ABATE of Florida, Inc.

~ Southwest Chapter
Volume XLVI, Issue V

DECEMBER 2011

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Presidents Message Events NCOM Bytes Minutes Membership Report Calendar Legislative Report

STATE MEETING DEC. 10TH

TREASURE COAST CHAPTER

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
SEE PAGE 23 FOR FLYER

ABATEof Florida, Inc.

PO BOX 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906

Southwest Chapter

southwest.abateflorida.com MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Name Mailing Address: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

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

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

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

Name of Chapter you wish to join _________________________________________________

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

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

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. MISSION STATEMENT

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

Southwest Chapter Meeting Schedule January 22nd, 2012 @ 10 a.m. @ Anthonys 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: DECEMBER 2011
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter

BE SUBMITTED BY THE

Wayne Cerra (cell) 239 989.3349

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

http://southwest.abateflorida.com/

PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906

Presidents Message

Presidents message: Hello Everyone. This past month has been hectic. So much going on and coming up. Our last chapter meeting went very well and I want to thank Rep Trudy Williams and Darrin Brooks for speaking. Dec 4th the Hot Rods and Hogs event went off without a hitch with a great crowd and plenty to see. I want to thank so many people who helped out but my special thanks goes out to Big Jim Gladstone and his chapter, West Coast for putting on the biker rodeo. Also, thank you to Estero River chapter for coming out to help man the ABATE booth with Southwest members, and it wouldnt have been possible if not for the undying efforts of Tony Allen who put on one hell of an event, thank you Tony and the crew. This coming weekend Frankie and I will be attending the State meeting in Palm Bay hosted by the Treasure Coast Chapter. December 18th is fast approaching and our Christmas ride is pulling together. I look forSOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ward to seeing a sea ABATE OF FLORIDA,day PG. 4 of bikes that INC. but most of all, the faces of the Veterans who we Until the next time, Ride Safe will ride for this day. Please come out and Wayne Cerra, President support this run any way you can.

We have picked up some new and renewing advertisers this month as well as many new members and I want to thank everyone for their support for the Southwest Chapter John Ottervanger, owner of Pirate Coast Cycles has stepped up and is now the place to go when you have a craving for a new Southwest Chapter t shirt or a place to sign up a new member. Thank you John for all your support. Did you know John will pick up your bike for free if you live in the Cape and need work done? Did you know he does free tire mounting when you buy a tire from him? Stop by and support Pirate Coast Cycles where you can get an oil change, luggage bags, t-shirts and accessories and even a new bike for yourself or a place where you can put your bike up for consignment. Southwest Chapter is growing and heading in the right direction. If you have any suggestions, concerns or just want to be heard, we hold monthly Board meetings every 2nd Wednesday of the month, 8 pm at Victory Lane Caf. If you would like to be heard, give Scott Turner, Secretary, a call or send him an e-mail to be put on the agenda. (See Officers list in this newsletter for contact info)

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 Rob Big Bird Cran 239.997.2852 Vendor Wayne Cerra 239.541.8879 Photographer Taylor ATM Musburger 239.334.1620 Events Wayne Cerra 239.541.8879 Chapter Chaplain Tom Provenzano 239.267.8641 Road Captain Bob Burn Out Bob Penn 239.573.6487 Road Captain Vic Piorkowski 239.823.6159 president@southwestabateflorida.com crspenn88@yahoo.com scott@turnerteamfl.com swflabfc@aol.com crspenn88@yahoo.com CTCracker@aol.com president@southwestabateflorida.com tehi@comcast.net km_13219@yahoo.com babsie67@comcast.net kwcoon1@aol.com tehi@comcast.net swchief2000@yahoo.com ABATE@Musburger.net robertkcran@yahoo.com tehi@comcast.net ABATE@Musburger.net tehi@comcast.net tprovenz@comcast.net crspenn88@yahoo.com pior10@yahoo.com

HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MRO* Chapter Meetings held at Anthonys 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

DEAR FELLOW ABATE MEMBERS

Thinking of the Holidays and that Perfect Gift ?
Both of us love to ride. And, we ride together as much as possible. Since we started riding together, two years after our marriage in 1974, we have always wondered what the perfect motorcycle would be for the both of us to ride and travel on, together. Every time we thought of it, planned it out, thought of the design, looked in catalogs and magazines, went to dealerships and custom shops, we would then think, "By the time we figure how much something like that would cost, wouldn't it be nice if someone gave us that perfect gift? We wouldn't have to pay for it. It would be ours to keep, forever!" As the Holiday season is upon us, we think of gifts; giving and receiving. There is no such thing in the natural world as the perfect gift. It may not fit. It may not be the right color. It may seem perfect at first. However, it may eventually wear out; require maintenance that over a period of time will cost more than what the giver paid for it. What we thought we needed may turn out to be more of a curse and a liability than the natural blessing that we first expected. The only perfect gift given to anyone in this world is the gift that God Himself gave to us about 2,000 years ago. The gift is Jesus! In order to obtain any gift, we figure it must have value, it must be accepted, and it must be received. When someone offers us "something for nothing," we will evaluate the motive of the giver before accepting it. Let's look at the last, first. What is God's motive? 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 God loves us so much, that He would not want to see any of us perish. What more could anyone ask of any father who truly loves his children? What about value? the kingdom of heaven is like unto treas-

ure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. - Matthew 13: 44 - 46 What about acceptance? Will you accept what God did by sending His son? For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit - 1 Peter 3:18 Will you now receive Him into your heart? That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. - Romans 10: 9 -13 Eventually, everything on this earth (including our motorcyclesL) will pass away. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: Matthew 6: 19 - 20 However, the gift of Jesus and eternal life will last forever. Receive Him now and have the most fulfilling Christmas that you could ever imagine! Please pray this prayer: "Dear God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, my heavenly Father, I confess that I am a sinner and have been separated from You. I ask forgiveness of my sins. I 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." Blessings,

