an important link between us all abate of florida, inc. abate of florida, inc. page 5 state office...

Volume 38 May/June 2019 Issue 3

ABATE of FLORIDA, Inc.ABATE of FLORIDA, Inc.An Important Link Between Us AllAn Important Link Between Us All

MEMBER OF NCOM

Dedicated to Freedom of the Road Let Those Who Ride Decide

MEMBER OF MRF

NEXT STATE MEETING June 8, 2019, St. Augustine, FLHosted by Vintage Chapter

Photo Source: https://allevents.in/washington/washington-dc-deana-martin-memorial-day-2019

ABATE of Florida, Inc. May/June 2019

ABATE OF FLORIDA IS A MEMBER OF NCOM

• 110 Offices Throughout North America• Free Legal Consultation• No Recovery = No Fee• We Make House Calls• ATTORNEYS in Every State and Province who Ride• No Fee on Motorcycle Damage Recovery• Also Auto Accidents

Not Just ONE AttorneyThe AIM Team to Help YOU

Law Offices of RICHARD M. LESTER Founder, Aid to Injured Motorcyclists

24 Hours - Toll Free (800) 531-2424

(800) ON-A-BIKE

Visit us on the web at www.onabike.comAIM 3215-A

ATTENTION ABATE OF FLORIDA MEMBERS: Our nationwide network of A.I.M. Attorneys donate a significant portion of their legal fees from motorcycle accident settlements back into motorcycling by being the sole financial sponsor of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists.

Check us out! Ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. Hiring a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Also ask the next biker you see about us. IPHONE/ANDROID USERS

SCAN TO DOWNLOAD OUR NEW SMARTPHONE APP

Affiliated Florida Offices to Serve You

The submission deadline for all materialintended for publication in the Masterlink is the

bi-monthly State meetings.

DISCLAIMERMasterlink is the official publication of ABATE ofFlorida, Inc. and accepts no responsibility for the

comments or opinions contained in this publication.

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. DOES NOT CONDONE DRINKING AND RIDING.DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE

FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE

OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL,

OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. WWW.800HELPFLA.COM 1-800-435-7352

EDITORIAL GUIDELINESYou are encouraged to submit letters about ABATE related

events, stories, articles, photographs, poems, commentaries etc.

All items become the property of ABATE of Florida, Inc.Please make items print ready. Leave at least 1/2” border on all sides.

Please do not submit slanderous or accusing letters, profanity or nudity.

ABATE of FLORIDA INC. will not accept any advertising thatdiscriminates against any type of motorcyclist.

AMERICAN BIKERS AIMING TOWARD EDUCATIONA BROTHERHOOD AGAINST TOTALITARIAN ENACTMENTS

ADVERTISING RATES (PER ISSUE)Full page $79.87 Quarter Page $33.44

Half page $53.25 Business Card $16.05All rates show sales tax.

Those that advertise for one consecutive year inthe Masterlink (6 issues) will receive one

advertisement of equal value FREE.Full payment must accompany ad copy and form. All ads must

be camera ready. Advertisers will receive one copy of eachissue of Masterlink in which their advertisement appears.

Non-ABATE event flyers are subject to Masterlink’s advertising rates.As a courtesy there is no charge for benefit flyers.

Non-ABATE flyers are subject to space availability.

ABATE of Florida, Inc. reserves the right to accept or rejectany advertiser at the discretion of the State Board of Directors.

GOALS AND PURPOSES OF ABATE• To print a newsletter to keep all bikers informed with

regard to legislative actions and events around thestate and throughout the country

• To become a powerful and viable political force inlegislative matters concerning all motorcyclists rights

• To provide a lobbyist to represent ABATE OFFLORIDA, INC. on the state and national level

• To promote voter registration and motivate membersto write their legislators

• To promote safe riding habits without infringing onindividual rights

• To educate the public about motorcycle awareness

IDENTIFICATION STATEMENTThe Masterlink is the state publication of ABATE of Florida, Inc.

Published bi-monthly (six times a year).ABATE of Florida, Inc.

PO Box 2520DeLand, Florida 32721-2520

www.abateflorida.com ABATE of Florida, Inc.

STATE MEETINGS 2019 February 9, 2019 Forest April 14, 2019 Tallahassee June 8, 2019 Vintage August 10, 2019 Southeast October 12, 2019 Gulf Coast December 14, 2019 Ocala

NEXT STATE MEETINGSaturday, June 8, 2019, St. Augustine, FL

Hosted by Vintage Chapter

SUBMISSION DEADLINEFlyers for chapter and benefit events taking place

during the months of July/Aug 2019 must be to the Masterlink Editor by the June 2019 State Meeting.

Be sure to provide a copy of all such flyers to each of the STATE BOD and the State Office Manager.

Thank you!

WEB SITES of INTERESTwww.hsmv.state.fl.us/www.leg.state.fl.us/

http://ama-cycle.org/legisltn/statewatch/fl.htmlwww.bikernet.comwww.aimncom.com

If you find a website that would be of interest to your fellow members please forward it to the Masterlink

ABATE of Florida Accomplishments:ABATE was the driving force behind the changes in Florida’s

Helmet Law. Florida Motorcyclists, over the age of 21 and who carry at least $10,000 medical insurance coverage now enjoy the

Freedom to Choose whether to wear a helmet or not.•

ABATE has developed & copyrighted “The Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Program” (MSAP). The program is

presented to non-motorcyclists to educate them on how to safely share the road with motorcycles. It is taught in local schools & to civic

organizations at no charge in the hope of reducing motorcycle accidents and deaths through education, not legislation.

