November 2003 Update Index
Report on the Cave Creek Bike Tour 2003
TUMACACORI 2003, A Huge Success!
October Meeting Raffle Winners
Come Help With The Big Parade!
Words from Steve: A Busy Month for GABA
Become a League Certified Instructor (LCI)
Interested in a Long Sleeve Jersey
Tandems and Recumbents Workshop
GABAs Annual Holiday Season Pot Luck Party!
El Tour Bike Patrol Needed for El Tour XXI
Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure 2003 Grand Canyon to Mexico Tour
Thanks to the 2003 Ride Crew And others!
Bike Swap Committee Pizza Party!
Visit the GABA Table at the Bike Swap
GABA-Tucson Slate of Officers for the 2004 Board
Report on the Cave Creek Bike Tour 2003
by C. Michael Thompson
On a beautiful weekend in October, 54 cyclists supported by 3 GABA volunteers tackled the 42-mile route to Cave Creek Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains of Arizona.
After checking in at Road Forks, NM, they set off south into some headwinds that would make the day a challenge. Relishing the first long descent to SAG Stop 1, they were greeted by SAG hostess extraordinaire Mary Anne Facelli. It was impossible to get away still hungry or thirsty with Mary Anne in charge.
The riders headed on refreshed, with Ray Rai, our baggage truck driver, greeting them at SAG 2 where they turned toward the small town of Portal. Crossing back into Arizona at some unmarked line, they started the gradual climb up toward the canyon. The Portal Store was a popular stop for lunch, with freshly-baked pies and other delights helping them prepare for the last short climb up to the evening's destination, the Southwest Research Station of the American Museum of Natural History (http://research.amnh.org/swrs/).
Ray greeted them and distributed baggage as the tired cyclists found their bunks and wandered around the cool, green grounds. A few even enjoyed the brisk, spring-fed pool! We gathered around before dinner for an informal mixer and enjoyed a fascinating talk by the new station director, Dawn Wilson. In addition to a brief history of the research station, she shared some of her research results concerning turtles. Who would have ever known they were so active and fascinating to study!
After enjoying the dinner prepared by the cooking staff and volunteers, we were treated to an outstanding picture presentation by Bill Ogroski. Bill is a tour veteran who has written about the tour in the GABA and research station newsletters. He documented many of the tour riders in their habitat on Saturday as well as some of the local flora and fauna which abounded all around us. Bill will be making his digital pictures available to the riders who may want to view them again and share with friends and family.
After retiring on Saturday evening to prepare for the ride back, we awoke to a delicious breakfast to prepare us for the day ahead. Since the wind had died down, the riders were in high spirits for the return ride.
After a long downhill from the canyon, the riders were once again treated with 2 SAG stops and a long climb before the last easy 10 miles back to the finish. Nearly everyone had positive comments about the ride and many will be back next year. It was a great success and I would like to thank my support staff, Mary Anne Facelli and Ray Rai. They have already volunteered to help with future rides and come with my highest recommendation. Make you reservations early next year if you want to do this wonderful ride!
TUMACACORI 2003, A Huge Success!
By Pat & Dennis James, (The Jamesgang) Ride Organizers
It was an excellent ride this year, with great weather and nearly 400 riders! The route was well-marked and all cyclists had a great time! We would like to express our appreciation to all of you who participated in this year's Tumacacori Century.
Thanks to those who volunteered their time on this year's ride:
Sag #1: Dick Forcier, Donna Aversa and Carole Leiker;
Sag #2: Kay & Tom Wagner;
Sag #3: Mark & Sheryl Levine;
- Registration: Janet Landis, Helen Greer, Elisabeth Uebel, Grace Schnakenberg, Connie Ayers, Cheryl & Chris Mueller;
- Mechanic: Patrick Uebel;
- Sweep: Bob Murphy -- thanks for your extra effort, Bob, taking time off work to pick up sag supplies at the GABA storage, and keeping all the sag stations filled up with water and ice.
- Misc. help: Ron Fullerton volunteered for last minute rescue of tubs to cool down sodas and helped us set up the lunch area.
See you next year!
October Meeting Raffle Winners
By Ram Salcedo, Bike Shops Coordinator
This month, thanks to Frank Cook & crew at Ajo Bikes for donating the door prizes won by Bob Bolt, Mike Burdick and Jim Carley.
It was a well attended meeting with a great slide show by Steve Wilson & Donna Lewandowski on their cycling trip in France.
See you in November!
How to Buy a Used Bike
by Richard E “Rich” Corbett
Certified Instructor & Coach
Well, here you are at the absolute greatest Bike Swap Meet (GABA Tucson's) in the entire west, wanting to buy a good used bike, but you realize you are not sure exactly what to watch for. Color? Tire size? Seat? All wrong! There is an organized way to decide on a used bike and get a sound buy. Read on, as I share decades of experience buying and helping others buy, good used bikes.
Frame
The most important part of a bicycle is the frame. Everything else can be replaced, but the frame is the most expensive part, and in fact is really ‘the bicycle’. The frame needs to fit you, and it needs to be sound.
Check fit by straddling the bike, with feet flat on the ground/floor. You should clear a road bike by 1/2” to 1”, or clear a mountain bike by 2” to 3” (only if you are really going to use it on trails – if not, go for 1” to 2” instead).