Tom and Kathy

Pastor Tom (Estero River ABATE Life Member and Southwest Chapter Chaplain) and Pastor Kathy (SW ABATE Life Member - Foursquare Chaplain)- www.messiahsmessengers.org or tprovenz@comcast.net 239-267 -8641 Coming Up! Please begin to look for the fliers of two upcoming events. Biker Bible Caf - will be held in our home on December 2nd, starting at 7:30 PM. This will be our Christmas gathering and all bikers are invited. As we celebrate the greatest gift ever given to man (John 3:16), we will have a fun Chinese-style gift exchange, value under $10.00. You can bring something new , something used, or some "white elephant." There will be lots of seasonal treats to eat and drink! On January 22nd, we will host the 13th Annual Lee County Church Crash and Slow Race Championship of the Universe. The evening before will be the Run for Ribs.
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 7

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS

Keith Baker Darrell Barnett Denee Bartels Scott Blink Chet Butz James Burkholder Nora Burkholder Don Campbell Frances Cazes Wayne Cerra Jonathan Conant Terry Covington Audrey Cran Maggie Cran Rick Cran Rob Cran Robert Cruz Crusan Jim Crystal Ginny DAsti 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 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

THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by

legislatures plenary power. Sweeping special funds was a controversial Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the way to deal with budget deficits during the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and Blagojevich administration, and although is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Les- the courts ruling opens the door to more ter. If youve been involved in any kind of accident, such sweeps, current Illinois Governor Pat call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visi Quinn opposes fund sweeps and has worked www.ON-A-BIKE.com. to end the practice.
NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)

COURT ALLOWS RAID ON RIDER ED FUNDS The Illinois Supreme Court may have opened the door for states to reallocate hundreds of millions of dollars from dedicated funding to balance their budgets. In a recent 6-to-1 decision, the states high court upheld a prior circuit court ruling that backed the governor and Legislature's ability to take money from hundreds of special state funds to offset budgetary deficits, a practice commonly referred to as sweeping. Motorcycle riders sued former Gov. Rod Blagojevich after he swept $1.2 million from the Cycle Riders Safety Training Fund (CRSTF) to pay general state bills after a 2004 law passed by lawmakers allowed him to do so. A portion of the fee for an Illinois motorcycle license goes into the CRSTF, which ABATE of Illinois argued was only to be spent on motorcycle safety education. "Clearly, the fee charged by the state for motorcycle registration and licensing is state revenue, and therefore the portion of this state revenue which the General Assembly has allocated to the CRSTF is also public money," wrote Justice Anne Burke in the majority opinion. Burke rejected the ABATE lawyers argument that the special fund was tantamount to a special trust fund. The state Supreme Court concluded that the legislature cannot create an irrevocable trust with public money because this would SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE restraint upon the place an unconstitutionalOF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 12

MICHIGAN REQUESTS YOUR SUPPORT FOR HELMET FREEDOM Michigan may be on the verge of repealing their mandatory helmet law as Senate Bill 291 appears destined for the governors desk, and ABATE of Michigan has issued a Call to Action requesting the help of all motorcyclists in their freedom of choice efforts. SB291 passed the Michigan Senate 24-14 in late June, and is now back for a concurrence vote after passing the House 69-39 on Nov 2nd, so a favorable vote will put ABATEs hopes in the hands of Governor Rick Snyder who has not indicated whether he will sign or veto the measure. Two previous repeal bills were vetoed by then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Governor Snyder prides himself on being all about business and helping business, said Vince Consiglio, President of ABATE of MI, adding; A letter from a FREE State may help him realize Michigan loses motorcycle money every day of the summer with a mandatory helmet law. Under the bill, motorcyclists 21 and older would have the option of riding helmet-free if they have two years of experience or have taken a safety course, and if they buy at least $20,000 in medical insurance. Please urge Governor Snyder to support adult choice, requests Consiglio on behalf of ABATE, by contacting Governor Rick Snyder, State Capital, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, MI 48909 or call (517) 373-3400 or email Rick.Snyder@michigan.gov. ~Continued page 14

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

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

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

~ continued from page 12 BIKERS RALLY TO RESCIND UN-FAIR POLICY The State Fair of Louisiana, for a minute, mind you, adopted a discriminatory position toward bikers by posting signs that would not allow them to attend the fair in their traditional biker gear, some of which is protective gear, said Mary Baker in an article in the Examiner newspaper, adding that bikers everywhere contribute to charity in a way that not many other segments of the population do And, they definitely make an impact on the local community, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars at local establishments including restaurants, theaters, bars, parks, and small businesses. That is why it is disheartening to hear of discrimination based solely on appearance. Upon being alerted of the fairs new antibiker policy, Facebook exploded with messages like this: "ALERT/INFO: The State Fair of La. has adopted the policy: NO COLORS Signs are now being posted at all gates. NO BIKER COLORS of ANY KIND. Please pass this on to ALL BIKER friends and family. MC's are being Discriminated against. To Complain:::: Call State Fair of La. Let Your VOICES be heard.... Repost!!! Don't support the fair..." You can imagine that bikers, their friends and family were livid. They began to complain about the discrimination with phone calls to the Director of the State Fair, and his offices. The result: Before the end of the day, this message by the representative for Independent Riders, Northwest Louisiana, was posted on Facebook: "UPDATE...UPDATE...UPDATE... WE HAVE WON !!!!! Just received a call... And the State Fair of Louisiana has now changed their policy. THE SIGNS HAVE BEEN REMOVED AND ALL BIKERS ARE WELCOME AT THE FAIR !!!!!! Never, never, NEVER underestimate the power of a close knit FAMILY !!! Thanks to all who made

