Upcoming Rides At a Glance (See related articles in this issue for
details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders
11/7 (Sun) Tom Mix Century GABA-Tucson Jannene Johnson
11/13 (Sat) El Bike Swap de Tucson GABA-Tucson Greg Yares
12/5 (Sun) Silverbell Century GABA-Tucson Dick Schaffer
12/6 (Mon) Holiday Pot Luck GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop
12/11 (Sat) Toys for Tots Ride GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop
1/9/05 (Sun) Casa Grande Century Phx Metro Bike Club Jane Larson
2/6/05 (Sun) Picacho Peak Century GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette
November Meeting Program
Monday, Nov. 1 at 7 PM
Don't miss one of the most unique and important bike stories in Tucson.
Bicycle Inter-Community Art and Salvage (or BICAS for short) is a non-profit
community cooperative dedicated to promoting and recycling bicycles, bicycle
awareness, and bicycle art & culture.
BICAS sells reasonably-priced quality, reconditioned, used bikes; rents bikes
by the day/week; and have a full-service repair shop with a fully-stocked
stash of used parts for sale.
Bring your bike to BICAS and rent shop space to work on it yourself. BICAS
has a custom metal workshop where they make sculptures, bike racks, gates, or
anything you can think of, out of old bike parts. BICAS also conducts hands-on
classes that teach folks of all ages the art of bikes and bike technology.
Join us as Ignacio Rivera De Rosales tells us the BICAS story. You can visit
BICAS on-line at http://www.consensus.net/bicas.html. Or better yet, go visit
in person at 44 West 6th St. (NE corner of 6th St. & 9th Ave.) in Tucson, or
call 520.628.7950.
December Meeting Program
Monday, December 6 at 7 PM.
Holiday Season Pot Luck!
BRING A CAN OF FOOD FOR THE COMMUNITY FOOD BANK!
Join us in the spirit of the Holiday Season!
Club Awards to deserving members!
Everybody is welcome!
See article below for details.
Ride Calendar
NOVEMBER 2004
Nov. 6 (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Century, metric century and half
metric century. Contact Richard Utterback at richardutterback@msn.com
Nov. 7 (Sun): TOM MIX CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Scenic course north of Tucson!
Enjoy a few gradual climbs as you prepare for El Tour! From Ina & Old Father,
ride to Oracle Junction. Then, continue to Tom Mix Rest Area on the
Florence road. www.bikegaba.org Leader: Jannene Johnson,
jannenejohnson@hotmail.com or 520-349-4083.
Nov. 13 & 14: MS150 BEST DAM BIKE TOUR. Multiple Sclerosis Society. Ride
from Estrella Foothills High School, on the west side of Phoenix to Gila Bend.
Contact Peter Loguda at 480-968-2488, ext. 209 or e-mail ploduga@dsw.nmss.org
Nov. 13 (Sat): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson. On historic 4th
Avenue! Quaint central area where vendors set up on each side of the avenue.
Great turn-out! Greg Yares, yares@azstarnet.com or 323-9020.
Nov. 20 (Sat): El TOUR DE TUCSON XXII. PBAA. 22nd Annual. 4 different
options! More than 5,000 riders! And thousands of volunteers along the course!
520-745-2033 or www.pbaa.com
DECEMBER 2004
Dec. ? (Sun) TUMACACORI FESTIVAL RIDE. GABA-Tucson. 30-40 mi to breakfast
at Zula's in Nogales. Return to Mission to enjoy food, craft &
entertainment. South on I-19 to Tubac exit, then south on EAST frontage road to
Mission.
www.bikegaba.org
Dec. 5 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY.
GABA-Tucson. 65 &100 mi. Ride takes you to Rancho Vistoso, down Tangerine,
across Avra Valley and up to the ghost town of Silverbell. Return via a
different way ending on the Rillito Bike Path back to the start.
www.bikegaba.org
Leader: Dick Schaffer, 326-4807.
Dec. 6 (Mon) HOLIDAY SEASON POT LUCK. GABA-Tucson. At regular monthly
meeting place. Bring a dish to share with others in the spirit of the season!
Everybody is welcome! Short program with awards and recognition to deserving
members!
Dec. 11 (Sat): TOYS FOR TOTS BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Bring one or more
unwrapped toys to carry on your bike as we pedal downtown to deliver the toys
to the Tucson City Zoo at Reid Park. Organizer: Pam Cullop, 290-4321 or
pjcullop@comcast.net
Dec. 31 (Fri): FIESTA BOWL PARADE, Phx. - Bike Patrol for Public Security.
Richard Moeur, rcmoeur@aol.com
CLASSIFIEDS
2004 Cannondale F4000, Lefty Fork, Mavic Crossmax Wheels, XTR components
including disc brakes. $2800. Call Wayne, (928) 474-5670 (Payson).
GABA-Tucson
P. O. Box 43273,
Tucson, AZ 85733
GABA-Tucson Board of Directors
President: Steve Wilson 749-9014
wilsons@us.ibm.com
Vice President:David "Griff" Griffis 325-3600
dgriffis@griffisconsulting.com
Treasurer: Peggy Jacobsen 791-3049
pjtucson@earthlink.net
Secretary: Sandi Rousseau 799-4406
sandir03@comcast.net
Membership: Steve Graeber 762-1363
psiclist@worldwerks.com
Publicity: Sally Krusing 296-0319
supersal@cox.net
Bike Shops Coord.:Ram Salcedo 733-0230
salcedo@flash.net
Education: Dick Schaffer 326-4807
bikeschaf@aol.com
Touring-Day: Judy Bolt 512-0442
bojubolt@aol.com
Overnight Rides: Dorothy Barth 323-7203
dorothybarth2443@msn.com
Centuries: Sandi Rousseau 799-4406
sandir03@comcast.net
Update Editor:Suzanne Couvrette 891-4661
sgcouvrette@aol.com
Corrsp/Registration:DonnaLewandowski749-9014
gabamail@comcast.net
Volunteer Coord: OPEN
Webmaster: Dave Swanson 664-0429
daveswan@us.ibm.com
Social Director: Pam Cullop 290-4321
pjcullop@comcast.net
Bike Swap: Greg Yares 323-9020
Yares@cox.net
Shed Master: Bill Borland 299-3509
bborland@theriver.com
Cycling Advocacy: Donna Aversa 742-0440
dmaversa@aol.com
Upcoming Meeting Program
Monday, December 1st at 7 PM
Holiday Season Pot Luck!
BRING A CAN OF FOOD
FOR THE COMMUNITY FOOD BANK!
