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WWW.CASCADE.ORG
DECEMBER 2013 // Vol. 43, No. 12
A downtown network of bike lanes by Jeff Aken, Principal Planner
In September, Cascade installed a temporary protected bike lane* on 2nd Avenue for Park(ing) Day. Instantly creating a place where you could feel safe riding a bike, no matter what your age or ability, and showing that we can connect downtown with safe, protected bike lanes. As people rode through, their faces were glowing with smiles. Besides the joy and health benefits of bicycling, businesses are also pushing for protected bike lanes to help attract top talent. Amazon will build a protected bike lane in front of their new campus in the Denny Triangle. Even Chicago’s mayor, Rahm Emanuel, has said he’s building out Chicago’s bike infrastructure in order to steal the top tech talent from Seattle. Now the Seattle City Council is moving one giant step closer to
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making downtown streets like 2nd Avenue and 4th Avenue great places to ride a bike. The City Council is currently in its final days of adopting the 2014 city budget. Mayor Mike McGinn proposed $10.5 million for bicycle infrastructure, which was less than in 2013 but much higher than previous years. It’s a long ways from where we need to go, but it’s also a good start. So Cascade asked Seattle City Councilmembers --- what’s one project you’d like to see added to the budget? The resounding answer was downtown protected bike lanes. The proposed 2014 budget funds full design of a downtown network We wish you smooth roads of protected bike lanes by the end of 2014. The City Council has moved and safe journeys in 2014! to expedite funds to advance design and development of the downtown cycle track (protected bike lanes) network in 2014, speeding implementation of the Seattle Bicycle tor vehicle traffic by a barrier that Master Plan. This would be a huge To be assured the downtown can be planters, a curb or parked win. By expending the design of the protected bike lanes make it cars. Protected bike lanes can eiprotected bike lanes downtown, 2nd through this process, we still ther be designed for one-way or and 4th avenues could be built out need to let the City Council two-way bike traffic. This type of in 2015, revolutionizing the downknow that we support facility makes our streets safer for town experience and making our making downtown Seattle everyone, including drivers who will streets safer for everyone who wants better for bicyclists. know where cyclists are likely to be to safely bike to work, school, and riding and will have visual clues and shops downtown. clear sight lines at intersections. A Let’s not get ahead of ourselves how excited you are. though. This isn’t a done deal. So, * A protected bike lane, or cycle Montreal study found that protected please contact our Seattle City track, is a bike lane fully separated bike infrastructure reduced injury Councilmembers to let them know from the sidewalk and from mo- rates by 28 percent. «
I am a year-round bike commuter. I really enjoy urban riding and using my bicycle for daily transportation needs. But my heart belongs to the dirt. When the wheels of my mountain bike make contact with sweet singletrack trail, my spirit soars. Riding through the woods, I am completely present in the moment. I love the smell of damp leaves in the fall, the texture of the moss clinging to ancient trees, the feeling of connection to the earth, the JOY. It’s my church. It’s my play. It’s my place. But from my Ballard home it takes nearly an hour to get to most of the region’s trails built for mountain biking. And I need a car to transport my bike. Wouldn’t it be great if we had the chance to experience riding singletrack in the city of Seattle? How cool would it be if local families could set out from their houses and go only as far as the neighborhood park to
have this same experience? SUPER COOL! And our city agrees that the time is now. The city of Seattle Board of Park Commissioners understands that people want to bike on trails. They’ve watched as Duthie Hill Park and St. Edwards State Park have successfully accommodated mountain bikes into their user mix. On Thursday, Jan. 9, the Commissioners will decide whether to recommend an update to the Bicycle Policy for use of bicycles in parks recognizing mountain biking as a “legitimate recreational use” and adopting the International Mountain Bicycling Associations trail building standards. This will allow sustainably built trails to our city parks, trails designed to be in balance with and even restore our natural environment. Then, if the Parks Superintendent approves the policy as recommended, the Parks and Recreation
department will need help to make new trails a reality; their resources are limited and focused on maintenance of existing trails. Prior to opening any new parks or trails to bicycle use, the Superintendent will notify the Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board, the Seattle area mountain bike clubs and interested community groups. It’s up to us, community volunteers, to partner with our city and establish new trails. Cascade will follow the story of this amazing opportunity, so stay tuned for more information about how you can help.
The work of our advocacy team is made possible through your support to the education foundation. Please return the enclosed envelope with your year-end gift today or give online at: www.cascade.org/donate.
THE CASCADE COURIER Steeped in Gratitude
DECEMBER 2013 One unified Cascade
by Elizabeth Kiker, Executive Director
By Daniel Weise, Board Chair
After two months of working for the extraordinary, volunteer-led, passion-driven, Cascade Bicycle Club, I reflect on how much I am thankful for. And every reflection starts with YOU. Your vision, as members and cyclists, transformed the Seattle to Portland ride into a must-do for every cyclist in the country (even my dad in Houston, Texas is pestering me for tickets). I can’t wait to see this amazing ride in action next summer. Your leadership, as volunteers and contributors, grew Cascade into the largest bicycle club and advocacy organization in the country. You are the key to our success. Your dedication, as long-term supporters and friends, has helped us revolutionize how residents get around the Puget Sound region.
I’m writing to make you aware of a conversation the Cascade Board of Directors and staff are having about the club’s organizational and governance structure. As you might be aware, the club is really three different entities; 1.) the Cascade Bicycle Club, an IRS 501(c)4 not-for-profit organization; 2.) the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation, an IRS 501(c)3 notfor-profit organization that can accept tax-deductible contributions; and 3.) the Cascade BikePAC, a political action committee that supports cyclist-friendly candidates by donating to their campaigns. The Cascade Bicycle Club, the (c)4, currently controls the other two organizations. When the club was formed, being an IRS 501(c)4 organization made sense as our revenue was derived from membership dues and event income. We had very little revenue from donations. The (c)4 status of the club allowed us to pursue our advocacy, lobbying and election-related support of candidates mission. As the club grew, the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation, the (c)3 was formed as a supporting organization to the (c)4 organization in order to accept tax-deductable donations. The Cascade BikePAC was formed to allow contributions to candidates for office and ballot measures. We are proud of our advocacy, lobbying
We’re going to create a warm and welcoming space for each of you in our new headquarters in 2014. I am thankful to be here, in my new hometown of Seattle; thankful to be working with an excellent and committed board and staff; thankful to be getting to know each of you; and thankful to be trusted to shepherd the ever-inspirational Cascade Bicycle Club. I look forward to meeting many more of you, and working with you, in the coming years. «
Real, noticeable progress – made possible by you! by Tarrell Wright, Development Director
All of the stories you read in this month’s Courier are brought to us by YOU. With your donation to the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation you power Cascade. Programs like: • The Major Taylor Project which brings the joy of bicycling to over 200 inner city youth each year • Bicycle commute programs that encourage more than 30,000 people annually to get out of their cars and travel by bike • Safety and outreach campaigns all across the region • Grassroots organizing that mobilizes our community to fight for safer streets • Basics of Bicycling classes which teach bicycle safety to more than 14,000 3rd-5th graders in schools throughout our region
• And so many more….. In the new year, we have exciting, notable changes in store for our region. With your support we will: • Double the number of kids in the Major Taylor Project • Fight for a protected bikeway (“cycletrack”) in downtown Seattle • Fight for a legacy trail system that stretches across the whole eastside Big changes are upon us, and we cannot succeed without you. You will be receiving a special year end appeal letter in the mail. Please return it with your tax-deductible donation today or give online now at www.cascade.org Together, we are creating a better community through bicycling. Thank you! «
THE COURIER CREW Anne-Marije Rook, Editor (amrook@cascadebicycleclub.org)
Diane English, Editorial Assistant December contributors: Anne-Marije Rook, Elizabeth Kiker, Francisco Juarez, Jeff Aken, Kailey Duffy, Mary Dettrich & Lisa McDermott, McKayla Dunfey, Peter Verbrugge, Robbie Phillips, Sammie Dahlquist, Silas Strickland, Stacey Williams, Tarell White, Tim O’Connor Photography by: Alan Lawrence, Anne-Marije Rook, C.B.Bell (CBBell.com), Julie Newcombe Layout by: Lenore Tucker-MacLeod (asmallbirddesigns@gmail.com)
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The contents of this newspaper do not necessarily represent the views of the Club or any of its members. The views expressed are those of the individual contributors. We welcome your contributions! Got an inspiring story, a great photo or a Letter to the Editor? Articles and photographic submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Articles submitted after that will be considered on a space-available basis. All submissions are subject to editing for content and space. Queries can be emailed to: amrook@ cascadebicycleclub.org.
