ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
Newsletter
October 2017 Volume XLI Issue VIII

Next Chapter Meeting Wednesday, October 18th @ The Shell Factory at 7:00 p.m.

Happy Halloween!!

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

The only Motorcyclists Rights Organization in the State of Florida
Legislative News MSAP Instructors Community Service
ABATE: American Bikers Aimed Towards Education
We lobby and educate the Government and the general public to promote motorcycling in a safe and positive image.
ABATE of Florida, Inc. 2010 ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter. All rights reserved. ABATE of Florida, Inc.
and the Southwest Chapter does not condone drinking while riding or driving.
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 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER MEETING:
MISSION STATEMENT

We are a non-profit organization of Wednesday, October 18th @ 7:00 p.m.

motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life.
We lobby and educate the government and the at THE SHELL FACTORY
general public to promote motorcycling in a 2787 N. Tamiami Trail
safe and positive image. We endeavor to enlist Fort Myers, FL 33903
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 and political MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE,
awareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB OR NEW ADVERTISERS AND/OR AD
GANG. We fund our work through toy runs, CHANGE DEADLINE:
poker runs, campouts and other motorcycle
activities. We are your neighbors and friends
who work, pay taxes and get involved with our 20th of the month for editorial and Board
community. We serve and support our country approval
and believe in freedom. We use all legal means
to protect our rights without infringing on the
rights of others.
IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT
OUR GOALS
Southwest Chapter Newsletter
To become a powerful and viable political
force in legislative matters concerning the
Issue date: October 2017
motorcyclist;
To promote safe riding habits without PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
infringing on individual freedoms; ABATE of Florida, Inc.
To motivate bikers to write letters to their SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
legislators before, during and after the PO Box 60745
legislative session; and Fort Myers, FL 33906
To furnish our members with a newsletter to
keep all bikers informed in regard to upcoming www.southwest.abateflorida.com
legislation.

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of ABATE of Florida, Inc. and/or the
Southwest Chapter. The publication allows members to express their beliefs and opinions. ABATE of Florida, Inc., and the
Southwest Chapter accepts no responsibility for the comments, opinions, or views contained in this newsletter.

Please direct correspondence in reference to this publication to: Heidi Szolga, Southwest Chapter, P.O. Box 60745, Fort
Myers, FL 33906-6745 or email at abateswc@yahoo.com.

Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not deductible for Federal Tax Purposes.
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 Presidents Message:
ABATE of Florida, Inc./Southwest Chapter
Brothers & Sisters:
EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES
First, I hope everyone PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6745
weathered IRMA www.southwest.abateflorida.com
without extensive
damage to family & President: Robb Rabell
property & hope thesawguide@yahoo.com / 239-458-3136
youre all on your
way to a full &
complete recovery & restoration. We were quite blessed
Vice President: Kevin Kelsey
here in Cape Coral. Kevinkelsey62@yahoo.com / 239-470-1442

Next, I want to correct a statement I made in the last Secretary: Lily Arenas
newsletter; the self-stopping cars safety systems do in fact abate14swfl@outlook.com / 239-362-8492
recognize motorcycles. I had stated that they DID NOT
recognize motorcycles, but they actually DO.
Treasurer: Rob Cran
We are gearing up for the Bike Nights at both Downtown 239-888-3755
Ft. Myers & Cape Coral & were looking for volunteers to
assist in manning our tables at these events. We have had 3 Sergeant-At-Arms: Glen Pannenbakker
members step up so far & we hope more members step up glenpann@comcast.net / 215-416-5885
to support our Chapters membership drives at the Bike
Nights & fund raising for our upcoming Annual Christmas
Run.
Membership Trustee: VACANT