Everybody is welcome!
New and Renewing Members:
NEW:
J. Faris; Jim Lusk; Seton Claggett; Debbie Claggett; H./Tracy Bigelow; David
Kidd; Katie Wales; Poki Ditillo; Kevin Westfall; Susanna Laundy; Ron Petersen;
James Kissell; Douglas Jaren; Jack Challem; Michael Gordy; Chia-Han Hsieh;
Kristy Kelley; Paul & Kathie Melde; Brad & Deanna Schweitzer; Colin & Mandi
Cordell; Chris & Michele Foster.
RENEWALS:
Jim Welcher; William Genczo; Larry Gossman; Jim Gunter; Michael McCarthy;
Robert Ryan; C Michael Thompson; Peter Brockington; Craig Thoresen; Dick &
Louise
Strayer; Trip & Kathe McGrath; Scott & Caroline Leonard.
"El Tour de Tucson XXII"
Training Rides
By Steve Wilson
GABA is continuing to provide training rides to help you get ready for the
big event through the weekend of November 14th.
The rides have steadily increased each week up to 90 miles the weekend before
El Tour. We also continue to offer shorter route options for those who will
be doing the shorter El Tour routes.
The training rides are designed to gradually increase your riding distance
and endurance, familiarize you with the El Tour route, let you practice your
ride strategy and ride with others who are at your riding skill level. Details
of the rides are in the GABA monthly newsletters and on the GABA website
(www.bikegaba.org).
2 starting locations:
- WESTSIDE: Northeast corner of Grant & Silverbell.
- EASTSIDE: Udall Park.
Perimeter Bicycling is expecting 7,000 riders for this year's event. Early
sign-ups are already coming in. Check the Perimeter Bicycling website
(www.pbaa.com) for sign-up information and entry forms.
Continue putting in the training miles. Come join us for the training rides
and we'll see you at the start line at sunrise on November 20th!
2004 "El Tour"
Training Rides Schedule
Date Time Mileage
Nov. 7 7:00 AM GABA's Tom Mix Century
Nov. 14 7:00 AM 40/90
Nov. 20 7:00 AM El Tour!
Mark your Calendar! GABA-Tucson Bike Swap
Saturday, Nov. 13 - 8 AM to 2 PM
On 4th Avenue,
between 6th St. and 9th St.
Directions from out of town:
Exit I-10 at St Mary's Road, exit 257 A. Head east to 4th Avenue.
GABA has hosted this popular event for several years. It is one of the
largest bike swap in the west! The success of the bike swap depends on
volunteers.
Among the "duties" are the following: cordoning off certain areas,
allocating spaces for vendors, traffic control, etc. We also need friendly
people to
staff the GABA table: give information to prospective members and help sell
GABA jerseys, among other things!
If interested in joining other volunteers, call Swap Organizer Greg Yares,
323-9020 or contact him at yares@cox.net.
GABA-Tucson Supporting Members
Alphabetical listing of current GABA-Tucson's sponsors.
See back page for each individual ad.
Ajo Bikes 294-1434
Bicycles West 887-7770
Broadway Bicycles 296-7819
Fair Wheel Bicycles 884-9018
Green Valley Bike & Hike 393-7433
Irish, Peter 625-3930
New Body Studios 360-5912
Oro Valley Bicycle- 544-5999
2 locations 825-2751
Performance Bicycle 296-4715
Pima Street Bicycle 326-4044
R & R Bicycle 579-7829
Sabino Cycles 885-3666
Stevens, Andy, LMT 990-1459
Supergo Bike Shops 327-3232
TriSports.com 884-8743
Tucson Bicycles 577-7374
Wenberg, Susan, DC 326-1322
Yares, Greg, Realtor 323-9020
Tom Mix Century 2004
Sunday, November 7, 2004
Once again, it's time for one of GABA Tucson's most popular rides! Come join
us for the annual Tom Mix Century.
Just two weeks before El Tour, this ride offers you a great opportunity to
prepare for your "Personal Best" on El Tour Day, or to simply enjoy a wonderful
ride. There's just enough hills to give your legs a good workout, while your
eyes feast on the majestic Catalina Mountains!
Options:
- 100 miles for more experienced riders,
- 50 miles for intermediate riders,
or chose the option of riding any other amount you wish. Ride as little or as
much as you want. The course will be monitored during the ride.
ONE STARTING POINT FOR ALL OPTIONS:
NE Corner of Ina and Oldfather Rd. (look for GABA signs)
NO MASS START: Check in, pick up your map and start when ready.
OPTION #1 (100 mi): Registration begins at 7:30 AM.
OPTION #2 ( 50 mi): Register at 8 AM.
SAG 1: 1 mile No. of Oracle Jct, the 50-milers turn-around point.
SAG 2: At Tom Mix Monument, the 100-milers turn-around point.
SAG 3: at the same place as SAG 1.
Restrooms available at all sag stops, PLUS at start/finish. Desert Fitness
has graciously agreed to allow access to their restrooms after 7 AM. You will
have to sign in at the counter to use their restrooms.
CPSC-approved helmets required.
All traffic rules must be obeyed.
COURSE DETAILS:
OPTION #1: 100 MILES .
RIDE east on Ina Rd. to Oracle Rd., then north to Oracle Jct. Continue north
on Florence Hwy to Tom Mix Monument, your turn-around point. Enjoy a sag stop
with snacks, fruit & ice water. Return to Oracle Jct., continue south on
Oracle Rd., and turn west on Ina to start.
OPTION #2: 50 MILES.
RIDE east on Ina Rd. to Oracle Rd., north to Oracle Junction. Continue 1 mile
north to SAG 1, your turn-around point. Enjoy a sag stop with snacks, fruit
& ice water. Return south on Oracle Rd. to Ina Rd., then west on Ina back to
start.
PLEASE PRE-REGISTER EARLY!
Your fee includes:
- Fully marked course;
- 3 sag stops with ice water, fruit and snacks, as well as at the finish;
- Sag support on the course for tired cyclists as well as sick bikes;
- Map and ride instructions given at the start.
Ride organizer: Jannene Johnson, jannenejohnson@hotmail.com or 520-349-4083.
Volunteers are appreciated; if interested, please call Jannene as soon as
possible!
ADVANCED REGISTRATION FEE
GABA/ABC members: $15 NON members: $20
DAY OF EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $25 NON-Members: $30
Please register ahead of time! Help make the ride leader's job easier!
Bike Patrol Needed for El Tour XXII
Ride with a purpose...
