improving lives through bicycling
It’s just a hillget over it! pg. 5
February 2015 / Vol. 45 No. 02 • cascade.org
Ride to Portland with 9,999 (new) friends!
The Major Taylor Project expands to Tacoma
By Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
By Ed Ewing, Director of Diversity & Inclusion
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7787 62nd Ave. NE Seattle, WA 98115 www.cascade.org
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It’s an early summer morning and the sun hasn’t even risen yet, but the University of Washington E-1 parking lot is buzzing with people. Smiles, fist-bumps, high-fives and encouraging “let’s do this!” cheers abound as thousands of cyclists line up at the start line, ready to ride to Portland. Will you be among them? Listed by Bicycling Magazine as one of the best cycling events in the nation, the Group Health Seattle to Portland presented by Alaska Airlines is a 200-mile challenge that serves as a bucket-list item for thousands of individuals.
The STP is the primary fundraiser for our club, and thanks to riders and members like yourself, we are able to introduce thousands of students in the Puget Sound region the joys, empowerment and practicality of riding a bike. Your registration fee also helps us advocate for roads and trails that are safe and convenient for families and commuters. And thanks to you, we’re able to host fun and challenging events for riders of all ages and abilities. Your fee helps us improve lives through bicycling.
New this year!
Now in its 36th year, the Group Health Seattle to Portland presented by Alaska Airlines ride will be better than ever! We’re always working to offer riders the best riding experience possible, and this year, we’re excited to announce that a new route segment will take riders through Joint Base Lewis-McChord! Inside the base perimeters, riders will enjoy comfortable, low-car roads and the military hosts will display various military vehicles for a unique inside-look. And thanks to the renewed support of Group Health and the new addition of Alaska Airlines as our presenting sponsor, riders get to choose their own souvenir this year. Upon arriving in Portland, riders can take home a “Finisher” apparel item of their choosing, be it a T-shirt, hat, etc. And to top it all off, riders will receive a free meal at the finishing line festival in Portland!
Registration
The STP sells out every year so don’t wait! Last year, it sold out as early as Feb. 16. Member-only registration is now open! Visit www. cascade.org/stp to register today. The event registration will open to the general public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday Feb. 10.
Now in its seventh year, Major Taylor project will expand to a 10th school, Lincoln High in Tacoma, Washington. Photo Courtesy of CB Bell.
Seven years ago, Cascade Bicycle Club launched the Major Taylor Project with just two sets of Redline bicycles. Still in operation today, the bicycles have transformed the lives of the many students who rode them as well as the parents, volunteers, members and staff that surround them. This year, our fleet of bicycles will grow to 150 as we expand the program to a 10th site: Lincoln High School in Tacoma. We are very excited with the possibilities in Tacoma, made possible by a collaborative effort from Group Health Cooperative, the city of Tacoma, Cascade Bicycle Club and Lincoln High School Assistant Principal Logic Amen. At last May’s bike to work breakfast, two of Tacoma City Council Members saw the Major Taylor program presentation and were duly impressed. With the help of city of Tacoma’s Active Transportation Coordinator, Diane Wiatr, a $15,000 grant from the
Russell Family Foundation was secured to help support the effort. In July, I rode the STP with the Major Taylor students and Assistant Principal Amen who, as it turned out, had ridden STP four times, on a mountain bike, by himself!
“You can’t be what you can’t see.” - Lincoln High School saying During our two-day journey, Amen witnessed students challenging themselves, working together as a team and thriving in their success. After crossing the Portland finish line, Amen said, “we can do this in Tacoma, let me know when you’re ready to roll!” With 1,400 students, Lincoln High School is the largest in the Tacoma School District. It is also the most economically and ethnically diverse—a model of the Continued on page 2
LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL STATS Enrollment: 1,449
RACE/ETHNICITY American Indian/Alaskan Native: 31, 2.1%
GENDER
Asian: 215, 14.8%
Male: 794, 54.8%
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 41, 2.8%
Female: 655, 45.2%
Asian/Pacific Islander: 256, 17.7% Black/African American: 387, 26.7% Hispanic/Latino of any race(s): 351, 24.2% White: 383, 26.4% Two or more races: 41, 2.8%
February 2015
Major Taylor Expands to Tacoma
A toast to the wind By Elizabeth Kiker, Executive Director
When I first met my husband, he hadn’t been on a bike in years. Determined to change that, I invited him out on a Valentine’s Day bike ride. We’d do a flat-and-easy, three-mile loop and then warm up with Asian food. The reality was not how I had envisioned it. The night was icy and cold. We were underdressed, and I had underestimated how hard it would be to navigate traffic on the way to the flat-and-easy three-mile loop. But we A toast to Peter Verbrugge (pictured) who forged ahead. On the loop, after 11 years of service to Cascade has taken the road was closed just as I another job. remembered, and we relaxed a bit. We rode a mile and a half down the loop remarkably quickly, and stopped to take pictures. Then, we turned...directly into a fierce, cold, unrelenting wind. I’m not a small woman, and it is still the only time in my life I worried I would actually be blown off my bike. But we persevered, and in addition to finishing that ride, my husband now owns two bikes himself and has ridden 1,500 miles on his family bike since we bought it last January, up Seattle hills and into the wind. The staff I work with at Cascade, the team that works with our members and volunteers to create the best bicycle club and advocacy group in the United States, if not the world, is like the first part of that Valentine’s Day ride. They are the easy pedaling. And, when a key member of our staff leaves, the wind suddenly feels just a bit colder, and we all feel each pedal stroke a bit more. Peter Verbrugge, a Cascade staff member, leader and visionary for the past 11 years, has taken another job. The good people at Cycle the WAVE were lucky enough to hire him away, and we are so glad that we already collaborate with them and know the relationship will only improve as Peter takes the reins there. At the same time, the loss of Peter–his good cheer, can-do and loving attitude, amazing spirit and relentlessly positive outlook–creates great sadness for many of us at Cascade. His smile has powered us over many obstacles in the past decade. While we are sad to see him go, I have no doubt that his wonderful replacement, Stacey Nakagawa, will fill his shoes with style and energy.
Continued from page 1
modern, multicultural urban high school. They have a saying at Lincoln: “you can’t be what you can’t see.’’ And bicycles will soon enable students to see their community from a new angle. More than a “bike program”, Lincoln High Principal Pat Erwin hopes the Major Taylor Project will create new and challenging experiences for Lincoln students and prepare them for a successful future. Expansion to Tacoma is the continuation of our commitment to diversity and inclusion and improving lives through bicycling. As we celebrate this milestone, I reflect on the progress we’ve made and it is clear that our mission remains unchanged, our commitment unbroken and our purpose clear. We support the goals and dreams of the students and the communities in which they live. And through this process, our organization has transformed.