Check soundness by closely inspecting all the frame tubes, visually and tactilely. Be systematic, starting at the front, with fork blades, then the head tube, then the top tube, then the down tube, then the seat tube, then the seat stays, and finally, the chain stays. Look for any dents, or cracks in the paint. If you find any, move on to another bike.
Wheels
The second most important parts are the wheels (not the tires). The rims, and the hubs have a lot to do with how easy (or hard) the bike will be to pedal.
As with the frame, check the rims and hubs closely, looking for cracks (they can be very small), and with rims, for dents or bulges. If none are found, then consider the finish – is the finish shiny and unscratched, or does it show signs of a lot a wear?
Crankset
The next most ‘important’ part, in my experience, is the crankset. They are fairly expensive, and they can make a lot of difference in how your bike works.
Look for bent (or excessively worn) chain wheels or crank arms. Back pedal and feel for roughness in the bearings. Grasping both crank arms, try to push them to and fro (this will reveal if the bearings are loose).
Other Parts
The other main parts you want to pay close attention to are the gearing system, and the braking system.
The best way to check the gearing is to ride the bike and shift it through the full range of gear positions, and note if there is undue resistance when shifting, noise, or lags between moving the lever and the derailleur actually shifting.
For brakes, squeeze the levers as far as they will go, and watch the brake pads and the rim as the pads contact the rim. Does the rim move? This is usually a centering adjustment, which is not hard to fix. Are the pads centered on the rim? If not, look for bent or damaged brake caliper arms, or it may simply be an adjustment that is needed.
Saddles can (and probably should) be replaced, as they are very personal. Older ones already on a bike that you buy used are almost certainly not right for you.
Handlebars should be checked for soundness, especially close to where they go through the stem. Width is something else to check. As a general rule, the measurement of the handlebars, from bar end to bar end, should be the same or close to your shoulder width (generally 38 to 40 cm for women, and 40 to 44 cm for men).
These are the main things to take into consideration when you are looking at a used bike.
Oh, and about Color. Well, I like whatever color comes on a good sound bike that has good solid components!
Good luck, and be sure to check all the great buys at the GABA-Tucson Bike Swap Meet, Saturday, November 15th, on 4th Avenue.
Come Help With The Big Parade!
Join The Fiesta Bowl Parade Bicycle Security Team!
By Richard Moeur
The 33rd annual Fiesta Bowl Parade will roll down Central Avenue on Wednesday, December 31st, 2003. The Fiesta Bowl Parade is the single largest spectator event in Arizona, attracting over 400,000 folks every year, and is also rated by USA Today as one of the top parades in the nation. Your bike club is being asked to recruit bicycle mounted security marshals to help ensure that this magnificent event goes as smoothly as always. Come join us kids and see the complex logistics of presenting this extravaganza to all those spectators and a regional TV audience.
What's new this year? There's a new chief of the bicycle marshal posse. Brent Stewart, who so ably managed this task for so many years, has handed off the job to Richard Moeur. Richard pledges to do his best, and is looking for all that great help you all gave Brent in past parades.
Your efforts will be needed from approximately 7 AM until 3 PM. You'll get a free breakfast, some extra items you need to perform your duties (bring your own bikes & helmets, of course), and the satisfaction of a job well done.
Interested? Sign up by e-mailing contact information (name, address, phone number and e-mail address if you have one) to Richard Moeur at rcmoeur@aol.com, or call Richard at (602) 866-3554.
Look forward to seeing you at the parade!
Classifieds
New LeMond Buenos Aires - 51cm seat tube/53.2 top tube. "The soul of the bike is a LeMond geometry frame, made from Reynolds 853 Select, an artful mix of 853 & 525 tubing, crafted by hand in the US. Combined with a carefully chosen selection of Shimano Ultegra/105 and Bontrager Race-Lite wheels, the Buenos Aires is a better ride than Greg ever raced way back when". (LeMond Website) Shimano Ultegra 30/42/52 triple chainring. Asking $1,500 for this $2,000 retail bike. No pedals. Tom Nieman 615-8880 / tjnieman@comcast.net
Words from Steve: A Busy Month for GABA
By Steve Wilson
GABA President
This past month has been a busy one for our overnight and century teams. Coming on the heels of the successful Blue Loop Ride with over 100 riders (and great weather), we just completed the Grand Canyon to Mexico Tour, the Cave Creek Ride, and the Tumacacori Century.
The Grand Canyon to Mexico Tour was once again under the excellent leadership of Pam Cullop. This year's ride had 121 riders from 22 states and 2 foreign countries (Canada and Belgium). Outside of a few afternoon breezes and some warm weather the days were sunny and nice. It's hard to beat the scenery along the 500-mile route, and the 25,000 ft of climbing makes for a nice workout. This year's assistant ride leader, Dorothy Barth, will be taking over as ride leader for 2004. Preparations are under way for next year's ride and the first flyer announcing the ride will be available shortly.
Mike Thompson led this year's Cave Creek weekend ride, which was attended by 60 riders. This scenic ride in the Chiricahua Mountains once again featured superb weather and the unique experience of staying at the Southwest Research Center. We've had lots of good feedback on this overnight ride and are already in the planning stages for next year. We're trying to work this out for next year so it won't conflict with the Grand Canyon to Mexico Tour so you can do both if you'd like.
