ABATE of FLORIDA, Inc. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

ABATE OF FLORIDA, Inc. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

AUGUST 2015 Volume XXXVI, Issue XV

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

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. THE ONLY MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA LEGISLATIVE NEWS • MSAP INSTRUCTORS • COMMUNITY SERVICE

Lobby & Educate the Government & the General Public to Promote Motorcycling in a Safe & Positive Image MEMBER MATERIAL DEADLINE : 20th of the Month for Editorial and Board Approval SOUTHWEST CHAPTER NEW ADVERTISERS OR AD DEADLINE: MEETING SCHEDULE 15 of the month

OUR NEXT CHAPTER MEETING WILL BE HELD AUGUST 16 at Jerseys Sports Café at 10:30am IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT SOUTHWEST CHAPTER NEWSLETTER; ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ISSUE DATE: APRIL 2015 MISSION STATEMENT PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY WHO WE ARE ABATE of Florida, Inc. We are a non-profit organization of motorcycle Southwest Chapter enthusiasts from all walks of life. We lobby and PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906 educate the government and the general public http://southwest.abateflorida.com 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. Disclaimer: We ARE NOT A CLUB OR A GANG. We The views expressed in this newsletter are not fund our work through toy runs, poker runs, necessarily those of ABATE of Florida, Inc. and or campouts, and other motorcycle activities. We the Southwest Chapter. are your neighbors & friends who work, pay This publication allows members to express their taxes, and get involved with our community. We beliefs and opinions. ABATE of Florida, Inc. and serve and support our country and believe in Southwest Chapter accept no responsibility for freedom. We use all legal means to protect our the comments, opinions or views contained in this rights without infringing on the rights of others. newsletter. Please direct correspondence in reference to this OUR GOALS publication to: To become a powerful and viable political force in Victor Piorkowski | (cell) 239-823-6159 legislative matters concerning the motorcyclist. Donations to ABATE of Florida, Inc. are not To promote the safe riding habits without infringing deductible for Federal Tax Purposes. on individual freedoms. To motivate the bikers to write letters to their ABATE of Florida, Inc. legislators before, during, and after the legislative © 2010 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter • session. All Rights Reserved To furnish our members with a newsletter to ABATE of Florida, Inc. and the Southwest Chapter keep all bikers informed in regards to upcoming do not condone drinking while riding or driving legislation. ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. Southwest Chapter PO BOX 60745 • Fort Myers, FL 33906 southwest.abateflorida.com MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION SEE PAGE 4 FOR MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE INFORMATION

Name (Please Print Legibly): ______

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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 Make Checks Payable to: Mailed Date: Membership Card ______ABATE of Florida, Inc. Copy of By Laws ______Southwest Chapter

Membership Expiration ______ABATE of Florida, Inc. |Southwest Chapter EXECUTIVE BOARD & TRUSTEES PO Box 60745, Fort Myers, FL 33906-6748 Southwest.abateflorida.com

President -Shayne Hanley [email protected] | 239.560.2565

Vice President - Moe Moser 412-999-3397 | [email protected] SOUTHWEST CHAPTER PRODUCTS Secretary - Laurie Hanley 239-898-5168 | [email protected] CHAPTER PATCH LARGE (MEMBERS ONLY) $25.00 Treasurer - Heidi Szolga 618-616-0870 | [email protected] CHAPTER PATCH SMALL $7.00 Sergeant At Arms - Bob Rabell [email protected] | 239.458.3136 CHAPTER FLAG $25.00 Membership Trustee | Jim Philips 239-209-0016 | [email protected] CHAPTER SHIRTS & MORE ARE AVAILABLE ~ SEE PRODUCTS TRUSTEE FOR INVENTORY Public Relations - Gwynne Hickman 239.246.2025 | [email protected] LOOKING FOR Legislative Representative- Frank Kennedy A FEW GOOD MEN!! 239.693.7035 | [email protected]

Safety Director - Victor Piorkowski 239-772-3320 | [email protected]

Newsletter - Iva Sokolik [email protected]

Webmaster - Taylor Musburger 239.334.1620 | [email protected]

Chapter Chaplain - Tom Provenzano The SWFL Chapter of LEATHERNECKS 239.267.8641 | [email protected] Motorcycle Club Intl., Inc.

We Welcome Marine Veterans, FMF Corpsmen And Active Duty Men and Women Marines HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MRO* Chapter Meetings held at Six Bends Harley-Davidson of Fort Myers 1st Sunday of each month If you love riding a motorcycle and want the *MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION Brotherhood/Sisterhood. That you had in the Corps, ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. then we are what you want! ©2012 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Southwest Chapter For further information contact • All Rights Reserved Rail Road at: 239-321-3298 Or visit our website at: www.leathernecks-swfl.com ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC BOARD OF DIRECTORS (as of 6/12/14)

STATE OFFICE: MASTERLINK EDITOR: ABATE OF Florida, Inc. C/O STATE OFFICE PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 Phone: (386) 943-9610 Fax: same Phone: (386) 943-9610 Fax: (386) 943-9610 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

PRESIDENT: MEMBERSHIP: JAMES "DOC" REICHENBACH GRACE LORD PO Box 712, Silver Springs, FL 34489-0712 PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 Phone: (352) 625-6353 Fax: same Phone: (904) 504-6362 Fax: (386) 943-9610 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENT: SAFETY PROGRAM (MSAP) DIRECTOR: DENNIS "MUDDER" RUDOI JOHN MASSOTH PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 Phone: (407) 925-4307 Fax: (407) 699-9748 Phone: (954) 650-1420 FAX: (561) 333-6773 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

SECRETARY: LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: SHELLY JOHNSTON DARRIN "SCRIBE" BROOKS PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 Phone: (904) 405-4700 Fax:(386) 943-9610 Phone: (239) 398-7145 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

TREASURER: PRODUCTS TRUSTEE: PATTI NASRALLAH STEVE "CARETAKER" KNEE PO Box 16309, Temple Terrace, FL 33687-6309 PO Box 4372, Milton, FL 32572-4372 Phone: (813) 695-9203 Fax: (813) 626-2306 Phone: (850)529-4446 Fax: (386) 943-9610 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