calls and helped !!!" Louisiana State COIR (Coalition Of Independent Riders) Commander Lionel Nite Train Bailey reported that the US Defenders and COIR conducted a phone campaign and not only have the Louisiana State Fair officials rescinded their No Colors policy, but even offered to organize a Bike Night to a Blue Oyster Cult concert. LAWMAKERS OVERRIDE GOVERNORS VETO OF RED LIGHT BILL The Illinois House voted 94-21 and the Senate voted 45-6 to override Gov. Pat Quinns veto of the Dead Red bill supported by ABATE of Illinois that would allow motorcyclists to proceed through malfunctioning red lights. As written, House Bill 2860 sponsored by Senator Gary Forby (D-Benton) and Representative Daniel Beiser (D-Alton), specifies that a motorcyclist would be permitted to legally run a red light "after a reasonable period of time," but Quinn vetoed the legislation with the request that a two minute wait time be amended to it. The law will now go into effect on January 1, 2012, and according to Sen. Forby; A measure I sponsored (HB 2860) will now become law after I was successful in overriding the governors amendatory veto. The bill allows motorcyclists to go through a red light if it fails to change to green because the switch hasnt been tripped, or didnt recognize the motorcycle. To alleviate a few of the concerns some of my colleagues raised, I introduced a "trailer bill" that requires motorcyclists to wait 120 seconds before proceeding through the red light. For those of us who have been stuck at a light without it ever changing to green, we know how reasonable this legislation is. This situation happens more than many people think and is a growing concern for bikers at outdated intersections. In fact, 360 rear end collisions occurred with motorcycles that were slowed or stopped in traffic in 2010. If bikers are

trapped at a light, this bill gives them an opportunity to safely proceed through that signal, because otherwise they don't really have much of a choice. 11 other states already have laws like this in place, none of which have tried to rescind it.

tive, and white rider outfits consistently made the riders more noticeable than a black outfit. Cars changing lanes without recognizing that a motorcycle is in that lane is a common experience for motorcyclists, and that topic is addressed in "Attending overtaking INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE cars and motorcycles through the mirrors SAFETY REPORTS RELEASED before changing lanes." Not surprisingly, the Headlight configurations that make motorresearchers found that "Risky maneuvers cycles more noticeable, why drivers fail to were less likely to occur in those cases where give way to motorcycles at T-intersections, more time was spent gazing at the mirrors." and how mirror use influences carOther reports in this issue address other momotorcycle conflicts are among the topics torcycle-related issues, and can be accessed researched and reported on in the new Januon a for-pay basis, but abstracts of the reary issue of Accident Analysis & Prevention ports are available on the journal's website at (AA&P), a journal primarily focused on www.journals.elsevier.com. causes and impacts of transportation accidents. MOTORCYCLISTS BEWARE: STATES The themed AA&P edition is titled "Safety WITH THE WORST DRIVERS and Mobility of Vulnerable Road Users: Pe- You might believe that your state has the destrians, Bicyclists, and Motorcyclists" and worst drivers in the country, but a newly reconsists of a selection of papers presented at leased report from Carinsurancecomparian international conference organized by Is- son.com ranked states according to their rael's National Road Safety Authority. safety record to determine where the bad In a report entitled "Recognizability of difdrivers live. ferent configurations of front lights on mo- Five factors were considered when determining the torcycles," the researchers say that "Results of rankings; fatalities per million miles traveled, a laboratory experiment have shown that drunken driving, the number of tickets issued, failmotorcycles with a T-shaped light configura- ure to obey traffic signals and carelessness, utilizing tion are more quickly identified, particularly data compiled from the National Highway and when the motorcycles are in visual competi- Transportation Safety Administration (driving fatalities), the National Motorist's Association (traffic tion with other motorized road users." In "Why do car drivers fail to give way to mo- tickets), and MADD (drunk drivers). torcycles at t-junctions?," researchers studied Here is their list of the 10 states with the worst drivers: differences between novice drivers, experi#10) South Carolina - Ranked 48th for fatalities enced drivers, and "dual drivers," i.e., drivers and 45th for obeying road signs. who also ride motorcycles. They found that #9) Alabama - 46th for tickets. 42nd for fatalities. dual drivers were better at recognizing mo41st for obeying road signs. torcycles than either of the other two #8) Montana - Highest ticket rate in the country. groups. While the results are inconclusive, Also ranked 40th for carelessness. the researchers state that "We argue that this #7) Kentucky - 42nd for carelessness and 48th for is potential evidence for an oculomotor basis drunk driving. #6) Arizona - Arizona ranked poorly across the for Look But Fail To See errors." The report "Attention and search conspicu- board. ity of motorcycles as a function of their vis- #5) Oklahoma - Lots of DUIs, fatal accidents, and ual context" says that multi-colored, reflectraffic tickets.