Inserts: Please contact Anne-Marije Rook at amrook@ cascadebicycleclub.org for a copy of our insert policy and request form. The request and fee are due by the first of the month prior to the desired month. Advertising: Display ads can be placed in the Courier. To check availability and inquire about prices, please contact Anne-Marije Rook at amrook@cascadebicycleclub.org. Let’s be Social! Follow us on facebook.com/cascadebicycleclub twitter.com/cascadebicycle
and election-related efforts and the success we have had over the decades. Managing two large organizations creates needless complexity and administrative inefficiencies so the board is considering moving the club’s electoral activities, i.e., supporting / endorsing candidates and measure during elections, into the PAC and then combining the remaining 98% of our activities (including all our other advocacy and lobbying work) into a single 501(c)3 public charity that would still be known as the Cascade Bicycle Club. As a part of this change, we would no longer use the IRS 501(c)4 organization. There would be many important details to get right in this change, and we would work with our lawyers and tax accountants to make sure it occurs properly. The board and club remain firmly committed to our advocacy work and will continue to do everything in our power to ensure we maintain and increase our clout as a result of this change. We know that much of our membership has strong feelings about our endorsements and election-related work, one way or the other. If you have any thoughts about the possible new structure, or just wish to express your opinion about the club engaging in electoral work, feel free to contact me at daniel.weise@ cascadebicycleclub.org. «
Light up the night by Kailey Duffy, AmeriCorps volunteer
Daylight savings has caused us to fall back into an earlier and earlier sweeping darkness, bringing forth the ever pertinent need for all road and trail users to use lights. We’ve all heard stories or witnessed them (or maybe been them) ourselves. Someone is getting ready to go out, they’re in a rush and can’t find their lights and think, “oh, just this once, I know the way like the back of my hand” and they’re off. The problems created in this scenario are aplenty. Washington State Law states that “Every bicycle when in use during the hours of darkness as defined in shall be equipped with a lamp on the front which shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and with a red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the state patrol which shall be visible from all distances up to six hundred feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle” (http://apps.leg.wa.gov). The importance of lights for a cyclist is not entirely encapsulated in the ability for the rider to see. Rather, it is equally important for a bicyclist to be seen; an unlit urban
cyclist is virtually invisible to drivers—an unnecessary risk that too many are willing to take. Because lights are such an essential part of cyclist safety, Cascade Bicycle Club Ambassadors have been out at various places in Seattle surprising riders with lights if they are currently riding without; hopefully illuminating both minds and streets, making Seattle a safer place for all of us. As the days get shorter and commutes are being made more and more by dark, remember that knowledge is power. Let other road-users know you’re there, make yourself be seen. Sharing the road can be challenging in the best of times; this winter let’s make it easier for everyone—use your lights and let them know the cyclists are out there. «
WWW.CASCADE.ORG
THE CASCADE COURIER Cascade Bicycle Club welcomes Shannon Koller, Serena Lehman and Anne-Marije Rook to its senior leadership team Cascade Bicycle Club is excited to announce that Shannon Koller, Serena Lehman and Anne-Marije Rook have been promoted to join its leadership team. “I’m really excited about the people who have stepped up to fill these three key positions,” said Elizabeth Kiker, Executive Director. “Shannon, Serena and Anne-Marije are fully committed to getting more people on bikes and share a passion for all things bicycling. Additionally, they have eight years of combined experience at Cascade and valuable institutional knowledge. I am confident that they will be key players in moving the Club forward.” Shannon Koller, who joined Cascade in October as its Youth Program Manager, will be spearheading the Education Department. An Advocacy Leadership Institute graduate and a certified League Cycling Instructor, Koller has been an active advocate for Bike to School efforts and led an after-school bike club at Loyal Heights Elementary. Koller also created a community organization, Ballard Bikes, to bring together neighborhood bike to school leaders. “Moving forward, we are refocusing our efforts in the department to support our mission with programs that have a long-term impact,” stated Koller. “Specifically, we will be investing in our in-andafter school programs. We will continue encouraging and educating people of all ages and abilities to cycle through our youth and adult programming.” Serena Lehman, a long-time Cascade staff member and bicycling advocate, is stepping up to fill the role of Membership and Outreach Director. “As we are going through some programmatic restructuring, we will be focusing our efforts more on our volunteer and membership engagement and recruitment. We want to hear from our members and listen to them,” said Lehman. “After six years of working in Cacade’s outreach department, I’ve
DECEMBER 2013 Top 5 most innovative practices at bike-friendly businesses
by McKayla Dunfey, AmeriCorps volunteer
The secret is out! People who bike to work are happier, healthier and more productive and businesses throughout the region are taking notice. Bicycling makes business sense. Below are the top-five most innovative practices we have discovered at businesses throughout our region this past year:
come to know our membership and their needs. I’m committed to taking a critical look at how we serve our membership and volunteers with the goals of growing and better engaging our membership and the communities we serve.” Anne-Marije Rook will be taking the helm of Cascade’s Communications Department. She has been with the Club since July 2012 and will bring her years of journalism experience to a new leadership role. “With our new website as an example, Cascade is making a strong investment in communications. I’m excited to spearhead a new team and craft a stronger, clearer Cascade voice, message and appearance,” said Rook. “A strong communications department is just one of the many ways we are refocusing our efforts on reaching a wider and more diverse demographic while better serving our existing membership.” «
5) Free mini bike-share program Timbuk2, the San Francisco-based messenger bag company, made a bold move by creating Seattle’s first free and public bicycle-share program shortly after opening in June. Anyone can borrow a bikeshare bicycle from Timbuk2’s fleet for any length day-trip through the city on a first come, first served basis. Although Timbuk2 has long fostered a bicycle-friendly work environment for their employees, they demonstrated an even greater commitment to bicycling by providing a bike-share program to not only staff, but locals and tourists as well. This kind of bicycle support outside of the office is worthy of innovation recognition. 4) Exemplary leadership in local bike planning CH2M Hill serves as an exceptional example of how businesses can engage in local bicycle planning efforts and have substantial influence on a city’s planning priorities and infrastructure implementation. Under the leadership of the firm’s Bellevue office Area Manager Dave Sturtevant, CH2M Hill (in partnership with the Mountains to Sound
Photo credit: Seattle Children’s Hospital Greenway) successfully funded the creation of a set of regional I-90 bicycle trail maps and computerized renderings of the trail to build support from the City of Bellevue Planning Department, City Manager, Council members, WSDOT and the City of Issaquah for a new regional trail on the south side of I-90 from Factoria to Issaquah. Sturtevant has also led discussions about access to transit in Bellevue, bike lockers and the city of Bellevue Bicycle Plan. CH2M Hill sets the bar high for businesses to help lead citywide discussions about bicycle infrastructure and planning in the future. 3) Innovation across the board Washington Bike Law deserves special recognition for being one of the most innovative bike-friendly workplaces in Seattle. Washington Bike Law has become a well-known leader in the community by supporting and funding bike-related programs, such as Bike Works’ “Bike for All” program, which provides bike, gear and safety training to low-income individuals.
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The new Cascade.org!
by Tim O’Connor, Tech Manager
Welcome to the new Cascade. org! This website overhaul has been needed for almost a decade and it’s finally here. Here is what people are saying: @seabikeblog: Wow, @cascadebicycle’s new website is super fancy. Cascade.org includes functional calendar and now you can actually find stuff. @SeattleMcGraw: way way way better. Congrats and thank you. • Josh Kavanaugh: Love. Love, love the web overhaul! Congratulations on the major upgrade. • Don Volta: Thanks! Roll out was great and I know you are working to make the user experience even better.