SGT-AT-ARMS: LEGAL COUNSEL: TJ PAINTER LARRY CROW PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 1247 S. Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Phone: (352) 303-8299 Fax: (386) 943-9610 Phone: (727) 945-1112 Fax: (727) 945-9224 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

PR/COMMUNICATIONS: WEBMASTER (appointed): SARABETH KOHL Email:[email protected] PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520 Phone: (904) 591-4100 Fax: (386) 943-9610 Email: [email protected]

This newsletter may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to advance understanding of political , human rights, economic, democracy, and social justice issues, etc. We believe this constitutes a ‘fair use’ of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material in this newsletter is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond ‘fair use’, you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. President’s OUR NEXT MEETING WILL BE AUGUST 16TH, 10:30AM Message AT JERSEYS SPORTS CAFÉ, 13971 N CLEVELAND AVE, FT. MYERS ON THE CORNER OF PONDELLA AND 41

Hello Everyone,

Now that we are entering the Dog Days of Summer, I just want everyone to be safe while riding and remember with the hot sun beating down it is easy to dehydrate so make sure to plan ahead and drink lots of fluids.

This organization is all volunteer and with that said, I am still looking for a Membership Trustee to round out an already excellent board. Anyone interested let me know.

Last but not least I want to let everyone know that the state board has an upcoming event in October at Avon Park. The state board is looking for volunteers and vendors so if anyone is interested you can use the form in the newsletter or call directly for more information. I will also be putting any updates for this event in the newsletter as well.

As always, if you have any questions, ideas, or concerns please call or email me.

Be Careful and Ride Safe, Shayne Hanley SW Chapter President Abate of Florida, Inc.

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER LIFE MEMBERS

Keith Baker Bob Hall Janet Rolfe Darrell Barnett Rodney Hollingsworth Tabitha Rossi Jerry Barnett Misti Hollingsworth Roland Salsberry Denee Bartels Harry Hoover Jencye Schmitt Scott Blink Jeff Hoover Jerry Schmitt Chet Butz Jonathan Hunt Bruce Scheiner James Burkholder George Huttman Juergen Wolfgang Schitzer Nora Burkholder Susan “Red” Huttman Jencye Schmitt Don Campbell Dan Jackson Jerry Schmitt Frances Cazes Cindy “CJ” Jordan Elsie Seif Wayne Cerra Frankie Kennedy Doug Sepanak Jonathan Conant John Kennedy Robert Simon Terry Covington Ed LaCombe Kelly Smith Audrey Cran Julio Lopez Randall Spivey Maggie Cran Mary Ann Rivera-Lopez Richard Stergulz Rick Cran “KD” Marlowe Sandy Stergulz Rob Cran Russell May Grandpa Stewart Robert “Cruz” Crusan Rev.Rea Means Lynda Stewart Jim Crystal Don Meredith Jr . Russell Sullivan Dan Curry Jo Ann Miller Scott Turner Ginny D’Asti Kenneth Miller Ruth Vorys Biffle Davis John Mitchell Teresa Webster Lynne Davis Moe Moser D. Payton Wells Mary Dicenzo-Porter Jim Mozeleski Michael Wieland Al Diagiaco Taylor Musburger Jama Wyatt Frank Disomma Carl Nelson Steve Wyatt Cindy Doak Terry Padilla Karl Bartling III Randy Eck Bob Penn Karl Bartling Marius Espeleta Asuncsion Peppers Roger Smith Brian Galvin Richard Peppers Frank E. Rhorer Sonny Gartrell Victor Piorkowski Bill Barber Steven Goldstein Kathleen Provenzano Kim Adair Lynnda Gray Rev. Thomas Provenzano Jeffery Fielder Larry Gullia Bill Robinson Jay Monttetit

To become a Life Member Contact Membership Trustee See information on Page 4 QUICK TIPS: MSF’s Guide to Group Riding

Motorcycling is primarily a solo activity, but for many, riding as a group – whether with friends on a Sunday morning ride or with an organized motorcycle rally – is the epitome of the motorcycling experience. Here are some tips to help ensure a fun and safe group ride:

Arrive prepared. Arrive on time with a full gas tank.

Hold a riders’ meeting. Discuss things like the route, rest and fuel stops, and hand signals (see diagrams on page 3). Assign a lead and sweep (tail) rider. Both should be experienced riders who are well-versed in group riding procedures. The leader should be aware of each rider's skill level before the ride and monitor the riders during the ride.

Keep the group to a manageable size, ideally five to seven riders. If necessary, break the group into smaller sub-groups, separated by a few seconds, each with a lead and sweep rider.

Ride prepared. At least one rider in each group should a first-aid kit and full tool kit, and all riders should carry a cell phone, so the group is prepared for any problem that they might encounter.

Ride in formation. The staggered riding formation (see diagram below) allows a proper space cushion between motorcycles so that each rider has enough time and space to maneuver and to react to hazards. The leader rides in the left third of the lane, while the next rider stays at least one second behind in the right third of the lane; the rest of the group follows the same pattern. A single-file formation with a minimum 2-second following distance is preferred on a curvy road, under conditions of poor visibility or poor road surfaces, entering/leaving highways, or other situations where an increased space cushion or maneuvering room is needed.

