New This Year!
This Guide Includes Team Captain Information
Sunday, October 6, 2013 New York City 2013
Event Guide
Welcome to Bike MS New York City 2013! Thank you for registering for Bike MS New York City! Money raised through your fundraising efforts will help provide hundreds of comprehensive local programs and services that support thousands of people living with and affected by MS in the five boroughs and Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange and Sullivan counties. It will support cutting edge research to find the cause of this disease, improve therapies and ultimately find a cure. In 2013, we have a goal of recruiting 5,000 participants to raise $3 million! Gather your friends, family and co-workers and help make this year’s Bike MS NYC a success!
Âť IMPORTANT DATES June 17 - 21:
September 16 - 20:
June 21:
September 20:
Fundraising Week
Team Recruitment Week #1
Deadline to raise $1,000 to receive Top Fundraiser jersey in the mail
Fundraising Day #1
July 26:
September 20:
Fundraising Day #2
August 19 - 23:
Deadline to raise $150 to receive rider materials in the mail
August 21:
October 6:
September 6:
November 4 - 8:
September 6:
November 8:
Team Recruitment Week #2 Early Fundraising Incentive Deadline Registration Fee increases to $75
Bike MS New York City Final Fundraising Week
Fundraising and Ranking Deadline Deadline to have mailed donations postmarked in order to count toward packet mailing deadline
1.
bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Table of Contents Event Details.............................................................................................................................4 Fundraising 101.........................................................................................................................5 Creative Fundraising...............................................................................................................6-7 Matching Gifts and Employer Charitable Donations............................................................8 Mobile Fundraising...................................................................................................................9 Using Your Participant Center................................................................................................10 The Benefits of Fundraising....................................................................................................11-12 Become a Member of our Elite Fundraising Clubs...............................................................13 Bike MS 2013 Elite 200 Club Members....................................................................................14-16 Volunteers.................................................................................................................................17 Official Bike Shops & Bike Safety...........................................................................................18 Training......................................................................................................................................19-20 What to Expect.........................................................................................................................21 Team Captain Info....................................................................................................................22-27 Frequently Asked Questions...................................................................................................28-30 About Multiple Sclerosis.........................................................................................................31 Where the Money Goes...........................................................................................................32 Upcoming Events......................................................................................................................33-34
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
2.
Letter from a Champion I first started experiencing MS symptoms in 1994 at the age of 21. I experienced numbness in my arms and legs, had difficulty writing and I began to fall frequently. I visited a doctor who mentioned multiple sclerosis but shortly after, all the symptoms disappeared. In 2003, I became a father and I was so excited for what life was going to bring my way. One morning while driving my daughter to a doctor’s appointment, I had double vision; can you imagine how scary it is to experience that while driving with a newborn in the car?! After many doctor visits and tests, I was officially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 30. Thirty is supposed to be the age that your life begins; after nearly 10 years of no symptoms, I had put all that MS-talk behind me and I was shocked and angry. Why was this happening to me? When my second daughter was born in 2005, I was scared to hold her for fear of dropping her because the numbness in my hands had gotten so bad. At the time that I was diagnosed, I was working as an accountant but in 2009, after suffering two MS-related seizures, I became unable to work. It took me a long time to come to terms with my diagnosis and today my symptoms include balance and cognitive issues. It’s very hard for me not to go work every day or run with and pick up my daughters when they ask me to - the normal everyday things that people take for granted. My experiences have taught me that hope is a very strong word. I have been participating in Walk MS since my diagnosis and every year I walk with my family including my three beautiful daughters. As an event participant myself, I know exactly how it feels to prepare for and fundraise for a cause that is so important! I can’t thank you enough for riding to help find a cure for me! I want to walk all three of my daughters down the aisle on their wedding days and your participation gives me hope. I know that one day we will find a cure and YOU can proudly say that you were a part of that! Luis Salgado MS Champion
3.
bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Event Details The New York City - Southern New York Chapter offers one ride, with three different routes to choose from. Choose your challenge, with route options for all cycling abilities. Enjoy a traffic-free 30 mile route circling Manhattan, or ride traffic-free through the Holland Tunnel, and experience the 55 or 100 mile routes that wind through New Jersey and Rockland County. All routes will start and finish in Manhattan at Pier 92/94.
» BIKE MS NEW YORK CITY Date » October 6, 2013 Start/Finish Location » Pier 92/94, New York, NY Fundraising Minimum » $150 Route Options » 30, 55, or 100 miles Age Minimum » All participants must be at least 12 years old by the day of the event All participants are REQUIRED to raise the $150 fundraising minimum. The minimum must be raised by September 20 in order to receive your packet of materials in the mail. Participants who have not reached the minimum by that date will be required to attend one of our Packet Pick-Up events the week prior to Bike MS NYC. There will be NO exceptions to this, and there will be NO day-of-ride check-in/packet pick up on event day. Bike MS New York City will include:
» A light breakfast at the start. » A catered lunch at the finish line. » Plenty of water, sports drinks and snacks along the route at all rest stops. » Bike mechanics along the route. » Exciting finish line festival with informational and interactive booths including a sponsor expo, food and beverage samples, massage, entertainment and more. » Recognition areas for top fundraising teams and individuals.
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
4.
