ABATE OF FLORIDA, Inc.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
AUGUST 2015 Volume XXXVI, Issue XV

NEXT MEETING : AUGUST 16TH AT JERSEYS SPORT CAF AT 10:30AM

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
THE ONLY MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA
LEGISLATIVE NEWS MSAP INSTRUCTORS COMMUNITY SERVICE
Lobby & Educate the Government & the General Public to Promote Motorcycling in a Safe & Positive Image

MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE :

20th of the Month for Editorial
and Board Approval
NEW ADVERTISERS OR AD DEADLINE:
15 of the month

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
MEETING SCHEDULE
OUR NEXT CHAPTER
MEETING WILL BE HELD
AUGUST 16
at Jerseys Sports Caf at 10:30am

IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER NEWSLETTER;
ISSUE DATE: APRIL 2015
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Southwest Chapter
PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906
http://southwest.abateflorida.com

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:
Victor Piorkowski | (cell) 239-823-6159
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

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.

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

Southwest Chapter
PO BOX 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906
southwest.abateflorida.com
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
SEE PAGE 4 FOR MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE INFORMATION
Name (Please Print Legibly): __________________________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City State Zip Code + Four
Phone: (Include Area Code) _______________________
May we use your phone number for our phone tree?
Are you a registered Voter?

YES

YES

Email Address: __________________________________

NO

NO

Please List your voting districts from your Voter Registration Card:
_________ FL House

_________ FL Senate

_________ US Congress District

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Name of Chapter you wish to join ___________________________________________________________
If you are a member of more than one chapter, please designate your home chapter _______________________________________
Select ONE of the following:
New/Renewal - Annual Membership Due $20.00
Lifetime Membership $ 150.00
Transfer Membership to: __________________________________________________________________________________
Change of Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Signature _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________________________
Sponsored by Chapter Member : _______________________________________________________________________________
Memberships are open to anyone 18 years of age or older All members receive with their paid membership a membership card, our bimonthly Masterlink magazine, Chapter Newsletter, Chapter voting privileges and
personal involvement in Statewide legislative actions and their freedom to ride

CHAPTER USE
Dues Paid by Cash

Check

Money Order

Mailed Date: Membership Card _________________________

Copy of By Laws

_________________________

Membership Expiration

_________________________

Make Checks Payable to:

ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Southwest Chapter

ABATE of Florida, Inc. |Southwest Chapter

EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6748
Southwest.abateflorida.com

President -Shayne Hanley

S_ahanley@yahoo.com | 239.560.2565
Vice President - Moe Moser
412-999-3397 | ironcitysupplyco@yahoo.com
Secretary - Laurie Hanley
239-898-5168 | l_rhanley@yahoo.com
Treasurer - Heidi Szolga
618-616-0870 | love_of_tigers@hotmail.com
Sergeant At Arms - Bob Rabell
thesawguide@yahoo.com | 239.458.3136
Membership Trustee | Jim Philips
239-209-0016 | phil5224@gmail.com
Public Relations - Gwynne Hickman
239.246.2025 | gwynne.hickman@gmail.com
Legislative Representative- Frank Kennedy
239.693.7035 | swchief2000@yahoo.com

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER PRODUCTS

CHAPTER PATCH LARGE
(MEMBERS ONLY) $25.00
CHAPTER PATCH SMALL
$7.00
CHAPTER FLAG
$25.00
CHAPTER SHIRTS & MORE ARE AVAILABLE ~
SEE PRODUCTS TRUSTEE FOR INVENTORY
LOOKING FOR
A FEW GOOD MEN!!

Safety Director - Victor Piorkowski

239-772-3320 | pior10@yahoo.com
Newsletter - Iva Sokolik
ivasokoli@gmail.com
Webmaster - Taylor Musburger
239.334.1620 | ABATE@Musburger.net
Chapter Chaplain - Tom Provenzano
239.267.8641 | tprovenz@comcast.net

HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MRO*

Chapter Meetings held at Six Bends Harley-Davidson
of Fort Myers 1st Sunday of each month
*MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
2012 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter
All Rights Reserved

The SWFL Chapter of LEATHERNECKS

Motorcycle Club Intl., Inc.
We Welcome
Marine Veterans, FMF Corpsmen
And Active Duty Men and Women Marines
If you love riding a motorcycle and want the
Brotherhood/Sisterhood. That you had in the Corps,
then we are what you want!
For further information contact
Rail Road at: 239-321-3298
Or visit our website at: www.leathernecks-swfl.com

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

(as of 6/12/14)
STATE OFFICE:

ABATE OF Florida, Inc.

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520

Phone: (386) 943-9610 Fax: same
Email:flabate@bellsouth.net

PRESIDENT:

JAMES"DOC" REICHENBACH

PO Box 712, Silver Springs, FL 34489-0712

Phone: (352) 625-6353 Fax: same
Email:flabatestatepresident@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT:

DENNIS "MUDDER" RUDOI

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520

Phone: (407) 925-4307 Fax: (407) 699-9748
Email:flabatestatevp@yahoo.com

SECRETARY:

SHELLY JOHNSTON

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520

Phone: (904) 405-4700 Fax:(386) 943-9610
Email:flabatestatesecretary@gmail.com

TREASURER:

PATTI NASRALLAH

PO Box 16309, Temple Terrace, FL 33687-6309

Phone: (813) 695-9203 Fax: (813) 626-2306
Email:patti.nasrallah@gmail.com

SGT-AT-ARMS:

TJ PAINTER

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520
Phone: (352) 303-8299 Fax: (386) 943-9610
Email:flabatestatesgtatarms@gmail.com

PR/COMMUNICATIONS:

SARABETH KOHL

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520
Phone: (904) 591-4100 Fax: (386) 943-9610
Email:flabatestatepr@gmail.com

MASTERLINK EDITOR:

C/O STATE OFFICE

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520
Phone: (386) 943-9610 Fax: (386) 943-9610
Email:flabate@bellsouth.net

MEMBERSHIP:

GRACE LORD

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520
Phone: (904) 504-6362 Fax:(386) 943-9610
Email:flabatestatemembership@gmail.com

SAFETY PROGRAM (MSAP) DIRECTOR:
JOHN MASSOTH

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520
Phone: (954) 650-1420 FAX: (561) 333-6773
Email:flabatemsap@gmail.com

LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE:

DARRIN "SCRIBE" BROOKS

PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520

Phone: (239) 398-7145

Email:statelegislative@abateflorida.com

PRODUCTS TRUSTEE:

STEVE "CARETAKER" KNEE

PO Box 4372, Milton, FL 32572-4372
Phone: (850)529-4446 Fax: (386) 943-9610
Email:flabatestateproducts@gmail.com

LEGAL COUNSEL:

LARRY CROW

1247 S. Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Phone: (727) 945-1112 Fax: (727) 945-9224
Email:crowlaw@tampabay.rr.com

WEBMASTER (appointed):

Email:flabate@bellsouth.net

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Presidents
Message

Hello Everyone,
Now that we are entering the Dog Days of Summer,
I just want everyone to be safe while riding and
remember with the hot sun beating down it is easy to
dehydrate so make sure to plan ahead and drink
lots of fluids.
This organization is all volunteer and with that said,
I am still looking for a Membership Trustee to round
out an already excellent board. Anyone interested let
me know.
Last but not least I want to let everyone know that
the state board has an upcoming event in October at
Avon Park. The state board is looking for volunteers
and vendors so if anyone is interested you can use
the form in the newsletter or call directly for more
information. I will also be putting any updates for
this event in the newsletter as well.
As always, if you have any questions, ideas, or
concerns please call or email me.
Be Careful and Ride Safe,

Shayne Hanley
SW Chapter President
Abate of Florida, Inc.

OUR NEXT MEETING

WILL BE AUGUST 16TH, 10:30AM
AT JERSEYS SPORTS CAF,
13971 N CLEVELAND AVE, FT.
MYERS ON THE CORNER OF
PONDELLA AND 41

SOUTHWEST
CHAPTER
LIFE MEMBERS
Keith Baker

Bob Hall

Darrell Barnett

Rodney Hollingsworth

Jerry Barnett

Misti Hollingsworth

Denee Bartels

Harry Hoover

Scott Blink

Jeff Hoover

Chet Butz

Jonathan Hunt

James Burkholder

George Huttman

Nora Burkholder

Susan Red Huttman

Don Campbell

Dan Jackson

Frances Cazes

Cindy CJ Jordan

Wayne Cerra

Frankie Kennedy

Jonathan Conant

John Kennedy

Terry Covington

Ed LaCombe

Audrey Cran

Julio Lopez

Maggie Cran

Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez

Rick Cran

KD Marlowe

Rob Cran

Russell May

Robert Cruz Crusan

Rev.Rea Means

Jim Crystal

Don Meredith Jr .

Dan Curry

Jo Ann Miller

Ginny DAsti

Kenneth Miller

Biffle Davis

John Mitchell

Lynne Davis

Moe Moser

Mary Dicenzo-Porter

Jim Mozeleski

Al Diagiaco

Taylor Musburger

Frank Disomma

Carl Nelson

Cindy Doak

Terry Padilla

Randy Eck

Bob Penn

Marius Espeleta

Asuncsion Peppers

Brian Galvin

Richard Peppers

Sonny Gartrell

Victor Piorkowski

Steven Goldstein

Kathleen Provenzano

Lynnda Gray

Rev. Thomas Provenzano

Larry Gullia

Bill Robinson

To become a Life Member Contact Membership Trustee

See information on Page 4

Janet Rolfe
Tabitha Rossi
Roland Salsberry
Jencye Schmitt
Jerry Schmitt
Bruce Scheiner
Juergen Wolfgang Schitzer
Jencye Schmitt
Jerry Schmitt
Elsie Seif
Doug Sepanak
Robert Simon
Kelly Smith
Randall Spivey
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
Karl Bartling III
Karl Bartling
Roger Smith
Frank E. Rhorer
Bill Barber
Kim Adair
Jeffery Fielder
Jay Monttetit

QUICK TIPS: MSFs Guide to Group Riding

Motorcycling is primarily a solo activity, but for many, riding as a group whether with friends on
a Sunday morning ride or with an organized motorcycle rally is the epitome of the motorcycling
experience. Here are some tips to help ensure a fun and safe group ride:
Arrive prepared. Arrive on time with a full gas tank.
Hold a riders meeting. Discuss things like the route, rest and fuel stops, and hand signals
(see diagrams on page 3). Assign a lead and sweep (tail) rider. Both should be experienced
riders who are well-versed in group riding procedures. The leader should be aware of each
rider's skill level before the ride and monitor the riders during the ride.
Keep the group to a manageable size, ideally five to seven riders. If necessary, break the
group into smaller sub-groups, separated by a few seconds, each with a lead and sweep rider.
Ride prepared. At least one rider in each group should a first-aid kit and full tool kit, and all
riders should carry a cell phone, so the group is prepared for any problem that they might
encounter.
Ride in formation. The staggered riding formation (see diagram below) allows a proper space
cushion between motorcycles so that each rider has enough time and space to maneuver and to
react to hazards. The leader rides in the left third of the lane, while the next rider stays at least
one second behind in the right third of the lane; the rest of the group follows the same pattern.
A single-file formation with a minimum 2-second following distance is preferred on a curvy road,
under conditions of poor visibility or poor road surfaces, entering/leaving highways, or other
situations where an increased space cushion or maneuvering room is needed.

August 2015
SUN

MON TUES

WED

FRI

THU

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1

State Meeting,
Lake County

FATHOMS
Cape Harbour
6-10 pm

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27

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30

FATHOMS
Cape Harbour
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FATHOMS
Cape Harbour
6-10 pm

General Meeting
@ Jerseys Sports
Caf
at 10:30am

23
Mugs N Jugs
11:00am-3:00pm

18

24 / 31

25
FATHOMS
Cape Harbour
6-10 pm

VOLUNTEER
YOUR TIME
Support Your
Chapter @ Events

September 2015
SUN

MON TUES
1

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

10

11

12

16

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FATHOMS
Cape Harbour
6-10 pm

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FATHOMS
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6-10 pm

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Cape Harbour
6-10 pm

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FATHOMS
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General Meeting
@ Jerseys Sports
Caf
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Mugs N Jugs
11:00am-3:00pm

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6-10 pm

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WASHINGTON WEEKLY UPDATES - JUNE 21, 2015

