ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.

Transcription

1 April - May 2012 Hil Page 1 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. AMERICAN BIKERS AIMED TOWARDS EDUCATION Hillsborough County Chapter Newsletter Volume 31 Issue 1 Your Local Chapter for Tampa Bay Area s #1 Motorcycle Rights Organization Hillsborough Chapter Meetings For May and June 2012 will be held June 3, 2012 At the Polebarn

2 ABATE of Florida, Inc. ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. Our Mission Statement T o Fight for the Freedom of the Road & Freedom of Choice for the motorcycle riders of the state of Florida. T o Become a powerful and viable political force in the state of Florida by encouraging riders to register to vote, be active at the polls, and to communicate on a regular basis with our legislators. T o Promote safe riding habits & driver awareness without infringing upon the rights of any individuals. T o Work towards educating our legislators in motorcycle matters so that they are able to make the best decisions affecting Florida s motorcycle riders. T o Publish a periodical publication to keep members of ABATE of Florida informed. DISCLAIMER The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC., or the Hillsborough County Chapter. This publication encourages its members to submit letters about ABATE related events, stories, articles, photographs, poems, commentaries, etc. ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. and the Hillsborough County Chapter accepts no responsibility for the opinions, views, or comments contained in this publication. Hillsborough County Chapter reserves the right to edit any article submitted for publication. All materials submitted to Hillsborough County Chapter for use in this newsletter become property of the chapter. DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ARE NOT TAX DEDUCTIBLE FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES Guidelines For Submissions Members can submit photos, articles, letters of interest, stories, etc. The newsletter deadline is listed on the calendar pages. Please do not submit accusatory or slanderous articles, or those containing profane language. For Submissions, please contact: Patti Phone: (813) Or hccabate@gmail.com Page 2 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC ABATE of Florida, Inc. is incorporated under the laws of Florida as a motorcycle rights organization or MRO. ABATE of Florida, Inc. currently is the only political MRO in Florida representing the interests of it's members and the motorcycling public at large. ABATE of Florida, Inc. is dedicated to securing and protecting the rights of all motorcyclists in the state. The corporation has retained the services of a full time lobbyist. It is the duty of the lobbyist to coordinate with the legislative trustee on matters of legislative interest and to put forth these interests to the legislators in Tallahassse. The lobbyist works closely with the Legislative Trustee and the state Board of Directors to formulate favorable bills and pursue getting the bills enacted into law. The lobbyist is also responsible for finding a willing and suitable sponsor in the Florida House and Senate for the aforementioned bills. In the area of education ABATE of Florida, Inc. has copyrighted a Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program. The program is designed to be presented in schools and other public forums to better educate students and the general public. ABATE of Florida findings, show a greater need for public awareness due to the increased numbers of motorcycles on the streets and highways of Florida. We will endeavor to enlist the cooperation and participation of all organizations and individuals who share a similar interest in preserving our American tradition of freedom. The corporation through its chapters enlists the talents of it's members to promote a positive public image and lobby at the local level by contacting their respective legislators. The corporation aligns itself with other organizations and individuals who are pursing the same rights and freedoms as guaranteed by the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Florida. We will involve ourselves in fund raising to achieve our goals. The corporation raises money from memberships and fund raising events at both the state and chapter level. At the state level the main fund raising event is the campground during Bike Week at Daytona. The chapters hold fund raising events throughout the year across the state and use these funds to help the state organization pursue its goals at the local level.

3 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 3 REMINDER!!!!!! Member personal classified ads are free. This Does Not include Business Ads. Please or call in your ad before the newsletter deadline. Identification Statement ABATE Outloud Is the publication of the Hillsborough County Chapter, Abate of Florida, Inc. Published bi-monthly (6 times a year). ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HILLSBOROUGH CO. CHAPTER P.O. BOX TAMPA FL Our Newsletter is available online. It is available in print by request only. If the chapter has an address for you, you will receive an with a link to view the newsletter on line. If you would prefer to receive a copy via the US Mail, you will need to call Patti at and request a printed copy. If we do not have a current address for you, you will receive a printed copy of the newsletter via US Mail. If you need to update your address please sent the information to hccabate@gmail.com HCC meets on the Last Sunday of each 1:00pm At the Pole Barn (next door to Richard & Patti s house) at 6921 Senoj Dr. Tampa Chapter Board Meetings are on same Richard s house unless otherwise posted. All Meetings Are Open And Everyone is Welcome For Directions, call or visit our website at: Click on Meeting Times Hillsborough County Chapter Board and Trustees President: Richard Nasrallah (813) richard.nasrallah@verizon.net Vice President: James Sewell (813) jpsewell@tampabay.rr.com Secretary: Ted Evans (813) grtpmkn@verizon.net Treasurer: Bill Nasrallah (813) billnaz1@gmail.com Sergeant at Arms: Jim Cass (813) jcass78@gmail.com Membership Trustee: Steve Nasrallah (813) snasrallah1@gmail.com Legislative Trustee: Milton Gonzalez (352) jafofla13@bellsouth.net Safety Director: Jim Cass (813) jcass78@gmail.com Public Relations/ Community Affairs: Barbara Beamer Cronk (727) beamer174@yahoo.com Products Trustee: Becky Speer (813) bms0629@yaoo.com Newsletter Editor: John Rambo Lowe (813) ptcoastie@yahoo.com Web Master: Patti Winter-Nasrallah (813) patti.nasrallah@gmail.com Chapter Delegates: Milton Gonzalez Steve Nasrallah Alternate Chapter Delegates: Richard Nasrallah Ralph Holder "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ---Margaret Mead, Support Abate of Florida