The Tumacacori Century may have been a record breaker. Approximately 400 riders participated in the event. Pat and Dennis James and their team of volunteers did a great job dealing with the huge turnout. It only took a few extra trips to the Subway store to bring over the 70 feet or so of sub sandwiches consumed by the hungry riders. This is a popular pre-El Tour century and a great one to do as your first century.
Speaking of El Tour, about 120 riders have been joining us each week for the El Tour training rides. This year's option of both East and West side rides has proven popular, and we'll look to continue it next year. If you do all the training rides you will have done the virtually the entire El Tour route.
Finally, the GABA Swap Meet will be held again the Saturday before El Tour. Come and join us on 4th Avenue on Nov. 15th for this popular community-wide event. There is no cost to participate (either as a seller or buyer). It's a great time to unload unneeded bikes and parts, and to search for good bargains. Several local bike shops attend and offer special deals. Attendance has been around 5,000 at the past several Swap Meets. Look for more information in this issue of the Update. Greg Yares is again organizing the event.
I'd like to say a special thanks to all of the volunteers who help to put on our rides and events. Without you, they would not be possible. Thanks!
Become a League Certified Instructor (LCI)
in Bicycling Skills & Safety
Do you enjoy helping others learn about bicycling? Do other bicyclists look to you as an example? Do you want to learn more about teaching others (street and highway) bicycling skills? If so, this Seminar may be for you! The League of American Bicyclists is offering a two-day training Seminar to become an instructor in January. It will be held in the Phoenix area January 17-18, 2004, if enough students sign up. The minimum class size is 10 people, and Phoenix has almost that many spoken for, so it should be a "go".
Richard Corbett of Tucson will be Trainer for the Seminar. Well known in Arizona cycling for more than two decades, he has conducted several previous LCI Seminars, many BikeEd courses, teaches at Pima Community College (20 years in 2004), and works full-time as a Transportation Planning Manager.
This Seminar will prepare you to teach adults, as well as children. The Seminar does not teach technical skills, but focuses on developing specific skills associated with instructing. Because of this, all participants must bring a knowledgeable vehicular cycling background to the Seminar, take and pass the Road I Course (see below), and pass a pre-Seminar exam. The Road I courses are available in Phoenix, go to www.cazbike.com web site for Road I fees, scheduled class dates and locations.
Successful completion of the Instructor Seminar will result in certification as a League Cycling Instructor (LCI). Standard BikeEd courses taught by LCIs include: Road I, Road II, Motorist Education, Commuting, Kids I, and Kids II. For more details on these courses, visit the League's website at: www.bikeleague.org/educenter/ courses.htm
Other benefits of the Instructor certification Seminar include insurance coverage through the League of American Bicyclists for any material taught, in any setting, and listing on the League website as an LCI. See the list of other Instructors in your area at www.bikeleague.org/instructors/index.cfm
You must be a member of the League of American Bicyclists ($30 per year) to take this Seminar. The Seminar cost is $175 for the registration and Seminar materials, and is not refundable. The materials include the Effective Cycling book and video plus Instructor materials. Registration and payment is due no later than 6 weeks before the Seminar (December 13, 03). This will allow you adequate time to review the materials, practice the skills, and take the self-examination and mail it to the Trainer. For details on the LCI class requirements, visit www.bikeleague.org/educenter/seminars.htm and www.bikeleague.org/educenter/pre_seminar_info.htm
Taking the Road I Course for technical bicycling skills before taking the LCI Seminar is required. The Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists is offering classes in Phoenix on October 25, November 22 and December 27 from 7 AM to 6 PM. They are also in need of Instructors to teach coalition adults and kids safety classes. Visit their website at www.cazbike.com for details.
If you have questions or would like more information, contact:
Kathy Hendricks , Site Coordinator
(480) 235-5052
or khendricks@flusol.com
or
Richard Corbett, Seminar Trainer
(520) 623-0017
or kc7ovm@dakotacom.net
Interested in a Long Sleeve Jersey?
By Sue Wenberg
Trying to ride all day and still keep out of the sun? After a few too many trips to the dermatologist, I am looking for a cool long-sleeved jersey to ride in. The one I want is only available in bulk orders of 15.
Here are the details: Coolmax long-sleeved jersey with an 18-inch front zipper, three rear pockets, and rear reflective tape. Blue. Unisex sizes S-4X. $31 each.
We'll get them by Christmas, if the order is in by Nov. 4. I need a commitment of 15 people to order them. Call 326-7891 or E-mail swdctucson@aol.com if you want one.
Tandems and Recumbents Workshop
Tuesday, November 11
Udall Park Ramada #3, 6:30 PM - 8 PM
Tandems and recumbents are wonderful 2- wheeled machines. Find out all the particulars from experts in this hands-on presentation.
We will have experienced riders both showing their bikes and talking about riding skills, bike specifications, costs and benefits of riding a "bike-for-two" and the "fastest bike on two wheels", the recumbent.
Refreshments served; bring your appetite and questions. Ramada #3 is the first Ramada you see right next to the parking lot.
