Hillsborough County Chapter Page 1
Volume 31 Issue 2 June-July 2012
Hillsborough County Chapter Newsletter
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
AMERICAN BIKERS AIMED TOWARDS
EDUCATION
Your Local Chapter for
Tampa Bay Area’s #1 Motorcycle Rights Organization
PUT SPOOKS ‘N SCOOTS ON YOUR CALENDAR
OCTOBER 12-14, 2012
Page 2 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
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. Hi l lsborough 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.
DISCLAIMER
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 ac-
tive at the polls, and to
communicate on a regu-
lar 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
m a k e t h e b e s t
decisions affecting
Florida’s motorcycle
riders.
T o Pub l i sh a
periodical publication to
keep members of
ABATE of Florida
informed.
ABATE OF
FLORIDA, INC.
Our Mission
Statement
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) 695-9203 Or E-Mail: [email protected]
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.
DONATIONS TO
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
ARE NOT TAX DEDUCTIBLE
FOR FEDERAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 3
Hillsborough County Chapter
Board and Trustees 2011—2012
President:
Richard Nasrallah (813)
626-0589
Vice President:
James Sewell
(813) 763-2127
Secretary:
Ted Evans
(813) 417-1356
Treasurer:
Bob Munroe
(813) 294-0847
Sergeant at Arms:
Bill Nasrallah
(813) 850-6556
Membership Trustee:
Steve Nasrallah
(813) 270-0596
Legislative Trustee:
Vacant
Safety Director:
Jan Reed
(813) 478-1879
havegone2the [email protected]
REMINDER!!!!!!
Member personal classified ads are
free. This Does Not include Business
Ads. Please e-mail or call in your ad
before the newsletter deadline. Public Relations/Community
Affairs:
Dino Reed
(813) 714-9476
havegone2the [email protected]
Products Trustee:
Jo Brown
(813) 685-0949 jojo-
Newsletter Editor:
Jim Cass
(813) 421-2234
Web Master:
Patti Nasrallah
(813) 626-0589
Chapter Delegates:
Steve Nasrallah
Vacant
Alternate Chapter
Delegates:
Tom Barbieri
Bill Nasrallah
Bob Munroe
Terry Schissler
Dino Reed
Memorial:
Ted Evans
(813) 417-1356
"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, 1901-78
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 16297
TAMPA FL 33687-6297
HCC meets on the Last Sunday
of each Month @ 1:00pm
At the Pole Barn (next door to
Richard & Patti’s house) at
6921 Senoj Dr. Tampa 33610
Chapter Board Meetings are on same
date @ 11:00am @ Richard’s house
unless otherwise posted.
All Meetings Are Open
And Everyone is Welcome For Directions, call Richard @ 813-323-2816
or visit our website at:
http://Hillsborough.abateflorida.com/
Click on “Meeting Times”
Support Abate of Florida
Our Newsletter is available online. It
is available in print by request only.
If the chapter has an email address for
you, you will receive an email 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 813
-695-9203 and request a printed copy. If
we do not have a current email address
for you, you will receive a printed copy
of the newsletter via US Mail. If you
need to update your email address
please sent the information to
Page 4 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
I would like to thank our outgoing board members and
welcome the new incoming board of directors. I
am looking forward to working with everyone. I want to
thank all the officers that set time aside to attend the
leadership seminars on July 14. These seminars are put
on by the state officers so that we all know the require-
ments of our positions. This was a good time for our di-
rectors to meet their state board counterparts, and learn something.
Spooks and Scoots is fast approaching and we are already gearing up to get ready for this
event. This event is our main fundraiser and it is very important that everyone supports it.
Talk it up and invite your friends to join us. Keep an eye out for places to post our flyers.
Let's work together to make it a success this year.
Ride Safe, Ride Free
Richard
Our Vice President’s Voice:
It is time to gear up for Spooks N Scoots, I have sent out the ven-
dor applications and if you know someone who would like to vend
(no food) please have them contact me.
I have a pet peeve that I would like to share with everyone, headlights and road lights. I
drive at night and nothing is more dangerous than to have someone in the opposing lane
with lights that are aimed to high and blind oncoming traffic. Please be courteous and
aim your lights properly to keep us all safe on the roads. I check my aim often to see if
they are correct, and adjust accordingly.
