Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida March 2012 Newsletter

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ABATE of Florida, Inc. ~ Southwest Chapter
Volume XLVI, Issue VIII

MARCH 2012

Do YOU Ride a Motorcycle? Is YOUR VOICE Heard by our LAW MAKERS?
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HAS A VOICE!

JOIN OUR VOICE!
SIX CHAPTERS FROM SARASOTA TO COLLIER COUNTIES
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
      

Presidents Message Minutes Membership Report Calendar Events NCOM Bytes Legislative Report

ABATE of Florida, Inc.
PO BOX 60745 • Fort Myers, FL 33906

Southwest Chapter

southwest.abateflorida.com MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Name Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

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

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

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

Name of Chapter you wish to join _________________________________________________

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

Memberships are open to anyone 18 years of age or older All members receive with their paid membership a membership card, our bi-monthly Masterlink magazine, Chapter Newsletter, Chapter voting privileges and personal involvement in Statewide legislative actions and their freedom to ride
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 2

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

Southwest Chapter Meeting Schedule MARCH 25th, 2012 @ 10 a.m. @ Anthony’s on the Blvd
Located at

1303 Del Prado Blvd. Cape Coral, Florida 239.772.5900 southwest.abateflorida.com

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

15TH OF EACH MONTH
IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MONTHLY NEWSLETTER; ISSUE DATE: MARCH 2012
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter

BE SUBMITTED BY THE

Wayne Cerra (cell) 239 989.3349
Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes. ABATE of Florida, Inc. © 2010 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter • All Rights Reserved ABATE of Florida, Inc. and the Southwest Chapter do not condone drinking while riding or driving

http://southwest.abateflorida.com/

PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906

Presidents Message

Hello Everyone, First I’d like to thank everyone who showed up at the February meeting. With almost 100 new members since last July, we had 40 members and 5 new signed up at this last meeting. Chapter members Kevin Barfield and Beth Dolan were married Feb 24th, Congratulations to Kevin and Beth from us all and also, most of you know Todd and Liz, they got married at Ft Myers Beach on Saturday March 3rd with an open reception at Victory Lane Saturday night, Congratulations from SW Chapter Liz and Todd, who are now back on the road heading to Pennsylvania. Our speaker for Feb meeting was Tim Fisher, candidate for Lee County Sheriff and a new Chapter member, Thanks Tim and his wife Robin for coming. State nominations were held last month up in Tallahassee and our own Chapter member and former long time Chapter President Frankie Kennedy was nominated for State President along with currant State VP,
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 4

Dan Fish. It’s time for a change in Deland and we have some good candidates. Next month, March meeting we will open up nominations for our Chapter elections for new officers. Please consider stepping up and running for a position. Your Chapter is growing with many new members who look to the Board for support and guidance. All positions from President to web master are open. We are also looking to have the sport bike community join us through the efforts of our newest and younger members who ride “crotch rockets” or sport bikes and they are looking to host a weekly sport bike night for everyone. Remember, we have 2 weekly bike nights, Tuesday night 6-9 at the Joint in Cape Harbour and Wednesday nights at Victory Lane Café 6-10. March 9th to 19th is Daytona Bike Week. ABATE of FLORIDA has a campground if you’re looking for a place to stay while enjoying the week. See flyer inside newsletter. See you out on the road, ride safe Wayne

ABATE of Florida, Inc.

Southwest Chapter

PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6748 southwest.abateflorida.com
President Wayne Cerra 239.989.3349 Vice President Bob “Burn Out” Penn 239.573.6487 Secretary Scott R. Turner 239-633-5765 Treasurer Todd “KC” Burns 239.634.3080 Sergeant At Arms Bob “Burn Out Bob” Penn 239.573.6487 Assistant Sergeant At Arms Pat Jablonski 203.232.2695 Membership Trustee Wayne Cerra 239.989.3349 PR/Communications Wayne Cerra 239.989-3349 Legislative Ken “Teddybear” Miller 239.693.7035 Newsletter Editor Babs Bardell 239.822-3272 Products Ken “Diesel” Coon 765.464-9542 Safety Coordinator Alberta “Birdie” Clark 239.770.0096 Safety Coordinator Earl “Smokey” Clark 239.770.0096 State Delegate Frank Kennedy 239.849.9065 Webmaster Taylor Musburger 239.334.1620 Advertising Wayne Cerra 239.989.3349 Vendor Wayne Cerra 239.989.3349 Photographer Taylor “ATM” Musburger 239.334.1620 Events Wayne Cerra 239.989.3349 Chapter Chaplain Tom Provenzano 239.267.8641 Road Captain Bob “Burn Out Bob” Penn 239.573.6487 Road Captain Vic Piorkowski 239.823.6159 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MRO* Chapter Meetings held at Anthony’s on the Boulevard 4th Sunday of Each Month except December
*MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
© 2011 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter • All Rights Reserved Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Income Tax Purposes ABATE of Florida, Inc. and Southwest Chapter Does Not Condone Drinking and Driving