•ABATE has gained a positive and respected position in

Tallahassee. Because of our Lobbyist and Legislative efforts,State Representatives are aware of ABATE members and

our vigilant quest.•

ABATE reminds travelers everyday to “Look Twice Save a Life, Motorcycles are everywhere” through our billboard campaign.

TABLE OF CONTENTSPRESIDENTS LETTER................................................... 4

STATE BOARD OF DIRECTORS....................................5

MINUTES......................................................................6-9

MOTORCyCLE AwARENESS PROCLAMATION......10

JUNE STATE MEETING FLyER...................................11

LEGISLATIVE INFO................................................12-15

CHAPTER/EVENT FLYERS.....................................16-17

CHAPTER INFO.......................................................18-19

AD ORDER FORM/ADVERTISING RATES...............20

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION.....................................21

www.abateflorida.com

Every decision ABATE makes effects over 500,000 licensed motorcyclists in the state of Florida. Shouldn't your voice be heard?


From the Desk of the President

The April state meeting and run to the Capitol have been over for two weeks. I waited to write this letter until session was over but they are still playing with the budget. With a full house at the American Legion for the

state meeting it was a wonderful sight to see. The run to the Capitol went off without a hitch and I think the Police had a great time riding their Harley along with us. The Abate turnout was over two and a half times the size of last year. As soon as the legislature adjourns there will be a complete legislative report sent to the chapters.

May 9-11 the National Coalition of Motorcyclists will be having their annual convention in Orlando. Some of you have volunteered to help at the convention and it is greatly appreciated. We'd like as many of our members to show up at the convention as possible. One of the seminars will be our motorcycle safety program given by Abate of Florida and another seminar will be women in motorcycling. Also at the banquet saturday night Billy Bird will receive an award for his contributions to Abate of Florida.

Our next state meeting will be in St Augustine hosted by Vintage Chapter. We hope we will see you there. In the mean time ride "Safe and Free".

Doc


STATE OFFICEABATE of Florida, Inc.PO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(386) 943-9610Fax: (850) [email protected]

STATE OFFICE ANNEXABATE of Florida, Inc.PO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(386) 943-9610Fax: (850) [email protected]

PRESIDENTJames “ Doc” ReichenbachPO Box 712Silver Springs, FL 34489(352) 625-6353Fax: (352) [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENTDarrin "Scribe" BrooksPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(239) 398-7145Fax: (850) [email protected]

SECRETARYShelly JohnstonPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(904) 405-4700Fax: (850) [email protected]

TREASURERDeborah HambyPO Box 530965Lake Park, FL 33403-0965(561) 847-5331Fax: (850) [email protected]

SGT. AT ARMSMarcus HotellingPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(321) 607-2516Fax: (850) [email protected]

PR/COMMUNICATIONSwilliam G. "Magneto" PrewittPO Box 2520DeLand, 32721-2520(954) 224-2159Fax: (850) [email protected]

MEMBERSHIPLaurie HanleyPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(239) 898-5168Fax: (850) [email protected]

MASTERLINK EDITORJoanne "Critter" Napoli PrewittPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(954) 850-5452 Fax: (850) [email protected]

LEGAL COUNSELVacantCall State President

LEGISLATIVE Darrin “Scribe” BrooksPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(239) 398-7145Fax: (850) [email protected]

PRODUCTSShayne HanleyPO Box 236Lehigh Acres, FL 33970-236(239) 560-2565(386) 943-9610 (Fax)[email protected]

DIRECTOR 0F SAFETY EDUCATIONVictor PiorkowskiPO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520(239) 823-6159Fax: (850) [email protected]

LEGISLATIVE HOT LINE1-866-FLABATE (1-866-352-2283)Toll Free Inside Florida Only

WEB PROBLEMSJoanne "Critter" Napoli Prewittwilliam G. "Magneto" [email protected]

2018-2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NEXT STATE MEETINGSaturday, June 8, 2019

SEE FLYER INSIDE FOR MORE INFORMATION


ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. Delegate Meeting Hosted by: State Board, Sunday, April 14, 2019CALLED TO ORDER AT: 2:03 p.m. by President James “Doc” Reichenbach after the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.

Present were: President James “Doc” Reichenbach, Vice President Darrin Brooks, Secretary Shelly Johnston, Treasurer Debbie Hamby, Sgt @ Arms Marcus Hotelling, State Office Brandy westerfield, Membership Laurie Hanley, Safety Victor Piorkowski, Products Shayne Hanley, Assistant Products Kim Hollan, Absent Elizabeth “Boots” Buchholtz, Joanne Napoli and william Prewitt.