August 2015

SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI SAT

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 FATHOMS State Meeting, Cape Harbour Lake County 6-10 pm

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 FATHOMS Cape Harbour 6-10 pm

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

General Meeting FATHOMS @ Jerseys Sports Cape Harbour Café 6-10 pm at 10:30am 23 24 / 31 25 26 27 28 30 Mugs N Jugs 11:00am-3:00pm FATHOMS Cape Harbour 6-10 pm

VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME Support Your Chapter @ Events September 2015 SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI SAT

1 2 3 4 5 FATHOMS Cape Harbour 6-10 pm

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 FATHOMS Cape Harbour 6-10 pm

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 FATHOMS Cape Harbour 6-10 pm

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

General Meeting FATHOMS @ Jerseys Sports Cape Harbour Café 6-10 pm at 10:30am 27 28 29 30 Mugs N Jugs 11:00am-3:00pm FATHOMS Cape Harbour 6-10 pm WASHINGTON WEEKLY UPDATES - JUNE 21, 2015

Carbon Emissions First it was carbon emissions from power plants that President Obama targeted for major changes in an announcement earlier this month, dropping them by 30% by 2030. Then a week later the EPA announced that it was going to begin regulating commercial airplanes carbon emissions. So it should be of no surprise that this week President Obama announced that he was going to crack down on emissions from medium and heavy-duty trucks. It will likely take over a decade to realize the suggested changes, but they are coming.

Proposed Changes to Motorcycle Helmet Standards The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) continues to gather comments on the proposed rule that would change the definition of a helmet to include actual measurements of the thickness of the helmet’s lining. The new rule would require a helmet to have a thickness of around one inch, thereby eliminating now-legal novelty helmets altogether. This proposed rule does not bode well for any motorcyclist, helmeted or not. Even if you live in a state that does not have a helmet law, please consider sending in comments. We have more than doubled the comments over last week, and we need to keep up the momentum. Please draft straightforward comments that focus on the shift from a performance standard of a helmet to a new construction-based standard. Go to www.regulations.gov, search for “motorcycle” and it is the first proposed rule to come up.

Interstate Highway Tolls As you saw in a previous release this week, the Senate is going to be marking up a portion of the highway bill. This portion deals with the actual infrastructure, not those who use it. An idea has been floating around to allow for states to enter into a pilot program that would allow for state tolling of interstate roads. This pilot program has been around for over 17 years and has failed time and time again because of local outcry. The fat cats in D.C. who sit around a table and come up with these ideas rarely think of the locals. They see it as a revenue raiser for their state and rubber stamp it. When the ideas get back to those who will be impacted by these new, costly tolls on roads that have been built and maintained by the feds since their inception, they are met with massive local pushback. Yet D.C. just keeps trying to force the tolls down the throat of average Americans. Use the link below to make your voice heard by those who are making these decisions for you. No new tolls. Tell the EPW Committee “NO TOLLS” in just 15 seconds

Presidential Candidacies Another week, another slew of GOP candidate announces their candidacy. This week was highlighted by the bizarre rant of Donald Trump announcing his bid and attacking just about every other candidate by name. Jeb Bush, the younger brother of Bush 43 and son of Bush 41, also announced. He was the first two-term Republican governor of Florida. He is a capable businessman and a tireless campaigner. But he is a Bush, and in the “dog eat dog” world of American politics, one’s last name can mean a lot. Frankly, the country is sick of the Bush family, often referring to them as a dynasty or worse, royalty. It’s the same with the Clintons. “Been there, done that” seems to be the mindset of electing either of these candidates. I once sat next to Jeb on a cross-country flight. It was after his time as Governor, so he was out of the public eye. This is not an endorsement for Jeb Bush by any means, but he was a likable guy who could probably do a better job as President than either of the two Bush men who came before him. But alas: what’s in a name? Sometimes everything. The Presidential election is 506 days away. Summer riding season is in full swing. Remember: you are an ambassador for motorcycling every time you and/or your friends ride.

HIGHWAY BILL ADVANCES IN SENATE - JUNE 25, 2015 Wednesday, June 24th the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) passes their version of a long-term highway bill reports the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). The six-year bill easily passed with bipartisan support. The “Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy” Act or DRIVE Act would increase funding levels from a 2012 transportation law at an average of 3% annually to come up with $260 billion for highway infrastructure programs. The measure was voted out of the committee with a vote of 20-0. The issue of allowing for more states to the pilot program of new tolling of existing interstate highway was removed from the final version of the bill. The pilot program to test tolling existing interstate roads still exists, keeping the number of states that may participate at three. However, EPW did include a “use it or lose it” clause that would force a state participating in the program to abandon the pilot after a number of years if they are unable to get the program started. This is significant because this pilot program has been in existence for 17 years and none of the states have ever been able to put a tolling pilot program in place due to massive public outcry. In short, it allows the feds to pick an area of the country that may be more friendly to (or just more used to) increased tolling. Another disturbing provision of the DRIVE act would allow states to divert tolls collected away from the tolled road to fund other government programs—the very definition of the proverbial “Stealing from Peter to pay Paul.” There is no mention of motorcycles in this portion of the highway bill. Issue of motorcycle-only checkpoints will be addressed in a forthcoming bill from another committee. Thank you to everyone who made calls and sent emails to the EPW committee members. Your voice was integral to the non-expansion of the tolling program.

COURT ORDERS DISTRICTS TO BE REDRAWN The Florida Supreme Court on Thursday ordered that at least eight congressional districts be redrawn because of violations of an anti-gerrymandering constitutional amendment. The order will require the Legislature “on an expedited basis” to redraw congressional districts represented by Corrine Brown, David Jolly, Kathy Castor, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Mario Diaz-Balart, Carlos Curbelo and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. The order also could affect neighboring districts. The News Service will have a full report later Thursday.