Great deals at the 2015 Seattle Bike Swap! By Stacey Nakagawa, Events Producer
Sunday, Feb. 8 • 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Seattle Center Exhibition Hall, 225 Mercer St. Looking for a great deal on a new bike, components or a vintage jersey? Then check out Cascade’s annual Seattle Bike Swap! The Seattle Bike Swap is a bargain hunter’s paradise. This huge bike garage sale will have more than 100 vendors with great deals on new and used bike-related goods. This sale is one day only, so don’t miss it! Adult admission is just $5 and kids 15 and under are free all day. To get a head start on the bargains, an Early Entry ticket is available for $20. Sellers:
Have a bunch of cycling gear you’d like to sell at the Swap? There are still a few vendor spaces left. Contact Stacey at staceyn@cascade.org for more info. Consignment:
If you have a complete bike you want to sell, but don’t want to rent a sellers space, we do offer consignment. We will try to sell your bike for you for a fee ($10 plus 10 percent of the selling price). Bikes are priced to move and all proceeds benefit the Major Taylor Project. Donation:
Have a used bike you no longer need and want to support a great cause? You can donate used bikes to the Major Taylor Project to ensure kids from all backgrounds have access to bicycling. (Don’t worry, we’ll take care of any repairs.) For more info, visit www.cascade.org/bike-swap or email Stacey Nakagawa at staceyn@cascade.org.
As you enjoy your own rides around the Puget Sound region this (hopefully sunny) February, raise a glass to Peter and to all the Cascade staff, volunteers and members that have worked over the last 45 years to build this club to be the biggest, best, strongest club in the nation. We toast them on their journeys, and look forward to seeing them on the trail. Here’s to you!
Best,
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www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 02
The best kind of date: a bike date! By Mary Collins, Outreach Manager
Looking for a fun, cheap and romantic Valentine’s Day date idea? Go for a bike ride! No mode of travel is more romantic than the bicycle, and there’s no better way to literally heat things up with your significant other. Never been biking together before? Here’s your chance to try something new and bond in a new way. Whether you ride together for four miles or 40, you’ll feel great that you’ve done something good for your body, your brain and your relationship. You’ll make great memories on your ride and you can coast home on your shared rush of endorphins! When asked about the best bike date he’s ever been on, Seattleite and Seattle Bike Blog writer Tom Fucoloro replied, “is there any other kind?” Swoon! Take it from Cascade’s casanova Tim O’Connor, who says, “the best date spots are hidden places you can’t get to by car.” Sorry ladies, he’s taken. Don’t have a sweetie or looking to celebrate a more fraternal love? Take a solo ride or join one of Cascade’s free group rides. Dream date alert! Your not-so-secret admirers at Cascade Bicycle Club invite you to drop by your new Cascade Bicycling Center, for a free cup of locally-roasted coffee and a tour of our new facility, anytime Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. So throw caution to the wind and release your inhibitions. Fall in love (all over again) with your bicycle and your partner.
Photo courtesy of Amersterdamize
Here are some bike date ideas: • Grab some picnic fixings, a bottle of romance, your best smile and hit the road. • Get something going–your wheels and your heart rate–and bike to a park or the beach. • Sweep your partner off his/her/hir feet and onto two wheels. Head to the movies, a café or your favorite restaurant. • Work up a sweat together and go for a longer pedal to your favorite destination.
The Youth Bike Summit: five reasons not to miss it By Matt Metcalf, Major Taylor Project Coordinator
The Youth Bike Summit is less than two weeks away! Join us and pro-bike folks from all around the country for a weekend full of new relationships, ideas and inspiration. Here’s five reasons why you shouldn’t miss it: 1. YOLO*. This is the first time Seattle is hosting the Youth Bike Summit– who knows when it will be back! 2. Change the world. Take it from UW freshman and keynote speaker, Brook Neggussie, and attend YBS because, “bikes are one of the only ways we are actually going to change the world.” 3. Get inspired. “If you’re young, go to get inspired by the work your peers are doing and share your own stories,” urges Liz Johnson, 2014 YBS participant. 4. Support the youth. No longer consider yourself a “youth”? Attend, listen up and help tomorrow’s leaders achieve their goals. 5. Rub elbows. And more importantly, rub minds with bike leaders from Momentum Magazine, League of American Bicyclists, Mountain2Mountain, Bike Works and of course, Cascade Bicycle Club! Program highlights include youth bike curriculum; advocacy, fundraising and leadership workshops; as well as guest speakers and a community visioning session. We hope you will take advantage of this unique opportunity for young and old to come together and learn from each other. Don’t forget to invite your friends, teachers, kids, neighbors and local librarians, too! Want to collaborate but can’t attend the Summit? Stay connected all weekend via: Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Youth-Bike-Summit Twitter: @youthbikesummit and #YBS15 Instagram: @youthbikesummit * Ask your teenager what this means.
FEBRUARY 19th at 5 : 3 o
BIKE HAPPY HOUR Improving Lives Through Bicycling
at
P Y R AM ID BREWIN G 1201 1 st Avenue South 3
December 2014
Back then By Sarah Lounsbury, AmeriCorps volunteer
I think of myself back then, Pedaling up the largest hill in my neighborhood on a single speed hand me down I got from my sister. Bicycle adorned with streamers and wearing that purple helmet I won on a raffle at school, I follow my father’s shadow as he begins his ascent to the highest point on the hill. Not wanting to be left behind I keep chugging along, wavering in balance, the kind that comes with bicycling when you’re a child. I ride on, not expecting any sort of reward or prize for reaching the top, but for the sheer joy of riding a bicycle. Heart beating out of my too small frame, I finally meet my father at our destination, and take a deep breath in preparation for our descent. I pedal forward, my gap-toothed grin growing while the rate of my speed increases as I ride swiftly down the hill. Once I reach the bottom, and not wanting the ride to end I bike back up the hill with my father and fall in love with bicycling all over again.
B[ik]e mine By Matthew Metcalf, Major Taylor Project Coordinator
Close to me you’ve always been True to you I will forever be You’ve seen me through the thick and thin The world is better with you and me Your curvy body of supple steel The subtle glisten on your chain And the integrity of your wheel Cause explosions in my brain You saved me, and too, countless others Expanding our perceptions of space Pollution from car traffic smothers While you make your way and leave no trace We fell in love when I was two And now that I’m a few feet taller I fear what life would be without you My heart and legs would be much smaller I pray that our love may never end That we keep each other in line And this to you, my two-wheeled friend… Will you be my valentine?
THE COURIER CREW Editor: Anne-Marije Rook Editorial assistants: Diane English and Briana Orr Layout: Sarah Kulfan Additional designers: Tom Eibling and Kotis Design February contributors: Diana Bryant, Mary Collins, Ed Ewing, Peter Hallson, Elizabeth Kiker, Hank Landau, David Longdon, Sarah Lounsbury,Tom Meloy, Matt Metcalf, Josh Miller, Stacey Nakagawa, Jan Niemi, Briana Orr, Anne-Marije Rook, Rebecca Sorensen, Stacey Williams
We welcome your contributions!
Advertising:
Got an inspiring story or a great photo? We welcome submissions. The editorial calendar is planned one month in advance. If you wish to contribute an article to a future issue, contact the editor as early as possible. Articles and photographic submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Articles submitted after that will be considered on a space-available basis. All submissions are subject to editing for content and space.
We welcome ads and inserts. To check availability and inquire about prices, please contact Briana Orr at brianao@ cascade.org.
Queries can be emailed to: amrook@cascade.org.