James Sewell, Vice President, Hillsborough Chapter
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 5
Sgt. At Arms - Bill Nasrallah
Hi, to all Hillsborough Co. members. I’m your new Sgt-At-Arms. I was your former
treasurer. This will be all new to me but with help from some other members and asking
a lot of questions I should be ok. I attended a workshop this month for sgt-
at-arms that was be a big help in understanding all of my duties. I do
know one of my main duties is to get as much help as I can for spooks-n-scoots. A lot of
members and non-members of Abate step up to help but we always need more help. My
goal is to have more than less help. I know with all the good members we have in Abate
that you guys and gals will make that an easy job for me to get your help. Remember
why we are here. To FIGHT for are right to RIDE our bikes and RIDE them SAFE!!!
PS, remember to check your tire air pressure and give your brake pads a quick check!!!
GOD BLESS - See you at the Meeting.
Chapter Sgt-At-Arms, Billy Nasrallah
During the April 29 meeting, I made a plea for members to step up to the plate to move into
Board and Trustee positions, to bring our chapter back in to our proud heritage of involve-
ment. I can only say that I was overwhelmed by the response as we filled out the slate dur-
ing 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 recover-
ing, 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
Chapter Secretary - Ted Evans
Page 6 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Independence Day is not just fireworks and bar-b-que; it’s about the freedom that we have in this
great nation that we have. There has been great sacrifices that men and women have paid their lives
for the freedom that we have .We should thank all mili-
tary people for there service... Freedom is nice but don’t
forget the price!
I was at the last state meeting and we have a new Presi-
dent his name is Danny “Doc” Fish, and a new V.P. Jim
Gladstone form West Coast Chapter. I would like to say
congratulations and welcome them onboard.
As always ride safe be aware of your surroundings and
keep the rubber down.
Ride safe and keep the rubber down!
Steve Nasrallah
Membership trustee
Membership Means You !!
MEMBERS EXPIRING or expired in March through June
lastname firstname expiredate
BOESSWETTER DAN 4/30/2012
REDDING RAY 5/31/2012
LOCKE DOUGLAS 5/31/2012
DUNLAP GARY 5/31/2012
LOCKE STEPHANIE 5/31/2012
STOUT ROCKY 6/30/2012
PEARSON GENE 6/30/2012
PEARSON DIANE 6/30/2012
ADAMS HINTON K. 6/30/2012
LEWEIN VINCENT 7/30/2012
FOGAL DONALD 7/31/2012
NOLAN SANDRA 8/31/2012
BOUGHNER ROBERT 8/31/2012
SAVIDGE MIKE 8/31/2012
ALVAREZ RICHARD 8/31/2012
ALVAREZ ARNIE 8/31/2012
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 7
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER MEETING MINUTES
Date: 6/3/12 (AS MAY MEETING)
This meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. Board Members present were: Richard, James, Ted,
Billy, and Becky.
1. INTRODUCTIONS & PRESIDENTS REPORT: Richard welcomes all guest and visitors.
Richard led pledge of allegiance and moment of silence. Bill Nasrallah took a few minutes to remem-
ber a close friend, ABATE Member, and a worker in the Beer Tent: Craig Patterson.
2. VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT: To be made at the June meeting.
3. SECRETARY’S REPORT. Last month’s Minutes were published in the Newsletter.
There were no changes to be made, so a Motion by Patti, and seconded by James suspended the read-
ing of the Minutes. The Chapter voted, & motion carried.
4. TREASURER: Bill Nasrallah reported that there would be further discussion at the June meeting.
5. MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE: Steve Nasrallah was an excused absence.
6. PRODUCTS TRUSTEE: Becky Speer, outgoing Trustee, expressed her thanks for support in the
previous year.
7. SERGEANT AT ARMS: Jim Cass was an excused absence due to a brand new Son!
8. LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: Milton Gonzales will report at the June meeting.
9. PR/COMMUNICATIONS TRUSTEE: Barbara “Beamer” Cronk was absent.
10. STATE BUSINESS: This will be discussed at the June meeting.
11. SAFETY TRUSTEE: Jim Cass enjoying new baby.
12. NEWSLETTER EDITOR: Thanks to Patti for getting a Newsletter out prior to our new board
being active.
13. WEB MASTER: Patti Nasrallah reports everything is fine.
14. OLD BUSINESS: This will be reserved for the June meeting.
15: NEW BUSINESS: This will be reserved for the June meeting.
16. GOOD OF THE ORDER: This will be reserved for the June meeting.
50/50: To be performed at the June meeting.