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 5

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

as a blessing that we need to be good stewards of. What we see around us, when we ride, is God’s creation. For a Christian biker, there is no better way to experience God’s creation than from the seat of a motorcycle! And, even better, is the fact that we live in Southwest Florida! There may be only a few days a year that we cannot ride! Bikers will listen to other bikers. We have our language when it comes to motorcycles. And, we just can’t help sharing the love of motorcycling, our love of God and, His creation with YOU! A Christian biker that attends many of the runs and fund raising events, sees other bikers giving very generously without reservation and, from the bottom of their hearts (this is another reason we like associating with other bikers). This easily reminds Christian bikers of God’s giving of His Son, without reservation, to bring us to salvation. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 Perhaps you have seen some of the t-shirts about Jesus…. that if motorcycles existed at the time He was a man on earth, He probably would have been a biker and could easily relate to us because (this is taken from my tshirt): “….the government did not like Him; His friends were few; and He hung around people like you and me, not the goody-two-shoes. If Jesus were on this earth in the flesh, He would be next to you on His bike telling you He loves you…enough to die for you.” Please pray, “Dear God, my heavenly Father, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, 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 your Holy Spirit to come and dwell within me, to guide my life. I ask, in the Name of Jesus. Amen." Blessings, Tom and Kathy Pastor Tom (Estero River ABATE Life Member and Southwest Chapter Chaplain) and Pastor Kathy (SW ABATE Life Member - Foursquare Chaplain)www.messiahsmessengers.org or [email protected] 239-267-8641
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 7

DEAR FELLOW ABATE MEMBERS
A few times, over the past years, it has been asked of us, “What does Christianity have to do with motorcycling?” You must admit, that all of us (at least, most of us) as bikers, are very passionate about things and issues, in which we are involved, believe in, think about, and have had experiences with. There are very few bikers that we have ever talked with that are “gray” on any issue and, most are ready to defend what they believe (this is one of the reasons we like associating with other bikers). Our preferences are reflected in the types of motorcycling organizations we belong to. They are reflected in the paint schemes on our bikes. They are reflected in the logos and design of the clothing we wear. They are reflected in our tattoos. They are reflected in the types of events that we participate in and help with. Some of these passions are love of Country, veteran’s issues, law enforcement, lifestyles, political issues, and with whom we associate. We are very passionate about our bikes and riding. As such, it is very difficult to separate riding bikes and what we are all about. Motorcycling is not just motorcycling. It is a part of our lives. Christian bikers are no exception. Most of us really love motorcycling. Many of us see everything we have as belonging to God, including the bikes. We look at the bike

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS

Keith Baker Darrell Barnett Denee Bartels Scott Blink Chet Butz James Burkholder Nora Burkholder Don Campbell Frances Cazes Wayne Cerra Jonathan Conant Terry Covington Audrey Cran Maggie Cran Rick Cran Rob Cran Robert “Cruz” Crusan Jim Crystal Dan Curry Ginny D’Asti Biffle Davis Mary Dicenzo-Porter Al Diagiaco Frank Disomma Cindy Doak

Randy Eck Brian Galvin Sonny Gartrell Lynnda Gray Larry Gullia Bob Hall Harry Hoover George Huttman Susan “Red” Huttman Dan Jackson Cindy “CJ” Jordan Frankie Kennedy John Kennedy Ed LaCombe Julio Lopez Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez “KD” Marlowe Russell May Rev.Rea Means Don Meredith Jr. Jo Ann Miller Kenneth Miller John Mitchell Jim Mozeleski Taylor Musburger Terry Padilla Bob Penn

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your support

Of Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida, Inc.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS They Support US!!

CHRIS PROFFITT

[email protected]

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

M I C H A E L P . G E N D R ON
FUNERAL DIRECTOR Cellular: 239-340-6499 Toll Free: 877-251-0088 Phone: 239-274-0088 Fax: 239-277-0028 4224 Cleveland Ave Suite 1 Fort Myers, FL 33901 135 N. Lime Ave. Sarasota, FL 34237 Phone: 941-365-1767

Email [email protected]

Gendron
FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES

20% OFF ALL SERVICES FOR ACTIVE ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. MEMBERS
WWW. GENDRONFUNERALHOME.COM

111 ~ Suite 1 Del Prado North Cape Coral ~ Florida 33909 239.574.2745 Douglas & Gina Holland, Owners