Carbon Emissions
First it was carbon emissions from power plants that President Obama targeted for major changes in an announcement
earlier this month, dropping them by 30% by 2030. Then a week later the EPA announced that it was going to begin
regulating commercial airplanes carbon emissions. So it should be of no surprise that this week President Obama
announced that he was going to crack down on emissions from medium and heavy-duty trucks. It will likely take over a
decade to realize the suggested changes, but they are coming.
Proposed Changes to Motorcycle Helmet Standards
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) continues to gather comments on the proposed rule that
would change the definition of a helmet to include actual measurements of the thickness of the helmets lining. The new rule
would require a helmet to have a thickness of around one inch, thereby eliminating now-legal novelty helmets altogether. This
proposed rule does not bode well for any motorcyclist, helmeted or not. Even if you live in a state that does not have a helmet law,
please consider sending in comments. We have more than doubled the comments over last week, and we need to keep up the
momentum. Please draft straightforward comments that focus on the shift from a performance standard of a helmet to a new
construction-based standard. Go to www.regulations.gov, search for motorcycle and it is the first proposed rule to come up.
Interstate Highway Tolls
As you saw in a previous release this week, the Senate is going to be marking up a portion of the highway bill. This
portion deals with the actual infrastructure, not those who use it. An idea has been floating around to allow for states to
enter into a pilot program that would allow for state tolling of interstate roads. This pilot program has been
around for over 17 years and has failed time and time again because of local outcry. The fat cats in D.C. who sit around
a table and come up with these ideas rarely think of the locals. They see it as a revenue raiser for their state and rubber
stamp it. When the ideas get back to those who will be impacted by these new, costly tolls on roads that have been built
and maintained by the feds since their inception, they are met with massive local pushback. Yet D.C. just keeps trying
to force the tolls down the throat of average Americans. Use the link below to make your voice heard by those who are
making these decisions for you. No new tolls.
Tell the EPW Committee NO TOLLS in just 15 seconds
Presidential Candidacies
Another week, another slew of GOP candidate announces their
candidacy. This week was highlighted by the bizarre rant of Donald Trump announcing his bid and attacking just about
every other candidate by name. Jeb Bush, the younger brother of Bush 43 and son of Bush 41, also announced. He was the
first two-term Republican governor of Florida. He is a capable businessman and a tireless campaigner. But he is a Bush,
and in the dog eat dog world of American politics, ones last name can mean a lot. Frankly, the country is sick of the Bush
family, often referring to them as a dynasty or worse, royalty. Its the same with the Clintons. Been there, done that seems
to be the mindset of electing either of these candidates. I once sat next to Jeb on a cross-country flight. It was after his time
as Governor, so he was out of the public eye. This is not an endorsement for Jeb Bush by any means, but he was a likable
guy who could probably do a better job as President than either of the two Bush men who came
before him. But alas: whats in a name? Sometimes everything. The Presidential election is 506 days away.
Summer riding season is in full swing. Remember: you are an ambassador for motorcycling every time you and/or your
friends ride.
HIGHWAY BILL ADVANCES IN SENATE - JUNE 25, 2015
Wednesday, June 24th the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) passes their version of a long-term highway
bill reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). The
six-year bill easily passed with bipartisan support. The Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy Act
or DRIVE Act would increase funding levels from a 2012 transportation law at an average of 3% annually to come up with
$260 billion for highway infrastructure programs. The measure was voted out of the committee with a vote of 20-0.
The issue of allowing for more states to the pilot program of new tolling of existing interstate highway was removed from

the final version of the bill. The pilot program to test tolling existing interstate roads still exists, keeping the number of states
that may participate at three. However, EPW did include a use it or lose it clause that would force a state participating in
the program to abandon the pilot after a number of years if they are unable to get the program started. This is significant
because this pilot program has been in existence for 17 years and none of the states have ever been able to put a tolling pilot
program in place due to massive public outcry. In short, it allows the feds to pick an area of the country that may be more
friendly to (or just more used to) increased tolling.
Another disturbing provision of the DRIVE act would allow states to divert tolls collected away from the tolled road to
fund other government programsthe very definition of the proverbial Stealing from Peter to pay Paul.
There is no mention of motorcycles in this portion of the highway bill. Issue of motorcycle-only checkpoints will be
addressed in a forthcoming bill from another committee.
Thank you to everyone who made calls and sent emails to the EPW committee members. Your voice was integral to the
non-expansion of the tolling program.
COURT ORDERS DISTRICTS TO BE REDRAWN
The Florida Supreme Court on Thursday ordered that at least eight congressional districts be redrawn because of violations
of an anti-gerrymandering constitutional amendment. The order will require the Legislature on an expedited basis to
redraw congressional districts represented by Corrine Brown, David Jolly, Kathy Castor, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Mario
Diaz-Balart, Carlos Curbelo and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. The order also could affect neighboring districts. The News Service
will have a full report later Thursday.
DEFENDANTS FACE BURDEN IN STAND YOUR GROUND CASES
In a case that started with a tourist brandishing a gun during a traffic dispute, the Florida Supreme Court on Thursday
said people who use the states controversial stand your ground legal defense have the burden of proving they should be
shielded from prosecution.
The 5-2 ruling dealt with a key part of the way the state has carried out the stand your ground law, which in part provides
immunity to people who use justifiable force in self-defense.
In stand your ground cases, pre-trial evidentiary hearings are held to determine whether defendants are immune from
prosecution because of the law. The Supreme Court ruling Thursday centered on who should have the burden of proof
during those hearings --- defendants or prosecutors.
Justices sided with lower courts that have required defendants to prove that they should be protected from prosecution by
the self-defense law. The majority opinion, written by Justice Barbara Pariente, said immunity in the stand your ground
law is not a blanket immunity, but rather, requires the establishment that the use of force was legally justified.
We conclude that placing the burden of proof on the defendant to establish entitlement to Stand Your Ground immunity
by a preponderance of the evidence at the pretrial evidentiary hearing, rather than on the state to prove beyond a reasonable
doubt that the defendants use of force was not justified, is consistent with this courts precedent and gives effect to the
legislative intent, said the majority opinion, which was joined by Chief Justice Jorge Labarga and justices Peggy Quince
and James E.C. Perry.
Justice R. Fred Lewis concurred in the outcome, though he did not sign on to the majority opinion.
In a dissenting opinion, Justice Charles Canady wrote that the majority ruling substantially curtails the benefit of the
immunity from trial conferred by the Legislature under the Stand Your Ground law.
The factual question raised by the assertion of Stand Your Ground immunity in a pretrial evidentiary hearing is the same
as the factual question raised by a Stand Your Ground defense presented at trial: whether the evidence establishes beyond
a reasonable doubt that the defendants conduct was not justified under the governing statutory standard, Canady wrote
in the dissent, which was joined by Justice Ricky Polston.
The ruling came in a case that started in 2011 with a dispute on Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in Osceola County. Jared
Bretherick, a tourist from Indiana, was a backseat passenger in a vehicle driven by his father that was almost side-swiped
by a truck, according to a summary in the Supreme Court opinion.
The driver of the truck, identified in court documents as Derek Dunning, then abruptly stopped in front of the Bretherick
vehicle. Dunning, who was unarmed, got out of his truck and approached the vehicle. Brethericks father held up a holstered
gun, which led Dunning to return to his truck.
Bretherick subsequently got out of the vehicle and approached the truck while pointing the handgun at Dunning, the court
opinion said. He later went back to the familys vehicle and continued pointing the gun at Dunning. Police arrived after
receiving 911 calls, and Bretherick was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm.