Motion Made by Patti to adjourn the Meeting- Seconded by James. Chapter voted and motion passed.
Meeting was adjourned at: 1:25 pm
NEXT MEETING: 1:30 pm June 3, 2012
Page 8 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER MEETING MINUTES
Date: 6-3-12
This meeting was called to order at 1:30 p.m. Board Members present were: Richard, James, Ted,
and Billy.
1. INTRODUCTIONS & PRESIDENTS REPORT: Richard welcomed all guest and visitors.
Richard led pledge of allegiance and moment of silence.
2. VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Nothing to report.
3. SECRETARY’S REPORT. Ted reported that the May minutes are not yet available, but will be
printed in the newsletter. Motion made by Patti that last month’s minutes will be printed in the news-
letter and therefore do not need to be read to the chapter at this time - Seconded by Milton. Chapter
voted & motion carried.
4. TREASURER: Bill Nasrallah reported and announced that chapter expense and balance report
are available for any member to view after the meeting.
Motion made by Tom to accept the Treasurer’s report - Seconded by Bob. Chapter voted & motion
carried.
5. MEMBERSHIP TRUSTEE: Steve Nasrallah excused absence.
6. PRODUCTS TRUSTEE: Becky Speer: Nothing further to report.
7. SERGEANT AT ARMS: Jim Cass absent with new son.
8. LEGISLATIVE TRUSTEE: Milton Gonzales reports that the Proclamation making May as Mo-
torcycle Safety and Awareness month, was read before Council on May 2nd. TV cameras were in the
chamber, and aside from parking tickets, it was a great success!
9. PR/COMMUNICATIONS TRUSTEE: Barbara “Beamer” Cronk was absent.
10. STATE BUSINESS: Next week the State Meeting will be held in Clairmont. The slate of new
board members for the state was discussed by the membership. The chapter voted with Dino nomi-
nating Doc Fish for President, seconded by James. In similar fashion, Patti nominated Emory Griffis
for Vice President, seconded by Dino. The chapter will vote in this manner at the State Meeting.
11. SAFETY TRUSTEE: Jim Cass was home enjoying new son.
12. NEWSLETTER EDITOR: Patti did a great job in the interim before Jim gets onboard. Thank
you Patti!
13. WEB MASTER: Patti Nasrallah reports everything running smoothly.
14. OLD BUSINESS: Charlie has been working hard. The vinyl came off the roof, and the metal
underneath is really in rough shape - - but he can handle. There are a lot of bad spots on the rest of
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 9
the paint, but he estimates another two weeks to be ready to paint. Great news! Mechanical issues
are also being addressed.
Diane would like to put together a run next May. James feels we would do better in the fall. More
pressing is that we need people to work our booth at Music and Motorcycles.
15: NEW BUSINESS: In consideration that all positions were accepted or appointed, unopposed,
the Elections Slate has been approved for the years 2012 – 2014. These officers and trustees are:
Richard Nasrallah, President
James Sewell, Vice President
Ted Evans, Secretary
Bob Munroe, Treasurer
Steve Nasrallah, Membership
Milton Gonzalez, Legislative
Jo Brown, Products
Jan Reed, Safety Education
Jim Cass, Newsletter Editor
Bill Nasrallah, Sgt-at-Arms
Dino Reed, PR/Communications
Other new business: James has vendor info out. We need vendors. Keep your eyes open for those
who can’t afford the big fees of some of the other events.
16. GOOD OF THE ORDER: Watch out for all the old folks up in Zephyr Hills on scooters. When
at all possible, make them aware that they should take their lane - - not ride on the shoulder.
Becky advises that June 18 is National Ride to Work Day. Fill up the tank Richard! Take a couple
laps around the house.
50/50: Won by Terry Schissler, who graciously donated it back to the Chapter.
Motion Made by Milton to adjourn the Meeting- Seconded by Kevin. Chapter voted and motion
passed. Meeting was adjourned at: 3:00 pm
NEXT MEETING: July 29, 2012
Board of Directors @11:00 am and Chapter Meeting @ 1:00 pm, POLE BARN
Page 10 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
HELLO MEMBERS,
We have Chapter Shirts, Head Bands and NEW Personalized Name Tags. If you
would like to order one please e-mail me at [email protected] or send
$7.50 + $1.50 for mailing or just pick it up @ 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 http://www.abateflorida.com/
products.php Hope everyone has a safe time @ Bike Week….Ride Safe! Becky
ORDER FORM
NAME:___________________________________________________________
ADDRESS:________________________________________________________
CITY, STATE & ZIP CODE:_________________________________________
EMAIL 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 UP @ __________________ (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 16297 Tampa, FL 33687. * Please Note:
$1.50 will cover up to 3 patches - Other postage will be quoted per order.