Which brings me to this; Moe was given a pair of Black, Public Relations: Gwynne Hickman
Lighted, universal type saddlebags which were donated to Gwynne.hickman@gmail.com / 239-246-2025
the Chapter for fundraising. Because of personal issues I
have not been able to take pictures of the saddlebags &
Legislative Representative: Ken Teddy Bear Miller
present them to the Chapter, but I will do it ASAP &
forward pictures of these to Membership. We intend to Kenm0612@gmail.com / 239-771-8707
raffle these & other Chapter products at the incoming Bike
Nights. We hope all will support these efforts. Safety Director: Ed Lufkin
Vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
We had a guest speaker at the meeting from the FLDOT
RideSmart FL & a question was asked in regard to funding
Newsletter: Heidi Szolga
for Ride Smart & the USF. I received an email from Mr.
Provenzano that stated funding for the USF & Ride Smart love_of_tigers@hotmail.com / 618-616-0870
FL motorcycle safety programs are funded through grants
from the NHTSA 402 funding that is available to States as Webmasters: Taylor Musburger
a form of a Safety Grant. Info on 402 funding can be found ABATE@musburger.net / 360-298-1921 and
at this link: Ed Lufkin, vm101bat@gmail.com / 508-685-9220
https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/legislationandpolicy/policy/sec
tion402/ Chapter Chaplain: Tom Provenzano
Next, the Chapter voted to change our meeting location & tprovenz@comcast.net / 239-267-8641
the time & day of the meeting. Our meetings will now be
held at the Shell Factory on the 3rd Wednesday of every Products: Vacant
month at 7:00 pm. Look for the email. Well we had 1
delinquent member last month & we have 3 members this Chapter Rep: Moe Moser
month that need to renew. Look for the emails the Chapter Chapter Rep: Heidi Szolga
has sent out.
OK that about does it for this month, so Ill leave you with HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE
this; Were open to suggestions for day rides so make your RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (MRO)
ideas known. See you at Cape Coral Bike Night.
Ride safe always.
Robb
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 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC./SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
GENERAL MEETING
Six Bends Harley-Davidson, Fort Myers on September 17, 2017
21 Members
Guest Speaker: Joel Provenzano from State of Florida
Department of Transportation (FDOT)
Silence phones: Pledge of Allegiance / a Vocation Prayer
was given by Pastor Provenzano
Call the Meeting to order 10:42 am
Presidents Report:
Robb Thanked Members and Guest Speaker for coming to
the Meeting (Mr. Provenzano provided his service and a
brief description of his responsibilities at the FDOT). Robb
stated that Kevin Kelsey stepped down from the Vice
President position V.P. Position was offered to Open
Floor, if anyone is interested. First Bike Night is 10/14/17
in Cape Coral (Abate will have a table on 47th Terrance, to
provide information and recruit New Members)
Volunteers are needed to run the table. Christmas Ride is
coming up which a donation bucket will be placed at: Sun
Sports Cycle & Watercraft - 3441 Colonial Blvd Fort
Myers, FL. 33966. New advertisements / Business
locations are being looked into to post in The Newsletter.
Vice-Presidents Report:
Kevin resigned for personal reasons via text.
Secretary:
Lily stated two corrections in the Minutes from last
months Meeting in the Newsletter and asked if there were
any other corrections. Being one by the President, a motion
to accept was made by Moe Moser, seconded by Don
Tupper, all in favor - motion carried.
Treasurers Report:
Rob reported the beginning and ending balance of our bank
account / Expense was for the Newsletter. The report is
available for any Member that wishes to see it. Motion to
accept made by Heidi Szolga, seconded by John Lupo, all
in favor, motion carried.
Membership Report:
Robb reported that there were no new Members but one
delinquency which, if not renewed within the month, the
Membership will expire completely.
Legislative Report:
Teddybear has an excused absence. His report will be in the
newsletter.
Safety Director Report:
Ed stated that last month, Robb, Gwynne (thanked them) and
he, put in 20 hours in teaching 100 Drivers Ed Students. A
reminder that Season is coming in and driving is going to
change, that we all must watch in what we are doing and
watch everyone, as well. A brief discussion regarding a
Safety presentation in one of our Monthly General Meetings
and a Safety Video (on our website) will be soon.
Sergeant At Arms Report:
Glen has an excused absence.
Old Business:
Heidi had emailed to all Members a survey regarding
changing new venue, date and time. A vote was taken at the
meeting to move to a different venue - the vote passed. A
vote was taken to change the day and time the vote
passed. A discussion was had with regard to a new location.
The new meeting location, day and time are as follows: the
Shell Factory on the third Wednesday of every month at
7:00 p.m. (the next meeting will be on 10/18/17)
New Business:
If anyone would consider stepping up as Vice President
please email President. Moe Moser offered to serve as
Sergeant at Arms, if needed.
President gave the floor to the Guest Speaker:
Joel Provenzano from FDOT / Ride Smart reached out to
Abate to let us know about his appointment because he
wanted to reach out to the Motorcycle Community and to let
us know who is going to be representing the State of
Florida. Mr. Provenzanos number one primary job duty is
that he is a Permit Review Manager for his District.
Anytime, a new Construction Business Permit, such as a
New Walmart or Gas Station Building and whenever they
are connected to a State Road System, they propose a New
Driveway Turn Lanes, Traffic Signal whatever they
propose. He reviews the plan, makes sure they are not
creating a dangerous situation and make sure they are
following all the State Engineering Standards. Then, advises
them on how to make it as safe as possible for Motorcyclist,
Pedestrians and Bicyclists. He also makes sure that they
are doing what they are supposed to be doing based on how
much traffic they are going to generate, because businesses
like to save money. His other job is State Traffic Engineer
Specialist and he has 16 years experiences in Traffic Safety.
He looks at every crash reports that happens in areas and
works together with Universities for Safety Awareness
Statistic.
Motion to Adjourn:
Motion to adjourn was made by Heidi Szolga, seconded by
Carl Nelson. All in favor, meeting adjourned at 12:16 am.
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 Saluting Vietnam Veterans and Honoring All Veterans