Cascade’s 40-year-journey as a non-profit with multiple websites has been pretty typical but there came a point where our members, board and staff made the decision that we needed a website that properly reflects the quality work that Cascade Bicycle Club does. Beyond the fancy new look and very user centric navigation, this website also combines SIX other websites and databases into ONE. Cascade’s community of 80,000 users now only need one username and password to comment on the blog, purchase an STP ticket, post on the forum, view our Free Daily Rides and manage their email subscriptions. 2014 is going to be an exciting
form reach its full potential. If you have any suggestions please let us know! Email Tim.OConnor@CascadeBicycleClub.org. And a huge Thank You goes out to our phenomenal website vendor, Forum One Communications, that has been our website vendor for three wonderful years and running. The vision, the brilliance and the tenacity that Forum One has exhibited puts them in a league of their own. «
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year! Expect more updates as Cascade continues to leverage technology for the empowerment of the bicycling community. This website, as with all new websites, still needs some adjustments and improvements and we’re very busy doing just that. Cascade’s small but unbelievably dedicated website team has poured their hearts and souls into launching this site. Our dedication is only growing as we strive to continuously improve and help this new plat-
THE CASCADE COURIER 17,000 miles for Charity by Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
“We can make the world a better place if we all just gave 1% of our time, money or energy to charity” Cyclist Of The Month
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From the rainy city of Seattle to the endless sandy deserts of the Middle East, Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Bolante brings a whole new side to the term “adventure cyclist.” Splitting his high-paced life between a civilian career as photojournalist and serving his country as a helicopter pilot in the National Guard, bicycling may be one of the few constants in his life. Whether he is Seattle, in his hometown in Honolulu or in Kuwait, Anthony finds time to ride. “Juggling a professional photojournalism career and being a National Guard officer/pilot has me on the go-go all of the time. It’s basically managing two fulltime jobs,” said Anthony. “Bicycling gives me the freedom to get out, breathe fresh air, see beautiful sights and leave the stresses of multiple careers back in the garage at home. I love bicycling because it can be both a solitary sport or a social one, and I do both whenever I can.” Deployed in Kuwait, Anthony chose a life of service early on. “Service to country, community, family and friends was instilled in me by my family in Honolulu since I was a child,” said Anthony. “While in high school, I was conflicted...I wanted to be both a photographer and a helicopter pilot.” He decided on attending a military university, where he was introduced to photojournalism. “I was hooked from that point forward, having the desire to document and record history from behind a lens,” said Anthony. “I was so enthralled with the opportunity to `be there’ to record historic things and see historic people, I actually switched from focusing on an engineering degree to journalism.”
In mid-November, on a typical Seattle rainy day, Dutchman Dirk Spits rolled into town on his custom German-made touring bike, glad to discover that his bike bags were indeed waterproof. Already 23 weeks into his journey, Seattle is one of the many cities Dirk will stop to raise awareness and funds on his way to Latin America where he will personally deliver these donations to a variety of charities. His 17,000-mile charity ride, titled 99%RIDE, started in Alaska and will end in Argentina. The organization and ride is Dirk’s quest to do something more meaningful with his time, and serves as a platform from which to broadcast his message: “we can make the world a better place if we all just gave 1 percent of our time, money and energy to charity.” “Small contributions can have a big impact,” stated Spits. “We’re called 99%RIDE because we do 99% of the work, we just need your
DECEMBER 2013 one percent.” 99%RIDE has teamed up with 1%Club; the global crowd-funding and crowd-sourcing platform that works under the mission of “If we all share a little, we can change the world,” and mobilizes people to support developing countries by funding small budget yet life-changing projects. On his way to Argentina, Spits will visit and support several projects linked to 1%Club, personally delivering donations to people. “We’re filming the whole process so you can see how your contribution is directly making a difference,” explained Spits. On his journey, Spits and his two 99%RIDE members are making connections with bicycling organizations, sponsors and communities in every big city to spread his mission, and get to know the bicycling communities around the world. He also hosts donations dinners and rides. In Seattle, the ride took place in and around Ballard, starting and ending at Dutch Bicycle Company. Riding around Seattle, Spits
said he was surprised by how bike-friendly the city was. “I was surprised how good cycling paths are here,” he said. “I’m looking forward to see what other cities like Portland and San Francisco are like.” Spits’ 99%RIDE team travels by van and are usually a week or two ahead of Spits to set up connections with organizations and the media. Spits meanwhile rides his touring bike, weighing between 70 and 80 pounds when fully loaded, from town to town, living off $6 per day. Spits revealed that he lost 22 pounds within the first three weeks of his adventure, and relies heavily on pasta meals and granola bars from a sponsor. “But I think the hardest part, Alaska, is behind me now,” Spits said optimistically. 99%ride has already raised around 25000USD and they’ll continue looking for sponsors, donors and community rides until they reach Argentina. Spits’ goal is to have completed his adventure in a total of 18 months. «
mountain bikes here on the Army base at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, and of course, real bikers `fight’ to get those bikes. I did!” said Anthony, who uses the bike for both commuting and recreation. “My 8x16-foot container pod I live in is about 1.5 miles from my “Office Tent,” so the bike makes the commute 4 minutes long versus a 15-minute walk in 128F temperatures,” Anthony said. Camp Arifjan also holds the occasional `desert triathlon relay’ races around its seven-mile sandy perimeter loop. “Riding on knobbies here is only going to make me a stronger roadie when I get home since these bikes are as heavy as tanks,” said Anthony, who longs for his road bikes. “I dream of riding on skinny tires around Seattle. I savor the thought of riding my Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL when work gets tough here. It’s good for the mind to wan-
der when surrounded by endless kilometers of sand here,” he said. “While not perfect, the Pacific Northwest is still one of the greatest places on the planet to be a bike rider,” added Anthony. “Puget Sounders live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet.” Anthony will return from his deployment in the summer of 2014 and intends to ride STP and RSVP with his friends. In the meantime, you can follow Anthony’s adventures on his website at http://theimagearsenal. com. «
Name: Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Bolante Age: 45 Profession: Civilian job: Seattle-based photojournalist for Reuters and the Puget Sound Business Journal. Military job: Helicopter pilot and officer in the Washington Army National Guard. Wheels: Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL and numerous Specialized Allez. While deployed overseas, he rides a free loaner Diamondback Sorrento mountain bike from the U.S. Army Morale Welfare Recreation office. His life has been high-paced and filled with adventure ever since, capturing history as a photojournalist and being part of history as a National Guard officer. As a helicopter pilot, he has fought forest fires, executed high altitude mountain rescues, coordinated rescue missions after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, and completed two tours in Afghanistan. “I juggle almost three individual identities that I always intertwine -- photojournalist, Army helicopter pilot and biker. The one common thing with all three of those things is adventure. I am grateful to be able to manage all of these life-dimensions,” said Anthony. “Biker” didn’t become part of his identity until later in life. Growing up in a “skateboard/ surfer town,” Anthony’s interest wasn’t sparked until he started riding bikes while in college. “Moving to the biker-town Seattle in 1996 really cemented my life as a passionate roadie,” he said. In Kuwait however, he has to make do with a loaner Diamondback Sorrento mountain bike from U.S. Army Morale Welfare Recreation office. “There is a small fleet of loaner
“Bicycling gives me the freedom to get out, breathe fresh air, see beautiful sights and leave the stresses of multiple careers back in the garage at home.” WWW.CASCADE.ORG
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013
“Major Taylor Bike Club is the most exciting club I’ve been “I know that [the Major Taylor Project] will bring happiness to other students’ lives just like it did to mine.” involved in.” by Francisco Juarez Cesar, Major Taylor Project Student
by Sammie Dahlquistm, Major Taylor Project student
The Major Taylor Project (Bike Club) is not about being fast or slow on a bicycle. It is about building a strong and safe community. The best part about the Major Taylor Project is that no one gets left behind. I have witnessed this many times, like when we taught a new student how to ride a bicycle. I know that we showed him that we cared by staying behind and walking him through every step. Other times are when we all finish at the same time of an event (like Seattle to Portland) or we wait for everyone at the top of a challenging hill. I believe that the welcoming attitude attracts new students. At least that’s what attracted me. Ever since I joined the Major Taylor Project all the ride leaders have had a positive attitude, especially during the last two years. One of the reasons why