DEFENDANTS FACE BURDEN IN ‘STAND YOUR GROUND’ CASES In a case that started with a tourist brandishing a gun during a traffic dispute, the Florida Supreme Court on Thursday said people who use the state’s controversial “stand your ground” legal defense have the burden of proving they should be shielded from prosecution. The 5-2 ruling dealt with a key part of the way the state has carried out the “stand your ground” law, which in part provides immunity to people who use justifiable force in self-defense. In “stand your ground” cases, pre-trial evidentiary hearings are held to determine whether defendants are immune from prosecution because of the law. The Supreme Court ruling Thursday centered on who should have the burden of proof during those hearings --- defendants or prosecutors. Justices sided with lower courts that have required defendants to prove that they should be protected from prosecution by the self-defense law. The majority opinion, written by Justice Barbara Pariente, said immunity in the “stand your ground” law “is not a blanket immunity, but rather, requires the establishment that the use of force was legally justified.” “We conclude that placing the burden of proof on the defendant to establish entitlement to Stand Your Ground immunity by a preponderance of the evidence at the pretrial evidentiary hearing, rather than on the state to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant’s use of force was not justified, is consistent with this court’s precedent and gives effect to the legislative intent,’’ said the majority opinion, which was joined by Chief Justice Jorge Labarga and justices Peggy Quince and James E.C. Perry. Justice R. Fred Lewis concurred in the outcome, though he did not sign on to the majority opinion. In a dissenting opinion, Justice Charles Canady wrote that the majority ruling “substantially curtails the benefit of the immunity from trial conferred by the Legislature under the Stand Your Ground law.” “The factual question raised by the assertion of Stand Your Ground immunity in a pretrial evidentiary hearing is the same as the factual question raised by a Stand Your Ground defense presented at trial: whether the evidence establishes beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant’s conduct was not justified under the governing statutory standard,’’ Canady wrote in the dissent, which was joined by Justice Ricky Polston. The ruling came in a case that started in 2011 with a dispute on Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in Osceola County. Jared Bretherick, a tourist from Indiana, was a backseat passenger in a vehicle driven by his father that was almost side-swiped by a truck, according to a summary in the Supreme Court opinion. The driver of the truck, identified in court documents as Derek Dunning, then abruptly stopped in front of the Bretherick vehicle. Dunning, who was unarmed, got out of his truck and approached the vehicle. Bretherick’s father held up a holstered gun, which led Dunning to return to his truck. Bretherick subsequently got out of the vehicle and approached the truck while pointing the handgun at Dunning, the court opinion said. He later went back to the family’s vehicle and continued pointing the gun at Dunning. Police arrived after receiving 911 calls, and Bretherick was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. After an evidentiary hearing, a circuit judge ruled that Bretherick was not entitled to immunity from prosecution under the “stand your ground” law. The judge pointed to Dunning’s retreat to his truck after Bretherick’s father showed the handgun, ruling that the “threat was no longer imminent, and in fact, the possible volatile situation had been diffused. The defendant’s subjective fear was no longer reasonable.” The National Rifle Association and another gun-rights group, Florida Carry Inc. filed briefs in the Supreme Court supporting Bretherick. But the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association backed the state’s position on the burden-of-proof issue.

SESSION SET FOR AUGUST TO REDRAW CONGRESSIONAL LINES August will be back-to-Tallahassee time for state lawmakers. Senate President Andy Gardiner and House Speaker Steve Crisafulli sent a joint memo to lawmakers Monday announcing that a court-ordered special session to redraw eight of the state’s 27 congressional districts will begin Aug. 10 and run until Aug. 21 or until the completion of the new map. Gardiner, R-Orlando, and Crisafulli R-Merritt Island, also directed staff from the new House Select Committee on Redistricting and the new Senate Committee on Reapportionment to work with legislative attorneys to initially draft a “base map” that complies with a July 9 ruling from the state Supreme Court. “This map proposal will be drafted solely by staff in collaboration with counsel, without our participation or the participation of any other member, and will be provided simultaneously to all members and the public prior to the convening of the special session,” Gardiner and Crisafulli wrote. “We believe that presenting a base map that follows the Supreme Court order to you and the public will make it easier to discuss all legislative actions in an open and transparent manner.” The court ruled that the districts first approved in 2012 as part of the once-a-decade redistricting process were corrupted by the efforts of Republican political consultants --- violating an anti-gerrymandering “Fair Districts” constitutional amendment voters approved in 2010. Gardiner and Crisafulli added that they have instructed staff to avoid the political implications of the new lines, except where legally required to comply with state and federal minority voting-rights provisions, and to report any House and Senate members who make suggestions for the map that could benefit an incumbent or political party. That portion of the memo was met with skepticism by Democrats, as state party spokesman Max Steele sarcastically tweeted, “I know we said it last time. And then the time before that. And also the time before that. But for real this time.” The court ruling directly impacted the congressional districts of Democrats Corrine Brown, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel and Kathy Castor and Republicans David Jolly, Mario Diaz-Balart, Carlos Curbelo and Ileana Ros-Lethinen. Any changes will also impact neighboring districts. Brown, who has threatened to legally challenge the court ruling and who headed a group of Florida’s congressional delegation members in a failed request last week for statewide hearings on the proposed lines, remains “opposed” to the call for a special session, spokesman David Simon said Monday. Simon added that Brown continues to stand behind her July 9 comments, released after the court’s ruling, in which she argued that the ruling “fails to take into consideration the rights of minority voters.” Last year, Leon County Circuit Judge Terry Lewis invalidated districts represented by Brown and Republican Daniel Webster. State lawmakers then redrew those lines with limited impact on other congressional seats. But voting-rights groups challenged the redrawn lines at the Supreme Court, which required the more-sweeping changes. The staff-generated congressional “base map” is expected to be presented during a joint meeting of the two legislative committees on Aug. 11, the second day of the special session, according to the Gardiner and Crisafulli. Rep. Jose Oliva, R-Miami Lakes, was named by Crisafulli to chair the 13-member House committee overseeing the new congressional map. Gardiner appointed Senate Majority Leader Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, to chair the chamber’s seven-member reapportionment committee. Sen. Rob Bradley, a Fleming Island Republican also tapped for the reapportionment committee, said it will follow the court ruling. “I look forward to receiving a proposal, and I know that the committee looks forward to receiving a proposal from professional staff,” Bradley said. “That proposed map is going to be free of any taint or any political influence.” In the memo, Gardiner and Crisafulli advised lawmakers who intend to file their own redistricting bills, or even amendments to the map, to be prepared to detail every aspect of the map --- from the people involved and the criteria used by the map drawers to the impact on minorities. This is the second time that state lawmakers will be trekking back to the Capitol since the regular legislative session ended in May. In June, the Legislature had to reconvene for a special budget session sparked by a bitter fight within the GOP over how to handle health-care spending.