The Shell Factory & Nature Park is Proud to present Nam Jam Fort Myers. This will be a
Family Event held on October 22 from 12pm-6pm. The Shell Factory is honored to partner with
the Invested Cape Coral Veterans Foundation to Salute our Vietnam Veterans and Honor all
Veterans. Admission is FREE, and the Event will feature Live Music with Chuck Peterson, A
Special Color Guard Ceremony, Tickets for 2 FREE draft Beers and FREE Hot Dog and Chips
during the BBQ for All Vets. Additionally, ALL Vietnam Vets will receive a special 50 Year
Vietnam War Recognition Package presented by the Cape Coral Veterans Foundation. Nam Jam
will also be recognizing several WWII Veterans who reside right here in our community. The
Shell Factory has wanted to sponsor this type of Event for some time as part of our Community
Outreach Program said Rick Tupper CFO/ Marketing Director. "Not only will we have FREE
Entertainment, but all Vets will get into The Nature Park FREE, receive a discount in our Retail
Store and a discount on our Sunday Italian Buffet which is available until 7pm". Nam Jam Fort
Myers will also feature a 50/50 Raffle with half going to the Winner and half going to the Cape
Coral Veterans Foundation. The entire day promises to be a time to Honor Veterans in a Family
Fun atmosphere. The Shell Factory & Nature Park, Your Family's Number 1 Dining &
Entertainment Destination. Located in North Fort Myers on HWY 41. Visit wwwshellfatory.com
for all The Shell Factory's Future Fun Family Events.

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Legislative Report:
By: Teddybear
Good Morning Freedom Fighters,

SCOTT ORDERS `FREEZE' ON INSURANCE RATE HIKES

Gov. Rick Scott on Tuesday ordered the state's top insurance regulator to freeze any and all efforts to increase property-
insurance rates as homeowners and businesses recover from Hurricane Irma. A news release that included directives from
Scott to Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier did not detail rate proposals that could be affected by the 90-day freeze.
But the Office of Insurance Regulation, at least in part, held a hearing last month on a proposal by the state-backed Citizens
Property Insurance Corp. that would increase rates on many customers. Due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma,
Floridians should be focused on getting back to their normal lives without their insurance premiums being increased, Scott
said in the news release issued late Tuesday afternoon. Scott also said policyholders who had coverage canceled or not
renewed in the days leading up to Hurricane Irma should receive 90 days to renew their policies or find new coverage. Also,
he directed Altmaier to provide an additional 90 days for policyholders to submit required information to insurance
companies. He pointed to large numbers of residents who were displaced by the storm