Lend a helping hand...
Help keep our streets safe...
Members of the 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 Bike Patrols!
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 11/12) is required to cover cost of T-shirt, medical
supplies and support on the route. For info and to register, call PBAA,
745-2033.,
or www.pbaa.com
Bike Patrol Certification Classes:
11/19 (Thu) 7 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Skills
11/15 (Mon) 7 PM - 2692 E. Broadway - Mechanics & Adv.
11/17 (Wed) 7 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Advanced Topics
11/19 (Fri) 5:30 PM-Tucson Conv. Ctr - Basic Skills
Visit the Bike Swap "GABA Table"
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!
Silverbell Century
- A Free Unsupported Ride -
Sunday, December 7, 2003
Last year, we resurrected the Silverbell Century as an unsupported ride.
Sometimes, cyclists forget about riding after El Tour. Well, this year, we want
to bring out as many Tucson and Phoenix riders (last year we had more Phoenix
riders than local riders!).
This ride is free to all riders, and does not offer any sag support along the
course. Bring two water bottles and your own energy snacks for the road;
there are also many convenience stores along the course if you need more fluids
or
food. No sag stops along the course!
OPTIONS: 100 miles and 65 miles
START/FINISH/SIGN-IN TIME: Between 8 and 8:30 AM at River & Campbell, SE
corner, in St. Philip's Plaza parking lot, right next to the Rillito River Path.
ROUTE: North on Campbell to River Rd., west to La Canada, north to Magee,
east to Oracle Rd. and then north on Oracle to Rancho Vistoso Blvd. Then, ride
west on Rancho Vistoso, following it until it reaches Tangerine; ride west on
Tangerine to I-10, south on the west frontage road to Avra Valley Rd and west
on Avra Valley Rd.
TURNING POINTS: 65-milers go a far as Marana Airport, then turn back. Century
riders proceed west up to Silverbell Mine, then return.
RETURN ROUTE FOR BOTH OPTIONS: Both 65 and 100-mile riders return on Avra
Valley Rd. riding over Rattlesnake Pass via Airport Rd., continuing south on
Silverbell Rd. to Cortaro Rd. East on Cortaro Rd. over the Santa Cruz river to
the
west frontage road, then south on the west frontage road to Orange Grove.
East on Orange Grove to River Rd., then continue east on River Rd. back to the
finish.
Ride strong, safe and above all have fun
Dick Schaffer, Ride Leader, 326-4807 or bikeschaf@aol.com
GABA-Tucson Slate of Officers for the 2005 Board
President: STEVE WILSON
Vice President: GRIFF GRIFFIS
Treasurer: PEGGY JACOBSEN
Secretary: OPEN
Membership: STEVEN GRAEBER
Publicity: SALLY KRUSING
Education: DICK SCHAFFER
Touring-Day: JUDY BOLT
Touring-Centuries: OPEN
Touring-Overniters: DOROTHY BARTH
Editor: SUZANNE COUVRETTE
Volunteer: OPEN
Web Master: DAVE SWANSON
Legal Advisor: DONNA AVERSA
Social Director: OPEN
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 3, 2005 at 7 PM. Anyone interested in serving on the Board?
Contact Steve Wilson ahead of time at 749-9014 or wilsons@us.ibm.com.
New Benefit for GABA Members!
Travel Bike Cases
May Be Borrowed
by Members!
Members,
GABA has purchased two hard shell bike travel cases that members may borrow.
The procedure for borrowing a case is as follows:
1. Travel cases are available to GABA members on a first come basis.
2. A $150 deposit per case is required. Deposit will be returned to borrower
when the case(s) is returned in usable condition.
3. Travel case(s) is to be returned to GABA within 3 days of borrower's
return to town.
4. Individual borrowing the case(s) is responsible for pick-up and return of
the travel case to the designated location.
Contact Peggy Jacobsen at 694-4742 or pjtucson@earthlink.net to arrange for
rental of a travel case.
9th Annual Benefit Tour of the White Mountains Report
By Kim Mayfield, Navapache Regional Medical Center
NRMC raises more than $31,000 for Obstetrics and ICU!
The 9th Annual Benefit Tour of the White Mountains sponsored by the Navapache
Regional Medical Center Foundation and Native Air Medical Transport on
September 18th was an outstanding event for mountain bikers, volunteers and
community businesses.
A record 308 riders came to Pinetop's Thunderhorse Ranch to test their
endurance on a variety of trails running through the Sitgreaves National Forest
White Mountain Trail System.
Five courses were offered for all skill levels: 66-mile, 52-mile, 41-mile,
35-mile and 10-mile, with riders ranging in age from five to seventy.
Enthusiastic volunteers at the aid stations cheered riders along the way with
energy
snacks and beverages, and volunteer radio personnel helped guide those less
familiar with the courses. Race results can be viewed at
http://www.nrmc.org/tour_times.htm.
After their ride, bikers were treated to a most welcome massage, and a
delicious barbecue catered by Mike Langevin Catering Company. Raffle drawings
were
held during the afternoon. The grand prize winner for the Trek Fuel 90 mountain
bike was Shawn Filli of Pinetop.
In addition to the race, a free kids bike rally was sponsored in part by Jus4
Fun, White Mountain Pediatrics and Dr. Jones Cavanaugh. The event included a
bike safety inspection, a coned bike obstacle course, a bouncy castle, face
painting, hot dogs and soda pop, free giveaways and a free kids bike raffle.
Thanks to the efforts of our sponsors, volunteers and the increased number of
riders from Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and California, this unique
community event gets bigger and better every year. If you did not ride this year
but wish to donate to NRMC obstetric and intensive care units, please contact
Cassie Thacker, development coordinator, at 928-537-6939.
Words from Steve
By Steve Wilson
GABA President
2005 GABA
Board of Directors
As winter weather approaches we're looking ahead to the makeup of the club
Board of Directors for 2005. Serving on the Board is an excellent opportunity
to give back to the club and to support cycling in Tucson. As many of you
know, the club is staffed and run by volunteers just like yourself. Without
those
willing to give of their time and talents the club would not exist.
Each year we have a need to replace a number of retiring board members. The
influx of new ideas and faces is critical to keeping the club dynamic and in
touch with the local cycling community. Some of our board positions require
special skills, but most simply require a level of personal dedication and
commitment and a willingness to learn.
We're very proud of the positive impact we have on the cycling community.