Let’s be social! Follow Cascade on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. cascade.org facebook.com/cascadebicycleclub @cascadebicycle @cascadebicycle
CONTACT US Cascade Bicycle Club 7787 62nd Avenue NE, Seattle, WA 98115
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Note: All email addresses are @cascade.org President Catherine Hennings • catherine. hennings@ Vice President Daniel Weise • daniel.weise@ Treasurer Alexa Volwiler • alexa.volwiler@
www.cascade.org Office phone: 206-522-3222 Email: info@cascade.org
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Elizabeth Kiker • (206) 523-9495 or elizabeth.kiker@ SENIOR STAFF Jeff Aken, Advocacy Director (206) 300-5932 • jeffa@ David Douglas, Rec. Riding Director (206) 769-6575 • davidd@
Secretary George Durham • george.durham@
Ed Ewing, Director of Diversity & Inclusion (206) 778-4671 • ede@
Executive Committee Member-at-large Jessica Szelag • Jessica.szelag@
Shannon Koller, Director of Education (206) 696-4425 • shannonk@
Directors Nate Glissmeyer • nate.glissmeyer@ Joe Platzner • joe.platzner@ Merlin Rainwater • merlin.rainwater Charles Ruthford • charles.ruthford@ Jim Stanton • jim.stanton@ Don Volta • don.volta@ Ed Yoshida • ed.yoshida@
Serena Lehman, Director of Membership & Outreach (206) 291-4032 • serenal@ Kathy Mania, Finance Director (206) 498-2607 • kathym@ Robbie Phillips, Director of Strategic Development (206) 229-5187 • robbiep@ Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director (208) 870-9406 • amrook@ Tarrell Wright, Development Director (206) 240-2235 • tarrell.wright@
Help us transform the Puget Sound! Renew now at cascade.org/renew 4
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Vol. 45, No. 02
What’s new for Chilly Hilly? By Rebecca Sorensen, Events Producer
Saturday, Feb. 22
It’s time to dust off the wheels, pump the tires and get that bike out of the basement. Chilly Hilly means that spring riding season is just around the corner! Day-of registration/packet pickup Seattle-side registration and packet pickup this year will be at Pyramid Alehouse, Brewery & Restaurant at 1201 1st Ave S. Pyramid is also offering a free post-ride beverage (beer or soft drink) on the day of the event. Grab a drink, warm up inside and celebrate a great ride. Beer tickets are attached to the bib numbers, so be sure to hang onto them after the ride. Bainbridge registration and packet pickup will still be at B.I. Cycle Shop 124 Bjune Dr.
Traffic and construction There is significant road construction around the Colman Dock area, especially along Alaskan Way. Pyramid Alehouse provides us with a great location out of the construction zone with plenty of surrounding parking (surface, lots and garages). Also, please keep in mind that the Seattle Home Show starts at 10 a.m. on Feb. 22. Parking will be easier in this area for earlier ferries. Want to head straight to the ferry? Be sure to register before Wednesday Feb.11, so your packet can be mailed. On-route services Battle Point Park will serve as our free food and midpoint stop and is sponsored this year by Harrison Medical Center. Harrison is a full-service regional medical center with a new clinic on Bainbridge Island, offering 24/7 urgent care, primary care and specialty services. Their mission is to make a positive difference in people’s lives through exceptional healthcare. They will be staffing the free food stop, providing hot drinks and first aid.
providing free baked goods to all Chilly Hilly riders (donations accepted). Look for them at the Harrison Medical Center food stop in Battle Point Park. Finish line chili feed! Available for purchase at the finish are hot bowls of chili (vegetarian also available), cornbread and other goodies to re-energize you post-ride. This year all proceeds from the chili feed will go to Bainbridge Island Rowing Club (BIR). BIR is one of only two public school rowing clubs on the West Coast. It is a grassroots, self-funded organization that offers challenging varsity athletics to more than 110 high school students and 60 adults. This chili is guaranteed to warm your body and your soul. Registration is open! Member registration opened on
Tuesday, Jan. 6. General registration opens Tuesday, Feb. 3. Register online before midnight on Wednesday, Feb. 11, and your packet will be mailed to you. Online registration closes Wednesday, Feb. 18. Day-of event registration is available at both start locations. Chilly Hilly does not sell out, but prices vary based on how and where you register. Register online for the best price! Bainbridge-only special!* You can purchase a rider packet at one of your favorite Bainbridge bike shops! You can get the online Bainbridge pricing in person and have your packet prior to the event. Stop by B.I. Cycle Shop or Classic Cycle during regular business hours Feb. 18-21. *This special is Bainbridge start only, fare for ferry not included.
Thank you Chilly Hilly sponsors!
Baked goods at midpoint The Girl Scouts are back! The local Bainbridge Island Girl Scout troops will once again be
Chilly Hilly elevation chart
It’s just a hill: get over it! By Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
The Chilly Hilly is coming up in just a few weeks and as always, it’s promised to be, well, chilly and hilly – just as the name says. I’ve done the Chilly Hilly a few times now and very much enjoy the challenge (even in frigid, snowy weather). I’m not one of those feather-weight cyclists who enjoy nothing more than going up and up for hours; I climb only so I get to descend. But I’ve learned enough from my climber friends to be able to hold my own. So as you are getting ready to tackle the 2,675 feet of climbing, let me share a few tips with you: 1. Don’t fear the climb. Biking is such a mental sport. Part of getting up the hill is willing yourself to get up there. Think positive! 2. Don’t start out too hard. This is a common mistake lots of cyclists make. Taking the “the faster I go, the faster it’s over” attitude can work for short, punchy hills but for longer climbs it does not work. You’ll burn too many matches too soon and you’ll regret it halfway up the hill when your buddies come spinning by you. 3. Keep your hands on top of your bars or hoods as long as it’s safe to do so. This keeps your chest open and allows you to breathe better. 4. Belly breathe. Open your diaphragm. 5. Relax. No need for white knuckles, just keep a light grip on your bars. Make sure your shoulders are relaxed–they should not be touching your ears! Improving Lives Through Bicycling
6. Don’t rock your upper body back and forth unless you are out of the saddle. You should be the proverbial swimming duck: quiet on top with all movement coming from your legs only. 7. Spin. Spin. Spin. Keep your pedal cadence high. While this requires more work from your cardiovascular system, it helps save your legs. Climbing out of the saddle expends a lot of energy so try to stay seated until the hill gets too steep to do so. Use your gears to keep a steady cadence. 8. Watch the best climbers in your group. The best climbers are not only fast, they make it look easy because they are relaxed. Emulate their form. 9. Dress for the descent. You might get nice and toasty climbing up the hill but the descents are frigid. Dress in layers and zip up before you go down. 10. Enjoy the view. You just spent all that energy getting up the darn thing, you may as well take a moment to take in the view from the top! A note on descending: 11. Stay in the drops when you’re descending. This keeps your center of gravity lower, helps keep your weight back and allows you better access to your brakes. 12. Whatever you do, do NOT slam your front brake! Also, don’t brake in the turns when descending; brake just before the turns and pedal out of them. And when turning, keep your outside pedal down and inside pedal up. 5
February 2015
Grant from The Boeing Company helps Cascade inspire new community leaders By Diana Bryant, Grant Writer
Last fall, we were excited to learn that we have an important goal in common with The Boeing Company: building better-connected, healthier communities through a call to action. And in September, Cascade was awarded a $30,000 grant from The Boeing Global Corporate Citizenship program in support of Connect Seattle and the Advocacy Leadership Institute (ALI), two of our grassroots leadership development programs. “Boeing is committed to giving back to the communities where our employees live and work,” said Liz Warman, director of Boeing Global Corporate Citizenship, Northwest Region, at Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are pleased to partner with Cascade as we share their commitment to support a comprehensive transportation system that offers people in our local communities multiple options with full connectivity.” Like The Boeing Company, Cascade is invested in preserving a healthy Puget Sound region by creating infrastructure systems that promote healthy lifestyles, reduce greenhouse gasses and connect
communities across the region. We have big plans to inspire new community leaders through a call to action in 2015. This month Cascade is partnering with the University of Washington to present a workshop for UW’s newly launched Bike Advocacy Club on campus. The workshop for UW students will focus on the process of impacting change at the University through effective storytelling. The format helps college students get the individual training they need to plug into a network and form a broader community capable of making a collective impact. UW Club founder and former Cascade bicycle ambassador Katie McNett says her connection to Cascade inspired her to start a bicycle group at UW. “This is the perfect time to educate and involve these students on bicycle issues and the importance of living, working and playing in a community that’s safe and convenient to walk and bike,” said McNett. Cascade Field Programs Coordinator, Kelli Refer, agreed, adding that “it’s really all about inspiring change at the local
A team of Connect Seattle leaders celebrates success after a ride. Photo courtesy of Brock Howell.