Fundraising 101 Here are five easy steps to get you started: 1. START EARLY - Don’t procrastinate! Successful fundraising is planned and executed. You can start your fundraising off with a bang by making a self-pledge towards your fundraising goal. Others will be more inclined to give if they see you have made a donation yourself. 2. SET A GOAL - Think big! In 2012, participants raised an average of $607! Our participants have found that the higher you set your goal, the more money you will be able to raise. Utilize your Participant Center to set your goal for all to see and be sure to share your goal when asking your friends and family for support. Don’t forget about our Top Fundraiser Club comprised of individuals that raise $1,000 or more. Top Fundraisers will receive special day of perks and a Bike MS NYC jersey. 3. BE PERSONAL - Share your story with your donors. Tell everyone you know that you are participating in Bike MS NYC and tell them why. 4. KEEP IT SIMPLE - Login to your Participant Center for easy-to-use online fundraising tools right at your fingertips! You can set up a personal webpage, send out emails and track your progress. Get started now! Go to www.bikeMSnyc.org to login to your account and access your Participant Center! 5. HAVE FUN AND BE CREATIVE - We have all kinds of innovative fundraising ideas and tips to help get you started. Ideas are listed in this guide or visit www.bikeMSnyc.org to find more than 100 ideas and ways to fundraise. No idea is too small!
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bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Creative Fundraising » "YOU'VE GOT MAIL" CAMPAIGN Emails are a great way to instantly reach a wide variety of people and we’ve made it easy for you through our online Participant Center. Listed below are ways your Participant Center can help you execute an email campaign: » Personalize and send pre-written emails to all of your contacts. » Create a quick and easy personal web page to tell your story of why you participating in this year’s Bike MS NYC and to track your fundraising progress. » Create personalized “Thank You” emails to send to your generous donors.
» START A TRADITIONAL LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN Many participants have great success by sending out personal written letters and doing face-to-face asks with friends and family. Customize your letter for each person, and share your fundraising goal.
» OTHER TIPS INCLUDE: » Write your letters on special stationary. Think about using a bright colored envelope to really » » »
stand out in the mail! Follow up with a phone call to anyone who you have not heard from. Send thank you notes to those who have donated. Keep donors updated about your training and fundraising!
» PLAN YOUR OWN FUNDRAISING EVENTS Whether it’s a dinner party at your home, a garage sale, a karaoke night or a bowling tournament, planning an event is a great way to meet your fundraising goal. » “A NIGHT OUT” TAKE OVER: Partner with a local bar or restaurant for a fundraising night and ask if they would be willing to donate a percentage of the night’s profits to benefit your fundraising efforts. In exchange, you help promote the local business and invite all your friends and family! The business may even be willing to put out MS information or brochures on the tables to help raise awareness AND money. To receive a list of recommended local bars/restaurants to partner with, contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org.
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
6.
Creative Fundraising » BAKE SALES/GARAGE SALES: Ask neighbors to donate gently used items or baked goods that you can sell at your home or a community event.
» EXERCISE FOR A CURE: Ask a local gym if they would be willing to teach a Zumba, Spin or
yoga class for free and you invite friends, family and the community to participate for a set donation fee.
» USE FACEBOOK AND OTHER SOCIAL NETWORKS » Our Boundless Fundraising tool will allow you to use Facebook as an easy and fun way to raise money and awareness. You can upload this tool to your Facebook account through your online Participant Center. Just click on the blue “Fundraise with Facebook” button on the homepage of your Participant Center to get started.
Help us raise awareness and funds! “Like” our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BikeMSnycSNY. All fans of our Facebook page will receive advance notice about upcoming Fundraising Days and prizes. Follow us on Twitter @bikeMSnyc for up to date event information, training tips, fundraising ideas and special offers! Retweet, reply, mention and favorite us on Twitter to help get the word out: www.twitter.com/bikeMSnyc.
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bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Matching Gifts and Employer Charitable Donations Many companies have matching gift programs to maximize their financial contributions to non-profit organizations. If yours does, they will match your donations which will increase your fundraising total and bring us closer toward a world free of MS. Check to see if your employer has an eligible matching gift program by visiting www.nationalmssociety.org/employermatch. You can drastically increase your fundraising total by having your donors apply for matching gifts.
HOW IT WORKS: » Send an email to all your donors explaining the benefits of Employer Matching Gifts, and let them know that they can see if their company matches by visiting
www.nationalmssociety.org/employermatch.
» Ask your donors to contact their company’s HR department to learn about their company’s matching gift policies and procedures.
» Follow the procedure outlined by your company’s matching gift program; printed materials
may be mailed to: National MS Society Attn: Bike MS Matching Gifts 733 Third Ave., Third Floor New York, NY 10017
» Our staff will send confirmation to the donor’s company. Upon receipt of the matching gift check, we will credit your Bike MS fundraising efforts with the amount. While this process may take up to several months, if we receive the matching gift paperwork by the fundraising deadline of November 8, 2013, we will include the pending donation in your Bike MS fundraising total. It is that easy to increase your fundraising total.
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
8.
Go Mobile! Manage and share your Bike MS experience on the go with our updated Bike MS mobile application. Fundraise and connect with others through social media and email, update your web pages, check your progress, and much more – all from the palm of your hand! And it’s free! The updated, free app will be available this summer to all registered participants of Bike MS NYC. More information will be sent to you when the app is available.
HERE'S HOW YOU CAN GET IT: » IF YOU DID NOT USE LAST YEAR’S APP: 1. Search Bike MS in the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android), or BlackBerry App World (BlackBerry). 2. Download the mobile application to your phone as you would any other app. 3. Log in with the same username and password that you use online for www.bikeMSnyc.org. If you do not know your username and/or password, contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791.
» IF YOU STILL HAVE LAST YEAR’S APP: 1. This summer, you will receive an upgrade notification with our new app name: Bike MS 2. Simply upgrade as you would for any other app upgrade. 3. Log in with the same username and password that you use online for www.bikeMSnyc.org. If you do not know your username and/or password, contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791.