Education Coordinator, Dick Schaffer, 326-4807 or bikeschaf@aol.com
GABA's Annual Holiday Season Pot Luck Party!
- Monday, December 1, 2003 - 7 PM to 9 PM
Come and join other GABA members in this festive event!
WHERE:
Pima County Medical Society Building
5199 E. Farness
PLEASE BRING A CAN OF FOOD TO BE DONATED TO THE COMMUNITY FOOD BANK!
Join us for our annual Holiday Party where we share great food and stories of our cycling adventures. Bring your favorite holiday dish to share with others. Turkey, ham, rolls and beverages will be provided by the Club.
Bring a favorite salad, a hearthy casserole, an interesting vegetable dish, some finger-licking-good appetizers or a scrumptious dessert; this would make a fine accompaniment to the club-provided entrees. If for any reason you're not able to bring a dish, please come anyway and enjoy the camaraderie of the event!
A special Appreciation Program is planned, including the Club Members Annual Award Ceremony, which includes recognition for Volunteer of the Year, Ride Leaders of the Year, etc. Join us in showing gratitude for all those who give so much of themselves and their time to our club and have helped make this Club one of the best!
For more information, or to offer your help, contact Dorothy Barth, 323-7203, or e-mail at dorothybarth2443@msn.com Everybody is welcome!
"El Tour" Bike Patrol Needed for El Tour XXI
Bike Patrol are experienced cyclists who make the commitment to ride the "El Tour" route assisting cyclists with mechanical and first aid, as well as offering encouragement. It is not a race for them!
Bike Patrols must have a current certification, good for 2 years. To be certified, you must attend a certification class. Sessions run 2 hours. As Bike Patrol, your El Tour registration fee is waived, but a processing fee of $15 (Must be paid before 11/13) is required to cover cost of T-shirt, medical supplies and support on the route. For more information and to register, call PBAA, 745-2033., or www.pbaa.com
Bike Patrol Certification Classes:
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11/13 (Thu) 7 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Skills |
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11/17 (Mon)7 PM - 2692 E. Broadway - Advanced Topics |
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11/18 (Tue) 7 PM - 2609 E. Bdwy -Advanced Mechanics |
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11/21 (Fri) 4:30 PM -Tucson Conv. Ctr -Late & Out of Town Only |
Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure 2003 "Grand Canyon to Mexico" Tour
By Pam Cullop
120 riders representing 22 states, Canada and Belgium converged on the scene at the Best Western Airport Inn in Phoenix, the staging area for the beginning of the Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure.
Ron Hall, hotel manager extraordinaire, and his staff greeted us with a hand-painted sign in the entrance parking lot. Seems that one of the hotel staff is quite the artist! The sign depicting a cyclist, a saguaro, blue skies, sunshine and mountains, with "Welcome GABA", said it all!
The greeting didn't end there. Three large sheet cakes were set up on tables in the Hospitality Room with "GABA 2003" written in icing, along with chairs, plates, forks, crepe paper decorations hanging from the ceiling, a topographical map set up on an easel depicting our route and daily weather forecasts posted on the wall next to the map (all looked clear and warm for the days ahead)!
The moving van arrived early in the morning and bikes began the wrapping and loading process to deliver them unscathed in Tusayan (south entrance to the Grand Canyon) later that afternoon. Next came the charter buses, as well as the manager of Cousins Subs, with boxes full of sack lunches for each person boarding a bus.
The ride crew was at their assigned post, passing out sandwiches, reading material, checking names off the bus roster, loading camp gear on the Ryder truck rental, and motel luggage into the belly of the charter buses. What a sight to see and experience! The excitement was high, the week ahead was just beginning, and we were on our way to the ultimate canyon in the world, the Grand Canyon, and the best adventure two wheels could ask for!
After ride packets were distributed early that evening, the Kick Off Banquet began with a flourish of introductions and announcements. Park ranger and friend to tour mechanics, AJ, filled us in on the wildlife activity we might witness, and park features we might want to visit, having one free day to see them in.
And the Adventure began as each person made his or her own personal connection to the park. Some went by cab, but many rode their bikes to the Canyon Village. Some spent the day riding out to the West Rim, hiking the trails; one couple even made it all of the way down into the Canyon valley and back up in one afternoon. Several went to the IMAX Theater, located in Tusayan. As varied as the way each person spent the day was, the weather was simply beautiful all day long.
Ride Day 1 - Grand Canyon to Gray Mountain
The trip over the road towards the east gate was hampered a bit by unexpected road construction. We were all in it together though and everyone brushed the issue off with an "oh, it wasn't too bad" comment. The weather turned warmer with each hour that ticked by.
There were only three unfortunate incidents this year, two of them happening the first day. One cyclist had a back tire blow out while cruising down Hwy 64 at 43 MPH. He was very fortunate that nothing was broken; the other suffered from a heat-related issue and required some IV fluids to make it right.
After a filling dinner at the Anasazi Restaurant in Gray Mountain, and a short meeting in the motel circle area, everyone hit the hay to rest and be ready for the following day's ride through the Wupatki-Sunset Monument Loop.