IRMA DEATH TOLL INCREASES TO 42 IN FLORIDA

Hurricane Irma's official death count in Florida has grown to 42, up from 34 on Monday, and the number is expected to
continue increasing. The latest total doesn't include any deaths from Monroe County, where recovery efforts continue. The
Miami Herald has reported at least nine deaths in Monroe, while the county tweeted that it has had eight deaths. Also, a
Broward County count grew from six on Monday to seven on Tuesday but still did not list eight residents of a sweltering
Hollywood nursing home who died last Wednesday. The deaths of the nursing-home residents have spurred a criminal
investigation. The official figures are compiled by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Division of
Emergency Management based on reports by county medical examiners. Deaths from Irma have been reported in Broward,
Collier, Duval, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Liberty, Marion, Okeechobee, Orange, Palm Beach, Pinellas,
Polk, St. Lucie, Taylor and Volusia counties. Fourteen deaths across the state are now attributed to a blunt-force injury ---
typically involving traffic crashes or injuries that occurred during the storm or while people worked on storm preparation
or recovery. Irma is also blamed for seven deaths by drowning and 11 deaths involving carbon monoxide.

PUTNAM WAIVES FEES TO REPLACE LOST WEAPON PERMITS

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam is waiving replacement fees for concealed-weapon permits and security-guard
licenses lost or destroyed because of Hurricane Irma. Hurricane Irma devastated Florida, and the last thing someone needs
to worry about is paying a fee to have their concealed weapon license or security guard license replaced, Putnam, a
Republican who is running for governor, said in a news release announcing the fee waiver Friday. People requesting the
replacements must submit notarized statements to Putnam's Tallahassee office explaining that their license was lost,
damaged or stolen, the release said. Hurricane Irma made landfall in the Florida Keys and Southwest Florida on Sunday
and caused massive flooding in the Jacksonville and interior regions of the state. Putnam, an avid gun-rights advocate, has
made it easier to apply for concealed-weapon permits, and the number of permits in Florida has steadily climbed during his
tenure as agriculture commissioner. More than 1.8 million concealed-weapon permits are now active in the state, more than
double the number when Putnam took office in 2011.

HB 117 HAS BEEN FILED

The House companion bill for our Vulnerable Road Users bill was filed late last month. HB 117 by Rep. Stone is the
companion bill to SB 116 by Sen. Baxley. HB 117 has not been assigned to the committees yet. But SB 116 is assigned to
the following committees: Transportation; Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic
Development; and Appropriations.

HOUSE COMMITTEES SCHEDULED FOR THREE DAYS

House committees and subcommittees could hold more than 30 meetings during the second week of October, including a
meeting of the newly formed Select Committee on Hurricane Response and Preparedness, according to a schedule posted
online Tuesday. The House meetings will be held Oct. 10 to Oct. 12, as lawmakers begin getting ready for the 2018
legislative session, which starts in January. Committee meetings scheduled last week were canceled because of Hurricane
Irma. The Select Committee on Hurricane Response and Preparedness, unveiled Tuesday by House Speaker Richard
Corcoran, R-Land O' Lakes, is scheduled to hold its first meeting Oct. 12. Top House policy and appropriations committees
are scheduled to meet Oct. 10.
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HURRICANES DRIVE UP FLORIDA GAS PRICES
Gas prices in Florida have hit a three-year high after the combination of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. The cost of
a gallon of gas has gone up 46 cents in Florida in the past month, averaging more than $2.70, according to the AAA motor
club. Hurricane Harvey slowed oil refining in Texas and began to increase the cost of gas. Then, Irma significantly increased
demand in Florida as millions of people evacuated from the projected path of the storm. AAA spokesman W.D. Williams
said prices should begin to slowly drop again over the next few weeks. Barring any more disruptive hurricanes as we have
had, we expect prices to continue to drop over the next days and weeks, Williams said. Actually, we foresee before we
celebrate New Year's Day this year, that we'll see the lowest prices of 2017. Williams said gas prices will not go down as
quickly as they went up, but they are expected to drop about 30 cents a gallon in the coming weeks. Gas prices in Florida
averaged $2.16 per gallon a year ago. You can blame it on just simple economics, Williams said. Hurricane Harvey put
a little crimp in our supply, and then Hurricane Irma actually bumped up demand a little bit.