If you would like to set up a fundraising consultation, contact your fundraising coach, Nicole Cannizzaro at nicole.cannizzaro@nmss.org or call 212-453-3262.
9.
bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Using Your Participant Center Send emails to your contacts using template messages or create your own.
Customize your personal URL and web page with personal messages and photos.
Keep track of your personal fundraising and update your goal.
Upload contacts to your address book in order to email them all at once.
TEAM CAPTAINS ONLY: 1. Customize your team web page with personalized messaging and team photos. 2. Create a personal URL for your team webpage by adding your team name to a short cut URL.
Using these online tools is the best and easiest way to grow your fundraising. Don’t wait! Go to www.bikeMS nyc.org to log in and get started now!
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
10.
The Benefits of Fundraising There are many perks that come with fundraising – so don’t wait; start now! Check out these great fundraising reward opportunities and set your personal goals accordingly.
» T-SHIRTS All Bike MS NYC participants will receive a T-shirt on event day. There are a variety of T-shirts available based on your fundraising efforts: » $150 - $999: white short sleeved Bike MS NYC T-shirt » $1,000+: specialty Top Fundraiser Bike MS NYC T-shirt » People living with MS are eligible for an orange short sleeved Bike MS NYC T-shirt
Did you know that $150 will pay for transportation for someone living with MS to get to and from their doctor’s appointment?
» EARLY FUNDRAISING INCENTIVE BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! All participants who raise $250 or more by August 21, 2013 will receive our early fundraising incentive – a pair of commemorative Bike MS NYC cycling socks.
» FUNDRAISING PRIZES For the first time this year, we want to offer Top Fundraisers, participants who raise $1,000 or more, the opportunity to wear their Bike MS NYC jersey at the 2013 Ride!
» September 20: Raise $1,000 more by this date and a Bike MS NYC jersey will be mailed to you
before the ride! » October 6: Become a Top Fundraiser by the day of the ride and receive your Top Fundraiser jersey at the Top Fundraiser Lounge after the ride. » November 8: Reach Top Fundraiser status by the fundraising deadline of November 8, 2013 and receive a Bike MS New York City jersey after the ride.
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bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
The Benefits of Fundraising » PASSPORT PROGRAM All participants who raise $5,000 or more can join our Passport Program to take part in any Bike MS ride across the country. For more details, contact shera.salgado@nmss.org.
» TOUR OF CHAMPIONS All individuals who raise $15,000 or more earn the opportunity to attend the Tour of Champions at the Society’s National Conference in Denver, Colorado in November 2013. Every November, the leaders across the MS movement gather together at the National Conference to celebrate progress, learn from each other and strengthen commitments to make an even greater impact in the coming year. The Tour of Champions also celebrates the top fundraisers from across the country.
» ONLINE FUNDRAISING DAYS Several times throughout the Bike MS NYC season, we will hold one-day fundraising challenges. On these days, different fundraising challenges will be issued and participants will have the chance to win a variety of great prizes for the donations they raise on the specific fundraising day.
OUR 2013 FUNDRAISING DAYS WILL BE HELD ON:
»Fundraising Day #1: Friday, June 21 »Fundraising Day #2: Friday, July 26
» FUNDRAISING WEEK Fundraising Week will run September 16 - 20. The week will consist of daily and weekly fundraising challenges with the chance to win exciting prizes. We will also be hosting a fundraising week after the ride, November 4 - 8, to help boost your fundraising before the final ranking deadline of Friday, November 8, 2013.
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
12.
Become a member of our Elite Fundraising Clubs! » BIKE MS TOP FUNDRAISERS All participants who raise $1,000 or more will become Bike MS NYC Top Fundraisers! All individuals who raise $1,000 or more by or on event day, will receive extra perks at Bike MS NYC: » A specialty Top Fundraiser T-shirt at check-in that stands out from the standard event T-shirts » Access for you and a guest into our VIP Top Fundraiser Lounge on event day
Did you know that $1,000 provides weekly adaptive tennis lessons for seven people living with MS?
» BIKE MS ELITE 200 CLUB Our 2013 Elite 200 Club is made up of our top 200 fundraising individuals from Bike MS NYC 2012. Elite 200 Club members receive a full year of perks leading up to event day as well as great perks on event day. These perks include:
PRE-EVENT:
» Name and ranking listed on bikeMSnyc.org » Dedicated staff to assist you throughout the year » Invitations to various special events throughout the year
EVENT DAY:
» Personalized bib number corresponding with members’ 2012 fundraising ranking » Admission with a guest to the Top Fundraiser Lounge » Specialty Top Fundraiser T-shirt » Goodie bag distributed in the Top Fundraiser area
Our Elite 200 Club members from Bike MS NYC 2012 raised $1,007,449, or 36% of the overall total raised!
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bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Bike MS 2013 Elite 200 Club Members 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34.
Peter Goettler Adam Burinescu Gavin Gilbert Robert Sandler Fred Harris David Greenstein Andrew Tunick Steven Radoslovich Dan Kusnetz Steve Nettler Rey Black Geoffrey Radbill Alex Shepard Brian Wallach Kitty Benden Roberto De Azevedo Nicole Kim Edward Morr Michael Halsband Lee Albertson Michael Pagano Kent Hiteshew Philip Caracci Ed Kole Rob Moore Benjamin Emanuel Jake Barton Deirdre Glascott Dillon Glascott David Fucio John Tully Elsa Farbiarz Robert Hellman Jack Schmitt
212-463-9791
$40,000 $26,047 $24,215 $23,294 $19,711 $17,628 $17,035 $17,005 $13,000 $12,770 $12,060 $11,670 $11,391 $11,029 $10,290 $10,170 $10,135 $9,964 $9,953 $9,680 $9,280 $9,000 $8,861 $8,673 $8,430 $8,153 $7,700 $7,650 $7,650 $7,648 $7,574 $7,354 $7,104 $6,930
35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68.