Ride Day 2 - Gray Mountain to Flagstaff
This is typically a breezy ride day, and it proved to be true to its nature. While riding the ups and downs of the loop, the elevation was also getting higher and higher, as was the temperature. By the end of the loop, about 2500 feet of elevation had been gained and it was a good workout for the hardiest of cyclists. The evening meal, a huge portion of either vegetarian or meat lasagna topped off with a scrumptious dessert, took the edge off and made way for a good night's rest.
Ride Day 3 - Flagstaff to Payson
I won't lie: this is the day I worried about all year! The weather between Flagstaff and Payson can be pretty wet and chilly this time of the year, but this year, it was not. It was sunny, and warm, the roads were nearly clear of traffic after getting out onto Lake Mary's Road. This is the day for stopping at the pie shop in Strawberry for a piece of their special - Strawberry Pie! I did not check with the new owners, but I find it hard to imagine there were many pies left uneaten by the close of business that day!
Ride Day 4 - Payson to Globe
After a long descent out of Payson, riders continued south along Roosevelt Lake. Just before the new suspended bridge at the Roosevelt Dam, was Sag #1 set up at the perfect place for a great view of this fabulous bridge! A few miles later, riders encountered the major climb of the Tour, a 5-mile climb at 8-9% grade! But, rewards were just over the crest, with a long downhill towards Globe.
This was our first year to spend the night at the Apache Gold Casino, a few miles east of Globe. Dinner was a fabulous array of chicken and pastas, salads and fruits. After dinner we were given a little insight into the Apache Culture when guest-speaker Charlie Stevens, entertained and informed us with tales of his youth and current tribal conditions.
Ride Day 5 - Globe to Tucson
This is the longest, but not necessarily the hottest day of the tour. Most riders were out early, some at first light! Those who had not ridden more than 4 days in a row before this ride, were having a tough time getting their legs to listen!
The third person to face a problem on the tour happened to be my husband Wayne, while traveling through the small town of Catalina. Seems that the driver of the car that totaled his bike, wanted to get into the post office by making an illegal left turn (across 2 lanes) in front of him. Thankfully, this accident did not result in injury.
Following dinner in Tucson, the patio at the Ghost Ranch Lodge was converted into a giant theater. Steve Wilson and his famous slide show of the ride-you-are-now-on, was taking place. Various prizes were awarded including our best one: a donated free ride in the El Tour de Tucson by PBAA (Perimeter Bicycling of America). It was a typical early October evening in Tucson. Warm weather, clear skies, and gentle breezes - it almost felt tropical.
Ride Day 6 - Tucson to Nogales
Hmm, the last day of the ride, is it possible it is nearly over? Another beautiful day, and an early start by many to have an authentic Mexican breakfast at Pepe's on Old Nogales Hwy., an obscure little restaurant complete with a covered patio area for outdoor seating if the smallish interior is too full.
Some folks stopped in to visit one or more the missions along the route, many just made tracks for Nogales US, so they had time to head over the border, and visit Nogales, Mexico. I know one of our Canadians visitors wanted to take his bike into Mexico, so he could say it was a true North American bike, but he was strongly urged to reconsider the temptation.
At the farewell banquet Enrique Franco serenaded us, with several mariachi selections. The Creative Award contest winners (selections by peers) were announced, and prizes awarded. Also awarded were some very nice gifts donated by various bike shops in the Tucson area, as well as various sports vendors.
Sunday, October 4th - Travel Day.
The day began early, as the moving van was to begin loading bikes at 5:30 AM. Breakfast began at 5 AM for all of those who had to be ready to depart early. Once the driver of the van was located in the restaurant, the process began again. Bikes were wrapped, stacked and ready to roll soon.
The Tour leftover food was made available to one and all. We knew the day would be long, the plane food not always good, the car ride home could be non-stop, and we did have leftovers to share.
The charter buses arrived, and made ready to take our anxious crowd back up to Phoenix to catch the early flights home. Bidding farewell, we knew that we would likely never again see the vast majority of the people we have just spent over a week with, and it was a bittersweet parting.
For myself, I am very happy to have had the opportunity to interact with so many caring and engaging individuals. I hope you had a Great Adventure, and that you will share your experience with others, so that they may come and see for themselves the beauty of our state.
God Bless - and keep the rubber side down.
It's Been a Great Adventure!
By Pam Cullop
As the inevitable let-down settles in after months of planning and preparing for the club's largest ride, I remain in a state of euphoria which I know will last long into my future.
I say this every year, and I mean it every year - this was the Best Tour Ever! The Ride Crew was outstanding in their efforts, concern and friendliness, and the participating cyclists were simply fabulous!
This year the weather was quite warm: no rain, no sleet or snow (so much for all of the extra clothes stuffed into my suitcase), and only one day with stiffer-than-appreciated winds.
This being the 5th Tour that I have had the pleasure of "Chairing", brings with its end, a mix of emotion that is difficult to express. I know it is time to "pass the torch" and feel confident that the torch will not falter in the capable hands of my replacement, Dorothy Barth.
I do regret that this was the last year that I will have the pleasure of playing hostess to our "tour guests". It was such a rush of anticipation! At the outset of the adventure, I never know how many interesting and varied people I am going to meet, and what act of fate or what situation is going to place me in the position of learning something very insightful about these persons.
I will miss that part, very, very much! The good times will certainly outweigh any negatives that may have come with the job, and these memories will be cherished always. To all of you, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives, short while as it was. You have certainly touched mine in a way that I will never forget.