4 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 4 Nominations on the state level as well as the chapter level are upon us. Both elections will be held in June. At our next meeting we will be discussing the candidates for State President and Vice-President and instructing our delegates how to cast our votes at the State Meeting. We will also be completing our chapter nominations and elections at the next meeting. Our next meeting is a bit unusual for us. In May we had Mother s Day, The Breast Cancer Awareness Run and Memorial Day conflicting with our choices of meeting days and we needed to meet before the June state meeting. It was decided to have both the May and the June meetings on the same day, one starting right after the other. This gives our members time to spend the holidays with their families and still take care of important chapter business. We have had quite of few members nominated as well as some volunteering for board positions for this upcoming term. In fact Ted Evans volunteered to be complete this term as our Secretary since Beamer s health has prevented her from completing her duties. I like to welcome Ted back on the board and wish Beamer a complete recovery from her surgery so she can once again be able to attend meetings. We have missed her smiling face. Put June 3 on you calendar s and hopefully you can attend these important chapter meetings. Ride Safe, Ride Free Richard Our Vice President s Voice: The time for Spooks N Scoots preparations is drawing near, I am getting the vendor list and applications sent out for vendors. Should you know of someone that would like to come please have them call me and I will try to set up a site for them. The preparation to be able to put on Spooks for our Brothers and Sisters is a daunting task, one that takes much of our time to complete. We will be asking for volunteers and hope that you would be able to provide some support for the cause. This past winter was a mild one and was great for riding, not too hot and not too cold, I hope everyone enjoyed the season. We have nominations for the board and also elections this month. I hope that you will come to the meetings and show your support, and possibly join us on the board. New people bring fresh ideas and energy to advance the Chapter into a better organization. Ride safe, stay healthy, James Sewell, Vice President, Hillsborough Chapter

5 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 5 Ted Evans - Chapter Secretary During the April 29 meeting, I made a plea for members to step up to the plate to move in to Board and Trustee positions, to bring our chapter back in to our proud heritage of involvement. I can only say that I was overwhelmed by the response as we filled out the slate during our nominations. Of course, I include myself in this. A big THANK YOU to all! Let s not lose sight of continuing work toward Spooks N Scoots. The economy is recovering, somewhat, and we must be prepared to go after the basic biker community who have supported us for so many years. I m sure they will come back as they are able. Jim Cass wanted to get an early start on our work parties, and we can only do that with YOU! This is going to be a great year! Thank you for your participation. Ted Evans Sgt. At Arms - Jim Cass I hope by now everyone is enjoying the warm riding weather we've had for a while now, and is still thinking about and promoting safe riding along the way. Chapter elections are under way, and due to having a new baby on the way (mid-june), I will not be running for reelection, but I will certainly lend my help and assistance when possible to whomever fills my positions. If you've thought about this position, but thought you weren't ready, rest assured it's not a solo requirement. There is always lots of help to be offered by members of this chapter and other chapters. I certainly didn't know much about what needed to be done at Spooks, but thanks to many of you, my job was much easier. If you're thinking about the position, the best advice I can offer is to keep your cool, ask for help often, try to put your self in everyone's shoes, and try to make the best decision from that perspective. --Jim Cass