GABA sponsors more centuries and overnight rides than all of the other cycling
clubs in Arizona combined. We support PBAA and help them put on the El Tour de
Tucson and the Tour of the Tucson Mountains. We sponsor the Tucson Bicycle
Classic, the 4th of July Tour for Tucson's Children, the Safe Routes to School
Program, and other bicycle causes in the Tucson area. We work with the local
government agencies to get the best bicycling facilities possible. In
addition we schedule day rides every week of the year that are open to public.
For
many beginning riders, GABA is the first contact they have with organized
cycling. And of course there's the monthly newspaper that you're reading now.
There are a number of benefits to being a board member, including a waiver of
membership fees and most ride fees. In addition, you are still able earn
GABA bucks for tasks outside your area of board responsibility. If you would
consider serving on the board or would like to nominate someone, please let me
know. My contact information is on page 2 of the Update and can be found on the
web.
With your help and that of other volunteers, GABA can be successful well in
to the future. If you're interested, give me a call. I look forward to
hearing for you. Thanks.
How to Buy a Used Bike
by Richard E “Rich” Corbett
Certified Instructor & Coach
Well, its time once again for the absolute greatest Bike Swap Meet (GABA
Tucson's) in the entire west. And you want 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 approach to decide on a used bike and get a sound
buy.
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 the (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 frame soundness by closely inspecting all the frame’s tubes, visually
and tactilely. Be systematic, starting at the front, with fork blades, then the
head tube, the top tube, the down tube, 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 well
your bike works.
Watch 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 to 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 probably should be replaced, as they are very personal. Older ones
already on a used bike that you buy 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. Good luck, and do be sure to check all the great buys at the
GABA-Tucson Bike Swap Meet, Saturday, November 13th, on 4th Avenue.
The Casa Grande Century
Sunday, January 9, 2005
QUESTION: Why do Arizona Cyclists Ride Centuries in January?
ANSWER: Because They Can!
Remember where you used to live? The closest you came to riding a century in
January was trying to get your old Buick started when it was 5 below. So join
us for the first century of the new year. Then call your friends in No. Dakota
and tell them what a good time you had!
The terrain is flat with low traffic, and if history repeats itself, the
weather will be a sunny 70 degree! What more could you want?
Two sag stops with water, fruit & snacks; a hot BBQ lunch at the turnaround
point, Dave White Regional Park in Casa Grande; a route map, commemorative
socks and a raffle ticket for bike-related prizes. Join 200-plus cycling friends
for PMBC's biggest ride of the year!
OPTIONS: 62 mi, metric century, out-and-back w/ slight hill.;
85 mi, loop w/ slight hill.;
108 mi, century plus, flat out-and-back.
START: Safeway at 4970 S. Alma School Rd, Chandler, NW corner of Alma School
Road and Chandler Heights Rd (Chandler Heights Road is between Queen Creek and
Riggs roads.) Please park at the parking lot edges so we don't block Safeway
customers.
DIRECTIONS: From Tucson take I-10 to Riggs Rd exit, go 3 miles east to Alma
School Rd, then 1 mile north to Chandler Heights Rd.
REGISTRATION: 8:30 to 9:30 AM. No mass start. Leave after you register.
SUPPORT: Vehicles will be available to collect those suffering from physical,
mechanical or mental breakdowns.
QUESTIONS: Leader Jane Larson at JLreports@aol.com or call (602) 319-2238.
Registration forms available at www.sportsfun.com/gaba.
This ride is organized by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club.
Fees: PMBC/GABA/ABC members by 12/31/04: $15
Non-members by 12/31/04: $20
PMBC/GABA/ABC members after 12/31/04: $25 Non-members after 12/31/04:
$30
Note: Why not join PMBC now? Get our monthly newsletter, and this ride at
member prices! Add $15 for a one-year individual membership, $20 for a one-year
family membership.
Make checks payable to PMBC, PO Box 26788, Tempe AZ 85285-6788. Riders must
obey all Arizona traffic laws and must wear ANSI, ASTM or Snell approved
helmets.
GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE
ADVENTURE 2004, A GREAT SUCCESS!
by Dorothy Barth, 2004 Chair
This year's week-long cycling adventure was enjoyed by all! The new route
brought us through some territory not previously ridden by our group. We arrived
early at the Grand Canyon so that most participants enjoyed an afternoon of
sightseeing on the South Rim. The next day we rode east through the Park,
admiring the incredible scenery along the way. We ended our day in Gray Mountain
with a buffet dinner.
Monday brought us to Flagstaff along a route familiar to the Tour, through
Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments. Tuesday, we cruised to Payson,
through Strawberry, with the obligatory stop at the Strawberry Lodge for pie.
Wednesday, our route changed from prior years. We climbed up the Mogollon Rim
and on our way to Show Low. Many cyclists found this day our hardest, with a
31-mile climb first thing in the morning. After that, the day was much
easier, although headwinds made the remaining 60+ miles more challenging! The
next
day was a rest opportunity in Show Low. Most people just enjoyed being off
the bike; some swam in the municipal pool, or got a massage from Laura or Ken.
Friday, it was back on the bike from Show Low to San Carlos through the Salt
River Canyon. Road construction was minimal, and cyclists were amazed by the
fabulous scenery! Strenuous climbs made the sight of the Apache Gold Casino,
our destination, a welcome relief!
Saturday brought us to Tucson. Riders started riding early to avoid the
afternoon heat and headwinds. By the end of the day, all were ready for a great
meal prepared by Chef Peter at the Ghost Ranch Lodge.
We thank the many cyclists from across the U.S., Canada, and one from Europe,
who came to ride with us and enjoy the beauty of Arizona.
Holiday Pot Luck
Monday, December 6th, 2004
Bring a can of food
for the Community Food Bank!
By: Pam Cullop
Unbelievable but true, it is almost here - the annual GABA event that we all
"hunger" for. The club's Holiday Pot Luck will take place on December 6th,
which is a Monday night, at 7 PM, at the usual meeting location: Pima Medical
Society Building. (See page 2 for map.)
Please bring one of the following to share: salad, breads, vegetables,
casserole, or any side dish of your choice, or dessert to share. The club will
provide roasted turkeys, hams, possibly dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy and
refreshments.
As usual, instead of a regular club meeting, we devote the entire time to
you. This meeting is a time for thanking all of the volunteers who have given to
the club in extra-special ways. Those who lead our Day Rides, Centuries,
Overnights, and participate in other club events, are given special recognition
for that extra effort.
Anyone wishing to donate to the Community Food Bank may do so at this meeting
as well. Last year, thanks to your generous contributions of non-perishable
food items, our boxes were full beyond belief. Thank You!