Thanks to the 2003 Ride Crew And others!
By Pam Cullop
To those of you who were on the tour this year, you know what a great group of support people you had taking care of you. I feel it important for you to know who this fine group was, as well as those who worked to make it all happen, and to learn just how much effort was given by them to make this ride the premier event that it is. I am proud to have had the pleasure of working with so many fine people this year, and it is my honor to introduce them to you now.
The Ride Crew consisted of two groups.
The first group of the Ride Crew, the Committee, was the planning group.
These are the folks who work all year long to make the tour "happen". My good buddy, Roy Schoonover, began this year as the Ride Chair. He and I have worked countless hours together, over the course of the last two years. Scouting the course, speaking to our host locations for meals, motels and camping, contacting our park permit officials, and generally pulling the ride together in the broadest sense. When Roy's health caused him to step down as Chair, he remained an ever-faithful helper with the tour in planning and as co-Route Scout during the week of the event. Thank You, Roy!
Donna Lewandowski excelled in the Registration Coordinator's position this year. If you were on the tour, you know that it was Donna who corresponded with you, answering each question, alleviating each concern, and supplying you with valuable information to make the ride successful. Thank You, Donna!
Steve Wilson, our ride Treasurer, was also my "sounding board" throughout the year. I sent so many e-mails to Steve, that when I was out of town for a week, upon my return he told me that he knew I was gone, because his In Box had been nearly empty! Steve also worked the tour as the "emcee" for the nightly meetings. Thank You, Steve!
Dorothy Barth, was actually convinced to come on the ride by Steve. He smooth-talked her into taking over the Publicity/Permits/Transportation position, vacated around April or May, with the hopes that she would Chair the ride in 2004.
He suggested that she ride on the tour, since she had not been on it for at least 10 years, to get accustomed to our current route and procedures. I had something different in mind for my Co-Chair, as I feel it is important for that person to see what goes on "behind the scenes" (in one of the "sweep vans") as well as from the saddle of a bike. Dorothy stepped up to the plate, and hit a home run, to use a baseball term for comparison. I only had to ask, (sometimes I didn't even have to do that) and Dorothy was on the spot. Dorothy Barth will do the ride proud next year, as the 2004 Ride Chair. Thank you, Dorothy!
Wayne Cullop, my better half, and club Webmaster has, for the last 5 tours, posted the ride on the website, improving the quality of the posting year after year; compiled all of the data for the brochures and route guides to pass along to our printer, as well as the name lists for the initial brochure mailings, and a myriad of other and plentiful tasks at my request. Those of you, who have been on the tour and seen his name and bike badges, may have noticed "General Flunky" written under his name - well, now you know why. Thank You, Wayne!
The second group of the Ride Crew was the Staff.
These people are the backbone of the ride-in-progress; without them, there would be no ride, or at least, no support on the ride.
Roy Schoonover, as I previously mentioned, was half of the Route Scout position. Barry Callesen was the other half. This job required early risers, and both were up long before any of us would even consider crawling out of bed; dedication to safety when it comes to marking the route with Dan Henry's and yellow GABA boards to make it nearly impossible for anyone to get lost or cycle into unsafe traffic areas, even on the trickiest days; and the flexibility to fill in when needed, on other support functions. Thank you, Barry & Roy!
Early this year, I got a phone call from Joey Barrios, who asked about working the tour as our baggage driver. He told me that he worked the tour several years back for Cheryl Kline. I figured that if he worked for Cheryl, he must be good. I am so glad I went with that "gut feeling".
Not only did Joey do an outstanding job for us, but also we got the very special treat of meeting and working with his friend, Pam Tilden. During a casual conversation with Pam, I was not surprised to discover that she had also been involved with planning several previous Cross State tours in years past, and had also been on the board of directors for the club at one time.
Joey and Pam worked from pre-dawn until late evening each day, packing and unpacking bags for 120 cyclists into the Ryder Truck. Down would come the ramp, up would go the whiteboard notices; out would come the water and Gatorade each morning and afternoon; after the ride, a Social Hour would be set up with chips, sodas and such for hungry cyclists who's appetites had been whetted after the long hours of pedaling each day. All the while, Daisy (faithful canine companion to Pam) would lie obediently under the truck on her "blankie" and wait for Pam to take her for another walk. Thank you, Joey, Pam and Daisy!
We were fortunate enough to have Mo Kitchen back as the "wrench" again this year. We really lucked out because hubby, Mike (aka Mikey), also lent a very capable set of helping hands whenever he was not riding his "bent". Mo and Mike and their sweet little pooch, Katie (who got a vote for Best Female legs), have been a marked asset to the ride in recent years. Keeping busy is the plight of the tour mechanic, but when the person handling your bike always has a generous smile for you, well - you just can't beat that! Thank you, Mo, Mike and Katie!
Radar & Sharon Matt took care of our early morning rest stop (SAG 1), and as usual, all I had to do was ask that they fill in on any other job throughout the week and it was done! Right off the bat, they delayed their start time to the Grand Canyon to help out a couple from NY whose bikes got put into a locked UPS storage locker instead of being delivered to the Best Western in Phoenix, and it never quit from there. Time and time again, we knew we could depend on them for support. Thank you, Radar and Sharon!