After an evidentiary hearing, a circuit judge ruled that Bretherick was not entitled to immunity from prosecution under the
stand your ground law. The judge pointed to Dunnings retreat to his truck after Brethericks father showed the handgun,
ruling that the threat was no longer imminent, and in fact, the possible volatile situation had been diffused. The defendants
subjective fear was no longer reasonable.
The National Rifle Association and another gun-rights group, Florida Carry Inc. filed briefs in the Supreme Court supporting
Bretherick. But the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association backed the states position on the burden-of-proof issue.
SESSION SET FOR AUGUST TO REDRAW CONGRESSIONAL LINES
August will be back-to-Tallahassee time for state lawmakers.
Senate President Andy Gardiner and House Speaker Steve Crisafulli sent a joint memo to lawmakers Monday announcing
that a court-ordered special session to redraw eight of the states 27 congressional districts will begin Aug. 10 and run until
Aug. 21 or until the completion of the new map.
Gardiner, R-Orlando, and Crisafulli R-Merritt Island, also directed staff from the new House Select Committee on Redistricting
and the new Senate Committee on Reapportionment to work with legislative attorneys to initially draft a base map that
complies with a July 9 ruling from the state Supreme Court.
This map proposal will be drafted solely by staff in collaboration with counsel, without our participation or the participation
of any other member, and will be provided simultaneously to all members and the public prior to the convening of the special
session, Gardiner and Crisafulli wrote. We believe that presenting a base map that follows the Supreme Court order to you
and the public will make it easier to discuss all legislative actions in an open and transparent manner.
The court ruled that the districts first approved in 2012 as part of the once-a-decade redistricting process were corrupted by
the efforts of Republican political consultants --- violating an anti-gerrymandering Fair Districts constitutional amendment
voters approved in 2010.
Gardiner and Crisafulli added that they have instructed staff to avoid the political implications of the new lines, except where
legally required to comply with state and federal minority voting-rights provisions, and to report any House and Senate
members who make suggestions for the map that could benefit an incumbent or political party.
That portion of the memo was met with skepticism by Democrats, as state party spokesman Max Steele sarcastically tweeted,
I know we said it last time. And then the time before that. And also the time before that. But for real this time.
The court ruling directly impacted the congressional districts of Democrats Corrine Brown, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel and
Kathy Castor and Republicans David Jolly, Mario Diaz-Balart, Carlos Curbelo and Ileana Ros-Lethinen.
Any changes will also impact neighboring districts.
Brown, who has threatened to legally challenge the court ruling and who headed a group of Floridas congressional delegation
members in a failed request last week for statewide hearings on the proposed lines, remains opposed to the call for a special
session, spokesman David Simon said Monday.
Simon added that Brown continues to stand behind her July 9 comments, released after the courts ruling, in which she
argued that the ruling fails to take into consideration the rights of minority voters.
Last year, Leon County Circuit Judge Terry Lewis invalidated districts represented by Brown and Republican Daniel Webster.
State lawmakers then redrew those lines with limited impact on other congressional seats.
But voting-rights groups challenged the redrawn lines at the Supreme Court, which required the more-sweeping changes.
The staff-generated congressional base map is expected to be presented during a joint meeting of the two legislative
committees on Aug. 11, the second day of the special session, according to the Gardiner and Crisafulli.
Rep. Jose Oliva, R-Miami Lakes, was named by Crisafulli to chair the 13-member House committee overseeing the new
congressional map.
Gardiner appointed Senate Majority Leader Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, to chair the chambers seven-member reapportionment
committee.
Sen. Rob Bradley, a Fleming Island Republican also tapped for the reapportionment committee, said it will follow the court
ruling.
I look forward to receiving a proposal, and I know that the committee looks forward to receiving a proposal from professional
staff, Bradley said. That proposed map is going to be free of any taint or any political influence.
In the memo, Gardiner and Crisafulli advised lawmakers who intend to file their own redistricting bills, or even amendments
to the map, to be prepared to detail every aspect of the map --- from the people involved and the criteria used by the map
drawers to the impact on minorities.
This is the second time that state lawmakers will be trekking back to the Capitol since the regular legislative session ended in
May.

In June, the Legislature had to reconvene for a special budget session sparked by a bitter fight within the GOP over how to
handle health-care spending.
NHTSA 2013 Motorcycle Safety Facts Report
Hey Everyone,NHTSA recently released their 2013 Motorcycle safety Facts Report. I have extracted the main points but like
we have know for a while the two biggest things that YOU can do to increase YOUR safety is NEVER drink and ride and
dont drive faster than the road, weather, and YOUR skills allow.
Key Findings

In 2013, 4,668 motorcyclists were killeda 6-percent decrease from the 4,986 motorcyclists killed in 2012.

There were an estimated 88,000 motorcyclists injured during 2013, a 5-percent decrease from 93,000 motorcyclist
injured in 2012.