Jeff Matusow Merrill Hesch Terry Burd Alan Bernstein Patricia Gagliano Riley Jason Steven Vince Nancy Marcus Michael Valletta Hope Tannenbaum Todd Cymbol Mickey Carter James Greebel Graeme Egan Kristina Bittner Jose Villavicencio Santiago Figueroa Pamela Feuer Martin Gruber Rudolf Von Bartesch Douglas Fechter Neil Mellen Paul Low John Truehart Joshua Rosenblatt Jonathan Leitner Celeste Evans Carrie Liaskos Thad Buzolich Sean Harvey Ana Bertuna Nicolas Walon Stephen Kirshen Christine Weston
bikeMS@msnyc.org
$6,820 $6,370 $6,340 $6,235 $6,169 $6,158 $6,090 $6,026 $5,950 $5,856 $5,779 $5,760 $5,672 $5,560 $5,555 $5,513 $5,450 $5,425 $5,410 $5,385 $5,156 $5,100 $5,051 $4,971 $4,873 $4,750 $4,715 $4,691 $4,630 $4,570 $4,485 $4,485 $4,395 $4,373
bikeMSnyc.org
14.
Bike MS 2013 Elite 200 Club Members 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 81. 82. 83. 84. 85. 86. 87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 98. 99. 100. 101. 102.
15.
David Brown Steven Eggelhoefer Roseanne Macari Catherine Tsigakos Pete Hayes Trang Nguyen Amiel Peretz Ben Friedman Michael Blumenthal Veronica McTiernan Fanni Koszeg Carole Gambello Paul Gutman Harris Ferrell Stephen Varvaro James Toczylowski Scott Perlmutter Eleonora Walczak Curtis Harris Andrew Persampire Gabriel de Kock Anthony Cavanna Jason Holzman Robert Calhoun Amanda Nichols Michael Baudo David Gropper Scott Testa Steven Goldstein Norman Bender Donald Asch Jeff Zimmerman Thomas Nofi William Spitz
$4,310 $4,275 $4,255 $4,245 $4,190 $4,164 $4,060 $4,031 $4,030 $4,005 $4,000 $3,976 $3,941 $3,915 $3,890 $3,875 $3,770 $3,755 $3,725 $3,725 $3,697 $3,685 $3,667 $3,660 $3,634 $3,631 $3,610 $3,525 $3,519 $3,513 $3,500 $3,485 $3,470 $3,470
bikeMSnyc.org
103. 104. 105. 106. 107. 108. 109. 110. 111. 112. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118. 119. 120. 121. 122. 123. 124. 125. 126. 127. 128. 129. 130. 131. 132. 133. 134. 135. 136.
Joseph Ierace Anupama Naidu John Kasarda Laurent Baud Peter Lewis Peter Smith Jeremy Lewis Adam Lekach Shaun Budnik Kenneth Ilgner David Bilmas Michael Traverso Douglas Klion Stephen Wylen Marek Brzozowski Michael Sherman Akis Voreadis Joel Kress Luke Cohen Mina Kim Matt Lewis Michael Fleming Louis Pastina Rondi Loganzo Edwin Follett Lia Levenson Rabiah Coon Pooya Tavana Greg Selling Peter Skae Ronnie Glenn Dave Rutz John Boyles Lakshman Misra
bikeMS@msnyc.org
$3,420 $3,405 $3,395 $3,380 $3,370 $3,365 $3,295 $3,292 $3,270 $3,263 $3,263 $3,250 $3,245 $3,243 $3,240 $3,195 $3,181 $3,160 $3,153 $3,145 $3,050 $3,041 $3,040 $3,009 $2,970 $2,970 $2,945 $2,940 $2,935 $2,925 $2,900 $2,895 $2,875 $2,875
212-463-9791
Bike MS 2013 Elite 200 Club Members 137. 138. 139. 140. 141. 142. 143. 144. 145. 146. 147. 148. 149. 150. 151. 152. 153. 154. 155. 156. 157. 158. 159. 160. 161. 162. 163. 164. 165. 166. 167. 168. 169. 170.