Marge Schoonover & Mary Callesen worked the lunch stop (SAG 2). Marge and Mary (M&M as referred to by some) were as efficient and exuberant a pair as you will ever meet! Both were like the Ever Ready bunny - they began the day early, and ended it by setting up and selling ride wear most every evening. Talk about intuitive - all I had to do was to think that something should be done, and one or the other of them would confirm what it was, and offer to take care of it for me. Marge was also my helper when it came to selecting colors and designs for the socks and tees. She spent the day with Dorothy and I at the printers on "bike badge making day". Thank you, Marge and Mary!
Donna Landeros & Lupita Lermos ran the afternoon rest stop (SAG 3). This was another one of those times when my instincts told me to take the plunge. Donna called me early in the summer, just after I had been told that the couple that initially had planned on working this stop could not do it because of a family situation.
Donna wanted to give this ride to her hubby, Frank for a birthday gift, and asked, in addition to that: Did I need help with anything? One thing led to another, and Donna was in. Lupita (Frank's sister) came along to keep Donna company and found out that she had landed herself in a weeklong work-fest! I think Lupita was a bit overwhelmed by the bike crowd, but Donna took to it like a duck to water (yes, she is an Oregonian). I am here to tell you, that this woman filled empty water bottles, hydration packs, gave shoulder and legs massages, we're talking the Royal Treatment! Needless to say, she is welcome back at any time. Thank you, Donna and Lupita!
Marv Hanin was yet another one of those unexpected phone calls - Marv called me to find out if I needed some extra help. He had a work-friend who told him about the tour and he agreed to get her and a group of 3 others up to the Canyon, and felt that he would like to stay the whole week.
I knew right away that I would love to have Marv along. He told me he has a big truck with extra passenger space, had a CB, 2-way radio, and knew how to recognize (and help the rest of us recognize) some serious symptoms related to hot and cold weather cycling. Marv stepped up and met the challenge head on with no previous tour experience, and proved to be an invaluable asset. Thank you, Marv!
Norm Martin worked with us last year from Globe to Nogales, and I knew I wanted his help again. Norm offers his services to those he would like to help out, and one is lucky to be considered worthy. Norm joined us in Payson and from that point onward; I was in a state of bliss. I had Marv and Norm covering nearly the entire daily route from the beginning to the end, and all I had to do was to stay or move about, comfortably where ever I wanted, as they drove back and forth checking to make sure each rider was well cared for. Thank you, Norm!
Laura Dituri and Julie Arrowood are not really our Ride Crew, as such, but independent Massage Therapists, who chose to work our Tour because they wanted to. Not only did we love to have them around, but also they helped us out with Water Stops on the long days, and kept tabs of our riders on their way from one town to the next.
Laura has come to this Tour for 8 years now. This was Julie's first year, and she, along with Laura, has a Carte Blanche welcome back mat! Laura used to come with Ken Brechiesen from Colorado. This year, Ken could not make the tour; we sorely missed him. Maybe next year, all three can make the trip! Thank you, Laura and Julie!
To all of you who came as a personal sag to one or more of the Tour participants and were willing to help out others, I thank you too.
Not only did Ramona, of the Blue Bonnet Bicycle Crew from Texas give a lift now and again to non-Texans when all the other SAG vans were full, but was able to repair broken spokes for various riders.
Bob, brother of cyclist Scott from CA, was along to play golf to wile away a few hours during the day while his brother rode. He did that, but also took our hand-cyclist Chris, under his wing, allowing her the freedom to pedal till her arms cried "uncle"!
Kato, boyfriend of rider Suzie from Illinois, pulled a small U-Haul behind his car, and assisted whenever he could, always smiling, always willing. There are others I am sure, and I appreciate every-thing you all did for our Tour - I know those who used your services would join in with me to say: Thanks To Each and Everyone of You!
October NEW Members:
ALANNA NEVES, GEOFF PARKER, CHARLES BRODER, CARL WRIGHT, DARIEN NEWMAN, JOHN DOWNEY, GLENN MOYER, JIM HEFNER, GARY/BRIDGET BENEVENTI, CHRIS COLETTI, KEN/CAROLINE JACKSON, DENNIS/KATHY KRUEGER, KITTY/ANDY CHWALEK, DAVID KHA, LU ANN HALEY, MICHAEL JONES, BILL PAUL, FRAN ROME, RON/SANDY MCCORMICK, SCOTT LOCKABY, JUAN SILVA, TOM/KAY WAGNER, JUDY MORRIS, WILLIAM GENCZO, GUY ROVELLA, JASON KOFONOW, ROB WHITE, GARREN FAGARAGAN, AMIR KARINI, DONALD BUOTTE, ALICE CLARK, ALMA TELLEZ, TIM ROCKWELL, DEBORAH LAKE, BARBIE LAOSSA, BRANDON BARCLAY, EUGENE MUNOZ, CALYN ARNOLD, NICHOLAS AMATUZZI, ALICIA OLGUIN, TINA RODRIGUEZ, DOMINIQUE LOPEZ, JOSE SAENZ, CANIELLE BROOKS, BARRY CUNNINGHAM, PATRICIA GUTTIRREZ, DAVID MODEER, MICHELLE WEAVER.