6 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 6 Membership Means You!! MEMBERS EXPIRING or expired in March through June CARROLL LAVENA 3/30/2012 LOCKE STEPHANIE 5/31/2012 CARROLL RICK 3/30/2012 LOCKE DOUGLAS 5/31/2012 EDMUNDS CHERYL 3/30/2012 REDDING RAY 5/31/2012 FREY KEVIN 3/30/2012 DUNLAP GARY 5/31/2012 MONSALVE SEBASTIAN 3/31/2012 ADAMS HINTON K. 6/30/2012 JAMES BRENDA 3/31/2012 STOUT ROCKY 6/30/2012 BELL TIM 3/31/2012 PEARSON GENE 6/30/2012 BOESSWETTER DAN 4/30/2012 PEARSON DIANE 6/30/2012 Well it s that time of year when the weather at night is hot and during the day it s hotter. I went to Leesburg Bike Fest, had a great time. Stayed at the ABATE camp ground, they Had great bands and good food at the Eagles Nest. Oh by the way did I mention the weather, it was smoking hot! May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Hillsborough County Chapter members Went to the county center in Tampa and met with the county commissioners so they Could read in there minutes the Proclamation for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. We had a good turn out. Ride safe and keep the rubber down! Steve Nasrallah Membership trustee

7 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 7 We will be conducting safety instructor certifications in the upcoming months, so if you're interested, please notify me or let me know at the next meeting. We also have Becky and Mike Speer to thank for finding an organization that wants us to come a speak on behalf of motorcycle safety, and that is the organization. It is our goal to add more organizations to the list, and get more of you involved on this endeavor. This Safety Director position will also need someone to fill it, so if you think it's you, or even if you just want to help and become a certified safety instructor, please let your voice be heard. --Ride Safe & Smart Jim Cass Safety Director Safety Director Sandy & Ralph are Life Members of ABATE of Florida, Inc.

8 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 8 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER MEETING MINUTES Date: 2/26/2012 This meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. Board Members present were: Richard, James, Bill, Steven, Becky, Milton, John 1. INTRODUCTIONS & PRESIDENTS REPORT: Richard welcomes all guest and visitors. Richard led pledge of allegiance and moment of silence. 2. VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT: James has nothing at this time. 3. SECRETARY S REPORT. Barbara Beamer Cronk is absent. Patti taking minutes and she reported that were no changes submitted for the chapter meeting minutes. Motion made by Jack that last month s minutes will be printed in the newsletter and therefore do not need to be read at this time - Seconded by Sandy. Chapter voted & motion carried. 4. TREASURER: Bill Nasrallah reported and announced that chapter expense and balance reports are available for any member to view after the meeting. Motion made by Milton to accept the Treasurer s report - Seconded by John. Chapter voted & motion carried. 5. MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE: Steve Nasrallah reports that membership holding its own. We have a few new and renewals this month. 6. PRODUCTS TRUSTEE: Becky Speer / Judy Verano Becky stated that we are doing a 50/50 and if anyone need products just see her. 7. SERGEANT AT ARMS: Jim Cass is absent. 8. LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: Milton Gonzales reports on the Tallahassee trip. There was a low turnout and the weather was bitterly cold. We made contact with all our legislators and asked for their support on our bills of interest. He reports that our Stiffer Penalties bill is still stalled in the House. Darrin the State Legislative officer is ing timely updates and Milton urges everyone to sign up for updates from him. 9. PR/COMMUNICATIONS TRUSTEE: Barbara Beamer Cronk is absent. 10. STATE BUSINESS: Our drawing tickets were turned in at the State meeting. There was a By-law change introduced at the State Meeting. It stated that the top 4 executive officers on the state board needed to be American citizens. It was stated that ABATE is political in nature and our top officers need to be able to vote. Ralph made motion to vote yes on the by-law, Second by Ted. Motion passes. 11. SAFETY TRUSTEE: Jim Cass is absent. 12. NEWSLETTER EDITOR: John Lowe reports he is still behind but will try and get caught up shortly. 13. WEB MASTER: Patti Nasrallah reports that everything is ok. 14. OLD BUSINESS: No old business 15: NEW BUSINESS: Patti made motion to spend up to $4000 to put hearse in tip top shape and to have it ready by April 1, second by Becky. Motion passes. 6. GOOD OF THE ORDER: There was no good of the order. 50/50: 50/50 drawing was held. Motion Made by James to adjourn the Meeting- Seconded by everyone. Chapter voted and motion passed. Meeting was adjourned at: 2:15 pm NEXT MEETING: March 25, 2012 Board of am and Chapter 1:00 pm, POLE BARN