So, please decide now to come. Come and enjoy the food, enjoy the
camaraderie, enjoy the holiday celebration! Mark your calendar, and keep your
date with
us. After all, YOU are the reason we exist. YOU are the heart and the
backbone of our club. We want to show YOU that we care.
Toys for Tots Ride
Saturday, December 11, 2004
By Pam Cullop
Two starting locations:
Family ride (8-10 MPH, approx. 5 miles each way): starts at McCormick Park,
2950 N. Columbus Blvd. (No. of Glenn on East side of Columbus).
Longer and faster ride (C+/B pace, about 30-35 miles total): starts at Udall
Park, South side of Tanque Verde, West of Sabino Canyon Rd. This ride may
break down into a couple of riding groups, but will follow the same route, and
depart at the same time.
Destination: We will dropping all our unwrapped toys at Reid Park Zoo!
Expected arrival time there is between 9:30 and 10 AM.
Toy donations are your paid zoo admittance, so make sure you bring along one
new, unwrapped gift per person. A large toy box will located just inside the
gates for you to place your gifts.
If you are feeling especially generous, or competitive, you may want to see
just how many toys you can carry on one person, one bike, or tandem, etc. I
say competitive, as there are always a few of us who are involved in a friendly
competition to outdo each other every year.
We also have a competition to see who can decorate a bike in the best holiday
spirit. It is always fun to see what each bike is wearing, and how everyone
carries the varieties and quantities of toys they plan to donate. I recall a
woman, a few years ago that carried a large plastic dump truck on her back.
She had it strapped in place with bungee cords; it was really quite ingenious!
Bring a bike lock for securing your bike to the limited bike rack space just
outside of the zoo entrance, or just inside of the gate, in a secured
location behind the snack bar. But bikes must be locked at the snack bar site
also,
as this is a special service provided for us by the Snack Bar Manager, Terry -
and he really doesn't want anything to happen to your bike on his site!
The Snack Bar will have various breakfast-type items for you to purchase upon
arrival once again! After a bite to eat, you may want to take a quick trip
around the zoo; early mornings are a great time for animal watching. Boris the
Polar Bear was a real crowd-pleaser last year; romping about in and out of
his large pool of ice-cold water, while playing with his huge plastic ball.
Stay as long as you wish at the zoo. Or, you may want to leave with the
group you rode with earlier. Your ride leader will lead you back to your
starting
point, beginning around 10:30 or 11 AM (approx. 1-hour after arrival time).
Ride details (routes, mileage, time of ride departures) will be announced in
the December Update.
Wanting to make this a fun ride that many of you will be interested in riding
is always the club's goal. But the bigger picture is the desire to put a new
Christmas gift in the hands of needy children throughout the Tucson area.
Look for the details in the upcoming December article, and make plans to join us
on the next Toys for Tots Ride sponsored by GABA-Tucson.
Winterhaven Ride
Jingle, jingle, jingle!
Wednesday, December 22
The Winterhaven Holiday Season "Festival of Lights" is well-known in Tucson!
Most of you are probably familiar with this ever-popular spectacular display
of lights in the Winterhaven neighborhood.
Each year, hundreds if not thousands of people bundle up and walk, drive,
take a hayride or a buckboard ride through the festive streets bounded by
Country
Club, Ft. Lowell, Prince and Tucson Blvd. Creativity and imagination are the
key words here. Homes ablaze with lights, yards or rooftops filled with
animation, music and fun spread a holiday joy even in the :grouchiest of
grinches"
cannot deny.
In years past, a few of our club members, here and there, have joined
together on "walk nights" (so as not to be in harms way on "car nights"), and
slowly
ridden their bikes around to enjoy the sights together. This year, we are
planning a club ride around this event, and hope that you will be able to
participate in the fun with us.
On Wednesday, December 22nd, we will meet at Winterhaven main entrance:
just west of Country Club on Fort Lowell at 6 PM.
This event is a fund-raiser organized by the residents of Winterhaven to
benefit the Community Food Bank. Please bring along a non-perishable food
donation for this worthy cause. The collection box will be at that entrance.
Since this is a GABA ride, helmets, headlights and taillights are required
for the GABA Winterhaven ride, and a ride waiver will be available for you to
sign at the start.
Optional: a "warm-your-toes-and-nose" with coffee or hot chocolate, after the
ride get-together. We will meet at the Rincon Market on 6th Street, at the
corner of Tucson Blvd.
This is always a fun and pleasant way to enjoy the holiday lights. Come and
join us! If you have any questions for your ride leaders, Pam or Wayne
Cullop, give us a call at 290-4321 or email: pjcullop@comcast.net or
pwcullop@comcast.net.
Hope to see you there!
Jingle bell rock!
MANY THANKS TO THOSE WHO MADE THE 2004 TOUR SUCCESSFUL!
by Dorothy Barth, 2004 Chair
I would like to thank all people who contributed to make our week-long "Great
Arizona Bicycle Adventure" a great success!
The Tour Committee: The committee initially meets almost a year before the
event. During the planning phase, they gather to work out the details of the
Tour. Tour committee members have the option of riding the Tour. Our 2004
committee included the following members:
Steve Wilson, Treasurer. Steve prepared the budgets to give us guidance on
expenditures, and managed deposits and payments.
Donna Lewandowski, Registration Coordinator.Donna received and processed Tour
registrations and correspondence. This position requires lots of pre-tour
communication on a variety of issues.
Melanie Rineer, Publicity. Melanie handled for our Tour the job she does so
well for the PBAA: publicity. Mel sought out additional ways for the Tour to
gain visibility, and handled all press releases. She also emceed our group
meetings during the Tour.
Richard Rineer, Chef Liaison. Richard worked with our local hosts in
planning our six group dinners. His experience in the health food industry
contributed to delicious and nourishing meals.
Richard McBain, Graphic Artist. Richard designed our Tour colored brochure
featuring GABA's own Alicia Heiserer. Richard also designed the Tour t-shirt
and socks, as well as our name tags and bike tags that were printed at his photo
lab.
Dave Swanson, Route Guide and Web Man. Dave maintained and updated the Tour
information on the club website. He also accessed USGS data in order to
develop the route profiles. With limited contributions by others, Dave developed
the Tour route guide.
Mary Jo Erickson, Transportation Coordinator. Mary Jo scheduled
transportation services required by the Tour, including bus and bike
transportation, as
well as support van and truck rentals.
The Tour Staff: The Tour staff works the week of the Tour. This dedicated
staff attended to all the details that made the Tour an enjoyable experience.!