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

MEETING MINUTES
new members and 1 Life Member, Dan Curry News Letter: BARBARA “BABS” BARDELL Get everything to Babs by Wednesday; all advertising must be in by the 15th of each month. Held at Anthony’s on the Boulevard PR/COMMUNICATIONS: WAYNE CERRA; No Report CALLED TO ORDER AT: 10:20 AM WEBSITE: TAYLOR “ATM" MUSBURGER, 39 Members absent excused 6 Guests SAFETY DIRECTOR: ALBERTA "BIRDIE" PRESIDENTS REPORT: WAYNE CERRA CLARK, absent 1. Speaker Tim Fisher, running for Lee Looking to step up MSAP and find some comCounty Sheriff with wife Robin munities to present to. 2. Nominations were held for State elections PRODUCTS: KEN "DIESEL" COON and Chapter nominations will be opened at Bike nights and t-shirt sales March meeting. Thanks to Keith and Wayne for stepping up 3. Looking for members to fill empty positions will I was out. and consider stepping up in June LEGISLATIVE REPORT: KEN 4. Thank Pirate Coast for hosting Chili cook“TEDDYBEAR" MILLER off, very successful. Pirate Coast will also See report in newsletter. have a bike blow up at our 5 Star event. DELEGATE REPORT: FRANKIE KENNEDY/ VICE PRESIDENT: "BURNOUT" BOB PENN WAYNE CERRA 1. ABATE bike week at Daytona March 12 Next state meeting in St Augustine April 14th 18, volunteers needed to help out. hosted by Vintage Chapter. 2. Bike night Cape Coral, shared booth went Report from Delegate meeting, Frankie nomivery well. nated for State President with Dan Fish who SECRETARY'SREPORT: SCOTT TURNER now is state VP. Absent & excused OLD BUSINESS: Motion to accept last month’s minutes made All State drawing tickets turned in. by Burnout 2nd by Keith, motion carried Looking for site for Bears for Bears, possible TREASURERS REPORT: TODD "KC" Shell Factory. BURNS NEW BUSINESS: 1. Motion to accept last month's report Diesel 1. Weekly Bike Nights need new location and seconded by Burnout, motion carried 2. May is Motorcycle safety month with May SARGENT AT ARMS: "BURNOUT" BOB 20th being nationwide motorcycle awareness PENN ride. Where not known yet. No incidents to report GOOD OF TH E ORDER: MEMBERSHIP REPORT: WAYNE CERRA Motion to adjourn KC, 2nd Doreen Motion car1. January had 7 new members ried. 2. "new members for February so far, Chelsey TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 11:09 Matheson, Dave Elias, Gary Serrago, Robert Yoho, Tim Fisher, Joe Cowan, Francine Schroeder. So far February numbers are 8

ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter General Meeting February 26th 2012

4120 Hancock Bridge Parkway, North Fort Myers, FL 33903

239-995-0340

PO BOX 60745 • Fort Myers, FL 33906

southwest.abateflorida.com

Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Watch for our Bears for Bears event! Details coming soon! FIVE STAR under construction!!

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS, ADVERTISERS AND SUPPORTERS OF OUR MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION
A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT AND THANKS TO OUR LOCAL EVENT PROMOTERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF OUR MRO

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE Bikes, Household Goods, etc. Email to Chapter President for approval
Our Caring Circle
will be posted each month. This month please keep in your thoughts and prayers the following members and their loved ones.

Southwest Chapter Brother John Dahlgren

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 20

Membership Report
This past month, February, we had 5 new members and member Dan Curry signed up for a Life Membership. New members are: Tim Fisher, Dave Elias, Robert Yoho, Chelsey Matheson and Gary Serrago. March newest members so far are: Ronald Da Ponte, Francine Schroeder, Joe Cowan and Dave Neville Welcome all and if you’d like to get more involved, let us know.

ABATE of Florida Inc., Southwest Chapter CHAPTER MEETING Anthony’s on the Blvd
Located at

MARCH 25th, 2012 10 a.m. at
1303 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, Florida
239.772.5900

Anthony’s serves a buffet breakfast beginning at 8 am on Sundays southwest.abateflorida.com

KEEP UP TO DATE ON THE STATE WEB SITE
PRESS RELEASES, EVENTS, SAFETY BIKE MAP Laws regarding Bike specs BRING A NEW MEMBER TO JOIN THE VOICES OF FLORIDA MOTORCYCLISTS
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 21

Editor’s note
Brothers and Sisters, Thank you to those members who continue to support our Chapter. A special thanks to our president, Wayne Cerra, for his dedication to making the Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida, Inc. a progressive force in our area and beyond. Our present board is only a few, but with vim and vigor, our responsibilities as a Chapter are met. Quite a feat during these economically troubling times. Our executive board makes things happen for our Chapter and our trustees are supportive our Board. Bears for Bears is our upcoming event. Details soon. Think about stepping up Brothers and Sisters. We have several positions available at the moment and our elections will be coming in June. Most of the need is minimal, but we need to fill those hats with heads or the few members that participate have to keep switching hats! Please be careful on the roads! Our snow birds are still flying around and lost half the time. Not to mention some of the new traffic patterns in the County just adding to the confusion. Lee County Schools will be on Spring Break March 12th 16th. Watch out for the little buggers! LOL (have two of my own) Peace to you all! Babs