`SANCTUARY' CITIES BAN PROPOSED IN SENATE

Local government sanctuary designations to aid undocumented immigrants would be outlawed, and violators would face
strict penalties, under a proposal filed Wednesday in the Florida Senate. The proposal (SB 308), filed by Sen. Aaron Bean,
R-Fernandina Beach, for the 2018 legislative session, is called the Rule of Law Adherence Act. The measure would
require local governments to comply with federal immigration laws and detention requests from U.S. Immigration and
Customs Enforcement or U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Government agencies that fail to comply could be fined
$1,000 to $5,000 a day for each day a sanctuary policy was in effect. The proposal, if approved, would go into effect Oct.
1, 2018. A similar measure (HB 697) was approved 76-41, mostly along party lines, by the House during the 2017 legislative
session. Critics argued the proposal targeted minority populations and was an unfunded mandate from the Legislature on
local governments. A Senate version (SB 786), sponsored by Bean, failed to advance in committees during the 2017 session.

From the Motorcycle Riders Foundation:

NEWS FROM THE HILL RPM Act Making

Headway in Congress
This week your MRF was front and center (literally)
at a hearing discussing the merits and concerns of
Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act (RPM
Act), H.R.350. The bill would clarify that the anti-
tampering provisions applicable to motor vehicles do
not apply to motorcycles used for competition in
racing. The EPA says they have the authority to
enforce any modifications (they call it tampering)
you might make to your bikes emissions system. We
say, uhhh, no, you dont. And we told the Committee
that in written testimony entered into the record. Let
me know if you want a copy. The RPM Act would
clarify this which is why we need it to pass. The bill
has broad bipartisan support in both the House and
Senate, and now we just need a vote. You can help us
get there by contacting your Members of Congress and
asking them to push for a floor vote. Go to the MRF
web site at ALERTS for more information.

EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES New

Leadership at the FHWA, Updated Guidelines on
Autonomous Vehicles & NHTSA (finally) Responds
to the Tesla Crash
After months of speculation of who would head the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA),
President Trump nominated Paul Trombino to take the
helm. The name may be familiar to some of you -

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Trombino is the former President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
as well as vice-chair of the Transportation Research Boards Executive Committee. He also headed up the Iowa DoT from
2011-2016. Personally, I dont know him, but my guess is one of our well-connected Iowa members might? If you know
Paul and have a friendly relationship with him, definitely let me know. It will be a critical connection to have over the next
4 years especially as the FHWA is the Agency that deals with many of our riding issues. One of the major ones? The
Motorcyclist Advisory Council or MAC. You remember the MAC, dont you? That little council that was supposed to be
advising the Secretary of Transportation on issues that affect riders? The one that THEY NEGELECTED TO ACTUALLY
INCLUDE MOTORCYCLISTS ON? Yeah. Thats the one. Hence why we need the connection to Paul. Know him? Then
heres my number (202-725-5471) so call me, maybe?
A Vision for Safety? More like A Vision for Disaster. This week, the Secretary of Transportation released updated guidelines
for automakers concerning the emergence of autonomous vehicles. The new document, A Vison for Safety condensed the
earlier guidance released last year under the Obama Administration. And many, many people are unhappy with the shortened
version. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) called the guidance "a giveaway to the auto industry that will undoubtedly
result in unnecessary lives lost." One of the biggest criticisms is that manufacturers of these types of vehicles only have to
VOLUNTARILY submit safety assessments to the government. Like I said disaster. Oh, and the cherry on top? The
guidance once again fails to even MENTION motorcyclists. So we are going to need to be loud and clear about how we feel
about that. Stay tuned Im preparing a response now that I am going to send out via an MRF Call to Action in the next
few weeks.
Remember the Tesla crash last year in Florida? The one involving the automated vehicle? Well the National Transportation
Safety Board (NTSB) finally concluded their investigation and announced their findings this week. The result? NTSB
determined that driver error and an over-reliance on automated technology were the primary factors that led to the deadly
crash last year with the Tesla being driven with the "Autopilot" function engaged. Documents suggested that while the crash
may not have happened if the driver of a tractor-trailer had yielded to the Tesla - and if the Tesla driver had been paying
more attention to surrounding traffic - a significant contributing factor was the "operational design" of Autopilot, which
allowed the driver a "prolonged disengagement" from operating the vehicle "in ways inconsistent with guidance and
warnings from the manufacturer," NTSB said.