Per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclist fatalities occurred 26 times more frequently than passenger car
occupant fatalities in traffic crashes.

Twenty-five percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2013 were riding their vehicles without
valid motorcycle licenses.

In 2013, motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were found to have the highest percentage of alcoholimpaired drivers than any other vehicle type (27% for motorcycles, 23% for passenger cars, 21% for light
trucks, and 2% for large trucks).

Forty percent of motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2013 were alcohol-impaired.
Motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes at night were almost four times more frequently alcohol-impaired
than those killed during the day.

NHTSA estimates that helmets saved 1,630 motorcyclists lives in 2013, and that 715 more could have been
saved if all motorcyclists had worn helmets.

In States without universal helmet laws, 59 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2013 were not wearing helmets,
as compared to 8 percent in States with universal helmet laws.
Registration
Motorcycles made up 3 percent of all registered vehicles in the United States in 2013 and accounted for only 0.7 percent of
all vehicle miles traveled. Per registered vehicle, the fatality rate for motorcyclists in 2013 was 6 times the fatality rate for
passenger car occupants. The injury rate for motorcyclists (1,052) was slightly higher than the injury rate for passenger car
occupants (1,005). Per vehicle mile traveled in 2013, motorcyclist fatalities occurred 26 times more frequently than passenger
car occupant fatalities in motor vehicle traffic crashes, and motorcyclists were nearly 5 times more likely to be injured
Crash Involvement
Data shows in 2013 that the most harmful event for 2,448 (51%) of the 4,774 motorcycles involved in fatal crashes was a
collision with a motor vehicle in transport.
In two-vehicle crashes, 74 percent of the motorcycles involved in motor vehicle traffic crashes were frontal collisions. Only
6 percent were struck in the rear.
Motorcycles are more frequently involved in fatal collisions with fixed objects than other vehicles. In 2013, 22 percent of the
motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with fixed objects, compared to 18 percent for passenger cars, 14 percent for
light trucks, and 4 percent for large trucks.
In 2013, there were 2,182 two-vehicle fatal crashes involving a motorcycle and another type of vehicle. In 42 percent (922)
of these crashes, the other vehicles were turning left while the motorcycles were going straight, passing, or overtaking other
vehicles. Both vehicles were going straight in 456 crashes (21%).
Speeding
NHTSA considers a crash to be speeding-related if the driver was charged with a speeding-related offense or if an investigating
police officer indicated that racing, driving too fast for conditions, or exceeding the posted speed limit was a contributing
factor in the crash. In 2013, 34 percent of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 21
percent for passenger car drivers, 18 percent for light-truck drivers, and 8 percent for large-truck drivers.
Age
From 2004 to 2013, motorcyclist fatalities increased by 16 percent. The 40-and-older age group made up 46 percent of
motorcyclist killed in 2004 as compared to 55 percent of the motorcyclist killed in 2013. Over the 10-year period from
20042013, fatalities among the 40-and-older age group increased by 39 percent (from 1,854 to 2,580). In 2004, the average

age of motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes was 38, whereas in 2013 the average age was 42.
Data further shows that in 2004 about 52 percent of motorcyclists were killed during weekends (6 p.m. Friday to 5:59 a.m.
Monday). However, in 2013 the majority of motorcyclist were killed during the weekdays (6 a.m. Monday to 5:59 p.m.
Friday).
Motorcycle Engine Size
Twenty-eight percent of motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2013 were riding motorcycles with engine
sizes from 1,001 to 1,500 cubic centimeters (cc), down from 38 percent in 2004. In 2013, 17 percent of rider fatalities were
while riding motorcycles with engine sizes of 1,501cc or higher, up from just 3 percent in 2004.
Overall, the total number of rider fatalities increased 18 percent over the past decade from 3,713 in 2004 to 4,399 in 2013.
The number of rider fatalities on motorcycles with engine sizes of 1,000cc or less showed an increase of 12 percent during
this time period. Rider fatalities on motorcycles with engine sizes between 1,001 and 1,500cc decreased by 12 percent (from
1,415 to 1,239), while the number of riders on motorcycles 1,501cc or higher increased by over 500 percent (from 122 to
738).
Licensing and Previous Driving Records
Twenty-five percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2013 were riding their vehicles without valid motorcycle
licenses at the time of the collisions, while only 13 percent of passenger vehicle drivers in fatal crashes did not have valid
licenses. A valid motorcycle license includes a rider having a valid driver license (Non-CDL License Status) with a motorcycle
endorsement or motorcycle-only license.
Motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were 1.2 times more frequently than passenger vehicle drivers to have previous
license suspensions or revocations (17.9% and 14.7%, respectively).
Motorcycle riders had the highest percentage of drivers with previous driving convictions (driving while impaired (DWI),
speeding, and revocation) as compared to other vehicle drivers.
Alcohol
Drinking and driving has always been a concern. In 2013, there were 4,399 motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic
crashes. Of those, 1,232 (28%) were alcohol-impaired (BAC of .08 or higher). In addition, there were 305 (7%) fatally injured
motorcycle riders who had lower alcohol levels (BACs of .01 to .07 g/dL).
In fatal crashes in 2013, motorcycle riders involved (killed and survived) in fatal crashes had higher percentages of alcohol
impairment than any other type of motor vehicle driver (27% for motorcycle riders, 23% for passenger car drivers, 21% for
light-truck drivers, and 2% for drivers of large trucks).
The highest percentages of fatally injured, alcohol-impaired motorcycle riders were in the 40-to-44 and 45-to-49 age groups
(40%), followed by the 35-to-39 age group (33%).
40 percent of the 1,897 motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2013 were alcohol impaired. Sixty-three
percent of those killed in single-vehicle crashes on weekend nights were alcohol impaired.
Motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes at night were almost 4 times more frequently found to be alcohol-impaired than
those killed during the day (46% and 12%, respectively).
The reported helmet use rate for alcohol-impaired motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes was 46 percent as compared to
66 percent for those with no alcohol (BAC=.00 g/dL).
Helmet Use and Effectiveness
NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,630 motorcyclists in 2013. If all motorcyclists had worn helmets, an
additional 715 lives could have been saved.
Helmets are estimated to be 37-percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders and 41 percent for motorcycle
passengers. In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing helmets, 37 of them could
have been saved had all 100 worn helmets.
According to results from the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), the overall rate of DOT-compliant
motorcycle helmet use in the United States was 60 percent in 2013. Helmet use continued to be significantly higher in States
that required all motorcyclists to be helmeted than in other States (see Motorcycle Helmet Use in 2013Overall Results,
DOT HS 812 010, available at www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/812010.pdf).
Reported helmet use rates for fatally injured motorcyclists in 2013 were 60 percent for riders and 49 percent for passengers,
compared with 59 percent and 48 percent, respectively, in 2012. Conversely, 41 percent of the 4,668 motorcyclists killed
in motor vehicle traffic crashes were not helmeted. Table 7 shows that these percentages ranged from a high of 93 percent
(Maine) to a low of 0 percent (District of Columbia).
All motorcycle helmets sold in the United States are required to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, the
performance standard which establishes the minimum level of protection for helmets designed for use by motorcyclists.

