Tour of Champions 2014 Biography Book

Biography Book

Weekend Highlights Lodging: Hilton Fort Collins 425 W. Prospect Rd. Fort Collins, CO Hospitality Room: Legends Room for mix-n-mingle throughout the weekend Bike Room & Rides: Friday: 35-mile ride (Northwestern Fort Collins and Old Heritage Park for brunch) Saturday: 37-mile ride (Southwestern Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir) Bike rentals provided by Lee’s Cyclery Bike Shop, Peloton Cycles and New World Sports Bike room is the Green & Gold Room at the Hilton Fort Collins Daily Meals: Opening dinner on Thursday in the Hilton Ballroom Friday night dinner on your own (reservations recommended) Breakfast on Friday/Saturday/Sunday at Hilton Spring Creek Grill Saturday Excursions & Non-Cycling Options: Horsetooth Mountain Hike and Picnic Fortoberfest in Old Town Shopping on your own Saturday closing reception and dinner at Hilton Ballroom, with entertainment by Howl at the Moon

2014 Tour of Champions Statistics 92 Qualifiers attending TOC 26 new Qualifiers attending TOC

New to TOC

16 Team Captains

Total raised by those in attendance at the Tour of Champions $1,820,959 Average raised by those in attendance - $19,793 Youngest qualifier is 26 years old and raised $12,000 Oldest qualifier is 78 years old and raised $20,618 Most represented bike teams: Team BP – 12 Calpine Cycling Team – 8 ConocoPhillips – 6 The Houstonian Club Hammerheads – 4 Attendees are from: Houston – 78 Dallas/Fort Worth – 5 San Antonio Area - 4 New Braunfels - 1 Brenham - 1 Lubbock – 1 Chicago – 1 Pittsburgh – 1

Tour of Champions Roster Eric Bartz and Ron Swan John and Nancy Bednar Marshall and Barbara Bendalin George and Timi Bernhardt Chris and Terri Berry Barry and Burke Blackman Jenny Booth and Patrick Devine Jason Bozic and Jerry Meyerson Ron and Dorie Brannigan Andy and Susan Brickell Michael and Bonnie Brinkmeyer Mary Butler Summy Melanie Capps and Frank Zavitkovsky George and Vickie Carter Jim Casey and Ryan Redetzke Erin Chang Matthew Courter Robert and Heather Danek Shonnie Daniel Craig and Paula Davis Mike Davis Lisa Davis and Roderick Potts Norma Dunn Travis and Becky Ehrhardt Michael Fletcher Jeff Foltz Betsy and Charles Gordon Todd and Shannon Gornick Steve Goudie and Gary Gross Keith and Mary Lou Grothaus John and Annette Groweg Bob and Linda Ittner Melanie Johnson and Gary Fowler Brian Jones Evan and Suzi Jones Rita and Nabil Joubran Keith Kneale Larry and Sheri Knox Andy Kogut and Jennifer Buergermeister Terry Krysl Jim Kyriacopoulos and Joseph Ernest Dave Lannes Mark LeBlanc Bruce Levy Carl and Margaret Lincoln

Steve and Mary Logan Grady Maddox Bill and Leona Malone Greg Marcarelli Hans and Marge Mayer Don and Joy McCormack Mel McRee Rudy Mendez Shane and Michele Merz Tammy Miller and Azalia San Miguel Steve and Robbie Moskowitz Peter Nowobilski Eammon O'Connell Rachel and Stuart Partridge Brian Payne Juan Pinzon and Gloria Lazaro Maurice Potlongo Chris Potter Eric Powell and Cynthia Reece Joe and Chris Powers John and Deb Putnam Zamir Rauf Thomas Read Chris Ryan Mike and Lisa Sailor Larry and Kim Sanders Jim and Roxanne Sandt Lalo and Maria Sepulveda Randall and Sandra Shafer Chris Shaw Margaret Shelton and Michael Randall Jody Flores Smith Ino Sofjan Jack and Sandi Stone David Stowe Julie Streich Justin Sunseri and Catherine Tsao Sam Teuton David Tumino Brian Williams Loran Wilson Jim and Kelly Woomer Pieter Wybro and Barbara Montagnino Ellen Yarrell Karla Zielke

Eric Bartz Guest Ron Swan Email address: evbartz@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Woodville Occupation: Vice President - Supply Chain Employer: Paragon Offshore Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: University of St. Thomas South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Noble Drilling Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Well, last year was my first year. I think I heard about TOC after someone told me I qualified. They then had to promptly explain what it was!

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? I am not sure that one year really qualifies me as a "TOC Veteran", but I loved the hike last year in Park City!