Chapter Products -
Jo Brown
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 11
Page 12 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
New laws on a range of topics from high school athletics and pregnant prisoners to automobile insurance and environmental permitting take effect Sunday. July 1 marks the beginning of the fiscal year, but also is the effective date for roughly half of the laws passed by legislators earlier this year. In all, about 150 new statutes and a $70 billion budget take effect. Among them: EDUCATION: Public schools will now be held more financially accountable for student performance in core courses un-der a measure (HB 7059) that also makes it easier for students to graduate early. The law allows students who have completed 24 credits to graduate early and receive Bright Futures scholarships. The measure also ties funding for must-pass courses to student performance on tests in those subjects while clarifying eligibility rules for Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment programs. It also pushes school principals to adopt accelerated learning options for students and provide certain guarantees that qualified students get the chance to participate. High school athletes at charter and private schools will find it easier to compete as lawmakers relaxed re-strictions on their participation in events sponsored by the Florida High School Athletic Association. The measure (HB 1403) allows transfer students to largely remain eligible in the same year they change schools and would limit the ability of FHSAA to force students to sit for recruiting violations. Instead, it would crack down on schools and coaches involved in the violations. School boards will also be able to allow students to deliver inspirational messages at school events under a controversial measure (SB 98) that critics have already promised to challenge in court. The measure, one of the most contentious of the past session, could allow prayers at events that students must attend, but also could allow other types of messages. HEALTH CARE: Counties could have to pay tens of millions of dollars in disputed health-care charges that have piled up for years under a Medicaid bill (HB 5301), which includes several other provisions in addition to the billing change. The most contentious part of the measure requires counties to pay disputed Medicaid bills unless they can prove to an administrative judge that the bills were unwarranted. Counties argue that the state should fix its billing system, which they say is plagued with errors, before us-ing the withholding mechanism in the bill to force counties to pay 85 percent of bills that might or might not be valid. Lawmakers who supported the measure said they should have been paying their bills all along. The counties would have three years to pay back the money, at a cost of about $77.5 million, according to the state; the Florida Association of Counties argues that the measure will cost governments nearly $155.6 million. Several counties have sued over the issue. Other health bills taking effect include HB 291 that requires the FHSAA and independent youth sanctioning authorities to develop “return to play” policies for athletes who sustain traumatic head injuries.
Hey Everyone,
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 13
Another new law (HB 509) authorizes pharmacists to administer the pneumonia vaccine to adults pursuant to a protocol with a physician and to administer the shingles vaccine to adults pursuant to a prescription from a physician. The law requires pharmacists to obtain continuing education and certification. INSURANCE: Lawmakers earlier this year passed an expansive bill (HB 119) aimed at reducing costs in the state's per-sonal injury protection system (PIP), a $10,000 medical benefit that critics say is rife with fraud, overutiliza-tion and litigation. The law's major provisions don't kick in until Jan. 1, 2013 and include a detailed framework for which medi-cal providers are eligible for reimbursement under PIP coverage. The list included physicians, hospitals, and chiropractors. Other provisions of the law, however, kick in Monday. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/WORKFORCE : Republican-led efforts to assist Florida businesses, a priority of both chambers and Gov. Rick Scott, contin-ues with a roll back of unemployment taxes and another initiative to assist the Space Coast in its transition to a post-shuttle world. The tax paid by businesses for unemployment benefits was scheduled to go up to about $171 per em-ployee, but the law (HB 7027) would reduce that to about $121 per worker. The law delays the state's repayment schedule, stretching it out to five years instead of three. That puts employers on the hook for more interest, but reduces payments now. The measure also reduces the wage base for calculating the unemployment tax from $8,500 to $8,000 per worker. A law (HB 1205) allowing state agencies to drug test their employees kicks in but is being challenged in federal court. The law, which was overwhelmingly approved by the Legislature, would allow agencies to conduct random testing every three months. Agencies would use a computer system to choose employees to be tested, with the total not exceeding 10 percent of the agency workforce. The law gives agencies the authority to put the tests into effect but does not require them to do so. Costs of the tests would have to be paid for by the state. It limits the number of employees tested to no more than 10 percent of each agency's workforce every three months. Lawmakers also nipped at the autonomy of regional workforce boards by allowing the governor to fire indi-vidual board members without having to sack the entire board, a "nuclear option" that hindered oversight. Some of the boards have come under fire for conflicts of interest as they attempt to retrain workers. A state audit found that from 2008 to 2010 the workforce boards handed out more than $7.5 million in contracts to companies controlled by or linked to their board members. Questionable expenditures like the purchase of super hero capes for unemployed workers were among a litany of other concerns that led lawmakers to push for more statewide oversight. The measure (HB 7023) sets standards and qualifications for regional workforce boards and would require board members to submit financial disclosures. ENVIRONMENT: A wide-ranging bill (HB 503) makes a number of changes in the environmental permitting process, includ-ing prohibiting local governments from making a development permit conditional on having some other state permit. The law deregulates certain types of injection wells and sets a time limit on some permit applications. The bill also removes agency approval requirements for small storm water projects and extends deadlines for certain environmental resource permits.