In 2013, 19 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico that required helmet use by all motorcyclists.
In 28 States, helmet use was required for only a subset of motorcyclists (typically, motorcyclists under age 18), and 3 States
(Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire) did not require helmet use for motorcyclists of any age. The most current information
on helmet use laws is available on the GHSA Web site at www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/ laws/helmet_laws.html.
In States without universal helmet laws, 59 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2013 were not wearing helmets, as compared
to 8 percent in States with universal helmet laws.
WASHINGTON WEEKLY UPDATES - JULY 24, 2015
From Jeff Hennie -Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs
Senate Highway Bill Would End Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints
This week the Senate Commerce Science Transportation Committee passed a six-year highway bill. The bill, slated to go
to the Senate floor next week, was voted out of committee by a party line vote of 13-11. The best part is that the language
to end federal funding of motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints is in the bill, and its because of the joint work of the
Motorcycle Riders Foundation membership and of state motorcycle rights organizations that the language is included. This
issue was the number-one priority at this years Bikers Inside the Beltway, and the hard work has paid off. The Motorcycle
Riders Foundation and I personally thank every one who attended Bikers Inside the Beltway, made a separate lobby trip,
or contacted their elected officials in one way or another about this important issue to the motorcyclists of this country.
The specific language reads:
SEC. 4121. SHORT TITLE.
This part may be cited as the ``Stop Motorcycle Checkpoint Funding Act.
SEC. 4122. GRANT RESTRICTION.
Notwithstanding section 153 of title 23, United States Code, the
Secretary may not provide a grant or any funds to a State, county,
town, township, Indian tribe, municipality, or other
local government
that may be used for any program
(1) to check helmet usage; or
(2) to create checkpoints that specifically target
motorcycle operators or motorcycle passengers.
Its terrific that the Senate is working towards a long
term, six-year highway bill, but the funding portion
of the bill remains stymied. With over $90 billion left
to come up with, progress has been slow. The obvious
solution of a small increase in the road user fee, or
of gas tax, has been a non-starter for most members
of Congress. The House of Representatives has yet
to unveil its intentions for a long-term bill. Current
funding expires at the end of July, and with no real
solutions, another extension is imminent. House Ways
and Means Chairman, Paul Ryan (R-WI) has vowed
to fund a long-term bill but has yet to announce any
formal plans to do so.

Dear Fellow Abate Members...

A Character or Having Character?
Many times in motorcycling circles we meet a lot of characters. Perhaps, it is
one of the things that we have enjoyed about motorcycling all these years. Some
characters have their serious side, some have a funny side, some look like and
act like no other person we have ever met, and some we just have no comment
about! Some appear on the scene suddenly and they leave just as quickly. Some
seem bigger than life, out of the ordinary, attention seekers, and the type of
person that you will not forget in the near future. For the time we know them,
they will either make a positive, neutral, or a negative influence on our lives.
Many times the thing that attracts us to these people is not the superficial
character on the outside. But, the genuine character on the inside When we
get to know a persons character, then we really begin to know who that person really is.
A number of years ago, you may recall a television network stating, We are looking for characters. May we respond, that
God is looking for people with character! He is looking for those who are willing to accept and have accepted/taken into
their hearts, all of Him.
When you become a believer, a real character moves into you. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) says: Do you not know that
your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;
you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.
The Holy Spirit has character and characteristics. The Holy Spirit is God, our Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (NIV), Now
the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as
in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit
of the Lord. Acts 5:3-4 says that if you have lied to the Holy Spirit, you have lied to God. John 14:26 says He is our teacher.
Ephesians 4:30 says He has feelings and is emotional, do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God.
In our lives, our conscience has been replaced by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. It is that voice within us that guides our
decision making with all that we have to encounter. When we dont listen, thats when things go badly, as we have stepped
out of Gods will and provisions.
We can still ride motorcycles and have the Lord within our beings! How much more alive are all our activities!
Please pray, Dear God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, my heavenly Father, the God of Jesus, I confess that I
am a sinner and have been separated from You. I am going to stop running from You. I ask forgiveness of my sins. I
repent and accept this gift of repentance and I wish to be free in You. I confess with my mouth that your son Jesus is
my savior and died for me. I believe in my heart that You raised Him from the dead. I receive Jesus into my heart and
ask Him to become the center of my life. I ask, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
If you prayed that prayer for the first time, and you mean it, you really have accepted Him into your heart, please let us
know.
Blessings,
Pastor Tom (SW ABATE Chaplain and Life Member and Estero River ABATE Life Member) and Pastor Kathy (SW
ABATE Life Member) - 239-267-8641 or email: tprovenz@comcast.net

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

GENERAL MEETING
@ Jerseys Sports Cafe 7/19/2015
CALLED TO ORDER @ 10:35 am

Anyone besides secretary taking notes? No.