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 23

March 2012
Sun Mon Tue Wed 1 Thu Fri 2 FORT 3 MYERS BEACH BIKE NIGHT Sat

ESTERO RIVER CHAPTER LEGENDARY PARTY MARCH 23 - 25, 2012
Noon Friday to Noon Sunday Corkscrew Country Store - Flyer Pg. 12
4 5 6 Bike Night a THE JOINT 11 12 13 Bike Night a THE JOINT 18 19 20 Bike Night a THE JOINT 25 10am 26 27 Bike Night a THE JOINT 7 Bike Night a Victory Lane

6p-10p
8 9 10

FORT MYERS BIKE NIGHT

14 Bike 15 Night a Victory Lane Board Meeting 21 Bike Night a Victory Lane 28 Bike Night a Victory Lane 29 22

16

17

ST. PATTY’S DAY

CHAPTER

23

24

ESTERO RIVER CHAPTER LEGENDARY PARTY
31

30

SOUTHWEST

Chapter Meeting Anthony’s on the Boulevard

No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another. - Author Unknown
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 24

April 2012
Sun 1 2 Mon 3 Bike Night a THE JOINT 8 9 10 Bike Night a THE JOINT 15 Gator Alley Annual Casino Run 22 SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING 10 AM Anthony 29 16 17 Bike Night a THE JOINT 23 24 Bike Night a THE JOINT 30 Tue 4

State Meeting - April 14th, 2012 Vintage Chapter - Flyer page 15
Wed 5 Thu Fri 6 FORT MYERS BEACH BIKE NIGHT 7 Sat EASTER BUNNY TOY RUN DETAILS PG 26

Bike Night a Victory Lane 11 Bike Night a Victory Lan
Board Meeting

6p-10p
12 13

14 STATE

VINTAGE CHAPTER

MEETING

CHAPTER

CAPE CORAL BIKE NIGHT 19 20 21

18 Bike Night a Victory Lane 25 Bike Night a Victory Lane

26

27

28 LEESBURG BIKE FEST 27TH - 29TH

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

Events in our area and beyond
Vikingfest WhenSat, March 17, 12pm – 4pm FORT MYERS Bishop Verot High School Ft. Myers. VikingFest Bike and Car show, 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33919. Noon to 4:00pm is the Bike show and Sunday, March 18, Noon to 4:00pm is the Car show. Trophies, Live Music, BBQ, Beer Garden, Arts & Crafts Market and NO registration fee!

Gator Alley Chapter Annual Casino Run April 15, 2012 First Bike Out 10am, Nana’s Diner, Naples,FL. Last Bike In 3:30pm Crab Café Ochopee, FL $5.00 per hand. More Info. Rick and Tina Loy 239.825.2490 Www.gatoralley.net

16th Annual Leesburg Bikefest 2012 Apr 27 – 29, 2012 Leesburg Florida This Florida Districts Gathering of the Wings free event held in Historic Downtown LeesMar 22 – 24, 2012 Kissimmee burg will be packed with entertainment The Gold Wing Road Riders Association boasting eight stages, forty bands, and a "Region A" invites you to the 33rd Annual slew of exhibitions featuring Wall of death, Florida District "Gathering of the Wings" The Rat’s Hole Custom Motorcycles Show, Trails event includes... Poker Run, Bike Show, Tal- Rider and Drill Team Demonstration. Local ent Show, Vendors, Food, and lots more. restaurants and over 250 vendors will offer Location Host Hotel: World Gate Resort Kis- up a myriad of food, beer and beverage simmee FLORIDA 863-862-4484 fla.gwrrachoices, while hundreds of friendly retail regiona.org/rally.html [email protected] shops and vendors will be open for your shopping pleasures. Come experience this 9th Annual Easter Bunny Toy Run event for yourself and see why bikers across Saturday, Apr 7, 2012 9am the country are making The Leesburg NO STUFFED ANIMALS PLEASE! Hosted Bikefest an annual destination! by SWFL HOG & H-D Ft. Myers. Benefits www.Leesburgbikefest.com Children's Hospital at HealthPark. Escorted route, free post-run meal at HDFM. EnterPeace River Chapter presents: tainment, giveaways. Bring toys, games, Run-A-Muck Friday, May 18th-20th arts/crafts supplies gates close noon Sunday. $5,includes pin. Reg.9-10:45am KSU 11am SHARP. HDFM 2160 Colonial Blvd. Bike Night Peace River Campgrounds, 2998 NW Apr.6th, 6-10pm at HDFM. Info: Jack 239Highway 70, Arcadia, FL . Bike Games, 590-0513 or [email protected] Live Bands, Vendors, Camping, Food, Bikefest Okeechobee Apr 14, 2012 Okeechobee Florida. Bike show, poker run, bike games, burn out pit, music and more. http:// bikefestokeechobee.com/ [email protected]

Safety and Membership Information, Make Your Own Tie-Dye Shirts FMI contact Darrell @ (941) 423-5569 Vendor Info. (941) 475-3914 Email [email protected]

PRINTED WITH THE PERMISSION OF THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. If you’ve been involved in any kind of accident, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.