Page 14 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Sandy & Ralph are Life Members of ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Another measure will change the way the state regulates reclaimed water. The law (HB 639) exempts re-claimed water from the current definitions of "state waters." The designation is significant because Florida statutes say the state is responsible for managing state waters, which are considered a basic public re-source. The measure prohibits water management districts from requiring consumptive use permits for reclaimed water. If groundwater of surface water is included in the mix, the district would retain the ability to regulate. Statewide, about 660 million gallons of reclaimed water is being used every day for a range of purposes, from phosphate mining and electricity generation to golf course watering. The amount equals about half of the state's available resource. CRIMINAL JUSTICE: Lawmakers also passed restrictions on restraints used on pregnant incarcerated women. The measure ( HB 524) prevents certain types of restraints used during pregnancy, labor and delivery. The cost of a concealed weapons permit was slashed by $5. The new law (HB 5601) lowers the cost of a new concealed weapons permit to $70 and the renewal fee to $65.
Darrin “Scribe’ Brooks State Legislative Trustee ABATE of Florida, Inc. www.abateflorida.com
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 15
H-45 Richard Corcoran
District: 7132 Little Rd
New Port Richey, FL 34654-5514
(727) 816-1580
Capitol: Room 1101, The Capitol**
(850) 488-8528
H-47 James “JW” Grant
District: 12956 Northdale Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33618-2806
(813) 558-1333
Capitol: Room 322 The Capitol**
(850) 488-0275
H-48 Peter Nehr
District: 905 E. MLK Drive #430
Tarpon Springs, FL 33689-4829
(727) 943-4880
Capitol: Room 204 HOB*
(850) 488-5580
H-50 Ed Hooper
District: 2963 Gulf To Bay Blvd. #206
Clearwater, FL 33759-4259
(727) 724-3000
Capitol: Room 222, The Capitol**
(850) 488-1540
H-51 Larry Ahern
District: 5511 Park Street N #101
St. Petersburg, FL 33709-6399
(727) 545-6421
Capitol: 1102 The Capitol**
(850) 488-6197
H-52 Jeff Brandes
District: 3637 4th St N Ste 101
St. Petersburg, FL 33704-1300
(727) 552-2573
Capitol: 1301 The Capitol**
(850) 488-5719
H-53 Rick Kriseman
District: 1700 66th Street N #203
St. Petersburg, FL 33710-5510
(727) 552-1380
Capitol: 316 The Capitol**
(850) 488-9337
H-61 Will Weatherford
District: 28963 SR 54 Suite A
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544-3218
(813) 558-5115
Capitol: 418 The Capitol**
(850) 488-5744
H-62 Richard "Rich" Glorioso
District: 110 W Reynolds Street Ste 204
Plant City, FL 33563-3379
(813) 757-9110
Capitol: Room 222 The Capitol**
(850) 488-0807
H-63 Seth McKeel
District: 4250 S Florida Ave #4
Lakeland, FL 33813-1670
(863) 647-4896
Capitol: Room 422 The Capitol**
(850) 488-9890
H-67 Greg Steube
District: 5800 Lakewood Ranch Blvd S
Ste 5880
Sarasota, FL 34240-8479
(941) 907-2810
Capitol: Room 1102 The Capitol**
(850) 488-6341
H-68 Jim Boyd
District: 717 Manatee Ave. W. # 100
Bradenton, FL 34205-7829
(941) 708-4968
Capitol: Room 1102 The Capitol**
(850) 488-4086
H 54 Jim Frishe
District: 125 Indian Rocks Rd #A
Belleair Bluffs, FL 33770-1727
(727) 518-3902
Capitol: Room 322 The Capitol**
(850) 488-9960
H-55 Darryl Ervin Rouson
District: 6501 25th Way S Ste D
St. Petersburg, FL 33712-5665
(727) 906-3200
Capitol: Room 405 The Capitol **
(850) 488-0925
H-56 Rachel Burgin
District: 11256 Winthrop Main St “A”
Riverview, FL 33578-4267
(813) 655-3742
Capitol: Room 303 HOB*
(850) 488-9910
H-57 Dana Young
District:2909 W Bay to Bay Blvd #202
Tampa, FL 33269-8175
(813) 835-2270
Capitol: Room 101, The Capitol**
(850) 488-2770
H-58 Janet Cruz
District: 2221 N Himes Ave. B
Tampa, FL 33607-3139
(813) 673-4673