I attend Bike Club two days a week is because I know that the leaders (Silas, Liz and Matt) enjoy working with teenagers in my community. I know that I will at least laugh once during Bike Club because they understand the student’s sense of humor and they are also openminded. I hope that Major Taylor continues to receive help so it can continue to grow a strong community. I know that it will bring happiness to other students’ lives just like it did to mine. I want to thank Ed Ewing, Silas, Liz, Matt and other people who donate to the Major Taylor Project. I know that everything students receive while in Bike Club comes from strong and persistent dedication from the many adults that I may never have the opportunity to meet. «
Major Taylor Bike Club is the most exciting club I’ve been involved in. I’ve been riding bikes since I was five years old. I can never get enough of the adrenaline and feeling the wind in my hair (under the helmet of course). We just finished our fall riding session at Global Connections High School. Each ride takes us somewhere new, and brings new experiences. It tests your abilities and
energy and drive we saw in Earn-ABike only increased once the days started lengthening and the weather began inviting people outside. We usually start off our riding clubs pretty slowly. Most students haven’t been riding in a while, if ever, and we slowly ramp up to longer rides. This spring, however, I was asked by a group of eager students if we could ride to Alki—a 20 mile loop from their school—on the second day of the ride club. And every single one of them rode every inch with inspiring excitement. Every week, we would show up and give the students the room to take as much leadership of the day as they liked. They would come up with destination and route ideas while looking out for each other’s safety, well-being and enjoyment. It was a beautiful thing—groups of students of all ages, many of whom had not known each other before bike club, with different ability levels and interests caring for each other like family. At the end of April, we had our Youth Leadership Retreat. Over
twenty students from all different schools came together, opened their hearts about their private lives and experiences, and shared the changes they want to see in their communities, in their schools and in the Major Taylor Project. The kindness, support and personal and group power I witnessed that weekend was, to say the least, incredibly humbling and awe-inspiring. With strengthened bonds from the Youth Leadership Retreat, we rode united into the best riding season in years, completing three century rides (four if you count both days of STP)! Overall, the Major Taylor Project participated in five long-distance rides - the Chilly Hilly, Flying Wheels, Red Bell 100, STPand Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center’s Obliteride. With barely a break in the programming, we dove into the start of school with nearly 80 students showing up for our Fall riding clubs! We had ourselves a wonder-
The Project
by Silas Strickland, Major Taylor Project Coordinator
The Major Taylor Project is called exactly what it is—a “Project.” A project is a work in progress; an unfinished piece with endless opportunities for growth, perfection or complete reconstruction. Calling something a project means there is still work to be done, questions to be answered and ideas to be pursued. A project inspires, asks for help, and brings people and ideas together. And that’s exactly what we’re doing. 2013 has been a successful year for this Project and all involved. It began with our Earn-A-Bike program, a program that sent dozens of students home with bikes to call their own. Bikes that they themselves fixed up, and now reward them with the freedom to explore. I cannot stress how well this program works. After a great Spinathon and Bike Expo in March, we rolled right into our spring riding programs. The
The Major Taylor Project work is made possible through your support to the Education Foundation. Please return the enclosed envelope with your year-end gift today or give online at: www. cascade.org/donate. ful fall, full of beautiful riding and wrapped it up with two field trips to participate in cyclocross races, which are always a hit with the students. We also just began our EarnA-Bike programs for the year and have much greater interest than we have had in years past. By this upward trajectory we’re enjoying, I can tell that we are poised for another amazing year with major Taylor. This whole Major Taylor “Project” thing—the students, the volunteers, the schools, the staff, and the greater community—it’s big and yet we’ve only just begun. This is a student-led, community-supported project that is the epitome of a team effort. To all those who have supported us this past year, we sincerely thank you and look forward to working more with you—we could not have done it without you. To all those who are interested in getting involved, the door is always open, and we hope to meet you soon. I can’t wait to see this community grow, this project develop further, and to see more youth on bikes. «
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pushes you beyond your limits. I wish we could have ridden more, but the weekend rides like cyclocross races are tons of fun. Liz, Silas, Matt and Thomas did an amazing job as our leaders, and we all look forward to working with them again for our Earn-a-Bike session in January and again for our spring riding session later on next year. «
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013
Top 5 most innovative ... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
The firm also launched a creative campaign to distribute waterproof spoke cards with relevant bike laws on one side and a “Don’t Door Me!” graphic on the other. And to top it off, the firm also provided pro-bono representation for six cyclists injured on the South Lake Union streetcar tracks in efforts to help improve the safety of streetcar construction in Seattle. These innovations remind us of the variety of ways businesses can engage in bicycle policy, planning and the riding community. 2) Excellent end-of-trip facilities This list would not be complete without mentioning the state-of-the-art bicycle facilities at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Their endof-trip facilities are unparalleled. In addition to 142 long-term bike parking spaces for employees and 30 short-term bike parking spaces for visitors, the Gates Foundation provides locker rooms and 560 private lockers at their on-site gym. Their most prized feature, however, is a heated mud room to hang and dry wet clothing. I think you would be hard-pressed to find a Seattle cyclist who wouldn’t appreciate these accommodations after a chilly and wet commute to work.
1) Creating “last-mile” connections Seattle Children’s Hospital understands that bicycle infrastructure is most effective when it takes riders all the way to their destination. That is why Children’s has prioritized the planning and execution of innovative projects that connect their facility to other nearby bicycle infrastructure. Recent notable achievements include the 39th Ave Neighborhood Greenway, a new connection between the Burke-Gilman Trail and Sand Point Way NE at 40th Ave NE, and a bicycle climbing lane on the hill up to the main hospital entrance. These critical connections create safer and more convenient bicycle routes to and from the hospital, benefiting not only employees but everyone who visits the facility. Innovations like the ones mentioned here are replicable, and we intend to share them with other businesses interested in creating more bicycle-friendly workplaces. As we look toward 2014, we’re excited about continuing engagement with our business community. We can’t wait to see what kind of bicycling-related innovations emerge, and the positive impact made. «
Announcing the 16th annual Bike Expo Photo Contest by Susan Hiles, Expo Photo Contest Coordinator
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It’s time to start thinking of taking some photos to enter in the 2014 contest! This year’s Seattle Bicycle Expo will be held on March 1-2 at the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal 91, which has a spectacular waterfront view. If you have never attended a bike expo, you are in for a fun time. The first Expo photo contest was in 1999, and the number of entrants has increased every year, especially since almost everyone owns either a digital camera or smart phone. The six categories this year are: action; comedy; still life; people & places; black & white; and creative digital. The creative digital category is where you can use your Photoshop skills! All the photos will be judged and ribbons awarded in each category for first, second, and third place, as well as two honorable mentions. Everyone who at-
tends the Expo will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite photo and that winner will receive a ribbon. So start taking those bike photos. The contest entry form is available NOW online. There will be no entry fees again this year, and you can enter as many photos as you want. Each one must be flush mounted or it will not be eligible for a prize. I would like everyone to pick up their entries by 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 2. Good luck! I’m looking forward to seeing all of the amazing and creative photographs and meeting the photographers. I will be on-site taking photos, so “SMILE” when you see me. See you there! «
INTERNATIONAL TOURS Explore Thailand, Switzerland, Spain or Nepal on two wheels! Cascade is excited about new internationals tours for 2014
SWITZERLAND Bike Switzerland Jura Tour Jul. 31 - Aug.11, 2014. 12 days 3,500 CHF (Swiss Francs) before Feb 28, 2014- goes up 200 CHF after that. Our three previous tours with Bike Switzerland have all received rave reviews from our members. Now Cascade is pleased to present their signature mountain-style Jura Tour. This new tour is rated difficult due to significant climbing each day in excess of 4,000 feet. Riders will be treated to the spectacular (and legendary!) Swiss support. Plus, your bike, all meals, happy hour drinks and entry to historical areas are included in the tour price. Sign up by end of February and get a big discount-only 10 spaces on this trip.
NEPAL
SPAIN Spain Green Valleys Tour Sept. 7 - 14, 2014. 7 Days 1125 Euro per person Northern Spain is often considered to be one of Europe’s best kept secrets. Foreign tourism is largely absent, so you will see authentic Spain. This tour combines the splendid inland scenery to be found in Cantabria with some very pretty coastal views. The route involves some climbing, while passing through picturesque valleys, but is rated moderate so it’s not difficult for fit riders. It includes the Picos de Europa range, some of the finest mountain scenery on the continent. Our two-night stopovers mean no daily packing, but taking a variety of round rides on those “free” days instead. This is a fabulous low-cost, high quality option for those with limited vacation time...Viva Espana!