NHTSA 2013 Motorcycle Safety Facts Report Hey Everyone,NHTSA recently released their 2013 Motorcycle safety Facts Report. I have extracted the main points but like we have know for a while the two biggest things that YOU can do to increase YOUR safety is NEVER drink and ride and don’t drive faster than the road, weather, and YOUR skills allow.

Key Findings · In 2013, 4,668 motorcyclists were killed—a 6-percent decrease from the 4,986 motorcyclists killed in 2012. · There were an estimated 88,000 motorcyclists injured during 2013, a 5-percent decrease from 93,000 motorcyclist injured in 2012. · Per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclist fatalities occurred 26 times more frequently than passenger car occupant fatalities in traffic crashes. · Twenty-five percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2013 were riding their vehicles without valid motorcycle licenses. · In 2013, motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were found to have the highest percentage of alcohol- impaired drivers than any other vehicle type (27% for motorcycles, 23% for passenger cars, 21% for light trucks, and 2% for large trucks). · Forty percent of motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2013 were alcohol-impaired. Motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes at night were almost four times more frequently alcohol-impaired than those killed during the day. · NHTSA estimates that helmets saved 1,630 motorcyclists’ lives in 2013, and that 715 more could have been saved if all motorcyclists had worn helmets. · In States without universal helmet laws, 59 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2013 were not wearing helmets, as compared to 8 percent in States with universal helmet laws.

Registration Motorcycles made up 3 percent of all registered vehicles in the United States in 2013 and accounted for only 0.7 percent of all vehicle miles traveled. Per registered vehicle, the fatality rate for motorcyclists in 2013 was 6 times the fatality rate for passenger car occupants. The injury rate for motorcyclists (1,052) was slightly higher than the injury rate for passenger car occupants (1,005). Per vehicle mile traveled in 2013, motorcyclist fatalities occurred 26 times more frequently than passenger car occupant fatalities in motor vehicle traffic crashes, and motorcyclists were nearly 5 times more likely to be injured Crash Involvement Data shows in 2013 that the most harmful event for 2,448 (51%) of the 4,774 motorcycles involved in fatal crashes was a collision with a motor vehicle in transport. In two-vehicle crashes, 74 percent of the motorcycles involved in motor vehicle traffic crashes were frontal collisions. Only 6 percent were struck in the rear. Motorcycles are more frequently involved in fatal collisions with fixed objects than other vehicles. In 2013, 22 percent of the motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with fixed objects, compared to 18 percent for passenger cars, 14 percent for light trucks, and 4 percent for large trucks. In 2013, there were 2,182 two-vehicle fatal crashes involving a motorcycle and another type of vehicle. In 42 percent (922) of these crashes, the other vehicles were turning left while the motorcycles were going straight, passing, or overtaking other vehicles. Both vehicles were going straight in 456 crashes (21%). Speeding NHTSA considers a crash to be speeding-related if the driver was charged with a speeding-related offense or if an investigating police officer indicated that racing, driving too fast for conditions, or exceeding the posted speed limit was a contributing factor in the crash. In 2013, 34 percent of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 21 percent for passenger car drivers, 18 percent for light-truck drivers, and 8 percent for large-truck drivers. Age From 2004 to 2013, motorcyclist fatalities increased by 16 percent. The 40-and-older age group made up 46 percent of motorcyclist killed in 2004 as compared to 55 percent of the motorcyclist killed in 2013. Over the 10-year period from 2004–2013, fatalities among the 40-and-older age group increased by 39 percent (from 1,854 to 2,580). In 2004, the average age of motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes was 38, whereas in 2013 the average age was 42. Data further shows that in 2004 about 52 percent of motorcyclists were killed during weekends (6 p.m. Friday to 5:59 a.m. Monday). However, in 2013 the majority of motorcyclist were killed during the weekdays (6 a.m. Monday to 5:59 p.m. Friday). Motorcycle Engine Size Twenty-eight percent of motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2013 were riding motorcycles with engine sizes from 1,001 to 1,500 cubic centimeters (cc), down from 38 percent in 2004. In 2013, 17 percent of rider fatalities were while riding motorcycles with engine sizes of 1,501cc or higher, up from just 3 percent in 2004. Overall, the total number of rider fatalities increased 18 percent over the past decade from 3,713 in 2004 to 4,399 in 2013. The number of rider fatalities on motorcycles with engine sizes of 1,000cc or less showed an increase of 12 percent during this time period. Rider fatalities on motorcycles with engine sizes between 1,001 and 1,500cc decreased by 12 percent (from 1,415 to 1,239), while the number of riders on motorcycles 1,501cc or higher increased by over 500 percent (from 122 to 738). Licensing and Previous Driving Records Twenty-five percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2013 were riding their vehicles without valid motorcycle licenses at the time of the collisions, while only 13 percent of passenger vehicle drivers in fatal crashes did not have valid licenses. A valid motorcycle license includes a rider having a valid driver license (Non-CDL License Status) with a motorcycle endorsement or motorcycle-only license. Motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were 1.2 times more frequently than passenger vehicle drivers to have previous license suspensions or revocations (17.9% and 14.7%, respectively). Motorcycle riders had the highest percentage of drivers with previous driving convictions (driving while impaired (DWI), speeding, and revocation) as compared to other vehicle drivers. Alcohol Drinking and driving has always been a concern. In 2013, there were 4,399 motorcycle riders killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Of those, 1,232 (28%) were alcohol-impaired (BAC of .08 or higher). In addition, there were 305 (7%) fatally injured motorcycle riders who had lower alcohol levels (BACs of .01 to .07 g/dL). In fatal crashes in 2013, motorcycle riders involved (killed and survived) in fatal crashes had higher percentages of alcohol impairment than any other type of motor vehicle driver (27% for motorcycle riders, 23% for passenger car drivers, 21% for light-truck drivers, and 2% for drivers of large trucks). The highest percentages of fatally injured, alcohol-impaired motorcycle riders were in the 40-to-44 and 45-to-49 age groups (40%), followed by the 35-to-39 age group (33%). 40 percent of the 1,897 motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2013 were alcohol impaired. Sixty-three percent of those killed in single-vehicle crashes on weekend nights were alcohol impaired. Motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes at night were almost 4 times more frequently found to be alcohol-impaired than those killed during the day (46% and 12%, respectively). The reported helmet use rate for alcohol-impaired motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes was 46 percent as compared to 66 percent for those with no alcohol (BAC=.00 g/dL). Helmet Use and Effectiveness NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,630 motorcyclists in 2013. If all motorcyclists had worn helmets, an additional 715 lives could have been saved. Helmets are estimated to be 37-percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders and 41 percent for motorcycle passengers. In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing helmets, 37 of them could have been saved had all 100 worn helmets. According to results from the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), the overall rate of DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet use in the United States was 60 percent in 2013. Helmet use continued to be significantly higher in States that required all motorcyclists to be helmeted than in other States (see Motorcycle Helmet Use in 2013—Overall Results, DOT HS 812 010, available at www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/812010.pdf). Reported helmet use rates for fatally injured motorcyclists in 2013 were 60 percent for riders and 49 percent for passengers, compared with 59 percent and 48 percent, respectively, in 2012. Conversely, 41 percent of the 4,668 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes were not helmeted. Table 7 shows that these percentages ranged from a high of 93 percent (Maine) to a low of 0 percent (District of Columbia). All motorcycle helmets sold in the United States are required to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, the performance standard which establishes the minimum level of protection for helmets designed for use by motorcyclists. In 2013, 19 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico that required helmet use by all motorcyclists. In 28 States, helmet use was required for only a subset of motorcyclists (typically, motorcyclists under age 18), and 3 States (Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire) did not require helmet use for motorcyclists of any age. The most current information on helmet use laws is available on the GHSA Web site at www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/ laws/helmet_laws.html. In States without universal helmet laws, 59 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2013 were not wearing helmets, as compared to 8 percent in States with universal helmet laws.