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What now? The board sent several recommendations to federal regulators and automakers, urging them to do more to data
collection from automated vehicles and asking manufacturers to do more to ensure that cars with advanced automated
systems aren't being driven in conditions for which they weren't designed. The NTSB also called on automakers to develop
technology that better senses when a driver isn't paying attention. Though I rarely agree with the NTSB, I think they hit the
nail on the head here. Pending your thoughts and the outcome of our legislative planning session at Meeting of the Minds
next week, I think we should echo many of the concerns that the NTSB has raised. We all know it drivers barely pay
attention now! Can you imagine if they think they dont have to pay attention at all? Ill give you one guess as to who loses
that battle.
NEWS FROM THE HILL School's Back in Session!
Congress returns from its August recess this week, but don't count on much policy work getting done given a jam-packed
to-do list on several must do' items including lifting the debt ceiling, funding the government (or, more likely, kicking the
can until December) and funding Hurricane Harvey and Irma relief efforts. Still though, the House made some progress this
week passing a bipartisan driverless car bill on Wednesday, advancing what could become the first set of federal laws for
the emerging industry. The "Self Drive Act" (which your MRF has been closely following and weighing in on) aims to
speed up the development of driverless technology as well as pre-empt states from implementing certain laws governing
the new technology. It would also allow car manufacturers to deploy up to 100,000 self-driving cars a year that don't meet
normal safety standards. However, note that these cars would not be commercially available, but rather used for testing
purposes. Your MRF has been communicating to our federal lawmakers that robust testing must be required for
manufacturers of autonomous vehicles, guaranteeing they have accounted for motorcycle recognition and responsiveness.
In addition, we've been asking to have a guaranteed seat at the table as the Department of Transportation moves forward in
its regulatory activities so that the voice of the rider is heard. Recently, I met with staff from the Senate Committee with
jurisdiction over this issue asking for the aforementioned points to be written into their soon-to-be-released legislation.
Happily, we've had a positive dialogue, and I am cautiously optimistic that the Senate bill will be a step in the right direction
taking our interests into account. Stay tuned on thatAs soon as I get the green light, I will send the draft out. In the
meantime, for more information and resources on the SELF DRIVE Act, you can visit energycommerce.house.gov/selfdrive.
EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES New Studies Released on Helmets and the MRF Issues a FOIA
Request on the MAC - This week, the Transportation Research Record reported abstracts of several new studies; two
of which had to do with motorcycles and more specifically, the use of helmets in fatal crashes. Not surprisingly, neither
report even attempted to hide their predisposed bias. Both abstract descriptions of the studies each stated that repealing the
universal helmet law had a negative effect on motorcyclists. One study looked specifically at helmet use in Colorado, while
the other examined long-term effects of universal helmet laws. Shockingly, (::SARCASM::) both studies concluded that
policymakers should rethink the universal helmet law. Though there is a charge to access the full studies, you can review
the abstracts by clicking on these links: http://trrjournalonline.trb.org/doi/pdf/10.3141/2637-06 or
http://trrjournalonline.trb.org/doi/abs/10.3141/2637-04. In an attempt to continue to express our frustration with the
Motorcyclist Advisory Council (and its lack of motorcyclists) this week your MRF issued a FOIA request to the attorney
for the Federal Highway Administration. For those outside of the beltway, a "FOIA" request stands for Freedom of
Information Act. This is a law that gives you the right to access information from the federal government. Specifically, I
requested that all documents/emails/communications having to do with the establishment of the Motorcyclist Advisory
Council and the determination of the selected individuals be turned over for my review. Under the law, the appointed attorney
has 20 days to respond to my request. I'll keep you all in the loop as we try to unravel this ridiculous example of our
government at its worst..Oh, and one more thing this week I heard that Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao indicated
that the Agency will release an update to driverless car guidance next week. We'll be watching, and I will send it out to you
all once it's in my hot little hands!
STATE NEWS
Emails were flying back and forth over the last 10 days about school bus arms and motorcyclists. The conversations over
email was whether or not this posed any risk to riders as well as what states did to ensure the safety of children riding the
school bus and different measures and approaches (cameras, extended arms, etc.). Generally, the sentiment from everyone
was, the extended arms should not be a risk to riders provided they follow the law and don't try and drive around a school
bus at a bus stop. Then I came across this article from Idaho: http://www.kcrg.com/content/news/Motorcycle-runs-red-light-
collides-with-school-bus-442933283.html. Though not exactly the situation we had discussed, I think it serves as an
important reminder to everyone reading. Not only is "school" back in session for Congress, but also for our kids, grandkids,
nieces and nephews. Let's ride smart and respect any school buses we may encounter.
Quote of the month: Conservatism goes for comfort, reform for truth. Ralph Waldo Emerson 1841.
See you in the wind,
'TEDDYBEAR'
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Southwest Chapter ABATE sends out a big thank you to Joel Provenzano for coming to our September
meeting and sharing his story with us. Joel is a motorcycle enthusiast like us and has a great understanding
of what motorcyclists deal with on a daily basis with driving in Florida. We have shared some photos from
the meeting, as well as Joels letter to our Chapter.

