Born To Ride News

Lake County, FL, August 16, 2011 – The friends and family of Mount Dora, FL’s Herbert “Steve” Muller had to bear terrible news when learning that he had been killed in a crash. His death was a result of a crash allegedly caused by Lake County civic leader Bruce Duncan as Muller was riding his motorcycle back from Biketoberfest on October 17, 2009. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that Duncan was attempting to make a left turn, crossed into the motorcycle’s path, and hit the left side of Muller’s bike. FHP also reported finding a ½ empty bottle of vodka in Duncan’s truck as well as his Blood Alcohol Level being twice the legal limit.

Now, almost two years later, it seems that Muller’s friends and family have to bear even more distressing news, this time an obvious slap in the face. According to the Orlando Sentinel (8/7/11), Florida State Representative H. Marlene O’Toole (R-Lady Lake), Circuit Judges G. Richard Singeltary and T. Michael Johnson, President of Lake-Sumter Community College Dr. Charles Mojock, Tavares City Administrator John Drury, Executive Director of Lake EMS Jim Judge and fourteen other community leaders are listed as defense witnesses in the upcoming hearing.

After not being able to previously reach a plea agreement in his DUI Manslaughter case, it is believed that Duncan will plead “No Contest” or “Guilty” at the hearing. His attorneys will most likely then have all 20 witnesses speak on behalf of Duncan’s character. Their goal would be to show that the fatal crash was “an isolated incident for which [Duncan] has shown remorse” and ask the judge to impose a sentence more lenient than established state sentencing guidelines which call for 9 ½ to 15 years for allegedly taking Mullen’s life.

Being one of the top Motorcyclists’ Rights Organizations, ABATE of Florida feels the pending testimony by these elected and appointed officials is nothing other than a total abuse of their positions. Members of Florida’s Legislature, judges, town officials, and other government officials are all put into their occupations to work in the best interest of taxpayers, not to defend the actions of a personal friend that got drunk, made the wrong decision to drive his truck, and allegedly cause a crash that killed a biker.

ABATE of Florida, Inc.’s Lake County Chapter will be at this Sentencing Hearing in mass. The hearing will be held September 19, 2011 8:30 am at the 5th Judicial Circuit Court located at 550 W. Main St. Tavares, FL. Contact Lake County Chapter President Casey Staley at 407-469-2455 or president@lake.abateflorida.com for additional information or to be part of the group ride to the hearing.

ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Florida’s largest Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide. ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and include many elected officials. Our missions are to educate the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general. To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone.

Past ABATE of Florida, Inc. Press Releases may be found here: www.abateflorida.com/pr .

To sign up for future mailings from ABATE of Florida, Inc., click here: http://abateflorida.com/#signup

Alachua County, FL, July 29, 2011 – On August 9, 2010, ABATE of Florida, Inc. Life Member Jeff Burrow was riding his Kawasaki Z1000 motorcycle through Alachua County, FL.  He didn’t see the Hyundai Sonata cross into his path until it was too late.  Amanda J. Skadhauge of Ocala, FL had decided to take a left turn, possibly not realizing that Jeff was already in the intersection.  After landing a distance from the actual crash site, Jeff was transported to a Trauma Center to deal with the brain swelling, severe concussions, sprains, severe contusions in numerous places throughout his body, torn ligaments, and bruised organs.  Three of the four days of his stay there the doctors kept him unconscious to help his body deal with the brain swelling.

Incredibly, Jeff Burrow survived this traumatic crash.

On Thursday, August 4, 2011 at 9 AM Ms. Skadhauge will be standing in front of the Court at the Alachua County Courthouse, Family and Civil Justice Center, Room 1A (201 East University Ave. Gainesville, Florida, 32601).  She’s been cited with Failing to Yield to Oncoming Traffic (while taking a left turn) and currently faces a SIXTY-TWO DOLLAR FINE.  To date, the court costs of $92 exceed the penalty, literally adding insult to the injury.