WASHINGTON WEEKLY UPDATES - JULY 24, 2015 From Jeff Hennie -Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs

Senate Highway Bill Would End Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints This week the Senate Commerce Science Transportation Committee passed a six-year highway bill. The bill, slated to go to the Senate floor next week, was voted out of committee by a party line vote of 13-11. The best part is that the language to end federal funding of motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints is in the bill, and it’s because of the joint work of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation membership and of state motorcycle rights organizations that the language is included. This issue was the number-one priority at this year’s “Bikers Inside the Beltway,” and the hard work has paid off. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation and I personally thank every one who attended “Bikers Inside the Beltway,” made a separate lobby trip, or contacted their elected officials in one way or another about this important issue to the motorcyclists of this country. The specific language reads: SEC. 4121. SHORT TITLE. This part may be cited as the ``Stop Motorcycle Checkpoint Funding Act’’.

SEC. 4122. GRANT RESTRICTION. Notwithstanding section 153 of title 23, United States Code, the Secretary may not provide a grant or any funds to a State, county, town, township, Indian tribe, municipality, or other local government that may be used for any program— (1) to check helmet usage; or (2) to create checkpoints that specifically target motorcycle operators or motorcycle passengers. It’s terrific that the Senate is working towards a long term, six-year highway bill, but the funding portion of the bill remains stymied. With over $90 billion left to come up with, progress has been slow. The obvious solution of a small increase in the road user fee, or of gas tax, has been a non-starter for most members of Congress. The House of Representatives has yet to unveil its intentions for a long-term bill. Current funding expires at the end of July, and with no real solutions, another extension is imminent. House Ways and Means Chairman, Paul Ryan (R-WI) has vowed to fund a long-term bill but has yet to announce any formal plans to do so. Dear Fellow Abate Members...

A Character or Having Character?

Many times in motorcycling circles we meet a lot of “characters.” Perhaps, it is one of the things that we have enjoyed about motorcycling all these years. Some characters have their serious side, some have a funny side, some look like and act like no other person we have ever met, and some we just have no comment about! Some appear on the scene suddenly and they leave just as quickly. Some seem “bigger than life,” out of the ordinary, attention seekers, and the type of person that you will not forget in the near future. For the time we know them, they will either make a positive, neutral, or a negative influence on our lives.

Many times the “thing’ that attracts us to these people is not the superficial character on the outside. But, the genuine character on the inside… When we get to know a person’s character, then we really begin to know who that person really is. A number of years ago, you may recall a television network stating, “We are looking for characters.” May we respond, that God is looking for people with character! He is looking for those who are willing to accept and have accepted/taken into their hearts, all of Him.

When you become a believer, a real character moves into you. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) says: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

The Holy Spirit has character and characteristics. The Holy Spirit is God, our Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (NIV), Now“ the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” Acts 5:3-4 says that if you have lied to the Holy Spirit, you have lied to God. John 14:26 says He is our teacher. Ephesians 4:30 says He has feelings and is emotional, “…do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God.” In our lives, our conscience has been replaced by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. It is that voice within us that guides our decision making with all that we have to encounter. When we don’t listen, that’s when things go badly, as we have stepped out of God’s will and provisions.

We can still ride motorcycles and have the Lord within our beings! How much more alive are all our activities! Please pray, “Dear God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, my heavenly Father, the God of Jesus, I confess that I am a sinner and have been separated from You. I am going to stop running from You. I ask forgiveness of my sins. I repent and accept this gift of repentance and I wish to be free in You. I confess with my mouth that your son Jesus is my savior and died for me. I believe in my heart that You raised Him from the dead. I receive Jesus into my heart and ask Him to become the center of my life. I ask, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.” If you prayed that prayer for the first time, and you mean it, you really have accepted Him into your heart, please let us know.