9 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 9 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER MEETING MINUTES Date: 3/25/2012 Due to a death in the Nasrallah family and Beamers extended absence, there was not a quorum needed to conduct this meeting. Some members did gather and information was exchanged. No motions or voting took place. ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER MEETING MINUTES Date: The meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. Board Members present were: Richard, James, Billy, Milton, Steve, and Jim 1. INTRODUCTIONS & PRESIDENTS REPORT: Richard welcomes all guest and visitors. Richard led pledge of allegiance and moment of silence. Richard asked to appoint Ted Evans as Interim Secretary. Motion made by Patti and Seconded by Diane. Chapter voted and motion carried. Richard welcomed Nita, Dan, and Jo to the meeting. 2. VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT: James advised that Nita and Dan Boesswetter volunteered to be our representatives at Indianapolis. Motion for same made by Billy and seconded by Milton. Chapter voted and motion carried. 3. SECRETARY S REPORT: Ted Evans reported that were no changes submitted for the chapter meeting minutes. Motion made by James that last month s minutes will be printed in the newsletter and therefore do not need to be read to the chapter at this time - Seconded by Milton. Chapter voted and motion carried. 4. TREASURER: Bill Nasrallah reported and announced that chapter expense and balance report is available for any member to view after the meeting. Motion made by Patti to accept the Treasurer s report - Seconded by James. Chapter voted & motion carried. 5. MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE: Steve Nasrallah reports he had just returned from the Leesburg Bike Fest. It was a good event, and growing. Lake County Chapter was also pleased with their results. He reported 199 members. Steve reminded everyone to take Tri-folds to all events in search of new members 6. PRODUCTS TRUSTEE: Becky Speer was absent, and reported to Richard that she had to work. She has no time for this position in the future, and asked that we appoint a new Trustee. 7. SERGEANT AT ARMS: Jim Cass reports that upcoming work events for Spooks will be sooner to avoid the late rush. 8. LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: Milton Gonzales reports: Read a list of looser bills in our legislature. Also lost was the drug testing for Welfare. Safety funds were vetoed by Gov Scott to let the Hwy Dept take over the function. However, discussion will be ongoing with the Hwy Dept outlining our record of Volunteer hours, which they would have to replace with paid hours. An will be going out to remind all that there will be a group ride, Wednesday morning, May 2, to the courthouse. Here the Commissioners will read in to their minutes a proclamation that May is Motorcycle Safety and Awareness month. Milton worked a long time to make this happen. 9. PR/COMMUNICATIONS TRUSTEE: Barbara Beamer Cronk absent. Richard reports that we

10 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 10 will participate in the CMA Run for the Son event on Saturday, May 05, 2012, meeting at the Cracker Barrel. The Chapter will cover entry fees. Kickstands up at 10:00 for a ride to Bushnell - - Young s Farm, for a picnic with bands, etc. 10. STATE BUSINESS: Patti reports that Hillsborough was absent. The By-Laws that would change State Executive officers must be an American citizen were voted on. It failed. Nominations will be in the Masterlink. We will vote at the next meeting on these people, and carry our results to the June State Meeting in Clermont. A reminder was given that the Leadership Seminar will also be in Clermont, the second week in July. 11. SAFETY TRUSTEE: Jim Cass reports that we now have the Safety Instructor material, and will be able to train within the chapter. 12. NEWSLETTER EDITOR: John Lowe was absent and working. Ted advised that we have a dire need to fill this position, as well as others. All members should step up to the plate to do this for the good of the Chapter. 13. WEB MASTER: Patti Nasrallah reports there has been minimum input. We need to approve the flyer. 14. OLD BUSINESS: The Hearse missed the April 1 rebuild date. After discussion of what needs to be done, Charlie graciously volunteered that he was capable of all the required tasks, and asked that we move the Hearse to his house where he has all the necessary equipment. He will perform the work for the cost of materials. Patti made a motion, seconded by Jo, that the Hearse be moved. Chapter voted and motion passed. Bob is going to solve the leak on the Orange and Black Trailer, and rehab the roof. 15: NEW BUSINESS: Patti volunteered to act as Supervisor of Elections. The Nominations are as follows: President: Richard, nominated by Bob, seconded by Diane Vice President: James, nominated by Billy, seconded by Tom Secretary: Ted, nominated by Bob, seconded by Milton. Treasurer: Billy, nominated by Steven, seconded by James Membership: Steve, nominated by Milton, seconded by Bob Products: Jo (volunteered), nominated by James, seconded by Diane - - thanks Jo! Sergeant at Arms: Bob, nominated by Jim, seconded by Steve Legislative Trustee: Jim, nominated by Bob, seconded by Milton - - declined. Milton, nominated by Charles, seconded by James Steve, nominated by Milton, seconded by Tom - - declined PR/COMMUNICATIONS Trustee: Terry, nominated by Steve, seconded by Billy Safety Trustee: Tom, nominated by Jim, seconded by Billy - - declined Mike Spears, nominated by Jim, seconded by Nita Jim, nominated by Milton - - decline Newsletter Editor: Jim (volunteered), seconded by Dan - - thanks Jim! Judy Verano, nominated by Nita, seconded by Bob Delegates: Steve, nominated by Milton, seconded by James Milton, nominated by Steve, seconded by Diane Volunteers for Alternate: Tom, Bill, Bob, Terry