#4) Florida Not as many drunk drivers... But Florida has more tickets than any other state. #3) Texas - Texas ranked pretty poor in all categories. #2) Missouri - Ranked in the bottom 10 for carelessness and DUIs. #1) Louisiana - In the bottom 10 in all categories except failure to obey signs. The safest driving state was Rhode Island, followed by Connecticut, Massachusetts, Virginia, and New Hampshire. WEIRD NEWS: SPAIN FINES OVER HELMETLESS TOM HANKS POSTER The Spanish distributor for the movie Larry Crowne was fined for a poster showing stars Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts riding a motorcycle without a helmet. Tripictures was given a traffic fine of 30,000 euros ($41,500) for using the films U.S. poster to promote the movies overseas premiere because the government claimed it promoted reckless driving. The distributor initially thought the ticket was a joke, but in 1985 Spain instituted a law that banned advertisements from promoting reckless driving. Fines are also given to celebrities if they promote the image of poor driving. One example came last year, when singer Shakira drove through Barcelona on a motorcycle without a helmet in one of her music videos. QUOTABLE QUOTE: In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act." George Orwell (1903-1950) author of 1984

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 mike.gendronfuneralhome@msn.com

Gendron
FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES

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

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

MEETING MINUTES
Southwest Chapter Abate Meeting Minutes November 27th 2011 Held at Anthonys on the Boulevard
President - Wayne Cerra VP- (Burnout) Bob Penn Treasurer- Todd (KC) Burns Secretary- Scott Turner Sgt, at Arms- (Burnout) Bob Penn 31 Members 7 Visitor Meeting called to order at 10:21AM with Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. KC gave the invocation. PRESIDENTS REPORT: Wayne introduced our guest speaker Trudi Williams who is currently a member of the state house and running for state senate. Not sure what district since the state is going through a re-districting. Ms. Williams is a current member of Abate Southwest Chapter. Questions can be asked of Ms. William by calling 239-839-3892 or emailing trudikwilliams@yahoo.com Darrin Brooks (Scribes) our Abate State Legislative Board member was also in attendance. Wayne updated us on meetings he and other board members attended last month. They were Estero River and Caloosahatchees meeting as well as Meeting of the Minds. Update on the Christmas run to the Veterans home, media help is needed. cept minutes as written in newsletter. Babs made motion Keith Baker 2nd. Motion carried. TREASURERS REPORT: Todd KC Burns stated we have $399 in the bank. Please push advertising. Motion to accept by Babs Bardell 2nd Ray Walters, motion carried. SERGEANT-AT-ARMS REPORT: See VP Report MEMBERSHIP REPORT: Wayne Cerra acting Membership Chair reported chapter had highest percent of growth in state last month. We should also win that category for October. So far in November we have 11 new members. Please welcome Moe Moser, Lynn Davis, Charles Jr Robbi, William Enghl, Lester Wohlers, Tracy Davis, Edward Mix, Ray Walters, Elizabeth Dolan, Gene Cerra, Joe Cannizzaru, Wendy Mangina and Mike Sterling. LEGISLATIVE REPORT: Trudi Williams and Darrin Scribes Brooks spoke. State updates in newsletter. SAFETY: No report PRODUCTS: We have slowed up in sales, we must move current product before ordering long sleeve tees. Our shirts are also available at Pirate Coast Cycles. STATE DELEGATE: No Report. State meeting weekend of December 10th NEWSLETTER: No Report

OLD BUSINESS: Bike Tickets are sold out. NEW BUSINESS: We will have booth at the December 4th Hot Rods and Hogs, man power VICE PRESIDENTS REPORT: Bob gave a 5 needed to man. Southwest will man in AM and Star update and patches vs. pins were brought Estero River in the afternoon. up at the meeting to try and save money. Chap- 50/50: $57, winner Wayne Cerra, donated back to chapter. ter poll should most favored pins. December 18th 2011 we will be having a Christmas ride to the VA home in Punta Gorda. Help is needed with set up the morning of run at the Shell Factory. December 6th at 8:30am escort for The Wall to Marco will take place. All welcome. Good of the Order: Ride to Bokellia hour after meeting. Annually Church Crash ride coming up, flyer in newsletter. Time of Adjournment: Motioned @ 11:44am by Barbara Bardell second by John O.

SECRETARYS REPORT: Scott Turner asked all to sign in and then asked for motion to acSubmitted by Scott R Turner

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. PG. 19

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS ADVERTISERS AND SUPPORTERS OF OUR MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION

Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Florida, Inc.

Christmas Run Sunday, December 18th, 2011 Run to Veterans Home in Punta Gorda See Flyer on Page 6 See other Flyers throughout this newsletter

A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT AND THANKS TO OUR LOCAL EVENT PROMOTERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF OUR MRO
BIKE FOR SALE 239.849.9065 2007 SUZUKI 10,000 MILES .. $2,000 CONTACT: FRANKIE KENNEDY

Our Caring Circle

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

Burnout Bob and Marsha Penn 239.573.6487 Katie and Tom Ridderman

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

Membership Report
What a great month for membership. In November we had 14 new members and 2 transfers; New members are: Mike Sterling, Moe Moser, Lynne Davis, Paul Woytic, Charles JR Robb, Tracy Davis, William Clay Engh, Edward Mix, Lester Wohlers, Ray Walters, Elizabeth Dolan, Joe Cannizaro, Gene Cerra and Wendy Mangina Transferring members: Rick Vontoc from Estero River and James Bogie Bogenreider from Caloosahatchie $20 yearly membership gives you an automatic $4,000.00 accidental death and dismemberment policy We also have $150.00 life time memberships available.