DELEGATE REPRESENTATIVES:Daytona Beach- John Banta, Alfred Fyock Estero River- AbsentForest- John Melin, Bridget PaceFreedom- william Vaconis, Ronnie PayneGator Alley- John Stevens, Joe BelangerGulf Coast- J.L. Gibson, Earl youngHillsborough- Charles Dotterer, Cheryl EdmundsLake- will “Griz” Deaver, Vera DeaverLighthouse- Tammy Grant

Palm Beach- Ken Gerecke, Bill BlackPeace River- Bill Bird, Kim HollanPolk County- John McDermott, Dewey CainSeminole County- Frenchie MorlandSoutheast- Jon VogerSouthernmost-Bill Kelly, Byron AgababianSouthwest- AbsentTreasure Coast- Steve KliemischVintage- John Trama, Charles Johnstonwest Coast- Sam Stollard, Dennis Vosset

PRESIDENT: Doc Reichenbach: Had about a 3 hour meeting with Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. They have new people on board and want to work with us. Marie, program manager, deals with driver’s education. She is interested in getting it back into all schools. Doc talked to Grizz, suggested we get a program going with Maria. Grizz has the idea that the amount charged for a ticket could be used to pay for a driver’s ed class. He will be talking to legislators after the session ends. we have been trying to get driver’s ed in schools for many years. Doc also went to a COC meeting. He talked with them about the profiling bill they want. Doc will not do the bill until they can show him that profiling did actually take place. we need all the facts and they need to prove it. Finally, we need to display our annual resale Sales Tax Certificate if we are selling products. It is for items that are being resold. It cannot be used for any other purpose. whoever signs for the certificate is responsible for it. It cannot be used for personal reasons. The person who signed for it (usually the chapter President) will be fined 200% if it is used for any other reason. It is also a third degree felony. Every motorcyclist pays an extra $2.50 when they register their motorcycle. Thirty years ago we asked the legislature to take out this money and put it into a motorcycle safety trust fund. $1.5 million was paid last year. $400,000 went to motorcycle safety. $1.1 million went to the Safety commission general fund to be used for whatever they want. why is there such a fight over the $300,000 we ask for? It is our money! Doc also asked where the $400,000 went and where are all the billboards, TV/radio ads, etc. that ABATE of Florida, Inc. has paid for in the past. NHTSA has asked ABATE to come back to the meetings CUTR has in Tampa. They will not attack us regarding helmets like they did Darrin in the past. Let Doc know if you are interested.

VICE PRESIDENT: Darrin "Scribe" Brooks: welcomed everyone. Has names for the bell ringing ceremony ready for tomorrow.

SECRETARY: Shelly Johnston: The February minutes need to be approved. Motion to approve made by Seminole County, 2nd by Forest and passed.


TREASURER: Deborah Hamby:Financial statements are in your packets.Motion to approve February and March Treasurer’s report made by Forest, 2nd by Daytona Beach and approved. Every chapter should come sign out some gun/rifle drawing tickets.

SARGENT-AT-ARMS: Marcus Hotelling: Thanked everyone for the well wishes and contributions for his father’s passing. Still needs road guards for 5 intersections and flag holders for tomorrow. we cannot ride if no road guards. Slower riders and trikes will be in the back. Do not let cars get in between us on the ride. KSU at 9 am behind the Super 8, get there early. Everyone must sign waiver. Once we pick up the police escort do not ride in the left lane. They will be riding by us quite fast in that lane. The Capital guard does not stay in the guard shack. we will need a minimum of 10 bikes at once to be let out. If your bike leaks put something under it or you will be fined $150.

STATE OFFICE: Brandy Westerfield: There was a problem with the State Office telephone. It has been resolved. A couple of volunteers are needed at 8 in the morning for registration.

STATE OFFICE ANNEX Ms. Boots: Excused absence

MEMBERSHIP: Laurie Hanley: Most new members January: Lake Highest % of growth: LakeMost new members Februry: Southeast Highest % of growth: Forest

Go back to your chapters and tell your membership person what a good job they are doing.

SAFETY DIRECTOR: Victor Piorkowski: Nothing at this time.

PRODUCTS: Shayne “Velcro” Hanley: Has old rally pins for $1.00. Also have new stickers, pins, flags. Lifetime shirts only $10. Make an offer on something you want.

PR/COMMUNICATIONS: William “Magneto” Prewitt: Excused absence

MASTERLINK: Joanne “Critter” Napoli Prewitt:Excused absence

WEBMASTER: Joanne “Critter” Napoli Prewitt and William “Magneto” Prewitt:Excused absence

LEGISLATIVE: Darrin “Scribe” Brooks: Tomorrow is a big day. Has prepared a sheet of talking points. Talk about the Vulnerable Road Users bill and the safety $(how it goes to safety and awareness. Go up to see your people, the aids will be there. Try to have

Continued on next page


a face to face meeting. It’s too late to do anything now. we should be working with our legislators all year round. HB2001 made it through the first committee then was put directly into the budget. we are 2/3 through the session, which ends May 3.The VRU is still waiting to be heard in committee. The head of the committee, Brad Drake, does not like motorcyclists. Senator Bradley did not like the texting bill last year because he thought minorities would be targeted and they would file complaints. This year he is for it.

LOBBYIST: Doc Reichenbach: Lobbyists give millions of $ to re-election campaigns, that’s how they get the votes. The FL legislative does not meet Mondays and Fridays, so out of a 60 day session they meet only 30 days. In the off season he visits legislators. Next year the session starts in January so the ride to the capital will be in February. Question was asked if there were any legislators on the floor now. Some of the freshman will be working. Doc would like to see that every bill should have to be heard. Right now the chairmen have all the power. He was getting calls saying he was a liar, that the bill died in committee. It did, but it was put on a highway safety bill. Next year will be the 20th anniversary of the helmet bill.