HOUSE COMMITTEE SEEKS FURTHER STUDY OF ETHANOL-BLENDED GAS
The House Committee on Science, Space and Technology passed H.R. 3199 by a 19-7 vote on Feb. 7th to require a comprehensive study of the implications of ethanol-blended gasoline. Although the Environmental Protection Agency approved E -15 (15% ethanol fuel) in October 2010 for use in most cars, it is not approved for any motorcycles or ATVs and the hotterburning formulation can cause premature wear and could void manufacturers’ warranties. The bill, introduced by committee Vice Chairman Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), would require the EPA to seek independent scientific analysis on the effects of E15 gasoline on engines. The measure now heads for consideration on the House floor, then if approved will move to the Senate. Earlier, Rep. Sensenbrenner introduced H.R. 748 to prohibit the EPA from authorizing the use of gasoline containing greater than 10% ethanol, which is deemed safe for use in motorcycles, ATVs, boats, lawnmowers and other small engines.

NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES
Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)

CONGRESS MOVES TO ABOLISH MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECKPOINTS
Motorcycle-only checkpoints have revved up concern in Congress, and wording was recently inserted into the House highway bill that would bar the U.S. Department of Transportation from providing grants to local or state governments for such discriminatory inspections. The action arose over motorcycle-exclusive roadblocks set up in Georgia and New York under federal safety grants that single out motorcycles from four-wheeled traffic for police to check the bike and rider for proper paperwork, helmet, exhaust and equipment violations. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), who sponsored H.R. 904 to ban federal funding of motorcycle-only checkpoints, applauded the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for including his bill’s wording in their Feb. 1st mark-up of the transportation measure, saying; "It is encouraging to see that the transportation reauthorization bill will encourage more efficient use of taxpayer dollars and smart motorcycle safety policy." "Motorcycle riders are right to be outraged at being singled out for safety inspections," added Rep Tom Petri (R-WI). "Nobody is suggesting flagging cars down for unscheduled inspections, and there's no good reason why motorcycles should be treated differently. It's unnecessarily intrusive, and not a smart way to use limited police resources.” Section 5007 of H.R. 7, the “American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2012” reads: PROHIBITION ON FUNDS TO CHECK HELMET USAGE OR CREATE CHECKPOINTS FOR A MOTORCYCLE DRIVER OR PASSENGER. The Secretary may not provide a grant or otherwise make available funding to a State, Indian tribe, county, municipality, or other local government to be used for any program to check helmet usage or create checkpoints for a motorcycle driver or passenger. The House bill, which also provides federal funding for state motorcycle safety programs and funds for motorized trails, will now go to the full House floor before going over to the Senate for consideration. The Senate will consider their own version of the highway bill, and a final version will be ironed out in a conference committee.

VIRGINIA MAY LEGALIZE TWO-ABREAST RIDING
The Virginia General Assembly is considering the repeal of a 40 -plus year-old law that makes it against the law for two motorcyclists to ride side-by-side in the same lane. Virginia and Vermont are the only two states in the U.S. with such a law on the books, while 48 other states either don’t ban the practice or have specific laws allowing it. There’s no indication those states have more crashes or problems related to two-abreast riding, according to the Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists. The proposal, sponsored by 26th District Delegate Tony Wilt and 18th District Delegate Michael Webert, sailed through the transportation committee and, overwhelmingly, through the House. The law is an old one, possibly sparked by the menacing image of motorcycle gangs of the 60s. But since the law was passed over four decades ago, motorcycle registrations have shot up and charitable motorcyclists now ride in large groups for fundraisers or to raise awareness, when riding two-deep is common. Two-thirds of multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes are caused by people in cars who don’t see the riders. Two abreast may enhance visibility. And since motorcycles generally have one headlight, riding together can help illuminate dark roads.

INDIANA LAWMAKERS CONSIDER ALLOWING SUNDAY CYCLE SALES
After four years of trying, State Senator Ed Charbonneau (RValparaiso) recently won committee approval for legislation allowing the sale of motorcycles on Sundays. The Senate Commerce and Economic Development Committee voted 7-0 to forward Senate Bill 192 to the full Senate.