ABATE of Florida Inc., Southwest Chapter CHAPTER MEETING Anthonys on the Blvd
Located at

January 22nd, 2012 10 a.m. at

1303 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, Florida
239.772.5900

Anthonys serves a buffet breakfast beginning at 8 am on Sundays southwest.abateflorida.com

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 21

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

December 2011
SOUTHWEST CHAPTER CHRISTMAS RUN DEC. 18TH
Sun Gator Alley Heritage HealthCare Run Page 16 4 HOT RODS AND HOGS SEE FLYER PAGE 30 5 Mon Tue Wed 1 Thu Fri 2 Biker Sat 3 ESTERO RIVER 9TH BDAY See Flyer Page 33 10 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. STATE MEETING 17

Southwest Chapter Christmas Run

DOUGLAS T JACOBSON VETERANS HOME

6 7 8 ESCORT Bike The Travelling Night at VIETNAM Victory Lane WALL To Marco 12 13 Bike Night at
THE JOINT

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A more meaningful life comes from acting on opportunities which are found when everyday life crosses paths with a prepared mind. - Kay Klyne
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Harley Davidson of Ft. Myers/Naples

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SOUTHWEST CHAPTER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. PG. 33

LEGISLATIVE REPORT DECEMBER2011

Good Morning Freedom Fighters: From ABATE of Florida, Inc. Darrin Scribe Brooks Hey everyone, I hope that you all had a great Thanksgiving! I am sending out this news report about the 4 new trauma centers to be opened because I feel that it is very important for us to be aware of them. The first couple of hours are VERY critical for someone that has been severely injured. The sooner that they can get to a trauma center, the better their odds of survival. It doesn't matter if it is from a crash on our bikes, cars, or whatever, getting to a trauma center is critical. As you know, ABATE of Florida, Inc. is represented on the Motorcycle Safety Coalition, other members include people from the Dept. of Health (DOH) and one of their leading trauma surgeons. One of the big goals of the DOH is to educate paramedics, LEO's, and regular ER staff to the type of trauma patients that need immediate evacuation to the nearest trauma center. Specifically, they are educating the first responders about motorcycle crashes and the need for quick and proper assessment and than evac to the proper medical setting. I have spoken to the DOH members and the trauma surgeon many times and they are very serious about getting motorcycle crash injuries seen as a very high priority. The trauma surgeon, who doesn't ride (yet), even took the recent computerized motorcycle safety coaching course with me. Even though it was a computer simulator, it was her first time straddling and operating a bike. She came away from that with a completely new respect for the dangers we face everyday. Here is the story... The DOH on Friday gave the go-ahead to trauma centers at Orange Park Medical Center in Clay County, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point in Pasco County, Blake Medical Center in Manatee County and Kendall Regional Medical Center in Miami-Dade County --all part of the HCA hospital chain. HCA last year announced a push to add trauma centers at hospitals in Florida. In a news release this week, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point touted the approval of its trauma center as the "next natural step in the evolution" of the hospital. "Having a trauma center here will mean faster treatment for trauma patients, which could be the difference between life and death and will satisfy a huge need in our community,'' Pam Schlicher, the hospital's vice president of emergency and trauma services, said in the release From Tallahassee: The Senate Transportation Committee approved a bill to crack down on abuse of disabled parking permits (SB 226), and one that makes it a second-degree felony to leave the scene of a car crash when someone is injured (SB 286). Gov. Rick Scott suggested Tuesday that he would be open to revisiting a Cabinet vote doing away with the automatic restoration of rights for felons. HOUSE CRIMINAL JUSTICE: Parole interview date times (HB 329) and prohibiting picketing funerals (HB 31) are among the issues in bills before the House Criminal Justice Committee Tuesday. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., 404 House Office Building, The Capitol.) PIP IN HOUSE INSURANCE AND BANKING: The House Insurance and Banking Committee begins its work on what is expected

to be one of the major insurance issues for the coming year, taking up a draft proposed committee substitute for HB 119, dealing with Personal Injury Protection Insurance. (Wednesday, 8 a.m., 404 House Office Building, The Capitol.) PIP IN SENATE BANKING AND INSURANCE: The Senate Banking and Insurance Committee discusses personal injury protection auto insurance, and will hear testimony from stakeholders. The PIP system no-fault insurance that covers medical costs is widely thought to be rife with fraud and in need of reform. Lawmakers have said they intend to do that this coming year, though so far, no widereaching PIP overhaul bill is filed. (Wednesday, 8:30 a.m., 412 Knott Building, The Capitol.) ROAD RAGE BILL IN SENATE TRANSPORTATION: Bills dealing with driving without a license (SB 474), motor fuel (SB 476) and a license plate bill (SB 528) are before the Senate Transportation Committee Wednesday morning. But the most watched bill is likely the measure (SB 244) by Sen. Mike Bennett that tries to get the slow drivers out of the left lane. The measure was on the agenda two weeks ago but postponed. (Wednesday, 8:30 a.m., 37 Senate Office Building, The Capitol.) This also came out of the House Transportation and Highway Safety Subcommittee on Tuesday. Please read the comments by Rep. Brad Drake below and then notice the last line that I put in red... As Yogi Berra said "It's like dj vu all over again." Rep. Irv Slosberg, whose daughter died in a car crash several years ago has made road safety his main cause in the Legislature urged and chastised the House Transportation and Highway Safety Subcommittee on Tuesday to get behind a ban on texting while driving. During a workshop for the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Slosberg repeatedly asked why the bill as currently drafted didn't include such a ban. "Why aren't we discussing distracted driving, particularly texting and driving, when 35 states have laws against it?" asked the Boca Raton Democrat, who is the ranking minority member of the committee and has focused largely on seat belt laws and other highway safety legislation during much of his career. Rep. Ben Albritton will sponsor the Highway Safety bill replied that the issue, frankly, is controversial and should be addressed in a stand-alone bill because there are other provisions in the agency bill that must pass. There is a stand-alone bill banning texting while driving which is awaiting a hearing in the same committee. The committee chairman, Rep. Brad Drake, said that just because there is nothing in the draft highway safety legislation, now doesn't mean the issue can't be taken up."That's why we're here," said Drake. "If it's decided that's the direction we'll go, we'll go. If there's not enough support, then you know what happens. I think any of us would be willing to work on something that might be feasible, realistic." Drake added that Slosberg was welcome to file a stand-alone bill on the issue. That's already been done. Slosberg is the co-sponsor of the bill (HB 299) banning texting while driving, along with Rep. Ray Pilon. That measure has three House committee assignments, including Drake's Highway Safety Committee where it must be heard first. It hasn't been put on the committee's agenda for a hearing yet. This came out of yesterdays House Transportation and Highway Safety Subcommittee. Remember that committee from last year? The state Department of Transportation plan to try to replace dwindling gas tax revenue with additional tolling ability, particularly for express lanes, will be part of the department's agency omnibus bill, containing much