MRF : Has sent letter to NHTSA asking for the definition of a motorcycle. Doc would like to send a letter also asking the same.

AMA: Emailed Doc saying they are going to work on E15 again.

NCOM: Orlando, May 10-12, 2019: There are only 14 rooms left at the $ 119/night price. May 7 is the deadline for that rate. Doc will try to get more rooms. Gator Alley will be driving vans. we still need 3 people to work the registration desk Friday and Saturday. Vera and Frenchie volunteered. Lana and Victor will be doing safety seminars. we have had the two largest motorcycle rights conventions in the country, 2500 and 2000 respectively. If you have any ideas while you are there let Doc know. we have a new T-shirt design that will be for sale at the convention. Shayne and Laurie’s daughter did an awesome job!

TALLAHASSEE: Covered above

STATE PARTY COMMITTEE: Darrin and BillyThe Five Star party will be held on June 1 at 19990 Corkscrew Road, Estero sponsored by Peace River, Southwest, Estero, west Coast and Gator Alley. Doc is in favor of having a State party. Clubs have told him they will come. Should be a central Florida location. we need something to raise money. The campground carried us for over 20 years. we lost business to other campgrounds that undercut us.

OLD BUSINESS: ABATE of Florida, Inc. cruise: at least 50 people indicated they would like to go. After discussion Cuba was eliminated as possible destination. Cozumel and the Bahamas are still contenders. Doc will contact the travel agent again for pricing and dates. The Leadership seminars for new officers (and old) will be in Ocala at the Real Estate office. July 13 for all positions except President, which will be Sunday July 14.

NEW BUSINESS: Nothing at this time.


GOOD OF THE ORDER:Gator Alley presented State with a contribution.Southeast is having a Memorial Day event on Pompano. They are also hosting August State meeting. Book the hotel in Fort Lauderdale by June 30. After that you could pay up to $500 for a room. Polk, May 11, Skills on wheels.Lighthouse, May 11, along with First Coast and west Palm.Lake County has the campgrounds during Leesburg Bike Fest. Also, May 25, “can you see me now?” ride. Ends at Moose.Drawings, silent auction and 50/50. Monica won and donated most back. The next State meeting is June 8 hosted by Vintage Chapter in St. Augustine. State BOD meeting at noon. Delegate meeting at 2:00 p.m

TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 4:51

Respectfully submitted by Shelly Johnston 5/14/2019


2020 LEGISLATIVE SESSION DATES SETMay 7, 2019 NSF StaffCircle Jan. 14 on the 2020 calendar. That is when next year’s regular legislative session will begin, with the session slated to end March 13, according to a schedule posted on the Senate website. While most sessions traditionally have started in March, voters last year passed a constitutional amendment that requires sessions to start in January in even-numbered years. The 2019 session ended Saturday.

LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES TO START IN MID-SEPTEMBERMay 14, 2019 NSF StaffWith the 2020 legislative session starting in January, lawmakers will return to Tallahassee in mid-September to start committee meetings. Senate President Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, released a schedule Tuesday that outlines six committee weeks leading up to the session. They are Sept. 16 to Sept. 20; Oct. 14 to Oct. 18; Oct. 21 to Oct. 25; Nov. 4 to Nov. 8; Nov. 12 to Nov. 15; and Dec. 9 to Dec. 13. Voters last year approved a constitutional amendment that will lead to legislative sessions starting in January in even-numbered years. Traditionally, sessions have started in March. The 2020 session will start Jan. 14.


STATE MEETING Hosted by: VINTAGE CHAPTER

SATURDAY, JUNE 08, 2019 BOARD MEETING AT 12:00 NOON

DELEGATE’S MEETING AT 2:00 PM

Hotel Reservations can be made at: The Ponce Hotel 1111 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd

32084 (904)-824-5554 Prices $119 if made by May 7th, after that, cost goes up to $219

State Meeting will be held at: Willie Galimore Community Center 399 Riberia St. St. Augustine, FL. 32084 (904)209-4325 Directions: US-1 to King St., turn East to Riberia St., then turn South and Community Center will be on the left approx. 1 mile.

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. DOES NOT CONDONE DRINKING AND RIDING. DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OB-TAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOM-MENDATION BY THE STATE. WWW.800HELPFLA.COM 1-800-435-7352.

SAFETY AND MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE


PRESSURE BUILDS IN FIGHT OVER TOLL ROADSMay 14, 2019 NSF StaffAs Gov. Ron DeSantis considers a bill aimed at building or expanding three toll roads, he is facing pressure from both sides of the controversial issue. A series of protests kicked off Tuesday in Hollywood and St. Petersburg urging DeSantis to reject the legislation (SB 7068), which is a priority of Senate President Bill Galvano but has drawn opposition from environmental groups fearful of sprawling development and damaged natural habitats. “It will negatively impact agriculture and tourism, the very industries upon which this area depends,” Stephanie Pearson, Environmental Issues Committee chair of the League of Women Voters of Broward County, said in a statement Tuesday. “Any possible benefits to wealthy landowners and some businesses in the short term cannot justify spending billions of dollars and damaging important agricultural and rural lands and wildlife habitats.” The bill would earmark $45 million during the upcoming fiscal year and begin steps to expand the Suncoast Parkway from the Tampa Bay area to the Georgia border; extend the Florida Turnpike west to connect with the Suncoast Parkway; and adds a new multi-use corridor, including a toll road, from Polk County to Collier County. Galvano, R-Bradenton, argues the projects would help lead to economic development in rural areas, handle future population growth and provide additional hurricane-evacuation routes. Supporters of the bill on Tuesday touted the support of Craig Fugate, a former Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator and former Florida Division of Emergency Management director. “Looking at past hurricane seasons, especially last year during Hurricane Michael when some Floridians experienced great congestion trying to get to safety, we know the need is inevitable,” Fugate said in a release that also featured former House Speaker Will Weatherford, Florida Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Wilson, Associated Industries of Florida President and CEO Tom Feeney and Florida Trucking Association President and CEO Kenneth Armstrong. The bill was formally sent to DeSantis on Monday. He has until May 28 to sign, veto or allow it to become law without his signature.