Sen. Charbonneau says motorcycle sales have increased in New Jersey and Pennsylvania after those states passed laws allowing motorcycle sales on the Sabbath. The legislation distinguishes motorcycle sales from motor vehicle sales which would remain prohibited on Sundays. Thirteen states don't allow cars to be sold on Sunday, including Indiana. Charbonneau said many motorcycle dealerships are already open Sundays, selling merchandise or servicing motorcycles, and they should be able to sell motorcycles too.

FLORIDA SEEKS STIFFER PENALTIES FOR NEGLIGENT DRIVERS

ABATE Florida members from around the state were out in full force at the state capitol on Monday, Feb. 13th asking lawmakers for safer roads and to support legislation for stricter penalties for drivers who kill bikers on the road. “Kill a motorcyclist they get an $82 fine, that’s all they get; failure to yield. You do that in a car, hit somebody else in a car, you get vehicular manslaughter,” said James “Doc” Reichenbach, ABATE President. Reichenbach, who also serves as Chairman of the Board for the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), testified on behalf of ABATE’s Stiffer Penalties Bill, S.B. 1754, which passed the Senate Transportation Committee on Jan. 27th by a vote of 7-0, and now goes to the Senate Criminal Justice Committee. During the rally in Tallahassee, the names of bikers killed in wrecks last year were read aloud. Fifty-six bell chimes were sounded; one for each lost life. The bikers spent the rest of the day talking to lawmakers, then headed home hoping when they return next year, there are fewer bells to ring and fewer bikers lost.

The dust just got settled with Horry County, and now this has upset the county council all over again,” said Gary Balcom, ABATE chapter coordinator, recalling that in 2008 Myrtle Beach passed a litany of laws aimed at ending the rallies altogether, including a city-wide helmet law that was later ruled unconstitutional. “It’s a bad idea and was not discussed with anyone else,” said Balcom. But there are other concerns, too, Balcom said. The large crowd would overwhelm local law enforcement resources, he wrote in an ABATE statement. “The last thing we want to see is any event getting out of hand,” Balcom wrote. The statement calls the date change “a slap in the face to the county council” and encourages bikers to boycott the two dealerships in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach “and we hope that the biker community as a whole will come together with us on this boycott until such time as they retract their plan of overlapping dates.”

MOTORCYCLE SALES HOLD STEADY FOR 2011
The 2011 motorcycle sales estimates from the Motorcycle Industry Council are in, with annual unit sales holding steady at 440,000. The good news: motorcycle sales haven’t declined from 2010. The bad news: they haven’t gone up either. The MIC reports 440,899 total motorcycle sales for 2011, up 0.3% from 2010’s unit tally. The motorcycle market shows gains and losses within the various segments, reports www.motorcycle-usa.com, noting that the largest sector, on-highway motorcycles, recorded a 1.8% increase over last year at 312,124 units. The boom and bust scooter market benefited with an 11.8% gain at 31,850 units. The biggest winner, however, was the dual segment which jumped 14.2% for the year, gaining 3337 units. Off-Highway motorcycle sales dropped 13.5% on the year, losing 10,905 units from the 2010 tally of 80,962. Combined with the ATV market, which continued a downward sales trend, more than 45K OHV unit sales were lost on the year. The 2011 total 440K annual motorcycle sales mark shows stabilizing of a market that crashed following the economic crisis in late 2008. Total motorcycle unit sales topped 1.1 million in 2008 (the sixth consecutive year sales had topped the million unit mark), but plummeted 40.8% in 2009, followed by a further 15.8% decline in 2010.

MYRTLE BEACH RALLY DATE CONFUSION PROMPTS ABATE BOYCOTT
Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson has moved the dates of its official spring rally into late May, effectively adding 10 more days of Harley-related events on the Grand Strand and sparking confusion among bikers, businesses and rally promoters over when the rally will take place. “They just don’t seem to want to play by whatever rules we set,” said Councilman Gary Loftus in calling on council members to revoke all May vendor permits for biker events. “They keep wanting to push and push and push well they've just pushed too hard this time." Horry County (S.C.) ABATE has decided to stage a boycott, not of the spring bike rally, but of the local Harley dealerships involved in rescheduling the Cruisin’ the Coast rally to May 18-28, carrying it over into Memorial Weekend when sportbikers traditionally begin arriving for Atlantic Beach Bike Fest aka “Black Bike Week”.