Nepal: Mountain Biking the Annapurna Circuit THAILAND Oct. 20 - Nov. 3, 2014. 15 days $2,195.00 -2,750 USD per per- Thailand Explorer Northern Tour son Nov. 17 - 26, 2014 Several years ago, the classic Anna- $2225-$2475 purna Circuit trek was listed as one of the top 10 in the world. A new A special 10-day custom tour injeep track has been built, so this cluding all the best from Northtrek is now available by mountain ern Thailand- including multi-day bike! Join us on this adventure in stops at the following UNESCO the Himalayas - bike through lush World Heritage cities: Kamphaeng valleys and century-old villages, Phet, Sukhothai Historical Park push/carry your bike over a 17,700- and Chiang Mai. Expect a cycling ft. pass, ride an exhilarating, tech- tour with an emphasis on cultural nical 5,000-ft descent and cycle items; great food and in-depth local through the world’s deepest can- knowledge from Thai Tour specialyon. The Annapurna Circuit is 90 ist, Pedalers Pub & Grille. This tour percent rideable and offers some is rated moderate-we expect weathof the most amazing and diverse er to be ideal at this time of year for landscape in Nepal. Beginning with an enjoyable experience for all! densely forested and terraced hills, we ride past Pisang in northern Ne- Cascade Affiliated International pal, and the forests are replaced by Tours are produced by respected the barren Tibetan plateau. After a and established tour companies rest day in Manang for acclimati- around the world - we use our zation, you ride over Thorung Pass buying power to provide these and descend to Muktinath village. rides at tremendous prices. Trips From Muktinath, you bike through do not include airfare or trip inthe deepest gorge in the world, cidentals. Bike rentals and single along the Kali Gandaki River, los- supplements are usually offered at ing altitude rapidly. Your trip ends an extra cost. Please read the tour in Beni and a chartered vehicle will descriptions online, including the take you to Pokhara. The next day cancellation policy before signing you fly back to Kathmandu for a up; and always buy independent farewell dinner. This tour is pro- trip insurance coverage, especially duced by Grand Asian Journeys, extra medical (required in Nepal a Seattle-Nepalese company with tour). For more information and more than 20 years of experience detailed trip details please visit the producing top quality mountain Cascade.org website in early December. adventures.
WWW.CASCADE.ORG
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013
Cascade announces a bold new vision for the Ride Around Washington: The RAW Cycle by Peter Verbrugge, Event Producer
The RAW Cycle pays homage to composer Richard Wagner’s “Der Ring des Nibelungen,” a cycle of four operas based on characters from the Norse sagas. Just as Wagner’s Ring Cycle is a monumental adventure, Cascade Bicycle Club’s Ride Around Washington (RAW) has provided monumental, weeklong touring adventures since 1999. New in 2014, we’re offering a fouryear cycle of routes, which added together will circumnavigate the State counterclockwise. Just as each opera in the Ring Cycle stands on its own, each year’s route of The RAW Cycle stands out. Together, they form a magnum opus fit for Wotan, the King of the Gods. Riders who ride all four years will receive a free Raw Cycle Jersey. Of course, each route offers the very best in riding opportunities, so riders can pick and choose as many
parts as they wish, and are not required to sign up for all four. The RAW Cycle Year One, Olympic Peninsula & Coast Ride, features numerous iconic Pacific Northwest locations and is designed with newbies in mind. (Mostly shorter daily routes, 65-70 mile average, and less hilly.). This seven-day route will run from Sunday, Aug 3 through Saturday, Aug 9. Starting near Anacortes, cyclists pedal across the Skagit Valley and cross the Deception Pass Bridge to Whidbey Island. Riders continue south along Penn Cove before overnighting on the Island. Day two encompasses a Puget Sound ferry ride to Port Townsend, then cycling to Dungeness Spit and the beautiful Olympic Discovery Bicycle Route to Port Angeles. In Port Angeles, riders have a layover day, with the options of riding the self-guided,
18-mile, scenic road 5,200 feet up to the top of Hurricane Ridge; taking a ferry day-trip to Victoria; B.C., riding to Lake Crescent and back; or relaxing off-bike. From Port Angeles, we head southeast at the foot of Olympic National Park to Forks, the town made famous by the “Twilight” book and film series. The following day we decamp for a beautiful ride to the Lake Quinault area. From the Lake, we’ll head south to one of our favorite overnight locations –Raymond. This little town always opens up the welcome wagon for us. Expect to try award winning oysters at happy hour! This day’s route is the “Queen Stage” of the tour at 95 miles. To end the tour we offer a 50-mile flat spin down the coast from Raymond to Ilwaco, where riders will enjoy a locally sourced lunch before bussing back to Seattle.
Never been on RAW before or traveling alone? Think of it as “Bike Camp for adults” where you’ll easily make new friends and become accustomed to the daily mileage. We carry all your camping gear, and provide tasty meals, hot showers and full sag support. With a maximum of 250 riders, the group is companionable, not congested. Thinking of riding with your buddies/significant others or bringing your family together for a trip? RAW will provide all the logistical help needed to put together a safe, memorable experience for your group. We take care of the details while you enjoy a spectacular ride. Please visit Cascade.org for more information. Registration opens for Club members on January 21, 2014. We expect this ride to sell out, so please make plans to join the fun now! «
Ride Referees wanted
by Robin Randels, Classes Coordinator
Seattle Cyclocross and New Belgium Brewing team up to support Major Taylor Project by Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
Grab your cow bell, round up your friends and family and head down to Enumclaw on December 15th to watch some exciting, muddy bike racing in support of the Major Taylor Project. Better yet, find a cyclocross or mountain bike and give cyclocross racing a try yourself! For a second year, Seattle Cyclocross and New Belgium Brewing have teamed up to support the Major Taylor Project in big ways this fall. The long-running local cyclocross series is hosting several donation-only beer gardens at their races this year, from which all proceeds go directly to The Major Taylor Project. Additionally, New Belgium will
be giving away one of their coveted Fat Tire cruiser bikes in a raffle to support the program as well. Coming up, the cyclocross races and New Belgium beer garden will be at the Enumclaw Expo Center on Sunday, Dec. 15, from roughly 9 a.m. till 4 p.m. Come cheer on the hundreds of cyclocross racers – including some Major Taylor students and staff – while enjoying New Belgium’s new winter seasonal, the Accumulation White IPA. Seattle Cyclocross is aiming to raise $5000 to benefit the Major Taylor Project, so let’s help them out! For more information, please visit www.seattlecx.com. «
Calling all Ride Referees – you are needed to make our 2014 event season a success! Now is your chance to become a Ride Ref -- help educate and remind your fellow riders to remember their manners and ensure safe riding for everyone on the event. It’s fun, it’s exciting and you get to wear the striped jersey! No need to be super speedy or particularly bossy to participate – just pleasant, steady and assertive. If you “reffed” last year, we hope that you will return and bring along a friend or three in order to increase our numbers. As a reward for your excellent efforts, you will receive free entry
into the event you ride (buses and lodging not included). Ride one or all three refereed events -- Chilly Hilly, Flying Wheels and the STP. Refs attend a meeting in February and a Group Riding Skills training! February meeting date to be determined. Contact: Robin Randels, (206) 390-3945, robin.randels@cascadebicycleclub.org. «
Members-only RSVP1 and RSVP2 buy it now options After last year’s success with the RSVP1 “buy-it now” option, we are again offering it to our members. New for 2014 will be the RSVP2 “buyit now” option. These spots will be available for immediate purchase on Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m. for $200. The spots open in advance of the regular members-only registration, so use “buy-it now” to guarantee a slot for RSVP 2014! «
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Creating A Better Community Through Bicycling