11 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 11 There was discussion as to moving the May meeting because of Memorial day. Joann made motion to move the May meeting to June 3 rd due to Mothers Day and Memorial Day, seconded by James. Motion carries. 16. GOOD OF THE ORDER: Diane wants to look in to some more Poker/Dice runs. James will help with the route. 50/50: Was won by Nita Motion Made by Milton to adjourn the Meeting- Seconded by Patti. Chapter voted and motion passed. Meeting was adjourned at: 3:00 pm NEXT MEETING: June 3, 2012 Board of am and Chapter 1:00 pm, POLE BARN DUE TO CONFLICTS WITH HOLIDAYS AND OTHER EVENTS THE MAY 2012 AND JUNE 2012 CHAPTER MEETING WILL BOTH BE HELD ON JUNE 3, THE MAY MEETING WILL START AT 1:OO PM AT THE POLEBARN. THE JUNE MEETING WILL START AS SOON AS THE MAY MEETING ADJOURNS.

12 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 12 HELLO MEMBERS, We have Chapter Shirts, Head Bands and NEW Personalized Name Tags. If you would like to order one please me at or send $ $1.50 for mailing or just pick it our meetings. Please support our chapter. You can go on our state web-site to see all of the State Products. We have Pins-Patches-Stickers-Jewelry products.php Hope everyone has a safe Bike Week.Ride Safe! Becky ORDER FORM NAME: ADDRESS: CITY, STATE & ZIP CODE: ADDRESS: PHONE NUMBER: NAME (as you would like it to appear) ON NAME TAG: # TAZ S MEMORIAL PATCHES: $5.00 ea. STATE ITEM NUMBER(S): TOTAL NUMBER OF ITEMS AMOUNT + MAILING* $ 1.50 = $ PICK (If picking up order, write N/A for mailing amount) PREPAY Y N (circle one) CASH CHECK # MONEY ORDER MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: ABATE OF FLORDIA, INC. Mail to: Hillsborough Co. Chapter PO Box Tampa, FL * Please Note: $1.50 will cover up to 3 patches - Other postage will be quoted per order.

13 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 13

14 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 14 HIGH COURT ALLOWS TERM LIMITS FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Backing away from a position it took a decade ago, the Florida Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously ruled that voters can impose term limits on county commissioners. Justices upheld term limits that Broward and Sarasota County residents placed on their commissioners in recent years. In doing so, the court also retreated from a 2002 ruling that blocked term limits for other offices, such as clerks of court. "Receding from the Cook (the 2002 case) decision will promote stability in the law by allowing the counties to govern themselves, including term limits of their officials, in accordance with their home-rule authority,'' Thursday's opinion said. The ruling applies to what are known as "charter" counties, where voters have approved governing structures that can differ from basic requirements in the Florida Constitution. Charters in at least 10 counties --- Broward, Brevard, Clay, Duval, Hillsborough, Orange, Palm Beach, Polk, Sarasota and Volusia --- include term limits for commissioners, according to a court filing by the Florida Association of Counties. AHCA RELEASES PIP MEMO Following through on efforts to make a seamless transition to the new personal injury protection (PIP) laws, Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Elizabeth Dudek has released a memo detailing how the agency will handle an apparent glitch in the new law. Signed into law last week, HB 119 makes several changes to PIP, the mandatory, no-fault automobile insurance that provides up to $10,000 in medical coverage. An unforeseen hurdle surfaced after lawmakers approved the legislation when they discovered they inadvertently created a potential sixmonth gap in coverage. Some provisions of the law kick in July 1 but others don't become effective until Jan. 1. Gov. Rick Scott signed the bill into law anyway, saying that AHCA could make the necessary adjustments. The Office of Insurance Regulation has also stepped in and been assured by insurance companies that they will continue paying claims. OFFICIALS: THOUSANDS OF INELIGIBLE VOTERS County elections supervisors in South Florida are investigating the possibility that thousands of foreigners ineligible to vote are registered to vote, according to reports by local television stations in Miami. The elections supervisor in Miami-Dade is examining potentially 2,000 ineligible voters. The Florida Division of Elections has been sending county elections supervisors lists of potentially ineligible voters, and said there will be more. The prospect of large numbers of ineligible voters has driven the move to make it harder to register to vote and to vote which is a key point of contention between those who say the government's main role in elections is to prevent fraud to ensure their legitimacy and those who say the government should primarily be concerned with making sure those who are eligible can easily sign up and vote. Voters who cast illegal ballots can be charged with felony fraud. SCOTT SIGNS PIP BILL, BIZ GROUPS HAPPY Saying it will save Floridians money, Gov. Rick Scott on Friday signed into law one of his top legislative priorities-- a measure backers say will help the state combat fraud and lower costs in the no-fault automobile insurance market. Meeting with law enforcement officials in Jacksonville, Scott signed HB 119, which supporters say will help cut nearly $1 billion in higher costs