of its legislative agenda. It won't likely be filed until the deadline for filing bills, the first day of the legislative session in January, to allow for changes to be made without having to do it in the formal committee process through amendments. The DOT has said for several months that it envisions additional tolling authority as a major part of its solution to the drop in gas tax revenue that the state has seen. That drop is blamed in large part on the increasing fuel efficiency of vehicles. Transportation Secretary Ananth Prasad, who has pushed for the additional tolling authority, has said that DOT only plans to pursue tolls on new roads or bridges, or new lanes, particularly express lanes that would be added to roadways, giving drivers a choice to pay a toll to take a lane that might be congestion free. State transportation officials also say that new express lanes benefit even those who don't use them, by reducing congestion in other lanes from which express lane users are removed. But at the time, much of the objection to the tolls was said to be the lines that formed at toll booths. Most new toll roads would likely involve automatic tolling through SunPass-type devices or license plate photos, state officials have said, thus removing lines from toll plazas. I just ran across this and thought I would pass it on. The ever-controversial issue of school prayer passed 4-1 today in the Senate Ed Pre-K-12 Committee, SB 98 allowing though not requiring district school boards to adopt resolutions that allow prayers of invocation or benediction at secondary school events as long as they're non-sectarian and non-proselytizing in nature. CANNON SAYS BUDGET CUTS WILL HIT 'WORTHY PROGRAMS' House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, offered a sober view of the state budget Monday, saying he expects cuts in 2012 in all major policy areas. "I think worthy programs will have to take reductions,'' Cannon told a group of reporters. Cannon said he thinks lawmakers will be able to pass a budget by the March 9 end of the session, though they also will have to grapple with the once-a-decade process of redistricting. Cannon didn't hold out much hope that the state's budget picture would improve, a possible reason for delaying passage of the spending plan. "I've seen no indication it's likely to become rosier by delay,'' he said. I thought I would pass along some possible good nonmotorcycle news a few days before Thanksgiving. With natural gas costing less than expected, Florida Power & Light said Monday it will lower customers' electricity bills in 2012. The announcement came as something of a surprise: About three weeks ago, state regulators approved FPL proposals that would have led to small increases in monthly bills. But FPL, the state's largest utility, said 2012 fuel costs are now projected to be $460 million less than it had anticipated earlier. For residential customers who use 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity a month, that will translate to bills dropping from $96.54 to $94.62 in January, according to the utility. During a Nov. 1 meeting, the commission approved FPL proposals that would have led to 1,000-kilowatt hour residential bills increasing from the $96.54 to $99.26 in January. The announcement Monday will scuttle that increase, with the PSC expected to formally approve the reduction during a Dec. 6 meeting. National Right to Carry Reciprocity Bill passes U.S. House Milton Gonzales, the Legislative Trustee for Hillsborough County Chapter, sent this out. The Florida members of Congress voted along party lines on the National Right to Carry Reciprocity Bill. The Republicans voted in favor of the bill, while the Democrats voted against it. Kind of makes you wonder, doesnt it.

U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces Final Rule That Bans Hand-Held Cell Phone Use by Drivers of Buses and Large Trucks Todays Action is the Latest by the Department to End Distracted Driving WASHINGTON U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced a final rule specifically prohibiting interstate truck and bus drivers from using hand-held cell phones while operating their vehicles. The joint rule from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is the latest action by the U.S. Department of Transportation to end distracted driving. When drivers of large trucks, buses and hazardous materials take their eyes off the road for even a few seconds, the outcome can be deadly, said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. I hope that this rule will save lives by helping commercial drivers stay laser -focused on safety at all times while behind the wheel. The final rule prohibits commercial drivers from using a hand-held mobile telephone while operating a commercial truck or bus. Drivers who violate the restriction will face federal civil penalties of up to $2,750 for each offense and disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle for multiple offenses. Additionally, states will suspend a driver's commercial drivers license (CDL) after two or more serious traffic violations. Commercial truck and bus companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving will face a maximum penalty of $11,000. Approximately four million commercial drivers would be affected by this final rule. This final rule represents a giant leap for safety, said FMCSA Administrator Anne S. Ferro. Its just too dangerous for drivers to use a hand-held cell phone while operating a commercial vehicle. Drivers must keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and head in the game when operating on our roads. Lives are at stake. While driver distraction studies have produced mixed results, FMCSA research shows that using a hand-held cell phone while driving requires a commercial driver to take several risky steps beyond what is required for using a hands-free mobile phone, including searching and reaching for the phone. Commercial drivers reaching for an object, such as a cell phone, are three times more likely to be involved in a crash or other safety-critical event. Dialing a hand-held cell phone makes it six times more likely that commercial drivers will be involved in a crash or other safety-critical event. Nearly 5474 people died and half a million were injured in crashes involving a distracted driver in 2009. Distraction-related fatalities represented 16 percent of overall traffic fatalities in 2009, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) research. Many of the largest truck and bus companies, such as UPS, Covenant Transport, Wal-Mart, Peter Pan and Greyhound already have company policies in place banning their drivers from using hand -held phones. For more information on other bills of interest, go to ABATE of Floridas LIC web page.