THE CASCADE COURIER DAILY RIDES SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Sunday Crepes Ride 30 mi ▪ Leisurely ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Stay together Start: 10:00 a.m. from SW corner of Green Lake Ride Leader: David Bordewick, 425822-8546, theborde@aol.com Come and enjoy delicious crepes at the Swedish Club for $9.00 cash or check, no credit cards. Will continue ride after brunch. Rain/Ice/Snow cancels.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 TREATS: Gas Works to Edmonds 30-35 mi ▪Steady ▪ Hilly ▪ Map ▪ Stay together Start: 10:00 a.m., Gas Works Park, Seattle Ride Leader: Peter Hallson, 425-6734816 Let’s go for lunch in Edmonds. Ride through U of W campus, visit Hamlin Park, return from Edmonds via Interurban Trail. Steady rain cancels MEETS after Dark 22-25 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Brisk ▪ Hilly (1200-2000’) ▪ Online map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 6:00 p.m., from South Bellevue Park & Ride, 2700 Bellevue Way SE, Bellevue Ride Leaders: Alexa Volwiler, 360303-0526, alexa.volwiler@gmail.com, and Nan Haberman, 206-399-0466, n.haberman@frontier.com Midweek Eastside Evening Training Series are held Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m., incorporating local hills. A good headlight and taillight are required— fenders are optional but encouraged. Steady rain cancels.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 THUMPS: Home for Lunch 30 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Stay together Start: 9:30 a.m., Leschi Starbucks, 121 Lakeside Ave, Seattle Ride Leader: Mike Nelson, 206-3259068, mikenelson@seanet.com Be home in time for lunch after some urban exploration. Fixies and singespeed bikes welcome. Steady rain cancels.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 FRIDAY RIDERS: Go to Swansons/Carkeek Park/Golden Gardens ~20 mi ▪ Leisurely ▪ Some hills ▪ No map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., Gas Works Park, Seattle Ride Leader: Bill Lemke, 206-2842843 Newer riders, young and older, will enjoy this ride to Swansons Nursery to see the reindeer and holiday decorations, as well as touring Carkeek Park and Golden Gardens. Lunch or snack stop planned. Steady rain cancels. FRUMPS: Monroe-Snohomish 30-40 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills ▪ Map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., Lewis Street Park, Monroe Come on this pleasant ride on familiar roads between Monroe and Snohomish. No sweep. Ride distance dependent on weather. Steady rain cancels.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Newport Loop 29 mi ▪ Brisk ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., from Old City Hall, 200 Mill Ave S, Renton Come join me for a morning romp through Lake Hills, Newport, Newcastle and Eastgate. Bring water and snacks and be ready for a fun ride. Steady rain cancels.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10
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TREATS: Fall City to Carnation 28 mi ▪ Steady ▪ Mostly flat ▪ Map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., Fall City Community Park, just north of river on Rte 203,
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 cont. Fall City Ride Leader: Clarice Sackett, 425-4788306 Easy ride to Carnation and end of Entwistle Rd, have lunch at Starbucks or grocery store and ride back. If nice weather, we’ll add 6 miles. Ice/snow cancels.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 MEETS: Marymoor, Thursday Edition 25 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills (10001500’) ▪ Online map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 6:00 p.m. from Marymoor East Parking Lot, Redmond For those riders willing to ride in the dark, but unable to make it to Bellevue MEETS (Midweek Eastside Evening Training Series), this is a Thursday edition out of Marymoor, with a single pace. A good headlight and taillight are required, fenders appreciated. Steady rain cancels.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 FRIDAY RIDERS: Poinsettias & Pastries 30 mi ▪ Leisurely ▪ Mostly flat ▪ No map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., from Gas Works Park, Seattle OR 11:00 a.m. start at Logboom Park, Kenmore (shorter ride) Ride Leader: Norm Tjaden, 206-5252366 We’ll take the Burke-Gilman Trail to Woodinville to tour the poinsettias at Molbak’s and sample their free Danish pastries plus a possible lunch stop at Top Food. Showers/Snow/ice cancel. FRUMPS: Kenmore Ramble 30-40 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills ▪ No map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m. from Tracy Owen Station (Logboom Park), Kenmore Ride Leader: Dan Garretson We’ll ride from Logboom Park to an unknown destination—location and distance to be determined by the weather. There will be a lunch stop. Showers/Ice/Snow cancel.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Alki Plus Coffee Run 40 mi ▪ Brisk ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., from Burnett Linear Park, 502 Burnett Ave S, Renton We’ll follow the Green River Trail, through South Park and on to Alki, with a stop at Tully’s before returning to Renton. Fenders are appreciated in wet weather. Steady rain cancels.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 Post Seahawks Lark to Madison Park
32 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 2:30 p.m., Newport Hills Park Ride (I 405 Exit 9), Bellevue This is a friendly ride around the south end of Lake Washington to Madison Park with a stop at Starbucks for coffee. Email or call leader on the morning of the ride if weather is questionable. Lights required. Showers cancel.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 TREATS: Winter on the Eastside 25-30 mi ▪ Steady ▪ Hilly ▪ Map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:30 a.m. (Late start), from Juanita Beach Park, Kirkland Ride Leaders: Jane Volta, 425-8280138, and Don Volta, voltadh@yahoo. com A HILLY ride in and out of Kirkland with a lunch stop. Route and distance are weather dependent: Showers/Drizzle/ Fog/ Ice/Snow cancel.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 FRUMPS: Woodinville through West and East Bellevue 41 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., from Wilmot Gateway Park, across from Woodinville Sports Fields, 17139 131st Ave NE,
DECEMBER 2013 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 cont. Woodinville Ride Leader: Chris Nelson Join me for a suburban loop over Norway Hill. along the Lake Washington shore to Enatai, then through east Bellevue back to Wine Country; includes a lunch stop. Showers/Snow cancel.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 Sumner Shuffle 43.5 mi ▪ Brisk ▪ Mostly flat ▪ Online map ▪ Stay together Start: 10:30 a.m. from Burnett Linear Park, 502 Burnett Ave S, Renton Ride Leader: Jake Wright Come join me for a brisk morning ride for some coffee in Sumner. Afterwards we have lunch in a local restaurant. Steady rain cancels. Spokespeople-NE: Ride to Lake Forest Park- Bakeries, Shops, and More! 15mi ▪ Easy ▪ Rolling ▪ Map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 1:00 p.m., from Van Gogh Coffee Shop in Wedgwood Ride Leaders: Machiko Threlkeld, machikoshoji@yahoo.com and Sander Lazar This festive community ride goes north to Lake Forest Park and Sheridan Beach, (at our destination there are bakeries, shops, and opportunities to find that last minute perfect holiday gift for someone or yourself). Steady rain/Ice/Snow cancels.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 S.P.O.K.E.S.: Tour de Poinsettias 20+/-mi ▪ Leisurely ▪ Some hills ▪ Map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 11:00 a.m. from Sammamish River Park, 17995 102nd Av NE, Bothell Ride Leaders Michelle Burton, 425890-4936, and Jim Hunt, 425-6814640 We’ll head towards Woodinville to check out the poinsettias at Molbak’s, with a lunch stop nearby. Steady rain/ Ice/Snow cancels.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24 TREATS: ‘Twas the Day Before Christmas 20-30 mi ▪ Leisurely ▪ Mostly flat ▪ No map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:30 a.m. from Tracy Owen Station/Logboom Park, Kenmore Ride Leader: Jan Johnson, 425-6720617 Let’s have a sociable ride to Redmond for lunch. There is one section of tricky traffic on the road not suitable for younger children on their own bike. Showers or icy, snowy, frosty or slippery conditions in the shadows or on the trail will cancel.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 FRUMPS: Magnuson-South Lake Washington 46 mi ▪ Steady ▪ Rolling ▪ Online map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m. from Warren G Magnuson Park, 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle Ride Leader: Loretta Goetsch, 206525-4714, lagoetsch@aol.com Meet outside CBC office, but do not park there. Flat to rolling terrain with a gradual climb into Newcastle area before lunch at 22 miles into ride. Showers/Ice/Snow cancel.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 TREATS: Snohomish & Bakeries! 26 mi ▪ Steady ▪ Rolling ▪ Map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 10:00 a.m. from Snohomish Public Restrooms, 1100 1st St, Snohomish Ride Leader: Alan Miller, 425-4884567, 206-697-4603, amiller7x7@ comcast.net Join us for the final social TREATS ride of 2013 from Snohomish up to Lake Stevens and back with optional choices of a couple of bakeries. Noise makers, black-eyed peas with ham hocks, and resolutions are allowed! Steady rain cancels.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1 2014 Kick Off the New Year Right Ride 28mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Some hills ▪ Online map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 9:30 a.m. from Kirkland Marina Park, 25 Lake Shore Plaza Drive, Kirkland While traditionally a kickoff day for football, this year we will be riding our Kick-Off the New Year Right Ride to help kick-off your 2014 new year’s resolution to ride more! Riders should have 2 tubes, pump, and the know how to use them. Steady rain cancels.