This year's Tour included the following staff:
Sharon & Radar Matt, and Bill Wilde: SAG 1. Our 1st support stop of the day
was up and running before the first cyclist rode in! Sharon and Radar have
supported this Tour 7 out of the last 9 years. Radar was at the Phoenix Best
Western Airport Inn on Friday, greeting cyclists and making runs to bike shops.
Sharon's father, Bill, came along to assist when Radar rode his bike on the
Tour.
Cheryl Kline & Kim Gelder: SAG 2. Our 2nd stop of the day, was managed by
this dynamic duo. Cheryl was familiar with the Tour, having been one of its the
Chair Person a decade ago. Kim had the experience of working on the Tour at
that time. I could not have been luckier, with such a friendly and
hard-working team at lunch time.
Jim Kiener: SAG 3. Jim, an old friend of mine from cycling days in Ohio, was
talked into coming out to Arizona for to work on the Tour. He was wowed by
the scenery, and enjoyed his trial by fire in his first effort at Tour support.
His stop was often open much later than the posted hours, as he welcomed
riders to the last support stop of the day.
Mikey Kitchen: Mechanic. Mikey planned to ride the Tour this year, but
assumed his mechanic's role when Mo was unable to join us. He did a great job
keeping riders' bikes in good working order.
Joey Barrios: Baggage Handler. Joey managed the baggage for 130+ riders. In
the past Joey had another person helping him with the load, but due to
unfortunate circumstances, he was on his own this year. In addition, Joey set up
social hour goodies every afternoon at the campground, and shuttled cyclists in
Flagstaff to dinner.
Marv Hanin: Forward Sweep. Marv was a great asset to the Tour, stopping to
assist riders as needed, whether the problem was a broken bike or tired body.
He also shuttled riders to dinner in Flagstaff, and in other locations as
needed.
Norm Martin: Final Sweep. Norm put my mind at ease that all our riders would
be followed along the route to each day's destination. He also shuttled
riders to dinner and to various locations, as well as provided assistance to
weary
cyclists when needed.
Charlie Barth: Scout. When the scout originally lined up was unable to come,
I looked everywhere for a replacement. After all, wasn't there someone who
wanted to rise early, be out driving before sunrise, and jump out of a vehicle
at intersections to mark the route turns? After arriving at the day's
destination, if the weather was bad, the scout would also have to double back to
provide support to cyclists. I finally implored my brother to come out from Ohio
and work with me. He agreed to do it, and began researching Dan Henrys to
know how to properly mark roads, and scouring maps to familiarize himself with
our route. Charlie also shuttled cyclists and ran errands, and got a great
introduction to bicycle touring!
Laura Dituri and Ken Brecheisen: Massage Therapists. Laura and Ken did an
excellent job of tuning up bodies for each day's ride. They made the Tour much
more enjoyable for all of those who took the opportunity to spend some time on
the table getting a relaxing, rejuvenating massage.
A huge "Thank You" to the committee and staff who made the 24th Annual Great
Arizona Bicycle Adventure a great success!
Where To Ride On The Road (Position In A Lane)
by Richard E. Corbett, Certified Cycling Instructor & Coach
Recent events have dramatized the importance of cyclists' position (specific
placement) in a road lane. The article here was run in the Update more than
ten years ago, and I realize it is time for it to run again. I have updated it,
and hope you will take the time to read and follow the recommendations given.
When you are "on the road", where do you ride?
Too many cyclists ride "as close to the right as possible",
and I bet that is where you ride - correct?
After all, that's what the law says, and, it's a lot safer.
Or is it ...?
Most cyclists think riding "as close to the right as practicable" (the
correct terminology from Arizona law) means as close to the "edge of the
pavement"
as they can get.
The very edge of the pavement may seem to be,
but is virtually never the safest place to bicycle,
and it is certainly not the only legal place.
Consider the following key points.
First, the general provision in Arizona law (ARS ß 28-815 A) about where a
cyclist should ride on the road is that when you are traveling less than the
normal speed of traffic, you must ride as close as "practicable" to the right
hand curb or edge of the roadway.
The key term here is "Practicable". Nationally recognized cycling law
authority Paul Hill has reported that practicable means "reasonably possible".
This
means that in virtually every case I am entitled to maneuver room ranging from
two to five feet or more, depending on my speed.
It also means that if my position to the right
will 'invite' overtakers to pass me too close,
I am entitled to 'additional' space.
For example, if I am bicycling downhill at 30 mph (I love to do this), I
really need to be several feet (e.g. five feet) from the edge of the road, in
order to give me room to safely maneuver and avoid surface hazards.
On the other hand, traveling at 10 mph, I can be closer (e.g. two feet) to
the road edge. If I ride any closer to the edge than two feet, I have a notably
greater risk of going off the edge, or hitting the curb.
Second, Arizona law provides several exceptions to the overall requirement to
ride as close to the right as practicable. These exceptions are:
1. When passing another bicycle or vehicle.
2. When preparing for a left turn.
3. When necessary to avoid "conditions" including but not limited to:
-Fixed or moving objects.
-Parked or moving vehicles.
-Bicycles or pedestrians.
-Animals or surface hazards.
4. When the lane is too narrow for the bicyclist and a vehicle to travel
safely side-by-side within the lane (can they pass you with at least 3' of
clearance, while staying IN the lane?).
Specific Categories Of Lane Widths
Let's look at the specific categories of lane widths, and the suggested lane
position for bicyclists in each. There are four basic lane width:
1. VERY WIDE - generally 20 feet or more.
2. WIDE - generally 16 to 19 feet.
3. AMBIGUOUS - generally 13 to 15 feet.
4. NARROW - generally 12 feet or less.
Please remember, these definitions are based on the view "generally" held by
cyclists, and may not match your own perception. When in doubt, use your own
perception!
In the following discussions, the cyclist is assumed to be traveling on a
level road, in normal daylight, at a speed of 14 to 18 mph, unless otherwise
stated.
Very Wide Lanes (20+ ft) - These lanes typically have on-street parking, with
as much as six to eight feet of space between parked vehicles and the part of
the lane where auto traffic normally moves.
Ride 3 to 4 feet to the RIGHT of where auto traffic moves. This positions you
where drivers at intersecting streets & driveways look before they enter the
roadway, yet keeps you clear of overtaking traffic. If parking is present,
this position should also keep you far enough away from car doors that may open
unexpectedly. This will also help guard against the right-turn-in-front-of-you
(sometimes called a "right hook") collision.