level, starting with young adults about to embark on new career and life challenges. We want our communities to feel ownership of the positive work that’s making a real difference in the health of our neighborhoods and our environment.” Many of Cascade’s community leaders continue to foster change through their work with ALI and Connect Seattle, programs that focus on various neighborhood improvement projects throughout
the city and region. Because of supporters like The Boeing Company, we are able to offer a continuum of programming that inspires our neighbors to stay connected to Cascade’s work and make a positive difference through their leadership. We are grateful to The Boeing Company for its continued support of our work. To learn how you can get involved in Cascade’s programs, visit www. cascade.org/get-involved.
Can we all get along on Sunset Avenue Trail? By Jan Niemi, Co-Chair Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group (EBAG); Peter Hallson, EBAG Co-Chair and S afety Committee Chair of the Rides Committee for Cascade Bicycle Club; and Hank Landau, EBAG Immediate past Co-Chair
The city of Edmonds recently approved a multi-use bike and pedestrian trail along Sunset Avenue on a trial basis. Located just north of the ferry terminal, the proposed trail is causing considerable controversy. Although it is only one-quarter mile long and 8 to 10-feet wide, the trail will offer beautiful views of Puget Sound and will be heavily used. However, some Edmonds residents and two Edmonds city council members have expressed strong concerns that pedestrians and bicyclists can’t coexist on the trail. It is important for us all to prove them wrong. So we ask you to do three simple things: 1. Please obey the trail speed limit (which is recommended at 8 mph, and city council will set soon) 2. Ride carefully and use an audible signal when passing others 3. Educate yourself on rules of the road Educating bicyclists has always been important, but is becoming more with the growing popularity and widespread use of bicycles. Cascade Bicycle Club operates a bicycle education program in the Edmonds School District in the third through eighth grades. The on-bike program, taught in P.E. classes, teaches children basics traffic concepts such as right of way and how to avoid the most common accident types. Supported in the Edmonds School District by Swedish Edmonds, Verdant, and the Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group, the program additionally is being expanded next year to include pedestrian rights and how to stay safe as a pedestrian. Adult bicycle education is furthered through adult riding classes, peer-to-peer discussion and duringfree group rides. Cities like Edmonds have made great strides in recent years to protect pedestrians and bicyclists and enhance the walking and bike riding experience. Bicycle lanes, sharrows, sidewalks and signage have been added, especially near schools and parks. Hopefully these continuedimprovements will encourage children and their parents to ride and walk and help them lead more active and healthier lives. The city is making an effort and so should we. Multi-use trails, like the heavily-used Burke-Gilman and Sammamish River trails, are an invaluable asset to communities. Let’sset the tone for appropriate and safe trail use on Sunset Avenue Trail. 6
www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 02
Women Bike: Skin care By Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
Tell me if this sounds familiar: you are spending lots of time in the saddle, biking to work, for fun, for fitness or for errands around town. You enjoy the time spent outside and you feel great...except your skin. Your skin is either dry, blotchy and itchy from all the wind and cold air or it’s breaking out due to the sweat and dirt. Keeping your skin happy and healthy can be tough when you’re spending a lot of time in the saddle, but here are some tips that may help: Healthy skin starts with your daily moisturizer One of the best things you can do for your skin is to use a daily moisturizer. For your face, be sure to use a moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or greater, because even when the sun isn’t brightly shining, you can still get sunburned. Also lotion your arms and legs daily, especially after you shave. Lotion will not only make your skin feel soft, it helps protect against cold air, dirt and road grime. Look for lotion with natural moisturizing ingredients such as oatmeal and shea butter or the repairing qualities of aloe vera. There are several brands on the market that make cyclist-specific skin care such as Rapha, Mad Alchemy, Doc’s Skincare and more. Most of these brands focus on (after) shave products, chamois cream and embrocation. Embrocation: If you ride in shorts or capris year-round, try experimenting with embrocation during those fall and winter rides. Embrocation or “embro” is a warming cream or oil that keeps your legs warm while protecting them against water, wind and dirt. Embro also loosens up tight muscles and can be soothing to an aching lower back while riding. There are many different types of
embrocations on the market with different warmth levels– from “I don’t even notice it” to “I’m burning! Get this off me”–so if you’re new to using embrocation, I suggest using a low or medium warmth embro. Wash your hands immediately after applying and avoid applying embro near places you wouldn’t want to burn. Finally, be prepared for the embro to re-activate in the shower, sometimes even uncomfortably so. Not a fan of the warming sensation? Slather on some extra lotion on your legs before you head out the door to protect your skin from the wind, rain or dirt. Sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential in protecting your skin against those damaging UV rays, but finding a good sunscreen can be tricky. Many sunscreens feel oily or sticky and can clog your pores while others are useless the moment you start sweating. What you’ll want is a sweat-/ water-resistant sunscreen that doesn’t make you look like a mime. Look for sunscreens that contain UV protecting ingredients like ecamsule, avobenzone, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide paired with skin-benefiting ingredients such as vitamin E, aloe vera or shea butter. Long ride in desert sun? Sunscreen alone won’t be enough. Protect your bare skin with arm and leg skins. These light-weight layers add a protective layer of SPF 50 and up. Don’t forget to protect your scalp with a thin cap.
Shower not an option? Carry wet-wipes to wipe off sweat and dirt. • Re-moisturize: either apply your daily moisturizer or speed up recovery with products containing aloe vera in case of a sunburn; tea tree oil or arnica to calm skin and relax aching joints; oatmeal or shea butter to repair dry skin. • Epsom salts baths. Epsom salts baths are one of the best things you can do for your body after a hard ride. A pure mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate, Epsom salt is a natural cure to a number of ailments including relaxing the nervous system, soothing joint and muscles aches pain, healing cuts, drawing toxins from the body and yes, curing skin problems. Breakout protection: We all thought that we’d leave those breakouts and acne behind when we outgrew puberty, but alas, for many of us, that isn’t true. Sweat, trapped heat, chafing, sunscreen all of these clog your pores and can cause your skin to breakout. Here are some prevention tips: • Clean your helmet regularly. The forehead and chin are two trouble spots for breakouts. One way to prevent breakouts is by cleaning the pads and straps that make contact with your skin. Most helmets have removable
pads. Hand wash these pads with detergent made for sensitive skin. Rinse well and air dry. Give your helmet straps the same treatment. Some brands even sell the pads individually. If that’s the case with your helmet, I’d recommend replacing the pads once a year if you ride a lot. • Keep your hair and sweat out of your face. When sweat drips down your face, it bring dirt and oil with it. Keep sweat out of your face (and eyes!) with a headband or skull cap. Designed to be worn with a helmet, cycling-specific caps and headband tend to be lightweight and airy so the wicking fabric will keep the sweat at bay while keeping you cool. Do clean your headwear frequently. • Clean the trouble areas before and after your ride. • Breakouts on your chest, neck or back? Allow your skin to breathe by wearing a loose fitting jersey or wear a sweat-wicking baselayer. Also try soaking in an Epsom salts bath regularly. Thanks for the positive feedback to this column. I’m happy to help! Please continue to email me your questions at amrook@cascade.org and I’ll answer them anonymously. Read our previous columns online at http:/www.cascade.org/women
Vaseline: On extremely cold and/or windy days, there is little to protect your skin other than covering the majority up. Try Vaseline to protect your lips, nose and cheeks from the cold air. After-the-ride skin treatment: • Shower, wash your face, cleanse as soon as possible after your ride.