Motorcyclists and concerned citizenry are asked to attend this hearing on August 4, 2011 to let the Court know that the motorcyclists in Florida are paying attention to what happens in matters such as this, and that vehicle drivers must be reminded in every possible way to look out for the motorcycles sharing the Florida roadways.  Contact ABATE of Florida, Inc.’s Alachua County Chapter President Jeff Longanecker at JeffLonganecker@aol.com or 352-226-0703 for more information.

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ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Florida’s largest Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide.  ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and include many elected officials.  Our missions are to educate the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general.  To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone.

July 13, 2011 – It has come to the attention of ABATE of Florida, Inc.’s State Board of Directors that some motorcyclists have encountered problems regarding parking and operating motorcycles within some deed restricted communities in Florida.

Please be advised that assuming the Home Owners/Condominium Owners Association’s Governing Documents were created within Florida State Statutes, they carry legal weight and are enforceable in court.  When purchasing a dwelling within a community or condominium that is run under an Association, make sure to read and understand the Documents related to the Association and your rights as a Property Owner under the Documents.

Florida law has specific time limits under which the Documents must be reviewed prior to a related property sale.   You don’t want to find out too late that you are not allowed a specific pet, more than a certain number of house guests at a time, a truck, a motorcycle, or the ability to rent your unit. These are common prohibitions in some Florida communities and condominiums.  If you do not fully understand these documents or have any questions, you should consult an attorney.

Sumter County, FL (2011) – On March 13, 2010 Paul Sermons got drunk, got into his truck, and decided to drive down County Road 476 in Sumter County, FL. The traffic in front of him going slower than Sermons wanted, he began passing other vehicles.  The two motorcycles coming in the other direction had no chance. Sermons hit both bikes ejecting all four riders; with one rider being launched into the windshield of the truck Sermons was passing. All the motorcyclists were killed.

On June 10, 2011, Sermons was found guilty of four counts of DUI Manslaughter and one count of driving on a suspended driver’s license. A few weeks later on July 6, 2011, the Honorable Judge Hallman had Sermons in his courtroom for the last time. By the time this final hearing was over, it was decided; Paul Sermons would never again walk as a free man. Not only did Judge Hallman sentence Sermons to life in prison, he sentenced Sermons to one life sentence for each of the four people he killed as well as pulling his driver’s license for life and many fines and fees.

ABATE of Florida members from many chapters were at every hearing throughout this case. Our members were there to offer support to the victims’ families from the beginning to the end of the hearings and trial. The Court recognized our presence from our members being in the courtroom to asking potential jurors if they were ABATE members. Although justice was finally served in this case, all must understand that in the end, there were no winners.

About ABATE:

ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Florida’s largest Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide.  ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and include many elected officials. Our missions are to educate the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general. To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone.

Sumter County, FL, July 1, 2011- On the March 13, 2010 Paul Sermons got drunk, got into his truck, and decided to drive down County Road 476 in Sumter County, FL. The traffic in front of him going slower than Sermons wanted, he began passing other vehicles. The two motorcycles coming in the other direction had no chance. Sermons hit both bikes ejecting all four riders; with one rider being launched into the windshield of the truck Sermons was passing. All the motorcyclists were killed.

On June 10, 2011, over a year after the crash resulting in multiple fatalities, Paul Sermons was found guilty of four counts of DUI Manslaughter and one count of driving on a suspended driver’s license. Throughout the entire court process, from arraignment to jury verdict, ABATE of Florida members from many chapters were present, and this will be the case on July 6, 2011 when Sermons will learn his fate. The Judge presiding in this case has scheduled the sentencing on this day at 1 PM at the Sumter County Courthouse.

Many motorcyclists are expected to attend this Sentencing. Contact Lake County Chapter President Casey Staley at president@lake.abateflorida.com or 407-702-8250, or Forest County Chapter Secretary Paul Antonio 352-207-8859 if you wish to ride with one of the many groups going to the hearing or for additional information.