Damian Park Jeannie Senior Jody Steinglass Cindy Quan Lee Einbinder Matthew Liste Willem Sutherland Alexandra Stathis Russell Kolbert Yolanda Lopez Rachel Gordon Michael Novich Jo Garnett David Rabbiner Sean Murdoch Eric Hoffert Joe Smith Marc McKenzie Sharon Weinberg Edina Cavalli Caris Vujcec Cecilia Manzolillo Frank Long Edgar Bautista Lisa Lubart Jonathan Pirog Paul Schnell Joe Soileau Leonard Van Orden John Montalto Dennis Waldman Patrick Barth Leon Frankel Frances Karamouzis
212-463-9791
$2,875 $2,870 $2,841 $2,805 $2,800 $2,800 $2,787 $2,775 $2,761 $2,760 $2,725 $2,682 $2,655 $2,641 $2,631 $2,610 $2,604 $2,570 $2,570 $2,560 $2,550 $2,526 $2,525 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,485 $2,485 $2,470 $2,456 $2,453
171. Alan Frankel 172. Howard Greenstein 173. Natalie King 174. Patrick Connolly 175. Betsy Mantell 176. Peter Susser 177. Gabriel Zimmerman 178. Dan Smith 179. Stephen Brown 180. Delores Rubin 181. Daniel Hopkins 182. Theodore Silver 183. Christine Metaxas 184. Jennifer Ropiak 185. Khin Mee Wong Chan 186. Joseph Sgagliardich 187. Nancy Gleason 188. Ryan Million 189. Robin Crickmore 190. Paige Maire 191. Henry Richmond 192. Robbi Nagel 193. Adam Broman 194. Kevin Odell 195. Mary Scotto 196 Rebecca Smith 197. Wendy Wels 198. Kimberly Andron 199. Alice Silverstein 200. Sonia Branigan
bikeMS@msnyc.org
$2,427 $2,427 $2,396 $2,395 $2,395 $2,393 $2,390 $2,385 $2,355 $2,355 $2,340 $2,327 $2,315 $2,300 $2,285 $2,265 $2,250 $2,250 $2,226 $2,195 $2,195 $2,180 $2,175 $2,175 $2,170 $2,160 $2,156 $2,139 $2,122 $2,110
bikeMSnyc.org
16.
Volunteers We could not put on Bike MS NYC without the support of our volunteers. Please tell your friends and family who are not planning to ride that they can still volunteer on the day of the event. There are many perks of being a volunteer: » Commemorative volunteer T-shirt. » Chance to meet new people. » Opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people living with MS. » Opportunity to take on a vital leadership role by becoming a Volunteer Captain!
» WHAT IS A VOLUNTEER CAPTAIN? Volunteer Captains go that extra mile that makes the New York City – Southern New York Chapter’s events the best! Volunteer Captains help the day run smoother by managing the logistics and volunteer on the Food Team, Registration Team, and Information Team. Volunteer Captains add an extra level of expertise, going above and beyond to learn what goes on behind the scenes, while working with amazing staff and volunteers who are all here to help create a world free of MS.
Contact NYCSNY.Volunteer@nmss.org or call 212-463-9791.
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bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Official Bike Shops and Bike Safety Whether you need new equipment or expert advice, you will find everything you need at Bike MS NYC Official Bike Shops. A current list of bike shop partners is available on our website at bikeMSnyc.org.
INTERESTED IN GETTING YOUR LOCAL BIKE SHOP INVOLVED? EMAIL US AT BIKEMS@MSNYC.ORG OR CALL 212-463-9791 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
» BIKE SAFETY The National MS Society and Bike MS NYC is committed to providing a quality cycling experience by enforcing safety precautions while ensuring that all participants enjoy a fun experience. For this reason, tips on group riding, bike maintenance, managing road hazards and cycling rules of the road have been included. It is our hope that you will find this information useful and easy to incorporate into all your cycling experiences.
» RULES OF THE ROAD » All participants must wear a helmet! » Know and obey all traffic laws: stop at red lights, obey signs, observe speed limits, and follow lane
markings. Cyclists in New York State have the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicle operators. » Stay to the right, a few feet from the shoulder, and only pass on the left. » Cycle with traffic, never against it. » Never ride more than two abreast. » Watch out for metal plates, potholes and cobblestones in the road which can cause falls - especially in wet weather. » Bike MS NYC is not a race, ride at your own controllable speed. » Respect marshals and officials on the route. They are there for your safety. » Headphones, cell phones, radios and similar radio devices are not permitted while riding. » Visit bikeMSnyc.org for more important safety tips and dates for upcoming bicycle maintenance clinics!
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
bikeMSnyc.org
18.
Training » YOUR RESPONSIBILITY IN A PACK IS TO: » Be aware of others around you. » Communicate well in advance. Use gestures in combination with verbal commands. » Ride with your head up. Look down the road ahead of you; not at the person in front of you. » Maintain control and speed of your bike, even when going downhill. » Know your limits. Accidents can occur when inexperienced riders do not have bike-handling skills
to make quick decisions in a pack. If you are new to riding in a large group, start at the back of the line-up to make everyone more comfortable. » Keep safety your top priority! Expect to stop at all red lights and stop signs—it is the law! Each cyclist is responsible for ensuring that an intersection is clear. » Adjust your safety zone to fit the conditions of the road, weather and traffic. » Never overlap your wheels with another cyclist. » Be aware of how weather will affect your bike. Riding in wet conditions requires slower speeds and greater breaking distances. » Be respectful of other riders. Help others when needed.
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bikeMSnyc.org
bikeMS@msnyc.org
212-463-9791
Training It is important that you prepare your body and bike to complete the ride, by training consistently and adhering to all safety precautions. Bike MS NYC has once again teamed up with GP Sports and Nutrition to provide training ride opportunities for all participants. Training rides will include a brief safety seminar before the ride begins and have a no-rider-left-behind policy. All levels of cyclists are encouraged to attend the training rides. Training rides will be offered in New York City and the Southern New York region. Please continue to check our website for up to date training information: www.bikeMSnyc.org. The Training Guy, Michael Pagano, is a Bike MS NYC Committee Chair and avid cyclist. An expert on bicycle routes in the Southern New York region, Michael will host weekly training rides and serve as a helpful resource for training tips and bicycle maintenance. Be sure to check out The Training Guy on Facebook for more information about upcoming training rides. Please check the Bike MS NYC website for more detailed information on training ride dates, locations and updates because they are subject to change. Please note, training ride dates are subject to
change, always check the website for updates before attending a ride. *GP Sports and the National MS Society are not liable for any injuries that may occur from any incidents or loss/damage of any equipment. All cyclists should be prepared for the unexpected. It is important to carry spare tubes, water bottles and snacks while riding. Basic skills such as changing a flat tire and riding in groups will be taught at all training rides hosted by GP Sports and Nutrition. All riders, regardless of experience, should know how to change a flat and ride in a large group before committing to Bike MS NYC.