Register now at cascade.org/bike-everywhere-breakfast Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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February 2015
Honoring exceptional ride leaders By Scott Boggs, Chair, Rides Committee
The Free Group Rides program embraces Cascade’s mission of improving lives through bicycling by offering rides that attract all types of riders: from young to old, from beginners to experienced and everything in between. Last year, we offered more than 2,200 daily rides, drawing almost 20,000 participants. Our formula is pretty simple: attract riders by making our group rides fun, diverse, supportive and/or challenging to all; recruit, retain and value our ride leaders; encourage and support them to actively post and lead rides. The success of the program really is due to a dedicated group of more than 300 Ride Leaders who are trained to help riders learn and practice the basics of safe group riding and create interesting opportunities to ride all over the Puget Sound region. These Ride Leaders volunteer literally thousands of hours of their time and are out on the roads every day of the week, rain or shine. At a recent Ride Leader dinner we took time to recognize some exceptional ride leaders who really made significant contributions to the program this year. Having a strong ride leader community is really the cornerstone of the Free Group Rides program and Jake Wright, Joni Griffis, Machiko Threlkeld and Sandi Navarro were cited for their efforts helping us recruit, retain and value ride leaders. We value the contributions of all ride leaders but some really go above and beyond. Alan Lawrence, Eric Gunderson and John Weller were thanked for the sheer number of rides they led last year. In fact, almost 15 percent of all daily rides in 2014 were led by these three individuals! David Bordewick and Robert Onishi were also recognized for the amazing efforts they have made to lead some of our lower paced rides and help train new riders to get ready for big events like the Group Health STP presented by Alaska Airlines. Finally we acknowledged Al Miller, Dorothé Reijnders, Patty and Rick Urton, Alexa Volwiler, Merlin Rainwater and Madi Carlson for all of their efforts to create fun and interesting rides appealing to a wide range of riders and for extending our rides both north and south of King County. Each of these exceptional ride leaders received a unique seatpost band to distinguish their accomplishments. The next time you see them out on a group ride, we hope you will join us in thanking them for their time and dedication to the program. We are always looking for more good people to join our ride leader community. If you are interested please contact Stacey Williams at staceyw@cascade.org or talk to any ride leader for more details.
From left to right: Machiko Threlkeld, Jake Wright, Joni Griffis and Sandi Navarro.
Cascade’s High Performance Cycling kicks off 2015 season By Tom Meloy and David Longdon, HPC members
Consider yourself a mountain goat? Ride with HPC!
Kick-off Meeting Saturday, Feb. 21, 5:30 p.m. Center Cycle, 3950 Lind Ave SW. Renton, WA 98057
Meet the Team Ride Sunday, Feb. 22 For your convenience, we’ll have multiple start locations: Sam Smith Park at the west side of the I-90 bike tunnel at 9 a.m. Tibbets Park in Issaquah at 9 a.m. Regroup at Gene Coulon Park at approximately 9:40 a.m. http://www.cascade.org/node/20338
Since 2008, Cascade Bicycle Club’s High Performance Cycling Team (aka “HPC”) has occupied a special niche within Seattle’s cycling community by providing a team environment for riders interested in developing their fitness and cycling skills. HPC is a team for fitter, faster cyclists who don’t have a strong interest in racing. HPC is well-regarded as a team that rides hard while practicing safe group riding skills. HPC is a perfect fit for riders who are: • committed to improving their fitness and cycling skills and want to ride with folks who are faster and more experienced;
to Portland Presented by Alaska Airlines in one day, Ride around Mt. Rainer (RAMROD) in one day and the High Pass Challenge. In addition to event rides, we also like to “roll our own” long rides: 100 miles out and back on the North Cascades Highway to Mazama; climbing the Mt. Baker Highway to Artist Point and doing all of the climbs around Mt. Rainier in one serving. The 2015 kick-off presentation will include an overview of: • Team HPC including past highlights and plans for 2015;
• capable of riding more than 50 miles;
• HPC’s fitness discount program with Cycle University; and
• looking for compatible cycling buddies who regularly do long, scenic and challenging rides; • comfortable with, or have a desire to master paceline and group riding techniques; and • able to or have desire to ride at 18 mph or faster (without drafting, on a flat road with no wind and a reasonable road surface).
From left to right: Al Miller, Alexa Volwiler, Merlin Rainwater, Dorothé Reijnders and Patty Urton.
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HPC has approximately 80 members ranging in age from early 30s to late 60s. Our members target challenging event rides including: the Chelan Century, Alaska Airlines Flying Wheels, Group Health Seattle
participation-based • HPC’s incentive program for equipment discounts with Center Cycle;
• a presentation of the 2015 team kit (uniform) and an opportunity to try on clothing items (the 2015 team kit order will close approximately 10 days after the team meeting). For 2015 there are no team dues, but membership in the Cascade Bicycle Club is required. You may join the team at any time of year, but will get the most out of your membership if you get in on the action sooner than later. For more information see the High Performance Cycling, visit www.cascade. org/high-performance-cycling.