Please silence cell phones.
Salute flag/Pledge & Moment of silence for the fallen
Welcome guest and new members,
PRESIDENTS REPORT: SHAYNE HANLEY
1. I want to thank the outgoing board for the great job they did last year.
2. I also want to thank Gwynne and Victor for standing in as the Treasurer and Vice President until they get back.
3. Gwynne has volunteered to be our PR person again this year. All those in favor? Accepted. Thank you Gwynne.
4. Due to personal reasons, Jim will not be able to do Membership. Victor will do until we can find another person. Anyone
interested please let us know.
5. I am also looking for a Products person. Anyone one interested contact me.
6. At our next meeting our Vice President and Treasurer will be back and we will be discussing some plans for the year.
VICE PRESIDENT: MOE MOSER / VICTOR PIORKOWSKI (standing in)
1. At the seminars, Doc came down on everyone about using email list for fun rides. Our email lists are corporation and can not
be used for personal rides/events. This stems from the law suit that is currently going on.
SECRETARYS REPORT: LAURIE HANLEY
1. Motion to accept Junes minutes as written made by Gwynne, and 2nd by Frankie.
All in favor. Accepted
TREASURER REPORT: GWYNNE HICKMAN
1. Motion to accept report as given by Frankie and 2nd by Charlie.
All in favor. Accepted
SERGEANT AT ARMS: ROBB RABELL
1. I want to thank eveyone for the oppertunity to be part of the board again.
MEMBERSHIP: VICTOR PIORKOWSKI
1 new member
LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: FRANK KENNEDY
1. Report in the newsletter.
SAFETY: VICTOR PIORKOWSKI
1. In August the schools start back up. I have three schools and am hoping to get more. If anyone is interested in helping out
with the MSAP classes please contact me. Also if there is anyone interested in getting MSAP certified contact me.
2. One of the things I plan on getting out to everyone is hands signals instruction. Many people do not know the hand signals.
OLD/NEW BUSINESS
1. We still have tickets for the Abate Of Florida, Inc. $10,000 cash drawing. If anyone wants any tickets, get ahold of Shayne by
phone or email and we will get them to you.
2. Avon Park still looking for volunteers. Sign up sheet in the newsletter.
Motion to Adjourn by Carl and 2nd by Charlie
All in favor
Adjourned 11:30am

AVON PARK AUTUMN BIKEFEST OCT 2-4, 2015

AREA ACCOMMODATIONS

MOOSE LODGE (Tents & RVs, no hookups)

1318 W Bell St Avon Park, FL 33825
Call Grizz 352-742-7754 $10 per person per nite, generators welcome, Community fire, Tiki Bar, Lodge has ONE show-

er, & bathrooms, plus portolets, Lodge will serve brkfst, lunch &
dinner & will have bands after 9pm 1.6 miles from downtown

REEDS MOTEL
102 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825
863-657-2749
www.reedsmotelfl.com
2 doubles $59.99 per night plus tax
1.5 miles from downtown
OAK TREE INN
700 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825
863-453-3165
www.oaktreeinn.biz
2 doubles $65 per night plus tax
1.6 miles from downtown
ECONO LODGE
2511 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825
863-453-2000
2 doubles $67 per night plus tax
3.3 miles from downtown
QUALITY INN
6525 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33870
863-385-4500
2 doubles $55 OR $65 per night plus tax
5.4 miles from downtown
LAKE GLENADA RV PARK (full hookups)
2525 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825
863-453-7007
$35 per night plus tax
3.6 miles from downtown
HUNNEWELLSS COTTAGES ON LAKE BRENTWOOD
2060 US Hwy 27 N, Avon Park, FL 33825
863-453-4358 www.hunnewellscottages.com
2 doubles $64.99 OR $74.99 per night plus tax
3.4 miles from downtown

ABATE of Florida Safety and Education, Inc.

presents

Autumnsponsored
Bike
Fest
by
AID TO INJURED MOTORCYCLISTS

October 2, 3, 4, 2015

Bik&er
Family

Live Bands
Fri & Sat
Camping

Beer
Garden

Vendors

Activities

&

Food

Thurs-Sun

Contact

941-613-1232

flsunbum@juno.com

ABATE of Florida Safety and Education Inc. does not condone drinking and riding.
ABATE of Florida Safety and Education, Inc is a registered 501(c)3 FL corporation.
Donations are deductible for Federal Income tax purposes,

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(239) 573-9990

FLORIDAS LEE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION

The Honorable Matt Caldwell, Chair, District 79
T. Wayne Miller Jr. Building, 15191 Homestead Road, Lehigh Acres Fl 33971.
(239) 694-0161. HYPERLINK mailto:Matt.Caldwell@myfloridahouse.gov Matt.Caldwell@myfloridahouse.gov.
Legislative Assistant: Charlotte Codie. District Assistant: Priscilla Bezerra.
Tallahassee Office: 402 House Office Building, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5079.
The Honorable Lizbeth Benacquisto, Vice Chair, District 30
1926 Victoria Avenue, 2nd Floor, Fort Myers, Fl 33901
(239) 338-2570. HYPERLINK mailto:Benacquisto.Lizbeth.web@flsenate.gov Benacquisto.Lizbeth.web@flsenate.gov.
Legislative Assistant: Matthew Hunter, Dane Bennett, Tamara Holliday.
Tallahassee Office: 330 Senate Office Building, 404 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850)487-5030.
The Honorable Garrett Richter, District 23
32999 East Tamaimi Trail, Suite 203, Naples, Fl 34112.
(239) 417-6205. HYPERLINK mailto:Richter.Garrett.web@flsenate.gov Richter.Garrett.web@flsenate.gov.
Legislative Assistant: Becky Kokkinos, Michael Nachef, Sandra Mummert.
Tallahassee Office: 404 Senate Office Building, 404 South Monroe Street. Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 487-5023.
The Honorable Dane Eagle, District 77
1039 SE 9th Place, Room 310, Cape Coral, Fl 33990.
(239) 772-1291. HYPERLINK mailto:Dane.Eagle@myfloridahouse.gov Dane.Eagle@myfloridahouse.gov.
Legislative Assistant: Paige Biagi. District Assistant: Kelsey Gorry.
Tallahassee Office: 1302 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5077.
The Honorable Heather Fitzenhagen, District 78
2120 Main Street, Suite 208, Fort Myers, Fl 33901.
(239) 533-2440. HYPERLINK mailto:Heather.Fitzenhagen@myfloridahouse.gov Heather.Fitzenhagen@myfloridahouse.gov.
Legislative Assistant: Edward Metzger. District Assistant: Allison Hopkins.
Tallahassee Office: 1302 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5078.
The Honorable Ray Rodrigues, District 76
Alico Lake Commons, 17595 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 218, Fort Myers, Fl 33908.
(239) 433-6501. HYPERLINK mailto:Ray.Rodrigues@myfloridahouse.gov Ray.Rodrigues@myfloridahouse.gov.
Legislative Assistant: James Mullen. District Assistant: Jasmine Villanueva.
Tallahassee Office: 1302 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5076.
Lee County Delegation Office: (239) 694-0161.
T. Wayne Miller Building, 15191 Homestead Road, Lehigh Acres, Fl 33971.
Lee County Manager: Roger Desjarlais
P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902. Ph: (239) 533-2221.
Email: HYPERLINK mailto:rdesjarlais@leegov.com rdesjarlais@leegov.com.
Lee County Board of County Commissioners
Dist. 4, Brian Hamman, Chairman.
Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901.
Cape Coral Office: Lee County Government Center, 1039 S.E. 9th Place, 3rd Floor, Room 309, Cape Coral, Fl 33990.
(Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2226. Email: HYPERLINK mailto:dist4@leegov.com dist4@leegov.com.
Dist. 5, Frank Mann, Vice Chairman.
Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901.
(Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2225.
Email: HYPERLINK mailto:dist4@leegov.com dist5@leegov.com. Executive Assistant: Chris Berry.
Dist. 1, John Manning.
Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901.
Cape Coral Office: Lee County Government Center, 1039 S.E. 9th Place, 3rd Floor, Room 309, Cape Coral, Fl 33990. (Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 339020398.) Ph: (239) 533-2224. Email: HYPERLINK mailto:dist4@leegov.com dist1@leegov.com.
Executive Assistant: Stacey Rohland.
Dist. 2, Cecil Pendergrass.
Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901.
(Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2227.
Email: HYPERLINK mailto:dist4@leegov.com dist2@leegov.com. Executive Assistant: Christine Deramo.
Dist. 3, Larry Kiker.
Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901.
(Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2223.
Email: HYPERLINK mailto:dist4@leegov.com dist3@leegov.com. Executive Assistant: Antionette Johnson.
Office of Governor Rick Scott
State of Florida, The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-0001.
(850) 488-7146. HYPERLINK http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor
www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor.