WORLD-FIRST STUDY ON CAUSE OF SERIOUS MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
A world-first study will examine the cause of serious motorbike crashes. Motorcyclists will be part of a $1.3 million Australian study aimed at slashing the number of motorcycle accidents. The ground-breaking inquiry will compare the experiences of riders injured in crashes at specific sites with riders who have travelled through the same site safely. Transport Minister Terry Mulder described the new research as

one of the most comprehensive motorbike studies attempted globally. "By comparing the two groups, we hope to learn not only what went wrong for those involved in crashes, but also what went right for those who negotiated a particular crash site safely," Mulder said. More than 1100 riders - half of whom have survived crashes - will be recruited over the next 18 months. The research is being funded by the State Government and headed by the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC). Experts, five of whom are motorcyclists themselves, will analyze factors such as speed, experience and the physical environment in accidents. Experienced and active riders have contributed to the questionnaire design to ensure relevance and improve study outcomes. Results are expected towards the end of 2013.

WEIRD NEWS: HELMETED BRIT FUSED SERVICE

BIKER

RE-

Motorcyclists in England are being victimized by gas stations that enforce a “Remove Helmets” rule, as evidenced by an incident in Coventry when staff refused to serve a rider even though his full-face visor was up. Barry Hadley, 63, told the Coventry Telegraph: “I stood there for a couple of minutes and thought there was something wrong with the pump. Then a message came over the loudspeaker saying I had to remove my helmet, even though I always flip up the front. Why should I be classed as a thief because others are thieves?” The manager said it was company policy, and in a letter to Hadley the station said: “Legally we are required to be able to validate the minimum age for dispensing fuel and this can not be assessed adequately if riders keep their helmets on.” QUOTABLE QUOTE: “He who has a Why can endure any How.” Friedrich Nietzsche, German philosopher (1844-1900) ■

Florida’s Lee County Legislative Delegation
Rep. Gary Aubuchon, R-74, Chairman 3501 Del Prado Blvd., Suite 305 Cape Coral, Fl. 33904-7223 Phone: (239) 344-4900 E-Mail: [email protected] Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto, R-27 17595 S. Tamiami Trail Ft. Myers, Fl. 33967 Phone: (561) 753-2440 E-Mail: [email protected] Sen. Mike Bennett, R-21, Senate President Pro-Tem 3653 Cortez Road West, Suite 90, Bradenton, Fl. 34210 Phone: (941) 727-6349 E-Mail: [email protected] Rep. Matt Caldwell, R-73 2120 Main St., Suite 208 Fort Myers, Fl. 33901-3010 Phone: (239) 533-2411 E-Mail: [email protected] Rep. Paige Kreegel, R-72 410 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda, Fl. 33950-4832 Phone: (941) 575-5820 E-Mail: [email protected] Sen. Garrett Richter, R-37 3299 E. Tamiami Trail, Suite 203, Naples, Fl. 34112-4961 Phone: (239) 417-6205 E-Mail: [email protected] Rep. Ken Roberson, R-71 17825 Murdock Circle, Suite B, Port Charlotte, Fl. 33948-4090 Phone: (941) 613-0914 E-Mail: [email protected] Rep. Trudi Williams, R-75 12811 Kenwood Lane, Suite 212, Fort Myers, Fl. 33907-5648 Phone: (239) 433-6775 E-Mail: [email protected] Office of Governor Rick Scott State of Florida The Capitol 400 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001 (850) 488-7146 E-Mail: www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott Office of Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll State of Florida The Capitol 400 S. Monroe St.. PL-05 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001 Telephone: (850) 488-4711 Facsimile: (850) 921-6114 E-Mail: www.ltgov.com/ContactUs.html Florida Senate Web site: www.flsenate.gov Office of Senate President Mike Haridopolos 404 S. Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100 Phone: (850) 487-5229 E-Mail: [email protected]

Florida House of Representatives Web site:
www.myfloridahouse.gov The Honorable Dean Cannon, Speaker Florida House of Representatives 402 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300 E-Mail: [email protected]

LEGISLATIVE REPORT March 2012 Good Morning Freedom Fighters, Our stiffer penalties bill, SB 1754, sponsored by Sen. Evers, passed its first committee in late January. It was referred to the Senate Criminal Justice Committee. As of Feb. 23, it is still in that committee. No House bill has been filed. Sen. Evers has also filed SB 1850 that deals with the vertical tag issue, (see below). No amendment has been filed in this issue, and riders who have vertical tags will still be required to have a pre-paid toll account and carry an active transponder for that account. Below are some of the bills that are moving through the Florida House and Senate that relate directly to motorcycles. As you will see, registration fees for motorcycles will be lowered, and 100% of those funds will be deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund, rather than a percentage going into the General Revenue Fund. The $2.50 that motorcyclists pay over and above the registration fee will also remain in tack, as will Florida’s Motorcycle Safety Education Program. Hopefully, that means we will get our safety grant again this year. But that doesn’t mean we can relax. Stay in touch with your legislators about this issue. Remember, we all have a vested interest in motorcycle safety and awareness. We are more accessible to our communities, and we can get our message out far better than FDOT could ever hope to. For other non-motorcycle related bills that are of interest, but not necessarily supported by ABATE of Florida, Inc., check out ABATE of Florida’s web site. The LIC is loaded with good information. See you in the wind, ‘TEDDYBEAR’ From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Washington, D.C. MRF Testifies Before Maryland State Senate The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) was asked to testify before the Maryland State Senate Committee on Judicial Proceedings on Tuesday, February 21, 2012. The bill is SB 488, which would modernize the current Maryland mandatory motorcycle helmet bill. The bill is sponsored by Senator John Astle, a fellow rider. Drafted by ABATE of MD, SB 488 would change the mandatory helmet requirement to allow for adult choice. According to the bill, Marylanders would be able to choose to wear a helmet as long as they met the age requirement of 21 and carry at least $10,000.00 in health insurance. Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs, stood before the committee and urged passage of the legislation. “Maryland repealed their mandatory helmet bill in 1979, but with the threat from DC that they would lose federal money if they didn't have one, the General Assembly voted it back in place in 1992, just three years before that federal blackmail practice was ended.” “It was an honor to stand with the ABATE leadership and