www.cascade.org
Vol. 44, No. 12
FREE GROUP RIDES EASY PACE (UNDER 10 mph) Saturday, Feb. 28 SLOW Ride to Seattle Bike Show 11 a.m. 8 miles from the Northwest African American Museum, Seattle • Ride Leader: Merlin Rainwater
LEISURELY PACE (10-12 mph) Friday, Feb. 6 FRIDAY RIDERS: Go to Lake Forest Park 10 a.m. • 25 miles from Gas Works Park, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Jan Johnson, William Lemke Saturday, Feb. 7 GR2R-Eastside #2 11 a.m. • 17 miles from Marymoor East (free) parking lot, Redmond • Ride Leader: Deborah Munkberg GR2R-Seattle #2 11 a.m. • 20 miles from Gas Works Park, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Jeffrey Almgren, Jennifer Lehman, Heidi Schillinger, Machiko Threlkeld Friday, Feb. 13 FRIDAY RIDERS: Go North from Green Lake 10 p.m. • 25 miles from Green Lake, Seattle • Ride Leader: Jan Johnson Saturday, Feb. 14 GR2R-Eastside #3 11 a.m. • 19 miles from Tolt MacDonald Park, Carnation •Ride Leader: Deborah Munkberg GR2R-Seattle #3 11 a.m. • 25 miles from Jack Block Park, Seattle •Ride Leaders: Marge Evans, Machiko Threlkeld Sunday, Feb. 15 S.P.O.K.E.S. Leisurely Chill on the Hills 2015 10 a.m. • 24 miles from Farrel-McWhirter Park, Redmond • Ride Leader: Michelle Burton Saturday, Feb. 21 GR2R-Eastside #4 11 a.m • 21 miles from Wilmot Gateway Park, Woodinville • Ride Leader: Deborah Munkberg GR2R-Seattle #4 11 a.m • 23 miles from View Ridge Playfield, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Jennifer Lehman, Heidi Schillinger, Machiko Threlkeld Friday, Feb. 27 FRIDAY RIDERS: To Alki 10 a.m. • 25 miles from Gas Works Park, Seattle • Ride Leader: Norm Tjaden Saturday, Feb. 28 GR2R-Seattle #5 11 a.m. • 20 miles from Gas Works Park, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Jeffrey Almgren, David Selk, Machiko Threlkeld, Andy Williams
STEADY PACE (12-14 mph) Saturday, Feb. 7 CHEW - South End Ride #6 10 a.m. • 45 miles from Old Renton City Hall, Renton • Ride Leaders: Jeanette Kearney, Patricia Urton GR2R-Eastside #2 11 a.m. • 17 miles from Marymoor East (free) parking lot, Redmond • Ride Leader: Deborah Munkberg GR2R-Seattle #2 11 a.m. • 20 miles from Gas Works Park, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Heidi Schillinger, David Selk, Machiko Threlkeld Sunday, Feb. 8 CHEW - Eastside Ride #6 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Woodinville Sports Fields (near Wilmot Gateway Park), Woodinville • Ride Leaders: Joni Griffis, John Mullins, Alexa Volwiler Saturday, Feb. 14 South End Ride #7 10 a.m. • 47 miles from Old Renton City Hall, Renton • Ride Leaders: Jeanette Kearney, Patricia Urton GR2R-Eastside #3 11 a.m. • 19 miles from Tolt MacDonald Park, Carnation • Ride Leader: Deborah Munkberg
Improving Lives Through Bicycling
GR2R-Seattle #3 11 a.m. • 25 miles from Jack Block Park, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Jeffrey Almgren, Marge Evans, David Selk, Rob Snyder, Machiko Threlkeld
Tuesday, Feb. 10 Eastside Tours Evening Ride 6:30 p.m. • 25 miles from Overlake Transit Center, Redmond • Ride Leader: Eric Gunnerson
Tuesday, Feb. 24 Eastside Tours Evening Ride 6:30 p.m. • 25 miles from Overlake Transit Center, Redmond • Ride Leader: Eric Gunnerson
Sunday, Feb. 15 CHEW - Eastside Ride #7 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Marina Park, Kirkland • Ride Leaders: Scott Blachowicz, Lee Gustafson, Alexa Volwiler
Saturday, Feb. 14 CHEW - South End Ride #7 10 a.m. • 47 miles from Old Renton City Hall, Renton • Ride Leaders: Tim Johnson, Kyle Lindvall
Thursday, Feb. 26 Eastside Tours Evening Ride 6:30 p.m. • 25 miles from Overlake Transit Center, Redmond • Ride Leader: Eric Gunnerson
Tuesday, Feb. 17 TREATS: Redhook - Lk Sammamish Loop 10 a.m. • 34 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville • Ride Leader: Aimee Mamich Saturday, Feb. 21 GR2R-Seattle #4 11 a.m. • 23 miles from View Ridge Playfield, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Jennifer Lehman, David Selk, Machiko Threlkeld
Sunday, Feb. 15 CHEW - Eastside Ride #7 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Marina Park, Kirkland • Ride Leaders: Rich Knox, Wilfried Mack, Alexa Volwiler Monday, Feb. 16 MUMPS: Do the lake 10 a.m. • 50 miles from Tracy Owen Station/Log Boom Park, Kenmore, • Ride Leader: Craig Mohn
GR2R-Eastside #4 11 a.m. • 21 miles from Wilmot Gateway Park, Woodinville • Ride Leader: Deborah Munkberg
Thursday, Feb. 19 Eastside Tours Evening Ride 6:30 p.m. • 25 miles from Overlake Transit Center, Redmond • Ride Leader: Eric Gunnerson
Saturday, Feb. 28 CHEW - South End Ride #8 10 a.m. • 45 miles from Celebration Park, Federal Way • Ride Leaders: Jeanette Kearney, Patricia Urton
Sunday, Feb. 22 Meet the Cascade High Performance Cycling Team 9 a.m. • 30 miles from Tibbets Valley Park, Issaquah • Ride Leader: Tom Meloy
GR2R-Seattle #5 11 a.m. • 20 miles from Gas Works Park, Seattle • Ride Leaders: Tom Moberg, Rob Snyder, Machiko Threlkeld, Andy Williams
Sunday, Feb. 22 Meet the High Performance Cycling Team 9 a.m. • 35 miles from Sam Smith Park, Seattle • Ride Leader: David Longdon
GR2R-Eastside #5 11 a.m. • 25 miles from Marymoor East (free) parking lot, Redmond • Ride Leaders: Deborah Munkberg
Monday, Feb. 23 MUMPS: Do the lake 10 a.m. • 50 miles from Tracy Owen Station/Log Boom Park, Kenmore • Ride Leader: Craig Mohn
MODERATE PACE (14-16 mph) Saturday, Feb. 7 CHEW - South End Ride #6 10 a.m. • 45 miles from Old Renton City Hall, Renton • Ride Leaders: Jonathan Griffin, Geoffrey Jackson, Rick Urton Sunday, Feb. 8 CHEW - Eastside Ride #6 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Woodinville Sports Fields (near Wilmot Gateway Park), Woodinville • Ride Leaders: Sandi Gold, Nan Haberman, Alexa Volwiler, Rick Wiltfong Saturday, Feb. 14 CHEW - South End Ride #7 10 a.m. • 47 miles from Old Renton City Hall, Renton • Ride Leaders: Jonathan Griffin, Geoffrey Jackson, Rick Urton Sunday, Feb. 15 CHEW - Eastside Ride #7 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Marina Park, Kirkland • Ride Leaders: Paula Froke, Sandi Navarro, Alexa Volwiler, Rick Wiltfong Saturday, Feb. 21 Saturday Morning Rides in Snohomish County 9:30 a.m. • 48 miles from Pilchuck Park, Snohomish • Ride Leaders: Michael Cunanan, Larry DeBardi
BRISK PACE (16-18 mph) Thursday, Feb. 5 Eastside Tours Evening Ride 6:30 p.m. • 25 miles from Overlake Transit Center, Redmond • Ride Leader: Eric Gunnerson Saturday, Feb. 7 CHEW - South End Ride #6 10 a.m. • 45 miles from Old Renton City Hall, Renton • Ride Leaders: Tim Johnson, Kyle Lindvall Sunday, Feb. 8 CHEW - Eastside Ride #6 8:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Woodinville Sports Fields (near Wilmot Gateway Park), Woodinville • Ride Leaders: James Coliz, Joe Shih, Tim Thomas, Alexa Volwiler Monday, Feb. 9 MUMPS: Do the lake 10 a.m. • 50 miles from Tracy Owen Station/Log Boom Park, Kenmore, • Ride Leader: Craig Mohn
VIGOROUS (18-20 mph) Sunday, Feb. 8 CHEW - Eastside Ride #6 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Woodinville Sports Fields (near Wilmot Gateway Park), Woodinville • Ride Leaders: Bob Dennis, Alan Tagstrom, Alexa Volwiler Sunday, Feb. 15 CHEW - Eastside Ride #7 9:30 a.m. • 45 miles from Marina Park, Kirkland • Ride Leaders: Bob Dennis, Timothy McCarthy, Alexa Volwiler
SUPER STRENUOUS: (22mph +) Thursday, Feb. 5 More Cycle Tuesdays 5:45 p.m. • 25 miles from Gene Coulon Park, Renton • Ride Leader: S Michael Hoffman Tuesday, Feb. 10 Cycle Tuesdays 5:45 p.m. • 25 miles from Gene Coulon Park, Renton • Ride Leaders: Vincent Haag, Russ Moul Thursday, Feb. 12 More Cycle Tuesdays 5:45 p.m. • 25 miles from Gene Coulon Park, Renton • Ride Leader: S Michael Hoffman
This is a sampling of this month’s rides. For a complete listing, see cascade.org/calendar. For full details of the listed rides, see cascade.org/grouprides. This is also where you’ll find ride guidelines to help you select a ride that suits your style, skills and energy level.