TEXTING WHILE DRIVING BILL GOES TO DESANTISMay 16, 2019 NSF StaffA bill that would toughen the state’s texting-while-driving law was formally sent Thursday to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has voiced support for the proposal. The bill (HB 107), a compromise passed by the House and Senate in late April, would make texting while driving a “primary” traffic offense on July 1. However, the change would be phased in, according to the bill, with warnings issued starting Oct. 1 and tickets beginning Jan. 1. Currently, police can only cite motorists for texting behind the wheel if they are pulled over for other reasons. By making it a primary offense, police could pull over motorists solely for texting while driving. The bill also would require that motorists use hands-free wireless devices in school zones and work zones. DeSantis said last month that he supported efforts to make texting while driving a primary offense. “This stuff has got to be enforceable,” the governor said April 24. “If it’s a primary offense, then people are going to get pulled over. So, you’ve got to make sure that is going to happen. The more you go beyond texting, I just have concerns about the administrability of it.” Sen. Wilton Simpson, a Trilby Republican who spearheaded the issue in the Senate, had sought to make the hands-free requirement statewide. The bill also would prohibit law-enforcement officers from accessing or confiscating wireless devices without warrants. And to address concerns about racial profiling, the bill would require officers to record the race and ethnicity of texting-while-driving violators, with annual reports on the issue submitted to the governor, Senate president and House speaker starting Feb. 1. DeSantis will have until May 30 to sign, veto or allow the bill to become law without his signature.

5/17/19 UPDATE: The texting bill has been signed by the governor!


TEN DEAD ISSUES FROM THE 2019 SESSION May 6, 2019 News Service Florida Jim SaundersTALLAHASSEE --- Maybe next year.

When lawmakers hit the road Saturday after ending the 2019 legislative session, they left behind hundreds of bills and issues that did not pass. But there’s always the 2020 session, which will start in eight short months.

Here are 10 high-profile issues that didn’t make it through the Legislature:

--- ABORTION: The House approved a measure that would have required parental consent before minors could have abortions, but the issue stalled in the Senate. Lawmakers also did not pass a proposal that would have barred doctors from performing abortions after fetal heartbeats are detected.

--- CAMPUS SURVEYS: With some Republicans raising concerns about indoctrination on college campuses, the House supported a proposal that would have required surveying faculty members and students about their ideological viewpoints. But the Senate balked at the idea and refused to include it in a higher-education package.

--- CONSTITUTION REVISION COMMISSION: Though many lawmakers were unhappy with proposals placed on the November ballot by the state Constitution Revision Commission, they did not agree on plans to rein in --- or even eliminate --- the powerful panel. The Senate passed two measure targeting the commission, but the House didn’t follow suit.

--- FRACKING: With support from Gov. Ron DeSantis, environmentalists hoped lawmakers would ban the oil- and gas-drilling technique known as “fracking.” But the issue died in the House and the Senate, after a controversy emerged about allowing another drilling technique that uses many of the same chemicals as fracking.

--- GAMBLING: Powerful Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, and the Seminole Tribe of Florida negotiated for weeks on a possible gambling deal that could have included sports betting in the state. But time ran out on the issue without a bill being introduced. DeSantis said Saturday he will work on reaching a deal with the tribe.

--- GENETIC INFORMATION: The Senate in the closing days of the session did not take up a House proposal that would have prevented life insurance companies from using genetic-testing information in making decisions about customers’ policies. Supporters of the proposal pointed to privacy concerns, while the insurance industry argued it was over-regulation.

--- MARIJUANA POTENCY: Though lawmakers in March approved allowing patients to smoke medical marijuana, they split on a House plan that would have limited the level of euphoria-inducing THC in smokable pot. The House backed the limit, saying high levels of THC can lead to psychosis. But the Senate refused to go along with the limit.




--- NURSE PRACTITIONER POWERS: While House Speaker Jose Oliva, R-Miami Lakes, pushed through major health-care legislation, he was unable to get the Senate to agree to a proposal that would have allowed advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants to work independently from doctors.

--- SCHOOL BOARD TERM LIMITS: Republicans in recent years have frequently floated the idea of imposing eight-year term limits on members of county school boards. But proposals aimed at placing the issue on the 2020 ballot stalled in the House and the Senate this year amid opposition from many school districts.