Capitol: 1401 The Capitol**
(850) 488-9460
H-59 Betty Reed District: 2109 Palm Ave. # 201
Tampa, FL 33605-3909
(813) 241-8024
Capitol: Room 405 HOB*
(850) 488-5432
H-60 Shawn Harrison
District: 10931 N. 56th St.
Temple Terrace, FL 33617-3000
(813) 983-3330
Capitol: Room 1301 The Capitol**
(850) 488-3087
** The Capitol** or *
House Office Bldg*
402 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Updated: 5/10/2012
Page 16 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
SOB = Senate Office Bldg.
404 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399
SENATE
S-10 Ronda Storms
District: 421 Lithia Pinecrest Rd
Brandon, FL 33511
(813) 651-2189
Capitol: Room 413, SOB*
(850) 487-5072
E-mail: [email protected]
S-11 Mike Fasano
District: 8217 Massachusetts Ave.
New Port Richey, FL 34653-1111
(727) 848-5885
Capitol: Room 406, SOB*
(850) 487-5062
E-mail: [email protected]
S-12 Jim Norman
District: 14031 N Dale Mabry Blvd
Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 265-6260
Capitol: Room 214, SOB*
(850) 487-5068
E-mail: [email protected]
Updated: 5/11/2012
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:
http://www.flsenate.gov/Legislators/index.cfm 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 32399-1100 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
If you have any questions please call your local Voter’s Registration Office or Milton Gonzalez
@ 352-206-1055.
S-13 Dennis L. Jones, D.C.
District: 8940 Seminole Blvd.
Seminole, FL 33772
(727) 549-6411
Capitol: Room 408, SOB*
(850) 487-5065
E-Mail: [email protected]
S-16 Jack Latvala
District: 12425 28th St N #102
St. Petersburg, FL 33716
(727) 556-6500
Capitol: Room 222, SOB*
(850) 487-5075
E-Mail: [email protected]
S-18 Arthenia L. Joyner
District: 508 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. #C
Tampa, FL 33603-3415
(813) 233-4277
Capitol: Room 202, SOB*
(850) 487-5059
E-Mail: [email protected]
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 17
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 regis-ter 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 main-tains 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, 2012…………………..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 Democ-
ratic 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 pri-
mary 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 presi-
dential 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 ei-
ther in person, in writing, or over the phone and request a ballot. It’s very important to include all of the re-
quired information or your request can be denied. After you send in your request, make sure to call the of-
fice to follow up with the process. Don’t assume that you will receive your ballot until you’ve received confir-
mation 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 Registra-
tion 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 elec-
tions fair for all candidates. Make sure you understand the rules, register early, and on election night, make
your voice heard!
Page 18 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
Important ! Sign up to be on the Legislative email list
@
http://www.abateflorida.com
Click on the Legislative Site link on the front page.
Get the information you need to know and then share it !!
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ADVERTISERS WILL RECEIVE A COPY OF THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER NEWSLETTER DURING THE MONTHS THEY ADVERTISE.
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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
Hillsborough County Chapter Page 19
Page 20 ABATE of Florida, Inc.
ABATE OF FLORIDA, INC.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHAPTER
P. O. BOX 16297
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Please check your membership