WEEKLY RIDES MONDAY
MUMPS: Do The Lake 40-60 mi ▪ Moderate ▪ Hilly ▪ No Map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 10:00 a.m., Tracy Owen Station, Logboom Park, Kenmore OR 11:15 a.m. start from Leschi Starbucks Ride Leader: Craig Mohn, 425-8905234, texts preferred, cmohn_cycling@comcast.net Please join us for a counterclockwise loop of north Lake Washington with a food stop. Contact leader with questions. Distance and route may vary. Rain/Snow/Ice cancels.
TUESDAY & THURSDAY
Cycle Tuesdays (EXCEPT 12/31) 25-35 mi ▪ Super-strenuous ▪Some hills ▪No map ▪ Occasional regroup Start: 5:45 p.m., Gene Coulon Park, next to Kidd Valley, Renton Ride Leaders: Vince Haag, 425-7857451, vehaag@comcast.net and Russell Moul, 206-200-7314, 253-657-9568 Join us for year-round training rides for one-day STP riders. Fast pacelines with rides that stress safety, cooperation and group riding skills. Lights required and No Parking in Coulon parking lot. Ice/Snow cancels. EastsideTours Evening Ride 20-30 mi ▪ Brisk ▪ Hilly (1500’) ▪ No map ▪ Frequent regroup Start: 6:30 p.m. from Overlake Transit Center, 15590 NE 36th St, Redmond (north of bldgs.) Ride Leader: Eric Gunnerson, 425753-6032, eric_gunnerson@hotmail. com Join us as we explore various routes on the Eastside. Lights required! Showers cancel. For a complete listing of this month’s rides, see www.cascade.org. For more free group rides, please visit www. cascade.org/dailyrides. On Twitter? Tag your tweets and twitpics with #dailyrides. In order to pick a rides that suit your style, skills and energy level, use the following guidelines: Easy: Under 10 mph Leisurely: 10-12 mph Steady: 12-14 mph Moderate: 14-16 mph Brisk: 16-18 mph Strenuous: 18-21 mph Super Strenuous: 22+ mph Mostly Flat: Trails and/or mostly flat roads with a possible gentle upgrade Rolling: Climbs are short and easy, not too numerous. Some Hills: A few short steep hills, some moderate upgrades and/or longer gentle climbs. Hilly: Many true hills, but none outrageous. Extremely Hilly: Steep & long climbs with grades >9% and/or mountain passes Off Road: Significant unpaved sections. Weather conditions may cancel the ride. Helmets are required on all rides. Earbuds/headphones are not allowed on any Cascade ride. All riders are required to sign a waiver form. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Riders are expected to be ready to ride at the time listed. Participants do not have to RSVP, simply show up to join the fun!
WWW.CASCADE.ORG
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013 2014 Winter Training Series
FREE, FREE, FREE A major objective of the Cascade Bicycle Club is to help get people out riding their bikes, and one of the key ways we do this is through our Free Daily Rides Program. The club has significantly increased its focus on this resource over the past couple years, and this year the Rides Committee set an aggressive goal of leading 2,013 free group rides in 2013. At the time of printing, the program was on track to not only meet this goal but exceed it. One of the challenges for the Rides Program is encouraging riders to participate. When we talk to potential new riders, some of the comments we commonly hear are “only fast people go on those rides” or “I didn’t think I would fit in” but with an average of more than five rides every day of the year, there really is something for everyone. If you are a new or experienced cyclist looking for a safe fun ride, we have a ride for you. We have long rides and short rides, rides for novices and rides for experienced cyclists, rides with a social and recreational
focus. We have rides around the city, rides in the country, rides to explore new regions, and rides to help you train for that next big event. It takes a lot to accomplish all of this, and leading these rides are over 270 trained and certified volunteer ride leaders whose primary goal is to make sure our rides are safe and fun. When I asked a rider “What do you enjoy most about riding with the Free Group Ride program” the answer echoed the strengths of the program: “I suppose the sense of community the rides program has. Regardless of age, size or skill, riders accept one another and share a common goal. If one person is struggling there is always someone willing to help. The quality of friendships developed with people since joining the daily rides program is truly magical” You can find a schedule and description of upcoming ride on page 8, and visit cascade.org/ dailyrides for a complete listing of all rides and events.
Cascade is once again jointly offering the Winter Training Series (WTS) with the Seattle International Randonneurs. Lead by Ralph and Carol Nussbaum, the seventh edition of the WTS starts Saturday, Jan 11, and will end eight weeks later just before the year’s first official SIR Populaire (100km ride). Ride distances vary from about 38 miles on the first ride to 100 miles on the last. Several of the routes are new this year, while others have seen revisions and modifications. These rides are a great way to get in some early season training with a natural buildup of miles while enjoying the company of other riders. What is unique about this training series, besides occurring at a time when most of us would rather stay home by the fire, is that there are no regroups. These rides are set up very much in the spirit of randonneuring which emphasizes self-sufficiency and camaraderie. It does require an ability to read and follow a cue sheet and to fix your own flats or other mechanicals. There will be a number of ride leaders on the ride and while no effort will be made to keep the group together, an effort will be made to see that everyone gets back safely. Ride leaders have been known to go back along the route to check on missing riders and see that they all get home. Some of you are going to want to do this training series to get ready for the upcoming riding season and to prepare for CBC events while others may want to find out a little more about Randonneuring. Randonneuring is long-distance unsupported endurance cycling. This style of riding is non-competitive in nature, and self-sufficiency is paramount. Participation in
randonneuring events is part of a long tradition that goes back to the beginning of the sport of cycling in France and Italy. Friendly camaraderie and perseverance are the hallmarks of randonneuring. Randonneuring is cycling on set routes called brevets, which progressively get longer – starting with 100 kilometers and working up to 1200 kilometers or more. Check points are designated and riders are required to get cards signed at each point with a time indicated on them and to turn in the cards at the end of the ride. The pace necessary to finish a ride is not fast – a moderate speed of 14 to 15 miles per hour on the flats is sufficient to complete a brevet – though the longer distances are distinctly more comfortable for a faster, stronger rider. However, completion is the goal, not speed, and the faster riders often stay around to cheer in the slower riders, and much encouragement is given to the rider who is falling behind, but keeps at it. This is an international sport – the cards that a rider uses are sent to Paris, France, to the international headquarters of randonneuring and are registered as a completed ride. When we got our first batch of cards back, we were taken by the feeling of being part of a community of cyclists much larger than we had ever imagined. It was a great feeling. If you want to know more about randonneuring, go to www. seattlerando.org or www.rusa.org and read about the sport and the upcoming events. So whatever your goals, come on out on the Winter Training Series and get started on a journey or just come out and have fun in really cold weather! «
2014 WINTER TRAINING SERIES RIDES DATE
DISTANCE APPROX. ELEV GAIN
START LOCATION
ROUTE
1
Jan. 11, 2014
38mi/61km - 2500’
Redmond Element Cycles New Start Location
Redmond, Novelty Hill, Carnation, Tolt & Union Hills
2
Jan. 18, 2014
56mi/90km - 3200’
Bellevue Newcastle Beach Park New Route
Bellevue, Renton, Covington, Maple and May Valleys, Newcastle
3
Jan. 25, 2014
50mi/81km - 3250’
Stanwood Starbucks/QFC New Start Location
Camano Island Loop (Counterclockwise)
4
Feb. 1, 2014
70mi/113km - 2350’
Snohomish Haggens
Snohomish, Marysville, Happy Valley, Arlington
5
Feb. 8, 2014
66mi/106km - 2750’
Auburn Fred Meyers
Auburn, Lake Tapps, Orting, Carbonado, Buckley
6
Feb. 15, 2014
64mi/103km - 3400’
Kent Soos Creek Park SE 208th Trailhead New Route
Dash & Brown Points, Auburn, Green Valley, Black Diamond
7
Feb. 22, 2014
81mi/131km - 2850’
Conway Fir Conway Church
Big Lake, Fairhaven, Chuckanut, Bow-Edison
8
Mar. 1, 2014
100mi/161km - 4000’
Seattle Magnuson Park
Woodinville, Carnation, Issaquah, Renton
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Creating A Better Community Through Bicycling
RIDE #
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013
Get ready for STP and RSVP with the Cascade Training Series Want to ride STP or RSVP, but not sure you can get ready on your own? Want to learn the skills to ride safely in large groups? Want to improve your performance from past events? Then the Cascade Training Series is for you! This training series is designed for Cascade members who register for the Group Health STP or RSVP with the goal of physical and mental preparation for these premier events. You and fellow event riders will be trained in group and safe riding skills that are key for all cyclists, and of particular value in these large events. Participants will learn what pace is comfortable for them and grouped with riders of similar ability. During the 13-ride series, the route mileage and level of difficulty will steadily increase leading up to STP. Riders will be able to move up to faster groups as their fitness and skill improve. Register for the series at the same time you register for STP or RSVP. Since there are limited CTS spots available, we recommend you register early.