Can’t attend any of the above training rides? Visit the training page on our website today to learn about Training Peaks, an interactive, Web-based training log and food diary designed to help individuals achieve their health and fitness goals. Subscriptions to the basic edition are FREE to our cyclists, who have the opportunity to download custom-written cycling training plans for beginner and intermediate cyclists.
212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
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What to Expect » START LINE The start line is an energetic, fun-filled area with fellow riders who are excited about the event. Early arrival is suggested so you will have time to turn in additional donations, eat a light breakfast and secure your spot in the lineup. Note: there will be NO packet pick-up the morning of the ride.
Arriving participants should go straight to the start line down the West Side Highway.
» ROUTE Bike MS NYC offers various route options for cyclists of all levels. All routes are fully supported and complete with rest stops, bike mechanic support, gear, vehicles and first-aid stations. All riders must maintain a minimum speed. Participants who are not able to maintain this speed will be picked up by our route support. Please visit www.bikeMSnyc.org for the minimum speed requirements.
PLEASE NOTE: Participants aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied by a guardian. NO tagalongs, trailers, youth bike seats or carriers will be permitted. Tandem bikes will be permitted as long as both riders are physically able to pedal the bike and are 12 years of age or older. Both riders must register, have a rider bib and have met the fundraising minimum by the weekend of the ride.
» Visit the www.bikeMSnyc.org for up to date details about all of the route options. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO PEDAL THE ROUTE? Beginner cyclists pedal at about 10 miles per hour on a flat road. Intermediate cyclists in good physical condition ride at approximately 15 miles per hour. Racers and advanced cyclists cruise at more than 20 miles per hour. These speeds are estimates and do not include rest stops or mandatory stops.
FINISH LINE Crossing the finish line is an incredible accomplishment and we intend to help you celebrate! After you complete the ride, be sure to get your medal, check in your bike at the mandatory bike parking area and enjoy the finish line festival. The festival will include a sponsor expo, food and beverages, music and VIP perks for Top Fundraisers and teams.
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Team Captain Info Helpful Team Recruitment and Fundraising Tips!
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Letter from a Team Captain My name is David Greenstein, and I have lived with MS for 29 years. Prior to my diagnosis, I was always physically active, but as my MS progressed, the list of activities I could participate in was severely diminished. Fortunately, two years ago I was introduced to the sport of hand cycling which changed my life! Having been stuck working out indoors in a gym for many years; I am now able to participate in an outdoor activity that is both physically challenging and quite social. I’d completed two marathons on my hand cycle and was looking for another challenging event last year, when it seemed like Bike MS New York City was a natural fit. I decided to start a team and share my new found passion with my friends and family, and raise money for research to find a cure for the disease I have been battling. I reached into my “email rolodex” and blasted out an email titled, “Come Ride With Me!” and officially launched team “Tire Guys”. The entire experience was so rewarding. Opening my email each day brought exciting news as friends and family signed up to participate. Their fundraising efforts and generosity were mind blowing. In the end, team “Tire Guys” had more than 30 participants and raised more than $27,000 and was named rookie team of the year! Also, as a first year team captain, the chapter staff was very helpful in guiding me through the process. There were many highlights throughout the journey such as the resourcefulness of the children of family friends using social media to raise money and awareness. However, the most memorable day for me was the actual day of Bike MS NYC. It was a beautiful Sunday in October, when I, with family and friends at my side, rode the extraordinary 30 mile course around the island of Manhattan. The chapter was able to have both the FDR Drive and the West Side Highway closed to traffic, affording the cyclists once in a life time vistas. It was a dream come true. After many years of being confined to just indoor activities, I could feel the wind in my face again, with my family and friends by my side on the open roads. David Greenstein Team Captain of Tire Guys
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Recruit For Your Team Bike MS NYC teams must consist of three or more people but there is no limit to the number of team members they can include. Here are some tips to recruit for your team:
» Encourage team members to recruit at least one family member, friend or colleague to grow your team. » Post on Twitter and Facebook to let people know you are doing the event and to join your team. » Host a happy hour, or work lunch to promote your team and invite everyone you know to attend » If you are a returning team captain, start with your team roster from previous years, which can be provided to you by the Bike MS staff. » Hang team posters at the gym, workplace or your local dry cleaners. Include your team name and contact information. » Ask your company to support your team. You can spread the word by highlighting your team in the company newsletter or by posting Bike MS NYC materials around the office. » Send an email with our Bike MS NYC Recruitment video to anyone that might be interested in joining your team. The video is available at www.bikeMSnyc.org.
Need recruitment materials? Contact the Bike MS NYC staff at bikems@msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791 to order supplies such as posters, rack cards and “join my team” business cards.
TICKET TO RIDE
Recruit your friends and family members to participate in their FIRST Bike MS NYC event and we will provide a code for their FREE registration. Please contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org or call 212-453-3228 for more information. * Two registrations per team are allowed and the $150 fundraising minimum must be met in order to participate.