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ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Florida’s largest Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide. ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and include many elected officials. Our missions are to educate the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general. To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone.

Sumter County, FL, June 9, 2011 – This past week at the Sumter County (FL) Courthouse we have been observing the trial of Paul Sermons. The Florida Highway Patrol stated Mr. Sermons is the man that killed four bikers in Sumter County while intoxicated and driving on a suspended license over a year ago in March 2010.

Each day a number of ABATE of Florida members from our Freedom and Lake County Chapters have been in attendance to show our support for the surviving family members and to remind the Court that we are concerned with how this case is handled.

Tomorrow, Friday June 10, 2011, is the day it is believed this case will go to the jury. Therefore, we are asking that as many motorcyclists that can attend this hearing be there and stand with us.  There will be a group of us meeting at the Denny’s Restaurant at State Road 50 and I-75 with kick stands up at 8:00 am for the ride to the courthouse, and a second group departing the Village Convenience Stop/BP, 20339 US Hwy 27 in Clermont, also leaving at 8:00 am.

We would like to see as many as possible in the parking lot of the courthouse tomorrow. It is important not only to the families of the motorcyclists killed, but also to show support for the need of stiffer penalties for individuals that severely injure and/or take the lives of our brothers and sisters on motorcycles.

Please help us show not only Sumter County, but the entire State of Florida, that we mean business by joining us for this hearing. Our numbers will speak louder than our voices.

Contact Freedom Chapter President Dave Soles at dwsoles@gmail.com or Lake County Chapter Board Member Don Breckeknridge at webmaster@lake.abateflorida.com for additional information.

Deland, FL, May 4, 2011 – On May 11, 2011, there will be yet another hearing in Seminole County regarding the crash that killed “Diamond” Dave Mackish in September 2009.  Ruth Perez, the driver responsible for slamming into three vehicles and killing Mackish in the process, has not yet gone to trial.  It is believed that Perez’s attorneys have been delaying the trial, she has been to very few of the hearings, and it seems that the Judge may be getting tired of the delays.  ABATE of Florida’s Brevard County Chapter will be attending the hearing and are planning a group ride at 7am May 11^th, leaving the area of Interstate 95 & Route 46, heading to the Seminole County Courthouse.  Contact the Brevard County Chapter Secretary Jonell Pope at 321-698-5077 for more information.

In another part of Florida, over a year after John Holmes, Patricia Beihayn, William Barker, & Patrice Poole were killed by Paul Sermons while he was driving under the influence & with a suspended drivers license, he will finally be going to trial in Sumter County on June 6, 2011.  He currently faces a total of nine charges including DUI Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide for the March 13, 2010 crash.  He was arrested on June 16, 2010 after the Florida Highway Patrol and Sumter County Sheriff’s Office executed an arrest warrant, and has been held on an over $200,000 bond since.

The trial is expected to last a week.  ABATE of Florida, Inc. is planning on attending the trial, with Lake County Chapter President Casey Staley organizing a ride to the courthouse.  Contact her at president@lake.abateflorida.com or 407-469-2455 for more information.

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ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Florida’s largest Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide.  ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and include many elected officials.  Our missions are to educate the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general.  To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone.

Tallahassee, FL, April 26, 2011 – ABATE of Florida, Inc., Florida’s largest Motorcycle Rights Organization, thanks Rick Scott, Florida’s newest Governor, for recognizing the large volume of motorcycles operating in Florida, and the safety and awareness concerns surrounding the dangers of motorists sharing the roadways with motorcycles. As has been the case over the last few decades, Florida’s Governor has again proclaimed this May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness month.

The 2011 Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Proclamation states:

“WHEREAS, Florida’s climate and scenery make motorcycle riding an attraction in the Sunshine State, and riders consider our roadways to be some of the nation’s best for riding.