Beyond the rides Cascade’s Group Riding Skills and Basic Bike Maintenance classes are included in the fee, and will be held during the three weeks leading up to the first CTS ride. There will be several CTS seminars, which will include information on nutrition and riding techniques. Additionally, CTS riders will receive a unique Road ID® wristband, valued at $19.95, with your name and emergency contact information. 2014 Schedule The rides will run weekends from early April through July, right up to STP. Check the Cascade website for a more detailed calendar. Visit Cascade.org/training for more information. «
It’s a Volunteer Affair
by Serena Lehman, Outreach and Volunteer Manager
2013 has been a banner year for volunteers like you at Cascade. Because of you, we were able to repair 350 kid’s bikes, launched a new website, help 35 Major Taylor students ride STP, counted bikes in 38 cities across the state of Washington and got 23,400 people out riding at our events. Every year we throw a huge party in honor of our fabulous volunteers. If you’ve volunteered for
Cascade Presentation Series by Julie Salathe
“Going Dutch with your Bike” with Jeff & Louise Davis Seattle REI, 222 Yale Ave N Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m. Free entry! This past summer long-time Cascade members Jeff and Louise Davis headed to Europe with their tandem for a trip from Hungary to Holland, following the Danube and Rhine rivers. Just as they finished a 10-day ride through Hungary, that plan went bye-bye when the Danube and Rhine started flooding. What to do with the next seven weeks? They threw out all their planning and turned the trip into a Tour of Hungary and Holland. They think it turned out better than the original plan. Why? As they willtell and show you, the Netherlands is not just bike-friendly, it’s over-the-
top bike-friendly, with cycling facilities that sound like fantasies, such as ferries and even a large drawbridge that are just for pedestrians and bikes. Jeff and Louise will show you some of the beauty and history they found by bike in Hungary and Holland, and even more of the network of bike trails and bike routes that made their trip so terrific, along the Danube in Hungary and in every corner of Holland as they biked through nine of its 12 provinces in their seven weeks there. They’ll also take time to show you how easy (and affordable) it is to have a bike trip beyond belief, even when you plop yourself down with no planning or preparation whatsoever, in the cycling Nirvana of the Netherlands. «
Cascade in 2013, please join us on Friday, Dec. 13, for an unforgettable night of dinner, drinks, music, entertainment and friends – all on us! The theme this year is “It’s a Volunteer Affair” so break out your favorite 1970s costume (optional) and get ready to have a ball as we announce Cascade’s Volunteer of the Year. «
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Member of Cascade Bicycle Club and Bicycle Alliance of Washington. Sponsor of Fischer Plumbing, Bikesale.com, Recycled Cycles Racing, Garage Racing, Cucina Fresca, Blue Rooster Racing, SCCA/Starbucks and Lakemont Cycling Teams.
WWW.CASCADE.ORG
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013
Holiday Shopping Survival Guide For Bicyclists by Tonik Cycling
Does the word “Holidays” get you all giddy with joy or throw you into a full-blown state of panic? Do you find yourself in a cold sweat realizing you have waited until the last minute AGAIN?! Take a deep breath, simplicity is the solution. Here are a few ideas we feel confident would be on any cyclist’s list: •Lights. You cannot have too many in these dark winter months. A front light, rear light, spoke lights or a helmet light -- you can’t go wrong here and you could save someone’s life. •Awesome floor pump. We like simple ones like Joe Blow •Bike Seat. Even if they own one, the search for the perfect saddle seems endless. Yes, it is impossible to pick out the right one, so make sure you talk to your bike shop about exchange.
•A cycling jersey that fits and flatters can be close to impossible to find. Tonik Cycling makes a women’s jersey that truly fits all body types. She will love you for it! •Water bottles (to match the bike!) Plus, you could fill it with important goodies like air cartridges, bar tape in crazy colors or a light weight tool kit. •Arm warmers. If you don’t know what these are just trust us. Once they ride with arm warmers they’ll never go back. Heavy wool/thermal ones from DeFeet for winter or lightweight arm warmers from Tonik Cycling for the rest of the year.
and for both cold and warm weather.
•Gloves. A must-have item for any rider.
•A tune-up gift certificate. A clean bike is a fast bike! After riding all fall and winter, a bike could use a tune-up.
•Socks. Who doesn’t love socks?! Cycling specific socks come in lots of fun colors (to match your kit!)
•Still stumped? Any cyclist would be thrilled with a gift card to their favorite bike shop. «
MEMBERSHIP FORM
Volunteers Needed for Bicycle Train Research Project! by Julie Salathe
Cascade is partnering with Children’s Hospital on an exciting Bicycle Train research project. Bicycle Trains are organized groups of youth with adult volunteers who ride to school as a group, similar to a Walking School Bus where kids walk to school together. Youth bicyclist volunteers (ages 9-12) are needed to complete a three-hour project doing activities such as walking, jogging and cycling while wearing an activity meter, a GPS and a heart rate monitor. Researchers will also measure the child’s height and weight and have the parent take a short demographic survey. These activities are part of the testing phase of the project where the researchers will calibrate their equipment for the study. Then from February to April, researchers will work with four schools, two of which will have organized bike trains, to assess the health benefits of bicycling to school. If your child is interested in volunteering to participate in the initial phase of the study and help test equipment, or if you have additional questions, please contact Doris Uscanga, 206-884-8265 or doris. uscanga@seattlechildrens.org. «
IS YOUR MEMBERSHIP ABOUT TO EXPIRE?
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Creating A Better Community Through Bicycling
RENEW NOW AT COURIER.ORG/RENEW
THE CASCADE COURIER
DECEMBER 2013
WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS! Janita Aalto Andreas Aarsvold Joel Andrus James Bailey Veronia Beck Lidet Becker Nate Becker Ludovic Bony Brigitte Bright Carol Brown Ken Brown Jack Brumbaugh Diana Bryant Anna Carroll Christina Christopher Sarah Clement Yanna Colombotos Richard Cox Logan Craver Todd Craver Linda Crown Benjamin Demboski Brian Doolan Avniel Dravid McKayla Dunfey Mark Dunphy Jerry Ehrler Edward Emery Lisa Enns Mary Ferguson Ellison Fidler Paul Fountain Noriko Fritschle Randy Frolen Cathy Gabaldon Tom Gerlach Will Gerlach Barbara Gordon
Ellen Graham Julie Graham Suzanne Graham James Grieser Yooli Hardy Deborah Hayden Kristofer Henderson Allyn Higashi Kerilyn Higashi Kerwin Higashi Kristen Higashi Michael Houston Janet Huston Scott Ingram Chad Johanson Khia Johnson Zach Johnson Elaina Jorgensen Gayle Kneeland Susan Kolwitz Miranda Kubasti Nancy Kubo Kathleen Lehman Linda Lillevik Jonathon Loeffler David Longmuir Marybeth MacCauley Patti Maskall James McCready Shannon McEwen Matthew Metcalf Phil Miller Cailtin Moran Melissa Nelson Chris Nygaard Dan O’Shea Magdalena O’Shea Ryan Osher
Dwight Pelz Cara Peterman Rat Peterman Patrick Philley Kellie Pitts Peter Ray Scott Redman Amanda Reed Adrienne Reynolds Marshia Roberge Saara Romu Nancy Ross-Bruels Paul Roy Kevin Rusch Marki Schillinger Rachel Schindler Hank Sebring Gerald Seligman Tanya Seligman Michael Sheperd Stephen Slingerland Brian Smith Matthew Smith Linda Sovereign Rahim Spence Leigh Stokes Deb Stone Dominic Suciu Alex Trettin Lyn Trier Stephen Trier Stephenie Trier Taldi Walter Jessica Weaver Carlton Wilson Jennifer Winson Bonnie Yeomans
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