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Team Benefits and Rewards » Each team has their own team website in their Participant Center. Update it with a photo of your
team and your story of why you riding » Opportunity to participate in team contests and incentives » Team meeting area at Bike MS NYC » Team photo at Bike MS NYC » Eligibility to have your own spot in the Super or Elite Team areas » Form a corporate team and promote your company by wearing matching team jerseys » Team Spirit Award: Try to win the most spirited award by dressing up on event day in costume or create a team jersey or T-shirt to distinguish your team
TEAM CAPTAIN RECRUITMENT WEEKS Team Captain Recruitment Week #1: June 17-21 Team Captain Recruitment Week #2: August 19-23 Win amazing prizes for your team by fundraising and recruiting. Your chances of winning are greater than you might think!
» WIN A TEAM AWARD Awards will be given to the following teams at the Recognition Ceremony in winter 2014: » #1 Corporate Team » #1 Friends and Family Team » Top Fundraising Average » Credit/Debit Challenge (top accounting firm team) » Rookie Team of the year (first year team) » Most Improved Veteran Fundraising Team
For more information on any of the awards or prizes, contact teams@msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791, option 3.
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Team Benefits and Rewards » SUPER TEAMS Celebrate your team’s success at the exclusive Super Team area located at the finish line of Bike MS NYC. Teams that commit to raising $15,000-$39,999 can reserve a private, seated area for their team members to meet after their ride.
» ELITE TEAMS Elite Teams are teams that commit to raising $40,000 or more and receive an exclusive, private area with bag check to meet and enjoy breakfast the morning of the ride.
DUE TO EQUIPMENT RENTAL AND SIGNAGE ORDERS, TEAM CAPTAINS MUST RESERVE A SPOT IN THE SUPER OR ELITE TEAM AREAS BY AUGUST 23, 2013. THE FUNDRAISING TOTAL IS TO BE RAISED BY THE NOVEMBER 8, 2013 FUNDRAISING AND RANKING DEADLINE.
We highly encourage both Super and Elite Team to decorate, show team spirit and celebrate your team’s achievements in these coveted private areas! Honors will be given to the best decorated Super Team and Elite Team area.
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Top 2012 Bike MS NYC Teams 2012 Ranking Team Name
Captain(s)
Total Raised
1 Barclays Chain Gang Paige Maire, Temmy Lizarzabal
$133,033
2 JPMorgan Chase Jeff Matusow, Ryan Rugg $108,626 Shapiro, Fran Pak, Rob Moore, Maria Krasnovsky, Daniel Ivezaj, David Fucio, Matthew Applegate 3 Goldman Sachs Patricia Gagliano, Cindy Quan, $104,504 Winston Crowley 4
ING Bike Team
Edgar Bautista
$57,627
5 Team in Motion Hope Tannenbaum, Henry Richmond 6
Nizer’s Riders
Andrew Tunick, Peter Smith
$54,233 $53,175
7 Morgan Stanley Bike Team Sean Murdoch, Yared Yawand- $52,848 Wossen, Kate Waters, Lisa Lebowitz 8 Credit Suisse Lyndsay Boelsen, Christian Vardeleon, Danielle Milota, Anthony Cavanna
$44,806
9 Team Skae Power/New Leaf Mairin McPartland, Peter Skae, $41,783 Denise Windram, Hannah Murphy 10
Bloomberg
Julisa Marmolejos
$40,126
» 2012 TEAM AWARDS » Top Friends and Family Team: Team in Motion » Top Corporate Team: Barclays Chain Gang » Top Fundraising Average: Heidi’s Riders 27.
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» Rookie Team of the Year: Tire Guys » Most Improved Veteran Fundraising Team: Noah's Team » Credit/ Debit Challenge: KPMG
bikeMS@msnyc.org
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Frequently Asked Questions IS THERE A MINIMUM FUNDRAISING REQUIREMENT? Yes. The fundraising minimum is $150. This is in addition to the registration fee. All riders are required to fulfill their $150 minimum prior to participating in Bike MS NYC. Pending matching gifts will not count toward the $150 fundraising minimum.
WHERE DO I SEND MY DONATIONS? Checks should be made payable to Bike MS New York City. Remember to put your name and account number in the memo section of each check so we can credit your Bike MS account. Your account number is located on the mailing label of this participant guide and on the home page of your online Participant Center. Send to: National Multiple Sclerosis Society Attn: Bike MS NYC P.O. Box 10123 Uniondale, NY 11555-0123
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY RIDER MATERIALS IN THE MAIL? All participants must raise a minimum of $150 by Friday, September 20, 2013 to receive rider materials in the mail. We encourage you to make sure your address is current in our system before September 20, 2013. Note: we cannot guarantee the USPS delivery to you. If you raised $150 by September 20, 2013, and have not received your materials two days prior to the ride, you will need to attend a Packet Pick-Up day. Please note: If you are mailing donations to be counted toward the September 20 mailing deadline, they must be postmarked no later than Friday, September 6.
ARE DONATIONS TAX DEDUCTIBLE AND HOW DO I GET A RECEIPT? Yes. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Your cleared check serves as your receipt for those giving by check and your confirmation email will serve as your receipt for those giving online by credit card. Donors giving $250 or more will automatically receive an acknowledgement from the National MS Society by the end of 2013. Please note donations are non-refundable
and non-transferrable. The tax ID# of the NYC – Southern NY Chapter of the National MS Society is 13-2835721. Official 501(c)(3) letters and W-9 forms are available by request.
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Frequently Asked Questions HOW LONG AFTER I SEND IN A CHECK DOES IT TAKE TO SHOW UP ON MY PERSONAL WEB PAGE? Donations made online are immediately posted to your account and will appear on your web page at the time of the donation. Donations that are mailed prior to the event can take two to four weeks to appear on your web page. Donations submitted on the day of the event can take up to six weeks to appear on your webpage. To avoid the wait, encourage your donors to sponsor you online where it is safe and easy.