October RENEWING Members:
Brian Beck, Pascal Quintero, Sid Smith, Kari/Mike Angeley, Henry/Ruth Jacobsen, Larry Gossman, Michael Zaffke, Bill Sherman, Skip/Shannon Dexter, Susan Heinrich, Scott/Caroline Leonard, Jim Gunter, Ken & Carol Cantor, Linda/Franklin Fountain, Jon Harvey, Mike Solan, Bill Faris, Michael McCarthy, Jacquie & Al, Mat, Emily Brailey, Carole/Kevin Hill/Henderson, Eric Stumbaugh, Fritz Brace, Fred Pepek Sr., Josefina/Helen Ahumada/Battiste, Jim Buschur, Jerry Edwards, Michael Miller, Michael Smith, Paul Roelike, Tom/Ruth Ann Gribb, Ty Roybal, Phil Bertsch, H.E. Douglas, Keith Johnson, Rupert Laumann, David Mercado, Steve Slat, Dean & Sandy Taylor, Jim Welcher.
Bike Swap Committee Pizza Party!
Thursday, 11/13/03 at 6 PM at Brooklyn Pizza, 534 N. 4th Avenue
By Greg Yares
This planning and organizing meeting is a very important one! Anyone interested in helping out: come on and join us! Everybody is welcome!
After getting some pizza for sustenance, let's all walk down the street for hands-on planning!
Here are some of the duties to be allocated: picking up supplies from the GABA storage unit; cordoning off certain areas: allocating spaces for vendors; directing buyers to local parking areas; traffic control; getting a list of all the vendors; cleaning up after the event; returning all supplies, etc.
Pick the time and the length of time that you are willing to help: there is something for everyone!
Also, anyone willing to spend an hour or two at the GABA table, come to the Party! We welcome your help!
YOU MUST CALL GREG AHEAD OF TIME at 323-9020 or CONTACT HIM via e-mail at Yares@cox.net; he needs to know ahead of time how many pizzas to order!
See you there!
Visit the "GABA Table" at the Bike Swap
Please stop by for a visit at the GABA table while at the Fall GABA Bike Swap. There will be Tucson area Bicycle Route Maps, ridewear including jerseys and socks, water bottles, and other pertinent information on cycling, membership information and applications. Stop by for a great deal!
Anyone interested in being a "GABA Table" volunteer, please call Sandi Rousseau at 799-4406 or contact her at sandir03 @comcast.net Be a part of the action!
Toys for Tots Bike Ride
Destination: Reid Park Zoo!
Saturday, December 13, 2003
By Pam Cullop
Big changes in store this year for the ever-popular "Toys for Tots" Bike Ride!
To start with, we are offering two starting locations and two ride levels to choose from.
For those who wish the more easy-going pace, the kind of ride that allows for easy conversation and youngster participation - we offer the Family Fun Ride (but you don't have to bring your family along). This ride will begin at Ft Lowell Park, and end at the Reid Park Zoo.
The second, a longer and a little faster, ride will begin at Udall Park and will take a more indirect approach to the zoo, for those who want work at their ride a bit harder. but still at a comfortable pace for conversation.
Strap your toy to your bike, in a backpack, or somehow attach it to your body, but you carry it with you on the ride. What fun it is riding down the street, attracting all kinds of welcome attention and knowing that your toy is going to a needy child for Christmas.
Your toy is your paid entrance into the zoo. You can just drop off your toy, stay for a bite to eat at the concession stand and leave at the designated departure time with the ride leader, or stay and visit the animals, and ride home at your leisure.
All of the details will be available in the December Update - meeting time, route, ride leaders, and anything else you need to know to join us on the annual Toys for Tots Ride!
Won't you come ride with us and join in the spirit of giving?
GABA-Tucson Slate of Officers for the 2004 Board
President: STEVE WILSON
Vice President: OPEN
Treasurer: JANET LANDIS
Secretary: SANDI ROUSSEAU
Membership: STEVEN GRAEBER
Publicity: SALLY KRUSING
Education: DICK SCHAFFER
Touring-Day: JUDY BOLT
Touring-Centuries: SANDI ROUSSEAU
Touring-Overniters: DOROTHY BARTH
Editor: SUZANNE COUVRETTE
Volunteer: DONNA AVERSA
Web Master: DAVE SWANSON
Legal Advisor: RICHARD FORCIER
Social Director: PAM CULLOP
Bike Shop Coord.: RAM SALCEDO
Correspondence: DONNA LEWANDOWSKI
Bike Swap Coord.: GREG YARES
Great Arizona Bike Adventure: DOROTHY BARTH
Elections of officers will take place at the January Monthly Meeting, on Monday, January 5, 2004 at 7 PM. Anyone interested in serving on the Board should contact Steve Wilson ahead of time at 749-9014 or via e-mail at wilsons@us.ibm.com
Welcome Judy Bolt!
We are glad to welcome Judy Bolt as our new Day Touring Director! She will replace Eric Ewing who was unable to finish his term of office.
Judy comes to us with enthusiasm and energy, and was ready to take over at the drop of a hat! She will need our help to get started in this very important job.
Please contact her at 512-0442 or via e-mail at bojubolt@aol.com if you are interested in leading rides.