Dear ABATE of Florida, Inc.,

My name is Joel Provenzano and I wanted to take a few minutes to introduce myself and discuss the role I will play in
the future for the State of Florida. I am a South Florida native from Ft. Myers that currently lives in Tampa Bay. If my
last name sounds familiar, thats because I am the son of Tom Provenzano who serves as the Chaplain for the Southwest
and Estero River ABATE Chapters. I have also met many in the motorcycling community over the years through
motorcycling events/runs I participated in when I was younger, being involved in my fathers motorcycle ministry, and
my never ending quest to become the youngest Slow Race Champion of the Universe while pushing my Shadow to go
as slow as it could without tipping me over. I still enjoy getting out on my motorcycles frequently, but now I work as a
Traffic Engineering Specialist for the Florida Department of Transportation and have over 16 years of experience in the
engineering field. For the past 5 years, I have also been working voluntarily as the States Motorcycle Safety Engineering
Advisor for Floridas Motorcycle Safety Coalition (RideSmartFlorida.com), which has been a great outlet to combine
my two passions; motorcycling and engineering.

I had read in a previous ABATE newsletter that there was a concern (originated by MRF) about who would make up the
future Motorcyclist Advisory Council to the Federal Government. This is why I wanted to reach out to let Floridas
motorcycling community know that I am extremely honored to announce my appointment as Vice Chairman of FHWAs
Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) in Washington, D.C.

Appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, the 10 member council (made up of national experts and industry
representatives) coordinates with and advises the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) of infrastructure issues of
concern to motorcyclists, including barrier design, road design, construction, maintenance practices, and the architecture
and implementation of intelligent transportation system (ITS) technologies. Each member may serve up to a 2 year term.
I will be representing the Florida Department of Transportation and its Motorcycle Safety Coalition. I am thankful for
the ongoing support FDOT and its leadership has shown me in pursuing this and other motorcycle safety initiatives, and
look forward to representing my home state of Florida at the national level.

Stay safe out there,

Joel Provenzano
Permits Review Manager &
Traffic Engineering Specialist
FDOT D7 - Traffic Operations
(Access Management Group)
(813) 975-6755
Joel.Provenzano@dot.state.fl.us