Blessings, Pastor Tom (SW ABATE Chaplain and Life Member and Estero River ABATE Life Member) and Pastor Kathy (SW ABATE Life Member) - 239-267-8641 or email: [email protected] ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. SOUTHWEST CHAPTER GENERAL MEETING @ Jerseys Sports Cafe 7/19/2015 CALLED TO ORDER @ 10:35 am

Anyone besides secretary taking notes? No. Please silence cell phones. Salute flag/Pledge & Moment of silence for the fallen

Welcome guest and new members, PRESIDENTS REPORT: SHAYNE HANLEY 1. I want to thank the outgoing board for the great job they did last year. 2. I also want to thank Gwynne and Victor for standing in as the Treasurer and Vice President until they get back. 3. Gwynne has volunteered to be our PR person again this year. All those in favor? Accepted. Thank you Gwynne. 4. Due to personal reasons, Jim will not be able to do Membership. Victor will do until we can find another person. Anyone interested please let us know. 5. I am also looking for a Products person. Anyone one interested contact me. 6. At our next meeting our Vice President and Treasurer will be back and we will be discussing some plans for the year.

VICE PRESIDENT: MOE MOSER / VICTOR PIORKOWSKI (standing in) 1. At the seminars, Doc came down on everyone about using email list for fun rides. Our email lists are corporation and can not be used for personal rides/events. This stems from the law suit that is currently going on.

SECRETARY’S REPORT: LAURIE HANLEY 1. Motion to accept June’s minutes as written made by Gwynne, and 2nd by Frankie. All in favor. Accepted

TREASURER REPORT: GWYNNE HICKMAN 1. Motion to accept report as given by Frankie and 2nd by Charlie. All in favor. Accepted

SERGEANT AT ARMS: ROBB RABELL 1. I want to thank eveyone for the oppertunity to be part of the board again.

MEMBERSHIP: VICTOR PIORKOWSKI 1 new member LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: FRANK KENNEDY 1. Report in the newsletter.

SAFETY: VICTOR PIORKOWSKI 1. In August the schools start back up. I have three schools and am hoping to get more. If anyone is interested in helping out with the MSAP classes please contact me. Also if there is anyone interested in getting MSAP certified contact me. 2. One of the things I plan on getting out to everyone is hands signals instruction. Many people do not know the hand signals.

OLD/NEW BUSINESS 1. We still have tickets for the Abate Of Florida, Inc. $10,000 cash drawing. If anyone wants any tickets, get ahold of Shayne by phone or email and we will get them to you. 2. Avon Park – still looking for volunteers. Sign up sheet in the newsletter.

Motion to Adjourn by Carl and 2nd by Charlie All in favor Adjourned 11:30am

AVON PARK AUTUMN BIKEFEST OCT 2-4, 2015 ABATE of Florida Safety and Education, Inc. AREA ACCOMMODATIONS presents MOOSE LODGE (Tents & RV’s, no hookups) 1318 W Bell St Avon Park, FL 33825 Call Grizz 352-742-7754 $10 per person per nite, genera- tors welcome, Community fire, Tiki Bar, Lodge has ONE show- er, & bathrooms, plus portolets, Lodge will serve brkfst, lunch & dinner & will have bands after 9pm 1.6 miles from downtown REED’S MOTEL 102 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825 Autumn Bike Fest 863-657-2749 www.reedsmotelfl.com sponsored by 2 doubles $59.99 per night plus tax 1.5 miles from downtown AID TO INJURED MOTORCYCLISTS OAK TREE INN 700 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825 October 2, 3, 4, 2015 863-453-3165 www.oaktreeinn.biz 2 doubles $65 per night plus tax 1.6 miles from downtown Biker Live Bands ECONO LODGE & Fri & Sat 2511 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825 863-453-2000 2 doubles $67 per night plus tax Family Camping 3.3 miles from downtown Thurs-Sun QUALITY INN Activities 6525 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33870 863-385-4500 2 doubles $55 OR $65 per night plus tax 5.4 miles from downtown LAKE GLENADA RV PARK (full hookups) Beer Vendors 2525 US Hwy 27 S, Avon Park, FL 33825 863-453-7007 Garden Contact $35 per night plus tax 3.6 miles from downtown & 941-613-1232 HUNNEWELLS’S COTTAGES ON LAKE BRENTWOOD Food [email protected] 2060 US Hwy 27 N, Avon Park, FL 33825 863-453-4358 www.hunnewellscottages.com 2 doubles $64.99 OR $74.99 per night plus tax ABATE of Florida Safety and Education Inc. does not condone drinking and riding. ABATE of Florida Safety and Education, Inc is a registered 501(c)3 FL corporation. 3.4 miles from downtown Donations are deductible for Federal Income tax purposes, AD EXPIRES: TRADE

A1 Storage Cape Coral A1 Storage Cape Coral A1 Storage Ft. Myers Vehicle & Boat Storage City Hall Area Pine Island US 41 710 NE 25th Avenue

1014 SE 12th Place 1318 NE Pine Island Road 16130 N. Cleveland Ave. Cape Coral, FL 33909 Cape Coral, FL 33990 Cape Coral, FL 33990 North Ft. Myers, FL 33903 (239) 573-9990 (239) 574-4184 (239) 574-8182 (239) 656-2070 Park 720

FLORIDA’S LEE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION

The Honorable Matt Caldwell, Chair, District 79 T. Wayne Miller Jr. Building, 15191 Homestead Road, Lehigh Acres Fl 33971. (239) 694-0161. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: Charlotte Codie. District Assistant: Priscilla Bezerra. Tallahassee Office: 402 House Office Building, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5079.

The Honorable Lizbeth Benacquisto, Vice Chair, District 30 1926 Victoria Avenue, 2nd Floor, Fort Myers, Fl 33901 (239) 338-2570. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: Matthew Hunter, Dane Bennett, Tamara Holliday. Tallahassee Office: 330 Senate Office Building, 404 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850)487-5030.

The Honorable Garrett Richter, District 23 32999 East Tamaimi Trail, Suite 203, Naples, Fl 34112. (239) 417-6205. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: Becky Kokkinos, Michael Nachef, Sandra Mummert. Tallahassee Office: 404 Senate Office Building, 404 South Monroe Street. Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 487-5023.