membership and deliver a unified message” Hennie said. The bill faces an uphill battle on the way to becoming law, but ABATE has a good bill with a great bill sponsor who has a long history of working with both sides of the aisle in Annapolis. A vote has not yet been scheduled. US House Committee Passes HR 3199 Tuesday, February 7th, the United States House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space and Technology passed HR 3199 - a bill that would require a comprehensive study of the scientific and technical research on the implications of fuel with more than 10 percent ethanol. Essentially, this bill would slow down the fast tracking of the fuel blend that is 15 percent or more ethanol. The Administration made it legal at the end of 2010 for fuel suppliers to sell the blend. In an Opinion Editorial to the Hill newspaper, Rep. Sensenbrenner (WI) had this to say, "Many claims by E15's supporters are questionable. For instance, ethanol's proponents argue that ethanol is cheaper. But this claim ignores the fact that E15 lowers fuel efficiency. Since ethanol's energy content is just 70 percent of the energy content of gasoline, American drivers will be forced to make more trips to the pump, largely negating any savings from E15." Sensenbrenner added, "As bad as E15 is for our cars, it is downright dangerous in small gasoline-based engines like those in our lawnmowers, boats and ATVs. E15 in a boat engine is like metal in a microwave. The United States Coast Guard warned that E15 in marine engines increases the risk of fires and explosions. And, "The EPA dismisses these concerns — from stakeholders within the government, no less — because these engines are not included in EPA's E15 waiver, but EPA is willfully ignoring inevitable issues with misfueling and lack of availability of fuel with lower ethanol content. At a Science Committee hearing last year, we examined the EPA's E15 decision, and witnesses testified that the agency cannot prevent misfueling." We at the MRF are all for reducing our dependence on foreign oil and keeping the planet healthy, but the facts are not all in when it comes to the 15 percent blend when used in a motorcycle engine. In fact, the Motorcycle Industry Council has said that the blend could be harmful to motorcycles. The EPA went so far as to say that motorcycles are prohibited from using the new blend altogether. Until further comprehensive study, such as required by this legislation, is conducted we must issue caution when using the new blend. US House Committee Targets Federal Funding of Motorcycle Only Roadside Checkpoints The Motorcycle Riders Foundation reports that Wednesday, February 1st, the United States House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure rolled out the latest version of the highway bill. The bill is the long term funding bill for road construction and highway programs. This version of the bill takes aim at a controversial practice of the Department of Transportation which funded motorcy-

cle-only roadside checkpoints with taxpayer dollars. The checkpoints have drawn much criticism from the motorcycle community at large. So much so, that longtime motorcycle champion Representative James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) had introduced legislation to end the program by prohibiting any future Federal funding of any motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints. That bill is HR 904. The mammoth highway bill includes the same language as contained in HR 904. Representative Sensenbrenner had this to say, "We need to focus on proven methods of motorcycle safety, including crash prevention, rider education, and training and proper licensing. Motorcycle -only checkpoints are an intrusive governmental overreach that place an undue burden on riders while doing little to actually improve safety," He added, "It is encouraging to see that the transportation reauthorization bill will encourage more efficient use of taxpayer dollars and smart motorcycle safety policy." Representative Tom Petri (R-WI), a staunch defender of the motorcyclists, had this comment on the issue, “Motorcycle riders are right to be outraged at being singled out for safety inspections," Petri said. "Nobody is suggesting flagging cars down for unscheduled inspections, and there's no good reason why motorcycles should be treated differently. It's unnecessarily intrusive, and not a smart way to use limited police resources." We at the MRF could not agree more. While swift passage into law is not likely, this is certainly an encouraging step. ‘TEDDYBEAR’ ■

ABATE MEMBERS RECEIVE A 10 % DISCOUNT WITH THEIR ABATE CARD

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ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter
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southwest.abateflorida.com

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