Wide Lanes (16 - 19 ft) - These lanes often have a concrete gutter "pan" and
no parking. They may have a striped shoulder or bike lane.
Cycle at least 2 feet from the curb or pavement edge, which should keep you 3
feet or more to the RIGHT of the auto traffic. If there is a striped shoulder
or bike lane, ride in the center if this keeps you out of the surface debris;
if it doesn't, ride in the left half.
Ambiguous Lanes (13 - 15 ft) - These lanes often have a concrete gutter pan"
and are too narrow for parking. There may be an edge stripe, but it is not
meant to define a rideable area. Many call these lanes ambiguous because while
most vehicles can share the lane with you side-by-side, anything wider, like a
bus, RV, rent-truck, or similar, is too wide to safely do so.
Use another street if you can. If not, ride 3 feet or so from the side, and
monitor overtaking traffic. If a wider vehicle approaches from the rear, signal
"slowing" (arm and hand extended downward), and if there is time to do so
SAFELY, move left a foot or two, to emphasize to the overtaking driver the need
for them to move into the next lane to pass you.
If there is not time to move left safely, give the "don't pass me" signal -
your left arm extended almost level, with your palm facing to the rear and
fingers spread, and be prepared to move right as far as you safely can, and hold
a
VERY straight line as the wide vehicle passes you both dangerously and
illegally closely.
Use of a rear view mirror lets you detect the wide vehicles soon enough to
move left more safely, which gives you additional room to move to the right IF
the wide vehicle starts to pass too closely anyway.
Narrow Lanes (12 ft or less) - These lanes often have a concrete gutter "pan"
and are too narrow for parking.
Use another street if you can. If not, ride in the right half of the lane, at
least 4 to 5 feet from the side, and monitor overtaking traffic. This should
let overtaking drivers see clearly that they have to move into the next lane
to pass you.
Do ride as fast as you reasonably can, and use a higher cadence (this looks
"good" to drivers you may delay, and minimizes their delay). By using a rear
view mirror, you can watch for vehicles that might pass you too closely, and use
your "extra" space to move to the right sooner.
Bike Swap Volunteer Pizza Party!
Thursday, 11/11/04
at 6 PM
at Brooklyn Pizza,
534 N. 4th Avenue
By Greg Yares
Interested in helping out for an hour, or maybe more? This event requires
only a few volunteers to set up and take down. Anyone interested in helping
gets a free pizza dinner, courtesy of GABA-Tucson! 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!
Duties to be allocated: picking up supplies from the GABA storage unit;
cordoning off certain areas; allocating spaces for vendors; directing buyers to
nearby parking areas; some traffic control; 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 giving out
information on Club membership and week-end rides, 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!
Tumacacori Festival Ride
Sunday, December 5
Meet at 9 AM at the Tumacacori Mission for a ride to Nogales on remote and
little-known backroads. Experience the traditional Mexican breakfast at Zula's
in Nogales at mid-point!
Enjoy local-cooked food, Mexican and native arts & crafts, and
entertainment/music afterwards at the annual Tumacacori Festival! The Festival
will be set
up in a field, just north of the Mission.
Directions to start: drive south on I-19 to the Tubac exit; then, cross
under the freeway and drive south on the EAST frontage road to the Mission.
For more information, call Tom Ward, (520) 625-3649.
Thank You, Carole Leiker!
We want to thank Carole Leiker for a job well done as Volunteer Coordinator
for the last 6 months. Carole had taken over from Donna Aversa, our previous
Volunteer Coordinator.
Carole finds that her time is now limited, and had to give up her position.
We wish her the best!
Come Help With The Big Parade!
Join The Fiesta Bowl Parade Bicycle Security Team!
Friday, December 31, 2004
By Richard Moeur
The 34th annual Fiesta Bowl Parade will roll down Central Avenue in Phoenix
on Friday, December 31st, 2004. The Fiesta Bowl Parade is the single largest
spectator event in Arizona, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators. It
is rated by USA Today as one of the top parades in the nation!
Bike clubs are asked to recruit bicycle security team members to help ensure
that this great event goes smoothly. Share in the unique experience of using
our bicycles to help our community! Watch the smiles on the kids! See the
complex logistics of presenting this extravaganza for spectators and television!
Your efforts will be needed from approximately 7 AM until 3 PM. You'll get a
free breakfast and some extra items that you'll need to perform your duties
(bring your own bikes & helmets, of course), and the satisfaction of a job well
done.
Interested? Don't delay! Sign up by e-mailing your contact information (name,
address, phone number, e-mail address) to Richard Moeur at rcmoeur@aol.com,
or call Richard at (602) 866-3554 (Phoenix).
Looking forward to seeing you at the big parade!
Directions for people coming from out of town:
Exit I-10 at St Mary's Road, exit 257 A.
Head east on St Mary's to 4th Avenue.
Upcoming Meetings Programs
Monday, December 1st at 7 PM
Holiday Season Pot Luck!
BRING A CAN OF FOOD FOR THE COMMUNITY FOOD BANK!
Everybody is welcome!
Proposed Programs for 2005
(Expect some changes;
check monthly articles for details.)
January: Cycling and Fitness. Recovering from the Year End. Fitness and
Training for Cyclists. Jan Murphy.
February: Cycling the World: Korea, Japan, and Tucson. Cycling Adventures
and Important Tucson Bike Policy. Matt Zoll.
March: Cycling the US. The East Coast Tour. Donna Lewandowski.
April: Cycling the World. France. Susan Kifer and Dick Hall.
GABA's Annual Holiday Season Pot Luck Party!
- Monday, December 6, 2004 -
7 PM to 9 PM
Come and join other GABA members in this festive event!
WHERE:
Pima County Medical Society Building
5199 E. Farness
(see inside cover of this issue for directions)
PLEASE BRING
A CAN OF FOOD TO BE DONATED
TO THE COMMUNITY FOOD BANK!
By: Pam Cullop
Unbelievable but true, it is almost here - the annual GABA event that we all
"hunger" for. The club's Holiday Pot Luck will take place on December 6th,
which is a Monday night, at 7 PM, at the usual meeting location: Pima Medical
Society Building. (See page 2 for map.)
Please bring one of the following to share: salad, breads, vegetables,
casserole, or any side dish of your choice, or dessert to share. The club will
provide roasted turkeys, hams, possibly dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy and
refreshments.
As usual, instead of a regular club meeting, we devote the entire time to
you. This meeting is a time for thanking all of the volunteers who have given to
the club in extra-special ways. Those who lead our Day Rides, Centuries,
Overnights, and participate in other club events, are given special recognition
for that extra effort.