--- SMOKING AGE: In an issue that became known as “T21,” the Senate passed a bill that would have raised the minimum age to buy tobacco and vaping products from 18 to 21. The proposal also would have banned local governments from passing ordinances dealing with the minimum age. But the House did not take up the issue in the session’s closing days.

DESANTIS TO SIGN FELONS’ VOTING MEASUREMay 7, 2019 Jim TurnerTALLAHASSEE --- Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday he will sign a controversial measure that would require repayment of financial obligations before felons’ voting rights are restored.

“I’ll sign it,” DeSantis said while at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science to discuss environmental issues from the legislative session that ended Saturday.

“The (constitutional) amendment says, if you read it, you have to complete your sentence,” DeSantis continued. “And I think most people understand you can be sentenced to jail, probation, restoration if you harm someone. You can be sentenced with a fine. People that bilk people out of money, sometimes that is an appropriate sentence. That’s what the constitutional provision said. I think the Legislature just implemented that as it’s written.”

The legislation (SB 7066) is aimed at carrying out a constitutional amendment that granted restoration of voting rights to felons “who have completed all terms of their sentence, including parole or probation.”

The proposal, which appeared on the November ballot as Amendment 4, excluded people “convicted of murder or a felony sexual offense.”

But Democrats and many other Amendment 4 supporters say the legislation is too restrictive and would block people from being able to vote, with some comparing the need to fully pay restitution to a poll tax.

DeSantis, who had not formally received the bill from the Legislature as of Tuesday, rejected the characterization.

“The idea that paying restitution to someone is the equivalent to a tax is totally wrong,” DeSantis said. “The only reason you’re paying restitution is because you were convicted of a felony.”

Earlier in the day, the League of Women Voters of Florida held a conference call with reporters urging DeSantis to veto the Amendment 4 implementation bill. Also, the group called for vetoing other bills that

TEN DEAD ISSUES FROM THE 2019 SESSION Continued from page 13


passed during the session, such as a measure that would make it harder for citizens’ initiatives to reach the ballot (HB 5); a wide-ranging school safety bill that would expand the school “guardian” program (SB 7030); and a bill aimed at building or expanding three toll roads in mostly rural regions of the state (SB 7068).

Critics of the felons’ rights legislation contend it would create unjustifiable barriers to voting.

“Politicians this session disregarded the will of over 5 million Florida voters who supported Amendment 4 when they passed legislation that restricts the right to vote based on who can afford to pay,” said Kirk Bailey, political director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida who was on the call.

Bailey noted, without going into detail, his group is exploring legal options to challenge the bill.

Bailey also said he hopes lawmakers will reconsider the Amendment 4 implementation during the 2020 legislative session, a move that is unlikely as little change is expected in the leadership of the Republican-dominated House and Senate.

DeSantis also noted while in Miami on Tuesday that he may have an announcement later this week on a separate bill (HB 771) that would prohibit local governments from enforcing regulations on plastic straws over the next five years.

Currently, 10 cities across the state have rules governing the use of plastic straws, which have drawn environmental concerns.

IMPORTANTPLEASE TAkE NOTE

Be sure to make your reservations for the August 2019 State Meeting early. There is a significant price increase if you book after June 30.


MAY 25th Reg 9:30-10:30 am @ Rainbow Restaurant, 704 E Myers Blvd, Hwy 50, Mascotte. Come early for breakfast. $10. pp First 75 registered riders get a free TShirt (not all sizes may be available). This will be a scenic ride through

Lake County- 3 separate routes – Ending at #1271 Moose Lodge, 1512 State Road 44, Leesburg-- @ 3pm more info on the day of run. RUSS 352-391-7151 –All are welcome. Visit our Membership & Safety Booth

“ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. DOES NOT CONDONE DRINKING AND RIDING. DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER

SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. WWW.800HELPFLA.COM 1-800-435-7352”

“Can You See Me Now” May 25th Ride to Promote Visibility & Public Awareness

2019 Sponsors: Chandler's Electric LLC ** Village Moose Lodge *** Frank’s Place, LSBG **

Performance Cyclez, LSBG

Start your day with breakfast provided by RALPH’S STAND-UP BAR - 10:00 to 11:30 113 Center Street, Jupiter, FL 33458

Join us for The Blessing of “Bike’s and Biker’s” At THE BREWHOUSE GALLERY, 720 Park Ave., Lake Park, FL 33403, at 12:00 noon

Blessing between 12:15 and 12:45 by Chrome Crosses and the CMA Music by the “Static Band” at 1:00 pm

$10.00 per person-food specials and door prizes until 4:00 pm Arm bands must be worn and you must sign-in to participate

For any questions please call: The President 561-703-5916, VP 561-701-5678 or the Treasurer 918-853-5425

To benefit ABATE Safety and Awareness Program ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. DOES NOT CONDONE DRINKING AND RIDING. DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND

FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. WWW.800HELPFLA.COM 1-800-435-7352. SAFETY/MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION AVAILABLE

Abate of Florida, Inc. – Lighthouse Chapter Annual Blessing of the Bikes

Sunday, May 26th 2019


Run - A - MuckABATE of Florida Inc. Peace River Chapter presents:

Saturday, May 1812 noon-5pm

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. DOES NOT CONDONE DRINKING AND RIDING. DONATIONS TO ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ARE NOTDEDUCTIBLE FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIALINFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THESTATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.WWW.800HELPFLA.COM 1800-435-7352