15 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 15 by cracking down on fraud and more tightly regulating which providers can treat patients seeking care under the $10,000 medical benefit. "By helping reduce fraudulent auto accident claims, this legislation will benefit the pocketbooks of every Florida family who drives an automobile," Scott said in a statement. "I am glad to do my part in keeping the cost of living low in Florida, and I will continue to work to find ways to do so." Scott's action, which was expected, brought kudos from the business and insurance communities, which have long called for reforms in automobile personal injury protection coverage, or PIP. The mandatory insurance was established in the 1970s to provide a level of care to injured motorist regardless of who is at fault. By Oct.1, PIP insurers must submit a rate filing to the Office of Insurance Regulation with at least a 10 percent rate reduction, or document why they can't. But insurance representatives say consumers may not see immediate premium benefits because many of the bill's major changes won't kick in until after carriers are required to file for new rates. Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, who set up a working group to explore changes to existing statutes, said the new law will help curb rising costs in a program that insurance regulators say has seen claims rise 66 percent between 2005 and The rise comes despite the fact that the number of drivers in Florida has remained relatively constant. With the signing of this bill today, Florida will release the chokehold that fraud has on Florida s insurance consumers," Atwater said. Most of the law's provisions kick in Jan. 1. Among its major provisions, the law requires clinics treating PIP patients to be licensed, limits payment to chiropractors and prohibits massage therapists and acupuncturists from being reimbursed under the program. PIP claims must also be reported within 14 days of an accident. "Meaningful PIP reform has eluded the Legislature for years, and plagued consumers and Florida businesses with millions in fraudulent claims," said Tom Feeney, CEO of Associated Industries of Florida. Following the 2012 session, some observers raised concerns over the language in HB 119, which apparently leaves an unintentional, six-month lapse in provider reimbursement authorization. OIR officials, however, say they have spoken to insurance companies and have no doubts that claims will be paid. NISSAN AD SUGGEST MOTORCYCLES AS TARGETS! Nissan airs an ad for the Nissan Juke that shows the car smashing into motorcycles. I let my local Nissan dealer know what I thought, please pass this along so our members can see what else we are up against. RESPONSE FROM NISSAN 5/9/2012 Case # Dear David Kirkpatrick, Thank you for contacting Nissan North America, Inc. We've heard your concerns regarding the JUKE Trophy digital video, and pulled it immediately. We sincerely apologize that our creative direction missed the mark. Nissan promotes sharing the road with all riders and drivers and does not condone reckless behavior. Thanks for sharing your feedback. Sincerely, Nissan North America, Inc Laurice Delarapa-Lim Consumer Affairs Representative

16 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 16 SCOTT REJECTS TAMPA MAYOR PLEA FOR NO GUNS Gov. Rick Scott has stuck to his guns on, well, guns as he declined a request from Tampa's mayor to ban firearms from the city's downtown for the Republican National Convention in August. Responding to a May 1 request by Mayor Bob Buckhorn to temporarily suspend Florida statutes prohibiting local gun laws stricter than the state's, Scott said conventions and firearms go way back and he found no reason to change that now. "You note that the city's temporary (security) ordinance regulates 'sticks, poles, and water guns,' but that firearms are a 'noticeable item missing from the city's temporary, ordinance," Scott said in a letter. "Firearms are noticeably included, however, in the Second Amendment." The Tampa convention is a national security event. Guns are prohibited within the convention center itself and in a safe zone immediately surrounding the facility. Security for that venue is the responsibility of the U.S. Secret Service. In 2011, Florida lawmakers approved a measure prohibiting local governments from enacting and enforcing gun ordinances that were stricter than state law. Scott signed the measure, which sent local governments scurrying to remove local restrictions that ran afoul of the new law. Tampa city officials have been urging the governor to temporarily suspend the state law so that a wider no-gun perimeter could be established in downtown Tampa, including areas that will be used by protestors during the four-day event that begins Aug. 27. The request comes as Florida finds itself in the spotlight following the death in February of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old black teenager who was shot to death by a neighborhood watch volunteer in a gated community in Sanford. The shooting has sparked a national debate of the state's 'stand your ground' law, but the debate has spilled over into other issues regarding gun ownership. More than 800,000 Floridians have permits to carry concealed weapons. Buckhorn, a gun owner who has a concealed weapons permit, said he's not worried about law abiding citizens with concealed weapons permits but those who may choose to bring guns into the venue who have not been vetted, or may be carrying their weapons illegally. Buckhorn said the governor would be within his rights to temporarily rescind the state law, adding that the safety of citizens and visitors during the four-day event would be enhanced. Scott, however, said political conventions through the ages have been opportunities for citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights. He saw no reason to curtail the protections offered by the Second Amendment to ensure the rights bestowed under the First. "Our fundamental right to keep and bear arms has coexisted with those freedoms for as long, and I see no reason to depart from that tradition this year," Scott concluded. COURT UPHOLDS NEW SENATE MAP The Florida Supreme Court upheld a second draft of new maps for state Senate districts in a splintered decision Friday, clearing one of the remaining barriers for the plan to go into effect for this fall's elections. The court's ruling, which came after the justices voided the first Senate plan approved by the Legislature, was a victory for the Senate's Republican leadership and removed the prospect that justices would draw the map themselves as part of the state's once-a-decade redistricting process. The court upheld the House map in the earlier decision.