Anyone wishing to donate to the Community Food Bank may do so at this meeting
as well. Last year, thanks to your generous contributions of non-perishable
food items, our boxes were full beyond belief. Thank You!
So, please decide now to come. Come and enjoy the food, enjoy the
camaraderie, enjoy the holiday celebration! Mark your calendar, and keep your
date with
us. After all, YOU are the reason we exist. YOU are the heart and the
backbone of our club. We want to show YOU that we care.
2005 PROPOSED STATE-WIDE BIKE EVENTS CALENDAR
prepared by Suzanne Couvrette, GABA-Tucson Newsletter Editor.
(NOTE: Some of the dates below are subject to change.
Check the Update next month for any changes, additions or deletions.)
JANUARY 2005
Jan. ( ) -Tortilla Flats. ABC. Brian Nelson.
Jan. 9 (Sun) -Casa Grande Century, PMBC. Jane Larson. See
related article in this issue.
Jan. 25 (Sun) -Sr Olympics Cycling (Tuc) Parks & Rec.
520-791-5909 or
www.tucsonseniorgames.org
FEBRUARY 2005
Feb. 6 (Sun) -Picacho Century GABA-Tsn Suzanne Couvrette
Feb. (Sun) -Laveen Country Challenge, Lions Club.
Feb. 12 (Sat) -Valentine Ride. GABA-Tucson.
Feb. 19 & 20 (Sat) -24 Hrs in Old Pueblo. Todd Sadow, epicrides.com
Feb. (Sat) -Tour De Cure. Diabetes Fdtn. 795-3711,#7111
Feb. (Sun) -Coolidge Century, GABA-Tucson.
Feb. -AZ Sr Olympics Cycling Phx State Competitions
602-261-8765
What Do They Really Do?
GABA-Board of Directors Responsibilities
NOTE: Over the years, some of the duties and responsibilities of some Board
Positions have changed, or shifted to another position, or even to a NEW Board
position. But, the listing below gives a good overall picture of what the
Board Members really do!
President:
- Give leadership and establish Club goals.
- Coordinate Club goals into the community.
- Conduct Board and Chapter business.
- Conduct general Club business.
Vice-President:
- Fill in at meetings when the President is absent.
- Assist with Chapter meetings.
- Organize and seek speakers for Chapter meetings.
- Review Bylaws for relevancy and update as applicable.
- Keep inventory of GABA property (equipment, T-shirts)
Treasurer:
- Keep Club books current and in accordance with good accounting practices.
- Give monthly treasurer's report at Board meetings.
- Give profit and loss reports on all paying rides.
- Write checks for various Club expenses.
- Reimburse ride leaders for expenses accrued on rides.
- Give Club Profit & Loss at the end of the year. Prepare books for
yearly audit. Prepare budget and make recommendations for incoming Board.
- Secure rental of room for Chapter meetings
Secretary:
- Take minutes of Board meetings and mail to Board members before next
meeting.
- Submit monthly summary of Board meetings minutes for the Update.
- Attend to general correspondence as required.
Membership Director:
- Maintain current roster of the Tucson membership.
- Generate membership list for Board members every 3 months.
- Generate mailing list for Update labels.
- Generate monthly list of volunteers for the Volunteer Director.
Publicity Director:
- Establish contact and send our rides to other cycling organizations or
publications.
- Contact local news organizations to promote major rides/events.
- Approach local bike shops to become supporting members.
- Assist supporting members with ads and collect their yearly dues.
Bike Shop Coordinator:
- Go to the various shops in Tucson and meet owners/managers.
- Establish a good relationship between GABA-Tucson and shops.
- Recruit shops to be new GABA-sponsors.
- Solicit door prizes for various events.
- Make sure Updates distribution list is current for delivery.
Education Director:
- Organize workshops for new members.
- Organize bike repair and safety clinics.
- Organize ride leader and sag support workshops.
- Create and make available bike safety/skills information for the general
public education.
- Write and/or find articles on bike safety/skills for the Update.
Touring Director, Day Rides:
- Put together monthly ride schedule.
- Solicit ride leaders for day rides
- Ensure tandem and mountain bike rides are offered.
Touring Director, Overnighters and Centuries:
(NOTE: This position has been divided into two different positions in recent
years.)
- Compile yearly calendar of major ride events for Club and other cycling
organizations as applicable.
- Solicit ride leaders for overnighters and century rides.
- Coordinate all articles/flyers regarding rides and write some if needed.
- Submit articles for major events for publication in the Update a couple of
month in advance.
- Create/coordinate new rides and events.
Update Editor:
- Select articles for publication.
- Write articles as needed.
- Proof read and edit articles as required.
- Ensure major Club events/rides are publicized 2 months before events.
- Organize articles and art work for layout.
- Schedule printing date with printer.
Correspondence/Registration Coordinator:
- Open Club mail, deposit checks and route mail to various officers.
- Give alphabetical list of participants to each ride leader 1 or 2 days
prior to major paying rides.
Volunteer Director:
- Contact volunteers from list provided by the Membership Director.
- Find ways to utilize volunteers in their area of expressed interest.
- Get volunteers for ride/event support.
- Notify ride leaders requiring help, of interested people.
Web Master:
- Maintain the Club website updated with current information.
- Improve the existing web site if possible or needed.
Social Director:
- Bring food to regular monthly meetings.
- Provide dinner for monthly Board Meetings.
- Organize other social events, such as ice cream socials or holiday pot
luck.
Bike Swap Coordinator:
- Coordinate with city of Tucson.
- Coordinate with 4th Avenue Merchants Association.
- Oversee distribution of publicity flyers about event.
- Oversee volunteers on day of event.
- Provide Porta-johns for event.
Shed Master:
- Organize current ride supplies.
- Replenish whatever supplies are used up.
- Fix or replace supplies whenever needed.
Cycling Advocacy Coordinator:
- Advise Club in legal matters when needed.
GABA-Tucson Board Members Perks
Did you know that when you volunteer to serve on GABA-Tucson Board,
there are a few perks that go with the job?
1. You get a free GABA membership.
2. You get to ride all the paying overnight rides and centuries free, except
the Cross State Tour and the Cave Creek Ride.
3. You get a free meal with each Board meeting that you attend.
4. You get a free GABA jersey.
5. You get a free special Holiday Season gourmet meal.
6. And you could have a lot of fun volunteering! So, what are you waiting
for? We can use your help!