BanditosLocation:

5665 S. McCall RoadPort Charlotte 33981

Event Info:Billy Neal

(941) 743-4541

ABATE safety & membership info available

Vendor Info:Billy Neal

(941) 743-4541

musicGreat FoodBike games


CHAPTER INFORMATIONDAYTONA BEACHPO Box 263198Daytona Beach, FL 32126-3198Gene Lessig, Pres. (610) 507-4119Alfy Fyock, VP (386) 566-6112Email: [email protected]: http://daytona.abateflorida.comMeetings: 1st Thursday, 7:30 pmPlace: Eagles Lodge190 S. Nova Rd., Ormond Beach, FL 32174

ESTERO RIVERPO Box 366760Bonita Springs, FL 34136-6760Larry Peterson, Pres. (904) 610-7070Shayne Hanley, VP (239) 560-2565E-mail: [email protected]: http://www.esteroriverabate.com Meetings: 3rd Sunday 10:00 AMPlace: San Carlos Country Club19137 S. Tamiami Trail, Ft. Myers, FL 33908

FORESTPO Box 2409Silver Springs, FL 34489-2409John Melin, Pres (352) 318-6514Bridgette Place, VP (352) 361-1262E-mail: [email protected]: http://forest.abateflorida.comMeetings: 1st Saturday, 9:30 amPlace: Charlie Horse2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL

FREEDOM CHAPTER PO Box 10013Brooksville, FL 34613-0013Robert Hotchkiss, Pres. (352) 584-1278Ron Payne, VP. (352) 293-6935E-mail: [email protected]: http://freedom.abateflorida.comMeetings: 4th Sunday 10:00 amPlace:American Legion Post #186 12091 Cortez Blvd, Brooksville, FL 34601

GATOR ALLEYPO Box 10395Naples, FL 34101-0395Lynn Corr, Pres. (239) 450-9939Scott Pignatiello, VP (239) 353-7202Email: [email protected]: http://gatoralley.abateflorida.comMeetings: 4th Sunday, 11:00 amPlace: VFw Post 7721800 Neffs way, Naples, FL 34119

GULF COASTPO Box 691Cantonment, FL 32533-0691Gene Schirtzinger, Pres. (850) 572-6690JL Gibson, VP (850) 896-9694Email: [email protected]: http://gulfcoast.abateflorida.comMeetings: 3rd Sunday, 10:00 amPlace: American Legion Post 3408890 Ashland Rd., Pensacola, FL 32534

HILLSBOROUGHPO Box 16297Tampa, FL 33687-6297Richard Nasrallah, Pres. (813) 323-2816James Sewell, VP (813) 395-6621Fax: (813) 626-2306Email: [email protected]: http://hillsborough.abateflorida.comMeetings: Last Sunday, 11:00 amPlace: Pole Barn6921 Senoj Dr., Tampa, FL 33610

LAKE COUNTYPO. Box 492Astatula, FL 34705-0492will “Griz” Deaver, Pres. (352) 742-7754Russ Sharpe, VP. (352) 391-7151Fax: (352) 568-0173E-mail: [email protected]: http://lake.abateflorida.comMeetings: 1st Sunday NoonPlace: Lake County Eagles #427327150 Haywood worm Farm Rd., Okahumpka

LIGHTHOUSEPO Box 4471Tequesta, FL 33469-4471Marie Donovan, Pres (561) 703-5916Millard Porter, VP (203) 551-1684Email: [email protected]: 3rd Sunday; NoonPlace: Ralph’s Standup Bar113 Center St., Jupiter, FL

PALM BEACHPO Box 530944Lake Park, FL 33403-0944Curtis Alva, Pres (561) 371-6176John "LB" Valiquette, VP (561) 907-0043website: http://palmbeach.abateflorida.comE-mail: [email protected]: 3rd Sunday 11:30 AMPlace: VFw Post 41432404 Broadway, Riviera Beach, FL 33404

PEACE RIVERPO Box 380415Murdoch, FL 33938-0415Bill Neal, Pres. (941) 743-4541Bill Bird, VP (941) 249-1276E-mail: [email protected]: http://peaceriver.abateflorida.comMeetings: 4th Sunday; 11:00 AMPlace: American Legion Post 1103152 Harbor Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33952

POLK COUNTYPO Box 2743Lakeland, FL 33806-2743Mark "Zman" Zinser, Pres. (863) 559-9550Greg Vernon, VP (863) 934-9333E-mail: [email protected]: http://polk.abateflorida.comMeetings: 3rd Sunday 1:00 PMPlace: Boondocks8185 US Hwy 98 North, Lakeland, FL 33809

USE CHANGE OF INFORMATION FORM AND SEND ALL CHAPTER CHANGES DIRECTLY TO THE STATE OFFICE

Change of information forms can be found at www.abateflorida.com/forms


CHAPTER INFORMATIONSEMINOLEPO Box 2004Sanford, FL 32771-9998R.D. Reagan, Pres. (407) 718-1283Jim Owens, VP (321) 888-6700Email: [email protected]:Facebook: ABATE of Florida Inc. - Seminole County ChapterMeetings: 3rd Sunday; 10:00 amPlace: Moose Lodge2660 South Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL

SOUTHEASTPO Box 292693Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33329-2693John F. Rose II, Pres. (954) 868-4390Robert Leavitt, VP (954) 770-7366E-mail: [email protected]: www.abatese.orgMeetings: 3rd Sunday; 10:00 amPlace: Various locations in service areacall Pres or VP for location

SOUTHERNMOSTP.O. Box 523108Marathon, FL 33052-3108Sandy MacLaren, Pres. (305) 664-9661Marty Baird, VP (305) 394-3563E-mail: [email protected]: http://southernmost.abateflorida.comMeetings: 1st Sunday 11:00 AMPlace: D.A.V7280 Overseas Hwy., Marathon, FL 33050

SOUTHWESTPO Box 60745Ft. Myers, FL 33906-6745wayne Cerra, Pres. (239) 989-3349Karl Bartling, VP (239) 245-5054E-mail: [email protected]: http://southwest.abateflorida.comMeetings: 3rd wednesday; 7:00 pmPlace: The Shell Factory2787 N. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33903

TREASURE COAST PO Box 1360Roseland, FL 32957-1360Steve Kliemisch, Pres. (772) 778-8130Susan Hulce, VP (772) 589-3599Email: [email protected]: http://treasurecoast.abateflorida.comMeetings: Last wednesday; 7:00 pmPlace: American Legion Post 189807 Louisiana Ave., Sebastian, FL

VINTAGE PO Box 860244St. Augustine, FL 32086-0244Sue Hedrick, Pres. (904) 547-0723Marcus Hotelling, VP (321) 607-2516E-mail: [email protected]: http://vintage.abateflorida.comMeetings: Last Sunday; 3:00 pmLocation: VFw Post 23916184 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086

WEST COAST PO Box 50937Sarasota, FL 34232-0307Mike Duffey, Pres. (904) 807-1299Joe Hulgan, VP (941) 928-5765E-mail:[email protected]: http://westcoast.abateflorida.com Meetings: 3rd Sunday, 11:00 amPlace: American Legion Post 304015 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234

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ABATE of Florida, Inc. – Masterlink Ad FormAdvertiser Name: ___________________________________________________________________________

Advertiser Address: _________________________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________________________ State: ______________ Zip: _________________

Phone Number (with area code): ______________________________________________________________All rates show sales tax.

Advertise in six consecutive issues of Masterlink and receive one issue of equal value advertising FREE

Circle One Only Full Page - One Issue .......... $79.87 Full Page - Seven Issues ..........$479.22 1/2 Page - One Issue ............ $53.25 1/2 Page - Seven Issues ............$319.50 1/4 Page - One Issue ............ $31.95 1/4 Page - Seven Issues ............$191.70 Bus. Card - One Issue ......... $21.30 Bus. Card - Seven Issues .........$127.80

Start Issue Date: Last Issue Date: No. Issues: Payment Type:

yOU MUST SUPPLy CAMERA READy COPy. ATTACH CAMERA READy COPy BELOwCompleted Ad Forms should be forwarded with full payment to:

ABATE of Florida, Inc • C/O Masterlink Editor • PO Box 2520• DeLand, FL 32721-2520


ABATE of Florida, Inc. Individual Membership Application

Legal Name (Print) _________________________________________________________________________Address ___________________________________________________________________________________City _____________________________________________________ State __________ Zip _____________Email Address______________________________________________________________________________Phone (_________) ______________________________ Registered Voter ______ Yes ________ NoDo you Belong To Another Chapter? ____ No ____ yes Name(s) _________________________________Voter Districts:State House___________ State Senate _________ U.S. Congressional District _________Membership Status ______ NEw ______ $20 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP PER PERSON ______ RENEwAL ______ $600 LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Signature ________________________________________________________________ Date _____________Fill out this form and attach it to your check or money order (for $20.00 or $600.00) made payable to ABATE of Florida, Inc. andsend it to the address below. All members receive with their paid membership, the Masterlink newsletter, membership card, eventdiscounts and updates, voting privileges, free Masterlink classified ads and Chapter newsletter. yOU MUST BE 18 yEARS OFAGE OR OLDER TO BE A MEMBER OF ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC. ALL APPLICATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL.

Chapter Desired

Change of Information FormLEGAL NAME (Print) ________________________________________________CHAPTER ______________________

LIST ANy OTHER CHAPTERS yOU BELONG TO: _______________________________________________________

OLD ADDRESS ______________________________________________________________EXP. DATE ____________

CITY _________________________________________________________ STATE _________ ZIP _________________

NEw ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________________________________

CITY __________________________________________________________________ STATE ________ ZIP _____________

EMAIL ADDRESS ___________________________________________________________________________________________

PHONE (__________) __________________________________ REGISTERED VOTER ______ yES ______ NO

VOTER DISTRICTS:

STATE HOUSE ______________________________________ STATE SENATE_____________________________________

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT ______________________________________

REQUEST TRANSFER FROM ______________________________________ TO _____________________________________

Signature _________________________________________________________________________ Date ________________

C BSIGN, DATE AND SEND TO:

ABATE of Florida, Inc.C/O Membership

PO Box 2520DeLand, FL 32721-2520

ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.PO BOX 2520DELAND, FL 32721-2520

NON PROFIT ORG.

US POSTAGE

PAIDTAMPA, FL

PERMIT NO. 3191

FREEDOM OF CHOICE– DEFEND IT –

– PROTECT IT –– PRESERVE IT –

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