17 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 17 H-45 Richard Corcoran District: 7132 Little Rd New Port Richey, FL (727) Capitol: Room 1101, The Capitol** (850) H-47 James JW Grant District: Northdale Blvd. Tampa, FL (813) Capitol: Room 322 The Capitol** (850) H-48 Peter Nehr District: 905 E. MLK Drive #430 Tarpon Springs, FL (727) Capitol: Room 204 HOB* (850) H-50 Ed Hooper District: 2963 Gulf To Bay Blvd. #206 Clearwater, FL (727) Capitol: Room 222, The Capitol** (850) H-51 Larry Ahern District: 5511 Park Street N #101 St. Petersburg, FL (727) Capitol: 1102 The Capitol** (850) H-52 Jeff Brandes District: th St N Ste 101 St. Petersburg, FL (727) Capitol: 1301 The Capitol** (850) H-53 Rick Kriseman District: th Street N #203 St. Petersburg, FL (727) Capitol: 316 The Capitol** (850) H 54 Jim Frishe District: 125 Indian Rocks Rd #A Belleair Bluffs, FL (727) Capitol: Room 322 The Capitol** (850) H-55 Darryl Ervin Rouson District: th Way S Ste D St. Petersburg, FL (727) Capitol: Room 405 The Capitol ** (850) H-56 Rachel Burgin District: Winthrop Main St A Riverview, FL (813) Capitol: Room 303 HOB* (850) H-57 Dana Young District:2909 W Bay to Bay Blvd #202 Tampa, FL (813) Capitol: Room 101, The Capitol** (850) H-58 Janet Cruz District: 2221 N Himes Ave. B Tampa, FL (813) Capitol: 1401 The Capitol** (850) H-59 Betty Reed District: 2109 Palm Ave. # 201 Tampa, FL (813) Capitol: Room 405 HOB* (850) H-60 Shawn Harrison District: N. 56th St. Temple Terrace, FL (813) Capitol: Room 1301 The Capitol** (850) H-61 Will Weatherford District: SR 54 Suite A Wesley Chapel, FL (813) Capitol: 418 The Capitol** (850) H-62 Richard "Rich" Glorioso District: 110 W Reynolds Street Ste 204 Plant City, FL (813) Capitol: Room 222 The Capitol** (850) H-63 Seth McKeel District: 4250 S Florida Ave #4 Lakeland, FL (863) Capitol: Room 422 The Capitol** (850) H-67 Greg Steube District: 5800 Lakewood Ranch Blvd S Ste 5880 Sarasota, FL (941) Capitol: Room 1102 The Capitol** (850) H-68 Jim Boyd District: 717 Manatee Ave. W. # 100 Bradenton, FL (941) Capitol: Room 1102 The Capitol** (850) ** The Capitol** or * House Office Bldg* 402 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL Updated: 5/10/2012

