in order to save the Chapter money
PLEASE turn your pins into Membership……..THANKS
Ride Safe and Free
Trudy Rabell, Membership Trustee
______SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS______
Darrell Barnett Randy Eck
Denee Bartels Brian Galvin
Scott Blink
Chet Butz
James Burkholder Bob Hall
Nora Burkholder
Don Campbell George Huttman
Frances Cazes Susan “Red” Huttman
Jonathan Conant
Terry Covington
Audrey Cran
Maggie Cran Ed LaCombe
Rick Cran Russell May Robert Simon
Rob Cran
Robert “Cruz” Crusan
Jim Crystal
Ginny D’Asti
Mary Dicenzo-Porter Jim Mozeleski
Al Diagiaco
Frank Disomma
Cindy Doak
Sonny Gartrell Kathleen Provenzano
Lynnda Gray
Harry Hoover
Dan Jackson
Frankie Kennedy Jerry Schmitt
John Kennedy
Rev.Rea Means
Don Meredith Jr. Sandy Stergulz
Jo Ann Miller
Kenneth Miller
Terry Padilla
Bob Penn
Asuncsion Peppers
Richard Peppers
Rev. Thomas Provenzano
Bill Robinson
Janet Rolfe
Tabitha Rossi
Roland Salsberry
Jencye Schmitt
Bruce Scheiner
Elsie Seif
Richard Stergulz
Grandpa Stewart
Lynda Stewart
Ruth Vorys
Teresa Webster
Michael Wieland
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Membership Application
ABATE OF FLORIDA, Inc. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
ABATE of Florida Inc.
SOUTHWEST Chapter
PO Box 60745
Fort Myers, FL 33906
Att: Trudy Rabell
Name: ________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________________
City: ________________ State: ______ Zip: _________ Phone: __________________________
E-Mail: _________________________________________ Sponsored By: ________________________
Sign: ______________________________________________________________
Voter District: ________ Are you a registered voter? Yes ( ) No ( ) State District: ________ Do you want your newsletter e-
mailed? Yes ( ) N0 ( )
State House District: ________ US Congressional District: ________Do you have a motorcycle endorsement? Yes ( ) N0 ( )
Do you currently ride? Yes ( ) N0 ( ) Do you have time and talent to spend helping the Southwest Chapter reach its goals?
Yes ( ) N0 ( ) If so explain how you can help.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Membership Dues (Please check one)
New Member $20.00 ( ) Renewal $20.00 ( )
Lifetime Membership $150.00 ( )
Mail this completed form and a check or money order, made payable to ABATE of Florida, Inc. SOUTHWEST
Chapter, and send to the address above. Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age or older who is interested in promoting
FREEDOM OF CHOICE whether or not you ride. ABATE is non-discriminatory and insures your opinions
on motorcycle
legislative issues will be heard.
Newsletter Advertising Rates
Ad Size
Six Month (6) Rate
One Year (1)
Business
Card
$60
$110
Half Page
$90
$165
Full Page
$180
$330
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VOLUME XLVI ISSUE XXIX March 2009
Celebrating Our 28th Year
Chartered September 10th 1980
AMERICAN BIKERS AIMED TOWARD EDUCATION
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
SOUTHWEST Chapter
Po Box 60745
Fort Myers, FL 33906
EVERYONE WELCOME
February
Southwest Chapter Meeting 10AM
Sunday, March 22
nd
, 2009
Victory Lane Café
4150 Hancock Bridge Pkwy
North Ft. Myers, FL 33903
DATED MATERIAL PLEASE DELIVER IMMEDIATELYMEDI
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