From Lockdown FHP Seeking Help to Identify Driver Who Left Motorcyclist for Dead Naples, FL, October 31, 2011- The Florida Highway Patrol has updated their description of the vehicle and driver sought for questioning regarding a hit & run crash that occurred

October 25, 2011 shortly after midnight on Interstate 75 near mile maker 110 in Naples. The driver of a 1990s to early 2000s two-tone white and brown or gold Ford F150 pickup truck was speeding south on I-75 when he rear-ended 62 year-old Henry Gacek, throwing him from his motorcycle. He was critically injured and may be paralyzed according to WINK-TV's interview of family members. Witnesses say the truck drove away after the collision, heading southbound with smoke coming from its engine. State Troopers stated the truck may have damage to the right front headlight and grille area as well as possible radiator and engine damage as a result of this crash. The driver was described as a 25-to-35-year-old male with black hair, a 5-o'clock shadow, an athletic build and white T-shirt.
Anyone with information about the identity of the vehicle or its driver is asked to contact Trooper Albert Gutierrez of the Florida Highway Patrol at (239) 938-1800. From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Washington, D.C. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation Legislative Strategy Agenda for 2011-2012 At the 2011 Motorcycle Riders Foundations (MRF) Meeting of the Minds Conference held in September in Detroit, Michigan, a Legislative Strategy Session was hosted by the MRF's Legislative Committee. As has been done for the past several years, the MRF requested that it be attended by Sustaining State Motorcyclists' Rights Organizations (SSMRO) Legislative and/or Executive Officers. The goal was to set the MRF's Federal Legislative Agenda for the 2011 Meeting of the Minds to 2012 Meeting of the Minds annual cycle. The MRF's SSMRO partners responded once again with a majority attendance, and the Legislative Committee was extremely pleased at the aligned and clear direction from our SSMRO partners. This level of alignment will allow for a solid and focused Strategic Action Plan to be developed, disseminated, and effectively employed. The session this year was moderated by MRF Vice President Jay Jackson, supported by MRF Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs Jeff Hennie and MRF President Kirk "Hardtail" Willard. The MRF continued the practice instituted last year, recording one vote per organization. Shown below in the order raised and discussed with our SSMROs is the MRFs Legislative Strategy Agenda for 2011-2012. Transportation Equity Act (TEA) Reauthorization (the Highway Bill) closely monitor for any action that would positively or negatively impact motorcycles, motorcycling, and motorcyclists. Continuation of the Motorcycle 2010 Grant Funding program tighten up language for qualification and use Continuation of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) lobbying ban within individual states Pursue continuation of the Motorcycle Advisory Council designed to advise the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on motorcycling issues

Oppose any federal blackmails or sanctions contained in the Highway Bill related to motorcycles The MRF will not promote adoption of the SAE sound test as a national enforcement standard considered a state issue Pursue reintroduction of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) HR1253, which would require health insurance companies to disclose the list of "source of injury" exclusions in the policies they issue Continue successful work to cut off all funding for NHTSA motorcycle-specific checkpoint grants Continue monitoring the crash causation and the naturalistic studies Oppose any federal standard proposing stamping and certifying motorcycle exhaust systems considered a state issue Continue to monitor the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sound emissions study; oppose federal agencies encouraging states to take action considered a state issue Oppose ALL forms of distracted driving; oppose any related funding blackmails or withholding of funds related to motorcycles Watch closely for motorcycle-specific discrimination Continue promotion of Right to Repair Act Continue participation at the federal level where definitions of a motorcycle are under review Oppose any motorcycle-, motorcycling-, or motorcyclist-based discrimination proposed by the U.S. Congress or any Federal agency in Washington D.C. Continue active participation in motorcycle-related activity in the European Union and United Nations Oppose any mandatory helmet or apparel laws MRF will not support the use of E15 fuel until further testing is done; continue to seek recommendations from motorcycle original equipment manufacturers (OEM) Pursue safer roadway design strategies and inclusion of motorcycles in ongoing Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) work; encourage improved crash barriers and safer cable barrier engineering Continue to promote the theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing, using the principles of HR1498 which urges NHTSA to focus on crash prevention and rider education Mythbusters? Not Really. . . Recently the Discovery Channel's popular program MythBusters attempted to determine if a motorcycle is "better" for the environment than a car. If you are not familiar the program, it's a cable reality show that takes on different challenges each week, such as "Can an airplane made of duct tape fly?" or "Will a bullet explode an RPG if they hit each other mid air?" and so on. The Hosts ran a number of somewhat scientific tests on a few motorcycles to measure single vehicle emissions. The show determined that, "At best, its a wash; motorcycles are just as bad for the environment as cars. At worst, they are far worse." When tested side by side, a motorcycle will give off more of some gasses in the exhaust than a car of the same year. But that's to be expected. As engines get smaller, it becomes more and more difficult to use a catalytic converter to catch all the gasses. So it becomes an engineering and usability issue to catch all of the gasses a car can. However, when it comes to CO2 emissions, motorcycles emit a fraction of what cars are accountable for. It should be noted that CO2 emission levels are largely what drive climate change legislation.