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 SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS
Kim Adair Sonny Gartrell Tabitha Rossi
Keith Baker Steven Goldstein Roland Salsberry
Bill Barber Lynnda Gray Bruce Scheiner
Darrell Barnett Larry Gullin Juergen Wolfgang Schmidt
Denee Bartels Bob Hall Jencye Schmitt
Karl Bartling Hans Holberg Jerry Schmitt
Karl Bartling, III Rodney Hollingsworth Elsie Seif
James Bogenrieder Misti Hollingsworth Doug Sepanak
Scott Blink Harry Hoover Robert Simon
Chet Budz Jeff Hoover Kelly Smith
James Burkholder Jonathan Hunt Roger Smith
Nora Burkholder George Huttman Randall Spivey
Don Campbell Susan Red Huttman Richard Stergulz
Ellen Campson Dan Jackson Sandy Stergulz
Frances Cazes Cindy C.J. Jordan Grandpa Steward
Wayne Cerra Frankie Kennedy Lynda Stewart
Jonathan Conant Ed LaCombe S. Wade Stogran
Terry Covington Richard Leon Russell Sullivan
Audrey Cran Julio Lopez Heidi Szolga
Rick Cran Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez Scott Turner
Rob Cran KD Marlowe Ruth Vorys
Robert Cruz Crusan Don Meredith Jr. Teresa Webster
Jim Crystal Kenneth Miller D. Payton Wells
Dan Curry John Mitchell Michael Wieland
John DAgostino Jay Monttetit Jama Wyatt
Kim DAgostino Moe Moser Steve Wyatt
Biffle Davis Taylor Musburger
Lynne Davis Carl Nelson Life Members Who
Mary Dicenzo-Porter Steve Newton Have Passed Away
Al Diagiaco Tami Newton
Frank Disomma Terry Padilla Jerry Barnett
Cindy Doak Bob Penn Maggie Cran
Randy Eck Asuncsion Peppers Ginny DAsti
Marius Espeleta Richard Peppers John Kennedy
Jeffery Fielder Kathleen Provenzano Russell May
Harry Foster Rev. Thomas Provenzano Rev. Rea Means
Leather Foster Frank E. Rhorer Jo Ann Miller
Brian Galvin Bill Robinson Jim Mozeleski
Janet Rolfe
To become a Life Member contact the Membership Trustee on Page 3

Southwest Chapter Products

Chapter Patch Large (Members Only) $25.00

Chapter Patch Small - $7.00
Chapter Flag - $25.00

14
 October, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 State Mtg. 14
Port Charlotte
Cape Coral
Bike Night
5-10pm
15 16 17 Chapter 18 19 20 21
Meeting-The
Shell Factory-
7:00 pm

Nam Jam 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
The Shell
Factory
12pm - 6pm

29 30 31

15
 November, 2017
Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

CC Bike Night
5-10pm

12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Chapter
Meeting-The
Shell Factory-
7:00 pm
19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30

16
 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
Southwest Chapter P.O. Box 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906

ADVERTISING RATE SCHEDULE

AND APPLICATION

6 Months 12 Months
BUSINESS CARD $ 55.00 $ 80.00
QUARTER PAGE $ 85.00 $135.00
HALF PAGE $145.00 $245.00
FULL PAGE $200.00 $375.00
Please submit all artwork in PDF or JPEG format. Email advertisement artwork/information and/or questions to
abateswc@yahoo.com. All advertising MUST be approved by ABATE of Florida, Inc., Southwest Chapter.
Ad renewal payments must be received by the 10th of the renewal month or ad will be discontinued.
Forward this completed form and payment to above P.O. Box. Checks payable to Southwest Chapter
Business Name:
Address:
Business Contact: Business Phone:
Cell Phone: Email:
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE:
Print Name: Ad Start Date:
Duration of Ad: Ad Renewal Date:
Date Payment Received: Form of Payment:
DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. OR SOUTHWEST CHAPTER ARE NOT TAX DEDUCTIBLE AS
CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTION FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES.

17
18
 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Southwest Chapter
P.O. Box 60745 Fort Myers, FL 33906
Southwest.abateflorida.com

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
SEE PAGE 3 FOR MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE INFORMATION

Name (Please Print Legibly):

Mailing Address:

City State Zip Code + Four

Phone: (Include Area Code):
May we use your phone number for our phone tree? YES NO
Email Address:
Are you a registered Voter? YES NO
Please list your voting districts from your Voter Registration Card:
FL House FL Senate US Congress
District

Name of Chapter you wish to join: Southwest Chapter

If you are a member of more than one chapter, please designate your home chapter

Select ONE of the following:

New/Renewal Annual Membership Due $20.00
Lifetime Membership $600.00
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 bi-monthly 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 Make Checks Payable to:
ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Copy of By Laws Southwest Chapter
Membership Expiration
19
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