18 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 18 SENATE S-10 Ronda Storms District: 421 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Brandon, FL (813) Capitol: Room 413, SOB* (850) S-11 Mike Fasano District: 8217 Massachusetts Ave. New Port Richey, FL (727) Capitol: Room 406, SOB* (850) S-12 Jim Norman District: N Dale Mabry Blvd Tampa, FL (813) Capitol: Room 214, SOB* (850) norman.jw.web@flsenate.gov Updated: 5/11/2012 S-13 Dennis L. Jones, D.C. District: 8940 Seminole Blvd. Seminole, FL (727) Capitol: Room 408, SOB* (850) jones.dennis.web@flsenate.gov S-16 Jack Latvala District: th St N #102 St. Petersburg, FL (727) Capitol: Room 222, SOB* (850) latvala.jack..web@flsenate.gov S-18 Arthenia L. Joyner District: 508 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. #C Tampa, FL (813) Capitol: Room 202, SOB* (850) joyner.arthenia.web@flsenate.gov SOB = Senate Office Bldg. 404 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL We now includes all of the representatives and senators for Pinellas, Pasco & Hillsborough Counties. If you live in another county, we are glad to have you as a member and an easy way to find your State Representative, State Senator, or US Congress person is on the web at: On the left side, scroll down to the box listed as find your legislators. Enter your zip code and hit Go. Once you have found your legislator s webpage, I recommend you bookmark it. The District address is the Legislator s address at home in his/her district. When you want a letter to go to their office in Tallahassee, do the following: For Senators: For Representatives in the House: The Honorable The Honorable The Florida State Senate The Florida House of Representatives Room Senate Office Bldg. Room House Office Bldg. (or Capitol) 404 S. Monroe St. 402 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL Tallahassee, FL If you have any questions please call your local Voter s Registration Office or Milton

19 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 19 Florida's Voting Laws If you are a resident of Florida and feel strongly about many of the political issues that face you, your family, Florida and the entire nation right now it is critical that you register to vote and make sure that your voice is heard. The Registration Process In Florida, you can register to vote at any time. But keep in mind that Florida maintains a closing date for registration to vote in a particular election. This is important for voters to realize because if you miss the closing date you can t vote in the election. This is why it s critical to register to vote as soon as possible. Registration Closing dates in Florida are 29 days prior to the elections. This year s Registration Closing Dates are: Primary Closing date --January 3, 2012 Presidential Preference Primary Closing date--july 16, Primary Election Primary Closing date --October 9, 2012 General Election In other words, register to vote today! If you wish to vote in a primary, Florida is a closed primary state, you must be a registered member of one of the political parties for which you intend to vote. For example, voters registered as independent, or a member of the Green Party, can t vote in the Republican or Democratic primaries. The only exception to this rule is a 1998 Florida constitutional amendment that states that if all candidates share the same party affiliation, all registered voters regardless of party can vote in the primary election. The General Election Process The General Election is always held in November of even-numbered years with the Primary Election taking place 10 weeks before the General Election. During presidential election years, every four years, the presidential primary in Florida is held in January. Keep in mind that the presidential primary and the Primary Election are two different voting events. So if you would like to vote in the presidential primary, you need to make sure you are registered in time. In other words, register to vote today! The Absentee Ballot Process If you are a resident of Florida but will not be in Florida during the election, you have the right to request an absentee ballot. To obtain an absentee ballot simply contact your local office of Supervisor of Elections either in person, in writing, or over the phone and request a ballot. It s very important to include all of the required information or your request can be denied. After you send in your request, make sure to call the office to follow up with the process. Don t assume that you will receive your ballot until you ve received confirmation back in writing. Change of Address Process If you moved and have a change of address to another county, you need to fill out a Florida Voter Registration Application again to provide notice of your new address. This application can be obtained from your local office of Supervisor of Elections. It s important to have your correct address on file because Florida law requires you to vote in the precinct where you live. If you go to the wrong precinct, you won t be allowed to vote. Make sure you are aware of your correct voting precinct before Election Day so that you don t run into any problems. Voting is a Right Remember, voting is a right and not a privilege; no one can stop you from voting. However, you still need to follow and obey Florida s voting laws in order to enjoy that right. The laws are in place in order to keep elections fair for all candidates. Make sure you understand the rules, register early, and on election night, make your voice heard!

20 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Page 20 ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER NEWSLETTER ADVERTISEMENT SUBMITTAL BUSINESS NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIPCODE PHONE FAX CONTACT NAME: TITLE: AD SIZE # OF ISSUES TO RUN AD AMOUNT ENCLOSED PLEASE INCLUDE AD COPY ADVERTISERS WILL RECEIVE A COPY OF THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER NEWSLETTER DURING THE MONTHS THEY ADVERTISE. ADVERTISING RATES (includes 7% sales tax) 6 ISSUES 12 ISSUES BUSINESS CARD $30.00 $ /2 PAGE $50.00 $90.00 FULL PAGE $70.00 $ Please make checks payable to ABATE of Florida, Inc. Full Application is Available for download on the Chapter Website Biker's Prayer As we go out on our ride, We pray the Lord rides by our side, Keep us safe and in your sight, And let it rain some other night Amen Important! Sign up to be on the Legislative Click on the Legislative Site link on the front page. Get the information you need to know and then share it!!

21 Hillsborough County Chapter Page 21

22 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Pag ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER P. O. BOX ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Please check your membership