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Another factor that the MythBusters failed to account for was the population size. Motorcycles make up less than three percent of the vehicles on the road today. Such a small percentage of all total vehicles cannot be singled out as the lone problem. That's not to mention all of the other factors that make motorcycles more environmentally sound, such as smaller battery, longer life of vehicle, less raw materials to construct, less oil needed, and of course, less fuel to operate. Also keep in mind how motorcycles reduce congestion and do not contribute to gridlock. Add all those factors up and motorcycles are far better for the environment than any car. So for those of you out there who want to "go green," the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) suggests that you simply ride your motorcycle.

for developing a good working relationship with an elected official. Congressman Sensenbrenner, upon receiving the award, said, "I want to thank ABATE of Wisconsin for their tireless work to raise awareness on issues that affect motorcyclists. I am honored to work with them to make their voices heard in Washington, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to reduce unnecessary and burdensome federal government regulations." John Reblin, who presented the award, pointed out that, "Representative Sensenbrenner was chosen because of the support he has given motorcyclists throughout the years with his common sense approach with such things as HR 748 to prohibit the EPA from authorizing the use of gasoline greater than 10 percent ethanol in certain vehicles, and HR 904 which would prohibit the Federal DOT from providing grants or any other funds to another unit of government for motorcycle-only checkpoints." The MRF joins ABATE of Wisconsin in recognizing the leadership "Call to Action" Motorcycle Helmet Law Modification in Michigan This release is being sent to you at the request of ABATE of Michigan. and dedication of the Honorable F. James Sensenbrenner. Please direct any questions or comments to ABATE of Michigan In the Local News: From: Vince Consiglio, President, ABATE of Michigan Chris Berardi announces bid for state House seat To: MRF, All States SMRO From: Vince Consiglio, President, ABATE of Michigan Former Cape Coral City Council member Chris Berardi anRE: "Call to Action" Motorcycle Helmet Law Modification in Michigan nounced this week his intent to run for the State House of RepresenABATE of Michigan would like the help of all motorcyclists in their tatives District 74 seat, which opened up once Gary Aubuchon defight for freedom. Senate Bill 291 passed the Michigan Senate with a clared his intent to seek the District 14 congressional seat. 24 YES vote to 14 NO vote in late June. We want to thank all those Berardi said he had planned to run for the seat during the activists who sent a post card to Governor Snyder over the summer. 2014 election cycle, but Aubuchons intentions ramped up Berardis SB 291 passed the Michigan House of Representatives with a 69 YES plans to 2012. Aubuchon has served in the District 74 seat since to 39 NO on November 2nd. The bill must pass a "concurrence vote" 2007. in the state senate and then will go to the governor. A letter from a Aubuchons announcement changed the time frame not the "FREE" State may help him realize Michigan loses motorcycle money actual plans, Berardi said. I have the same desire to serve the citievery day of the summer with a mandatory helmet law. Governor zens and help bring jobs to the area. Snyder prides himself on being all about business and helping busiDistrict 74 includes Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Pine Island ness. Please urge Governor Snyder to support adult choice. and portions of North Fort Myers. Berardi served as city councilman MAIL to :Governor Rick Snyder in 2007. State Capital According to a prepared statement, Berardi, 40, is a graduP.O. Box 30013 ate of University of Dayton. He worked as a district manager for a Lansing, Michigan 48909 Fortune 100 company and moved to the Cape Coral area in 2000. A 517 373-3400 Realtor since 2002, Berardi is currently the president elect of the Thanks for helping us in our efforts. Cape Coral Association of Realtors. Hes a member of the Chamber of Thanks again, Commerce, the Civic Association, Republican Executive Committee Vince Consiglio President, ABATE of Michigan and Faith Presbyterian Church. Berardi said he would focus on job creation, education and Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner Receives Award reducing regulations. for Supporting Motorcyclists Berardi said he was also going to focus on building bridges between Tallahassee and local governments. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) reports that ABATE of So many of the goals we try to accomplish require some Wisconsin awarded Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner with its Certificate of Appreciation. The award goes to individuals who go above and beyond when help, input and the ability to be on the same page with our local officials, Berardi said. The ability to know your constituency is vital, it comes to protecting motorcyclists rights. In years past, the award was he added. reserved for ABATE members only; this is the first time it has ever been Berardi joins Dane Eagle in the District 74 race. Eagle was a awarded to anyone outside the organization. member of Governor Charlie Christs cabinet. Sensenbrenner has redefined what it means to go "above and A website and official campaign kickoff party are still in the beyond." He has worked tirelessly to protect motorcyclists' rights on every front at the federal level for over 35 years. "Not only are the motorcyclists of works, according to Berardi. State Rep. Gary Aubuchon, R-Cape Coral, whos running for Wisconsin in Mr. Sensenbrenner's debt, every motorcyclist in this country has benefited from his steadfast support," said Jeff Hennie, MRF Vice President Congress, already has a campaign staff at work and a kickoff event for Nov. 30. Government Relations and Public Affairs. Terry Miller will be Aubuchons Lee County campaign direcRepresentative Sensenbrenner has been the lead advocate for stopping motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints, supporting crash avoidance over tor; Patrick McQuillan is the campaign manager. Miller is also handling campaigns for state Rep. Matt Caldwell, R-Fort Myers, and Ray safer crashing, and lately the ethanol fuel issue. The MRF also commends ABATE of Wisconsin for fostering a model Rodrigues, a Republican running for the south Lee County seat now relationship with an elected official. This should be an example to everyone held by Rep. Trudi Williams.

Miller said that he will continue to work on those campaigns, along with Aubuchons race, and will also remain secretary of Lee Countys Republican Executive Committee. Aubuchons kickoff event will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Harley-Davidson of Fort Myers on Colonial Blvd. Others running for Congress in Southwest Florida U.S. Rep. Connie Mack IV, R-Fort Myers, is running for the U.S. Senate, and redistricting means the congressional seat lines will likely change dramatically include Sanibel businessman Chauncey Goss, Lee County Commissioner Tammy Hall and

State Rep. Paige Kreegel, R-Punta Gorda. Lee County Property Appraiser Ken Wilkinson, first elected in 1980, has been unopposed for re-election more often than not. This time, he has one announced opponent, Bert Pepper of Cape Coral. Wilkinson said that he intends to file his campaign papers sometime in January. See you in the wind, TEDDYBEAR

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