Joni Griffis : Exceptional Ride Leader By Stacey Williams, Rides Manager
At the recent Ride Leader Meeting, we recognized Joni as an Exceptional Ride Leader for her efforts in building the ride leader community by recruiting, retaining and valuing ride leaders. Joni came to cycling through triathlons. A regular gym goer, she decided to sign up for a local mini sprint triathlon at Cottage Lake. By the end of the tri season, Joni realized that she didn’t really enjoy the swimming or running, but the biking was a lot of fun! Joni saw a listing in The Seattle Times for a Cascade Free Group Ride. Like many of us, she stepped outside of her comfort zone and went to the start point not knowing any other riders or what to expect. She was met by two welcoming Ride Leaders, Marge and Ron Evans. Joni signed up for the Cascade Training Series in 2012. She became a Ride Leader in January 2013 and today enjoys encouraging and supporting others and sharing her love of biking. Why biking? “Biking allows me to either put my head down and focus on riding or be social with those riding around me,” says Joni. “Plus, bike riders are
Exceptional ride leader Joni Griffis on the right.
the nicest folks around!” A self-described introvert, Joni says biking also gives her more confidence and willingness to try new things. She sees these benefits transitioning into other areas of her life. You will find Joni out riding her bike most weekends, leading rides for the Cascade Training Series (starting in April 2015) and even riding on some of those cold, wet Seattle nights when most of us are indoors. “I love to be outdoors any time of year,” says Joni. Check out the Cascade Free Group Rides Calendar and join Joni on a ride! 9
February 2015
The 2015 presentation series is in full swing! By Peter Verbrugge, Events Producer
We’ve got three fantastic off-the-bike events this February that you won’t want to miss! All events are held at our (new) Cascade Bicycling Center at 7787 62nd Ave NE, Seattle. Come early at 6:30 p.m. if you’d like to take a tour of the new Cascade Bicycling Center!
on several different U.S networks. Better known as “The Bobke”, he brings a wealth of fun insights and colorful humorous commentary on the world of professional cycling. Bob continues to enjoy riding road and mountain bicycles for recreation, and is a member of the veteran NBS Sports cable television broadcasting team (along with Phil Liggett, MBE and Paul Sherwen) who serve as road cycling expert-commentators for the NBC Sports Network cable network’s coverage of the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Paris–Roubaix, Tour of California and other international cycling road races. Tonight is special benefit night for Cascade Bicycle Club’s new women’s program & “Cycle The WAVE,”a non-competitive, all-women’s cycling event benefitting domestic violence agencies throughout Washington. *Bob’s show is graciously sponsored by the new Seattle Bike Show, happening Saturday, Feb. 28 & Sunday, March 1 at the CenturyLink Field Event Center; featuring Bob Roll on both days! Note: Beer and wine will be available for purchase at this special event. Slaying the Badger: presented by Andy Hampsten
Joe “Metal Cowboy” Kurmaskie presents: A love letter to the bicycle and those who ride them Thursday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. $5 Cascade Members / $7 Non-members Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Our 2015 Presentation Series continues this February with Joe “Metal Cowboy” Kurmaskie. He brings his storytelling and big heart to Seattle with an entirely new collection of tales from the road. The Metal Cowboy will focus on never-before heard stories of love and heartbreak from down the block and around the globe. Raffles, music (Joe is bringing his trumpet and some Curtis Mayfield riffs), books and lots of laughs should be had on this special Valentine’s week evening! An evening with Bob Roll Friday February 27 at 7:30 p.m. $20 Cascade members, $23 Non-members Advance tickets at brownpapertickets.com
Bob Roll is one of America’s most well-known ex-professional cyclists who rode on both the Motorola and 7-Eleven team in the 1980s. He has been a regular commentator on international cycling events for many years
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Seattle Bike Show
Please join us Saturday, Feb. 28, for a viewing of the 2014-film, Slaying the Badger, with very special guest Andy Hampsten. In this engrossing film, Greg LeMond looks back at the pivotal 1986 Tour and his increasingly vicious rivalry with friend, teammate and mentor Bernard Hinault. The reigning Tour champion and brutal competitor known as The Badger, Hinault promised to help LeMond to his first victory, in return for LeMond supporting him in the previous year. But in a sport that purports to reward teamwork, it’s really every man for himself. Enjoy the film, followed by an intermission with an open bar, and then an hour to ask fellow La Vie Claire teammate Andy Hampsten about what else happened behind the scenes during the ‘86 Tour. Hampsten will also take questions and be available for autographs following the event. This event is a benefit for the Major Taylor Project.
Saturday, Feb. 28 and Sunday, March 1 CenturyLink Field Event Center Adults: $10 (Cascade Members receive a $2 discount) Kids (17 and under): Free
Thanks to a new partnership with Cascadia Events, the Seattle Bike Expo will return for its 25th year as the Seattle Bike Show. The Seattle Bike Show is your chance to check out the latest in bike technology and cycling gear, travel packages, upcoming bike events and more. This year the show will feature more interactive events and your ticket will also include entry into the Travel, Trips and Adventure Expo. Grab a beer and peruse more than 200 vendor booths, take a ride on the zip line and check out vintage bicycles at the Classic Bike Show. Cascadia Events has a great lineup of performances and speakers, including professional cyclist and humorous commentator, Bob Roll. And don’t miss the amazing stunts from professional mountain biker, Ryan Leech. Cascade Members receive a $2 discount off entry to the show! Look for the coupon in the Bike Show flyer included in this month’s Courier. For more information, visit seattlebikeshow.com.
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Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. $10 Cascade members, $12 non-members Advance tickets are for sale at brownpapertickets.com Beer and Wine will be available for purchase at the event. Film time is 70 Minutes, followed by a one hour post-show talk with Andy Hampsten.