The Honorable Dane Eagle, District 77 1039 SE 9th Place, Room 310, Cape Coral, Fl 33990. (239) 772-1291. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: Paige Biagi. District Assistant: Kelsey Gorry. Tallahassee Office: 1302 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5077.

The Honorable Heather Fitzenhagen, District 78 2120 Main Street, Suite 208, Fort Myers, Fl 33901. (239) 533-2440. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: Edward Metzger. District Assistant: Allison Hopkins. Tallahassee Office: 1302 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5078.

The Honorable Ray Rodrigues, District 76 Alico Lake Commons, 17595 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 218, Fort Myers, Fl 33908. (239) 433-6501. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: James Mullen. District Assistant: Jasmine Villanueva. Tallahassee Office: 1302 The Capitol, 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399. (850) 717-5076. Lee County Delegation Office: (239) 694-0161. T. Wayne Miller Building, 15191 Homestead Road, Lehigh Acres, Fl 33971.

Lee County Manager: Roger Desjarlais P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902. Ph: (239) 533-2221. Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Lee County Board of County Commissioners

Dist. 4, Brian Hamman, Chairman. Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901. Cape Coral Office: Lee County Government Center, 1039 S.E. 9th Place, 3rd Floor, Room 309, Cape Coral, Fl 33990. (Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2226. Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected].

Dist. 5, Frank Mann, Vice Chairman. Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901. (Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2225. Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Executive Assistant: Chris Berry.

Dist. 1, John Manning. Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901. Cape Coral Office: Lee County Government Center, 1039 S.E. 9th Place, 3rd Floor, Room 309, Cape Coral, Fl 33990. (Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902- 0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2224. Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Executive Assistant: Stacey Rohland.

Dist. 2, Cecil Pendergrass. Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901. (Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2227. Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Executive Assistant: Christine Deramo.

Dist. 3, Larry Kiker. Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Old St., Fort Myers, Fl 33901. (Mail to: P.O. Box 398, Fort Myers, Fl 33902-0398.) Ph: (239) 533-2223. Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Executive Assistant: Antionette Johnson.

Office of Governor Rick Scott State of Florida, The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-0001. (850) 488-7146. HYPERLINK “http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor” www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor. Delegation Continued

Office of Lt. Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera State of Florida, The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-0001. (850) 488-4711. HYPERLINK “http://www.flgov.com/email-the-lt-governor” www.flgov.com/email-the-lt-governor. Florida Senate web site: HYPERLINK “http://www.flsenate.gov” www.flsenate.gov.

Office of Senate President Andy Gardiner 404 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-1100. (850) 487-5229. HYPERLINK “http://www.flsenate.gov/Offices/President” www.flsenate.gov/Offices/President. Chief of Staff: Reynold Meyer. Florida House of Representatives web site: HYPERLINK “http://www.myfloridahouse.gov” www.myfloridahouse.gov.

Office of Speaker of the House Steve Crisafulli 402 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32399-1300. (850) 717-5051. HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Legislative Assistant: Ashley Guinn.

White House web site: HYPERLINK “http://www.whitehouse.gov” www.whitehouse.gov. Office of the President of the United States of America Barack Obama The White house, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20500. Comments: (202) 456-1111. Switchboard: (202) 456-1414. NOTE: You can write to President Obama or Vice President Joe Biden at the above address. Due to the volume of correspondence the Whitehouse does not respond to every letter or email. However, your correspondence may be referred to another government agency for a response. President: “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Vice President: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Comments: HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected].

Write a letter to the President Here are a few simple things you can do to make sure your message gets to the White House as quickly as possible. 1. If possible, email us! This is the fastest way to get your message to President Obama or Vice President Biden. 2. If you write a letter, please consider typing it on an 8 1/2 by 11 inch sheet of paper. If you hand-write your letter, please consider using pen and writing as neatly as possible. 3. Please include your return address on your letter as well as your envelope. If you have an email address, please consider including that as well. 4. And finally, be sure to include the full address of the White House to make sure your message gets to us as quickly and directly as possible:

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500

United States Senate web site: HYPERLINK “http://www.senate.gov” www.senate.gov. United States Senate President: Vice President Joe Biden United States Senate President Pro Tempore: Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt. 437 Russell Senate Building, United States Senate, Washington, D.C. 20510. (202) 224-4242. HYPERLINK “http://www.leahy.senate.gov/contact” www.leahy.senate.gov/contact.

U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, D-FL 716 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-5274 Contact: HYPERLINK “http://www.billnelson.senate.gov/contact-bill” www.billnelson.senate.gov/contact-bill. Fort Myers Office: 2000 Main Street, Suite 801, Fort Myers, FL 33901. Phone: 239-334-7760. Fax: 239-334-7710.

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, (R-FL) 284 Russell Senate Office Building Washington DC 20510 (202) 224-3041.Contact: HYPERLINK “http://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact” www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact. United States House of Representatives web site: HYPERLINK “http://www.house.gov” www.house.gov

U.S. House Speaker: Rep. John Boehner, R, Oh-8 Office of the Speaker, H-232, The Capitol, Washington, D.C. 20515. Ph: (202) 225-0600, (202) 225-6205. HYPERLINK “http://www.speaker.gov/contact” www.speaker.gov/contact.

U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney, R, FL-17 Washington DC Office:221 Cannon HOB, Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-5792, Fax: (202) 225-3132 Punta Gorda Office: 226 Taylor Street, Suite 230, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (941) 575-9101, Fax: (941) 575-9103 Contact Congressman Rooney: HYPERLINK “https://rooney.house.gov/contact” https://rooney.house.gov/contact.

U.S. Rep. Curt Clawson, R, Fl-19 Washington DC Office: 1123 Longworth HOB, Washington, D.C. 2051 (202) 225-2536. Cape Coral District Office:804 Nicholas Pkwy, East, Suite 1, Cape Coral, Fl. 33990 (239) 573-5837. Contact Congressman Clawson: HYPERLINK “https://clawson.house.gov/contact” https://clawson.house.gov/contact.

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