WHEREAS, motorcycles are increasingly used as a regular means of transportation; and

WHEREAS, the motorcycle is an energy-efficient vehicle that reduces fuel consumption, traffic and parking congestion; and

WHEREAS, the motorcycle is an important form of transportation for commuting, touring and recreation; and

WHEREAS, as a matter of safety, it is necessary to develop appropriate driving habits to handle these vehicles on Florida roadways; and

WHEREAS, more than a million drivers in Florida have a motorcycle endorsement on their driver license; and

WHEREAS, to prevent injuries and deaths on Florida’s roadways, motorcyclists and motorists must be vigilant in their efforts to share the road and ensure the safety of everyone; and

WHEREAS, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month raises public awareness for a lifetime of safe motorcycle riding.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Rick Scott, Governor of the State of Florida, do hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing May 2011 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.”

We welcome you to visit our website and see the many 2011 and past Proclamations from the State of Florida and many cities, towns, and counties throughout Florida.  We hope the proclamation of May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month will continue to heighten motorists’ awareness of motorcycles on Florida’s roadways.

Stand Up For Your Rights As A Motorcyclist and Citizen April 11, 2011

Tallahassee, FL, April 4, 2010 – There are thousands of motorcyclists in Florida every day riding the beautiful roadways exercising their right to choose the manner in how they ride.  These motorcyclists have enjoyed their freedom of choice for the last decade, and continue to seek equality in the manner of how the Laws of Florida should be applied to all.

The time is fast approaching for you to help us in our never-ending fight for motorcyclists’ rights.  Years before the Tea Parties became popular, ABATE of Florida, Inc. has been organizing rallies offering motorcycle enthusiasts the opportunity to remind politicians why we elected them.  This year is no exception.  April 11, 2010 will mark the 16^th anniversary of our famous Freedom Rights Rally which will once again bring a mass of motorcyclists to the doorsteps of the State of Florida Capitol Building in Tallahassee.

ABATE of Florida’s 2011 Freedom Rights Rally event will begin with a ride leaving the Monticello, FL KOA Campground Monday morning, April 11^th, and pick up a police-escort as we go, leading hundreds of motorcycles right onto Florida’s State Capitol grounds.  Once parked at the Capitol Building’s steps, the rally in the courtyard will include a ceremony honoring the U.S. military members and those that have passed before us.  We will be discussing our purpose for the Freedom Rights Rally and the current legislative issues we are fighting for in the Florida Legislature.  We welcome all media outlets to witness how bikers can unite to fight for our rights.

More information on this free event may be found on our website at http://www.abateflorida.com/.

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ABATE of Florida, Inc. is Florida’s largest Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization, and one of the top four largest nationwide.  ABATE of Florida members come from all walks of life and includes many elected officials.  Our missions are to educat the public about motorcycle awareness and continuing to fight in Tallahassee for the rights of every motorcyclist and the public in general.  To aid in these ends, we have an exclusive lobbyist and have founded the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Program, both with the intentions to help make the roads safer for everyone.

Past ABATE of Florida, Inc. Press Releases may be found here: www.abateflorida.com/pr.htm.

To all ABATE of Florida, Inc. Members and concerned motorcyclists; immediate action is needed regarding our “Stiffer Penalties” Bill HB 403!!!!

Please call State Representative Brad Drake, Chairman of the House Transportation and Highway Safety Subcommittee ASAP. Tell his office that we want him to schedule HB 403 next week for his Transportation and Highway Safety Subcommittee. It is vital that it gets in this committee ASAP!

Rep. Brad Drake’s Tallahassee phone number is 1-850-488-4726.

His District phone number is 1-850-892-8431.

We need you to keep calling until we let you know when to stop!!!

Mailing: ABATE of Florida, Inc., PO Box 2520, Deland, FL 32721-2520

Physical: ABATE of Florida, Inc., 332 S. Woodland Blvd., DeLand, FL

On the Web: www.abateflorida.com