Delegation Continued
Office of Lt. Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera
State of Florida, The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-0001.
(850) 488-4711. HYPERLINK http://www.flgov.com/email-the-lt-governor www.flgov.com/email-the-lt-governor.
Florida Senate web site: HYPERLINK http://www.flsenate.gov www.flsenate.gov.
Office of Senate President Andy Gardiner
404 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-1100. (850) 487-5229.
HYPERLINK http://www.flsenate.gov/Offices/President www.flsenate.gov/Offices/President. Chief of Staff: Reynold Meyer.
Florida House of Representatives web site: HYPERLINK http://www.myfloridahouse.gov www.myfloridahouse.gov.
Office of Speaker of the House Steve Crisafulli
402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-1300.
(850) 717-5051. HYPERLINK mailto:Will.Weatherford@myfloridahouse.gov Steve.Crisafulli@myfloridahouse.gov.
Legislative Assistant: Ashley Guinn.
White House web site: HYPERLINK http://www.whitehouse.gov www.whitehouse.gov.
Office of the President of the United States of America Barack Obama
The White house, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20500.
Comments: (202) 456-1111. Switchboard: (202) 456-1414.
NOTE: You can write to President Obama or Vice President Joe Biden at the above address. Due to the volume of correspondence the Whitehouse does not
respond to every letter or email. However, your correspondence may be referred to another government agency for a response.
President: mailto:president@whitehouse.gov president@whitehouse.gov.
Vice President: HYPERLINK mailto:vice_president@whitehouse.gov vice_president@whitehouse.gov.
Comments: HYPERLINK mailto:comments@whitehouse.gov comments@whitehouse.gov.
Write a letter to the President
Here are a few simple things you can do to make sure your message gets to the White House as quickly as possible.
1. If possible, email us! This is the fastest way to get your message to President Obama or Vice President Biden.
2. If you write a letter, please consider typing it on an 8 1/2 by 11 inch sheet of paper. If you hand-write your letter, please consider using pen and writing as neatly
as possible.
3. Please include your return address on your letter as well as your envelope. If you have an email address, please consider including that as well.
4. And finally, be sure to include the full address of the White House to make sure your message gets to us as quickly and directly as possible:
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500
United States Senate web site: HYPERLINK http://www.senate.gov www.senate.gov.
United States Senate President: Vice President Joe Biden
United States Senate President Pro Tempore: Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.
437 Russell Senate Building, United States Senate, Washington, D.C. 20510.
(202) 224-4242. HYPERLINK http://www.leahy.senate.gov/contact www.leahy.senate.gov/contact.
U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, D-FL
716 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-5274 Contact: HYPERLINK http://www.billnelson.senate.gov/contact-bill www.billnelson.senate.gov/contact-bill.
Fort Myers Office: 2000 Main Street, Suite 801, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
Phone: 239-334-7760. Fax: 239-334-7710.
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, (R-FL)
284 Russell Senate Office Building Washington DC 20510
(202) 224-3041.Contact: HYPERLINK http://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact.
United States House of Representatives web site: HYPERLINK http://www.house.gov www.house.gov
U.S. House Speaker: Rep. John Boehner, R, Oh-8
Office of the Speaker, H-232, The Capitol, Washington, D.C. 20515.
Ph: (202) 225-0600, (202) 225-6205. HYPERLINK http://www.speaker.gov/contact www.speaker.gov/contact.
U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney, R, FL-17
Washington DC Office:221 Cannon HOB, Washington, DC 20515
(202) 225-5792, Fax: (202) 225-3132
Punta Gorda Office: 226 Taylor Street, Suite 230, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 575-9101, Fax: (941) 575-9103
Contact Congressman Rooney: HYPERLINK https://rooney.house.gov/contact https://rooney.house.gov/contact.
U.S. Rep. Curt Clawson, R, Fl-19
Washington DC Office: 1123 Longworth HOB, Washington, D.C. 2051
(202) 225-2536.
Cape Coral District Office:804 Nicholas Pkwy, East, Suite 1, Cape Coral, Fl. 33990
(239) 573-5837.
Contact Congressman Clawson:
HYPERLINK https://clawson.house.gov/contact https://clawson.house.gov/contact.

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