C Y C L I N G
AT T O R N E Y
Member of Cascade Bicycle Club & Washington Bikes Sponsor of Bikecafe, Bikesale.com, Blue Rooster, Cucina Fresca, Fischer Plumbing, Garage, Group Health, Lakemont, Project 13, Recycled Cycles, SCCA/Starbucks, SnoValley Velo and Spin Cycling Teams
206-343-1888 or 206-714-1085 john@dugganbikelaw.com Free Consultation www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 02
Early member spotlight: Jerry Baker By Brianna Orr, Communications Specialist
Jerry Baker (on the right) gets at least five “Hi Jerry”s everywhere he rides
In 1970 a small group of active cyclists gathered in a basement on Mercer Island. Little did these individuals know that they were going to change the future of bicycling in the Puget Sound region. 45 years later, the Cascade Bicycle Club is the largest bicycling organization of its kind in the U.S. with more than 16,000 members, 1,000 volunteers and 38 staff. Here, we highlight a few of Cascade’s earliest members, hear how their involvement changed the course of their lives and find out what they’re up to today. 73-year-old Jerry Baker is an institution of his own here in Seattle. He won the inaugural Seattle to Portland race in 1979 (the only time it was held as a time trial race) and he has ridden every STP since. He is well-known in the Seattle bicycling community, yet Jerry speaks modestly about his bicycling career, in which he has pedalled 210,000 miles and counting. This is the equivalent to circumnavigating the globe more than eight times! And along the way he’s helped create Cascade Bicycle Club, the Marymoor Velodrome and has supported many other bicycling initiatives. But the beginning of his story is not unlike many of ours. Jerry graduated from the University of Washington in 1965 and while in college, he gained the dreaded “freshman 15” pounds. He started riding his bike to lose weight. His weight loss tool turned into a passion. In 1970, Jerry was instrumental in founding the Cascade Bicycle Club by serving as a connector, keeping everyone talking to one another and keeping the lines of communication open. “Jerry always played an important role bridging the racing, touring and advocacy worlds… [he] epitomized the degree of cooperation and coordination between the various bicycling interests in Seattle,” commented fellow founder and former roommate Josh Lehman. Jerry and his cohort laid the groundwork for Cascade Bicycling Club and their interests echo in our mission today: improving lives through bicycling. We are not just a riding club, educational or an advocacy organization; we do it all. Another notable accomplishment is Jerry’s role procuring funding for the Marymoor Velodrome, the state’s only velodrome. Marymoor Velodrome opened in 1975 and Jerry stayed involved in the organization for 46 years. He’s also taken lead roles in organizing cyclocross races. As a result of early members like Jerry, Cascade continues to represent all kinds of bicycling interests from recreational riding to commuting, advocacy to education. Jerry said he continues to be impressed by Cascade’s “strong, passionate and responsive” voice in the region. Through bicycling, Jerry said he’s learned to appreciate that we all have goals and they are (at least) worth listening to. And, he’s learned there is almost always more than one path to take to reach wherever you are trying to go. Jerry is still very active and involved in Cascade. Jerry said he enjoys Cascade’s “friendly community” of “different people all with a commonality–riding bicycles.” And he still rides. In 2014 Jerry pedaled more than 4,500 miles. “When I ride,” Jerry said with a smile, “I have at least five people say, ‘Hi, Jerry!’” Jerry is registered for the 2015 Group Health STP Presented by Alaska Airlines, with bib number 36, which represents the number of STPs he’s ridden. If you spot him along the route, be sure to say hello and thanks for all the work he’s done. Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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February 2015
Summer is just around the corner! Register your kids for Cascade Summer Camps By Josh Miller, Community Education Program Coordinator
We are pleased to announce that 2015 Cascade Summer Camp registration is open! This year camps will run from June 22-Aug. 21. We had an amazing summer last year and are looking forward to an even better one at the new Cascade Bicycling Center. In addition to the regular camps, Wheelie Fun (for ages six-eight), Gearhead (for ages nine-12) and Urban Riders (for ages 11-15), we are super excited to announce two new camps: Girls Gearheads camp will be all girls and taught by women, creating an empowering female space. Bike and Sail camp is a joint venture with our neighbors at Sail Sand Point. In this camp, participants will spend each morning biking and the afternoons sailing. For additional details and to register, visit: www.cascade.org/learn/ youth-camps-classes.If you have questions about our camps contact Education and Outreach Program Assistant Michele Finkelstein michelef@cascade.org.
December Donor List Foundations $1,000-50,000 City of Seattle Hope for Youth Scan|Design Foundation The Ordinary People Foundation Corporate Support Edge & Spoke Sports INC Expedia Linksbridge, SPC Microsoft Corporation Olympic Insurance Agency, Inc RealNetworks Foundation Seattle Spine and Sports Medicine Individual Support $50,000+ The Estate of Ruth N Wilson $25,000-49,999 Jabe Blumenthal & Julie Edsforth $2,000-24,999 Matthew Cohen and Kimberly Kemp Judith Jesiolowski and David Thompson David M Stout $1,000-1,999
Mark Davison and Kethleen Galloway
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George and Kathleen Durham Curtis Gelotte John Henderschedt Lynn Keenan and Janie Mathis Don E Martin Joe, Anne, and Lizzie Platzner John and Edie Weller $500-999
Anonymous David N Cutler Christopher DaleyWatson Gabe M Grijalva Saunatina A Sanchez Bruce W Williams $250-499 Ben E Atkinson Caglayan Arkan Kevin G Carrabine Donna McBain Evans Greg Gottlieb Peter C Hummel David G Johansen Rebecca Keever Ross MacFarlane Chris Marks Donna Massoth Margaret (Meg) Morris Carl H Ringler Tamara Schmautz Neil Shipp Eric Smith Timothy Summers Kelly White Thomas and Marlene Wissler Sally C Wolf
CAMP DATES Wheelie Fun camps June 22-26, July 13-17 & Aug. 3-7 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., Cost: $300 Gearheads camps June 29-July 3, July 20-24 & Aug. 10-14 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Cost $325 NEW! Girls Gearheads camp July 20-24 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Cost: $325 NEW! Bike and Sail camp Aug. 10-14 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Cost: $375 Urban Riders camps: July 6-10, July 27-31 & Aug. 17-21 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Cost $325
Our donors make our work possible—Thank you! Bruce Yasutake Up to $250 Maureen E Ahern Jean G Amick Donor Anonymous Nancy Backus Thomas Bailey Christopher Barnes Alexander B Barnett Antonio E Becerra Sarah J Beer Michael Bendotti Colin Berg John C Berude Todd Black Frank R Blakemore Bryan Boeholt Lawrence Bragg Mark A Brandjord Jeniphr Breckenridge David Bricklin Cheryl L Britton Christy A Brown Jonathan Brown Betsy Bruemmer Josh Burrows Trish Byers Becca Cahall Bernice Campbell Zimmie Caner Kelley Carnwath Doug C Carpenter John Cary Cheryl Charp Clifford Chirls Kathy Christiansen Mackie Clifton Eric D Clopper Matt Collins James Cook Cathy S Corrado Ross Craig John O Crichton
Michael A Cummins Paul E Damoth Paul M De Groot Larry Dean John Delius Nancy M Denney David A Dichek Nick Dire Bill C Dougall Rayner Dsouza Jim M Dubeck Ronald J Dupard Tony East Jeff Eby Robert Edwards Daryl S Ehrenheim Pam A Elvy Deborah Engelmeyer Frank S Evanson Edward W Feeley Jon P Fehrenbach Thomas Fiebig Christian Folk Marion Folkemer Paula Froke Lisa Garbrick Norbert W Geer Paul Gissing David P Giugliano Michael K Gluck Loretta A Goetsch Joey Gray Jeff Greenstreet Matt Griffin Kendra M Gritsch Dan Grossman Simon Guest Paul S Gustie Don Guthrie Karen W Guzak Kevin Hansen Henry H Haselton Shani Hawley Jacqueline Hayes
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