WHAT IS A TOP FUNDRAISER? A top fundraiser is an individual who raises $1,000 or more for Bike MS NYC. Top Fundraisers who reach $1,000 or more by event day will receive the special Top Fundraiser T-shirt and an invitation for them and a guest to join us in the Top Fundraiser Lounge. All participants who raise $1,000 or more by the post-event fundraising deadline are eligible to receive a Bike MS NYC commemorative jersey.
WHAT IS THE ELITE 200 CLUB? The Elite 200 Club is an honor awarded to our top 200 fundraisers from the previous year's Bike event. These 200 individuals have exhibited outstanding fundraising achievements that deserve to be recognized. The Elite 200 Club enjoys an entire year of special perks and prizes. See page 13 for more details.
Âť TEAM INFORMATION CAN MY TEAM HAND IN ALL OUR DONATIONS WITH OUR TEAM CAPTAIN? No. All donations must be handed in individually. Every participant is required to raise a minimum of $150 in order to be able to ride in Bike MS NYC. Fundraising incentives are based on individual fundraising success.
HOW MANY PEOPLE DO I HAVE TO HAVE ON MY TEAM? Teams must consist of at least three members, including the team captain, to receive any team recognition, awards and prizes.
WHEN WILL I GET MY TEAM PHOTO? Team photos will be available on the Bike MS NYC website two to three weeks after the event.
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Frequently Asked Questions » EVENT INFORMATION WHAT IF IT RAINS? Bike MS NYC takes place rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather conditions, routes may be altered or cancelled. These decisions are made prior to, and/or on the day of the event. We encourage you to check our website the weekend of your ride for updated information.
WHERE CAN I PARK MY CAR ON THE DAY OF BIKE MS NYC? You can find parking lot locations by neighborhood and estimated costs at http://nyc.bestparking.com/. We highly recommend that riders use public transportation and carpool, as many roads will be closed on the day of Bike MS NYC and there is limited parking near the start and finish lines.
WHAT DO I DO IF I GET A FLAT TIRE? We recommend all participants know basic safety and repair skills. Be prepared and bring your own pump and extra tubes for your bike. However, if you are still unable to make the repair, marshals and support vehicles accompany riders along all routes. Should you need assistance, just let one of the marshals know.
» GENERAL QUESTIONS IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN BIKE MS? Yes. Participants must be at least 12 years of age in order to ride. If you are registering a minor aged 12 to 17, you will need to register offline with a form that must be accompanied by the Bike MS NYC notarized waiver. Participants ages 12 to 17 must be accompanied by a guardian. NO tagalongs, trailers, youth bike seats or carriers will be permitted. Tandem bikes will be permitted as long as BOTH riders are physically able to pedal the bike, are registered, have met the fundraising minimum and have rider bibs. EVERY RIDER, REGARDLESS OF AGE, MUST MEET THE $150 FUNDRAISING MINIMUM IN ORDER TO RIDE.
HOW CAN I CONTACT THE BIKE MS STAFF? You can contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791.
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About Multiple S clerosis Multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system, interrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with at least two to three times more women than men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects over 2.1 million people worldwide.
» ABOUT THE NEW YORK CITY - SOUTHERN NEW YORK CHAPTER The New York City – Southern New York Chapter of the National MS Society is committed to helping the 10,000 people living with multiple sclerosis in the five boroughs and Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange and Sullivan counties continue moving their lives forward. The chapter raises funds locally to support the Society’s critical research initiatives and to provide hundreds of comprehensive support services and educational programs for people living with MS, their families and friends.
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Where the Money Goes Funds raised through Bike MS NYC will go toward our NOW initiative to fund more cutting-edge research than ever before. We have embarked on a $250 million dollar research revolution. Through the NOW campaign we will: STOP the progression of MS in its tracks; RESTORE function that has been lost; and END the disease forever. With your participation and support in Bike MS NYC, we can make a bold commitment to do more NOW. Funds raised will also go toward local programs and services for those living with MS and their families – this includes educational conferences, newly diagnosed retreats, recreational programs, employment seminars, care management, and more.
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
Early and ongoing treatment with FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your healthcare professional and contacting the National MS Society at nationalMSsociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHT-MS).
80 cents of every dollar raised in the New York City - Southern New York Chapter is spent addressing the challenges of each person whose life is affected by MS.
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Upcoming Events Climb to the Top presented by:
March 2014
www.climbMSnyc.org
June 15, 2013
www.muckfestMS.com
Race to Stop MS .
September 7-8, 2013 .
www.raceMSnyc.org
MSchallengewalkcapecod.org
www.walkMSnyc.org
April 2014
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Upcoming Events
June 3, 2013
June 20, 2013
8th Annual
September 18, 2013
October 7, 2013
Check out other fundraising events hosted by the New York City - Southern NY Chapter. Find out more information at www.msnyc.org 212-463-9791
bikeMS@msnyc.org
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New York City 2013
733 Third Ave. Third Floor New York, NY 10017
THANK YOU TO OUR OFFICIAL SPONSORS
SPONSORSHIPS AS OF 5.1.13
THANK YOU FOR REGISTERING FOR BIKE MS NYC 2013! Visit www.bikeMSnyc.org for Bike MS information, event tools and resources. Log in to your account and set up your personal fundraising web page, create your email campaign and monitor your fundraising progress. Fundraising is the most important part of your participation in Bike MS, so don’t wait, start now! If you are not receiving emails from Bike MS, please contact us at 212-463-9791 or bikeMS@msnyc.org to update your account.
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID New York, NY Permit No. 2955