What is your connection to MS? Team Noble rides for Jennifer McDaniel. She has been a great inspiration.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Knocked over four liquor stores, a gas station and stole some money from my five year old niece's piggy bank...but hey, it is for a good cause, right!?!?

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? NONE! My ass was tired from the first one! And yes, I am being literal.

Are you active in any other organizations? If I answer "No", is someone going to see that as an opportunity to try and rope me into something? LOL What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? "Life isn't fair" What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Team/organizational building is probably a strength.

Answering questionnaires with sincerity is probably a weakness.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Have no idea, but whatever it is, I am sure it involved a lot of luck!

What do you value most in life? My 5 year old and 15 month old nieces What do you miss about being a kid? I'll let you know when I am no longer a kid :) What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I enjoy a lot of different music - as in about 70 gigs worth.

So, I have always had trouble answering this question. ...And yes, I know that we are moving to an age of Pandora and Spotify, but I still love my iPod. What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Flew to Istanbul for a first date

John Bednar Email address: bednarjm@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio Occupation: Manager Employer: BP Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 29, 25 Name of college you attended: Purdue

South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS150 Information If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Eric Cioti If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Meeting a great group of highly energized friends who are personally committed to help find a cure for MS What is your connection to MS?MS150 Participant and Club 300 How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Continued to grow the list of names I solicited for funds and sent several personal letters to each one requesting funds, thanking them, and giving a post-race recap What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? none Are you active in any other organizations? Industry/professional organizations; Marathon Races What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't become so busy that you forget to take time to enjoy the day, your friends, and your family.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength is Endurance: Physical, Mental, and (most important) Spiritual What do you consider your greatest achievement? Personal growth such that my greater satisfaction in life comes from the achievements of others, especially my wife and family, those who work for me, and youth What do you value most in life? Family, Faith, Friends What do you miss about being a kid? Recognizing that many individuals who are/were my close friends no longer have the energy, enthusiasm, and free spirit that came with just being a kid. "I hate to see everyone else slip into old age!" I'm still fighting it!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like ALL kinds.... My favorite songs are typically those of John Mayer, Dave Matthews, and Stevie Ray Vaughn What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Painting the eave of a second story house from an extension ladder one morning after perhaps some heavy-duty partying the night before.

Nancy Bednar Guest of TOC Qualifier: John Bednar Email address: nmbednar@yahoo.com Hometown: Many, Louisiana City you currently live in: Kingwood, Texas Name of college you attended: University of Louisiana at Monroe Occupation & Employer: Retired - Homemaker Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? I am looking forward to visiting Fort Collins and meeting all the people involved in the Tour of Champions.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Always give back more than you take.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Compassion / Pride What do you consider your greatest achievement? Having and raising three wonderful sons.

What do you value most in life? God and Family What do you miss about being a kid? Being able to run and run without getting tired or out of breath.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like all kinds of music. Favorite songs are "Here Comes the Sun", "Love will Find a Way", "The Heart of the Matter".

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Ride a wild horse.

Marshall Bendalin Guest Barbara Bendalin Email address: marshbend@aol.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Phoenix AZ Occupation: Retired Marital status: Married Name of college you attended: University of Arizona Fundraising Coordinator South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Club 300 Committee, TOC Committee BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Audrey's Heroes Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300's Committee Member, Fundraising Coordinator, Ambassador, Family Discover Camp, and Karla's "Trash Pick-up" How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 6 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From Dorothy Patterson If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? On the Ride thru Horse Country during the Nashville TOC What is your connection to MS? I have Friends I have met thru TOC and MS Society How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have friends with deep pockets What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? In October I will be doing the Coastal Challenge from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara CA. Are you active in any other organizations? ChildAdvocates What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? To ride the MS 150 from Houston to Austin in 1992 What do you consider your greatest achievement? Helping Barbara raising our three children What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? Summer vacation What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Jazz What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? March 2013 I did the American Red Cross ride from Houston to New Orleans 533 miles.

George P. Bernhardt Email address: george.bernhardt@bakerhughes.com What city do you currently live in? Bellaire Hometown: Lincoln Park, NJ Occupation: Attorney Employer: Baker Hughes Marital status: Timi Number of children and their ages: Alec 18, Caroline 15 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M, University of Notre Dame Fundraising Coordinator South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Baker Hughes Express Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? (ex: committee member, Club 300, board member, etc.) Co-Captain & Fundraising Lead Baker Hughes Express How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1 prior

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Mindy LeBlanc If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Qualified my first year riding the MS-150 and Mindy told me I was eligible.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Riding along the long climb past the Jordanelle Reservoir in Park City was my first experience cycling in the mountains.

What is your connection to MS? I have met many great friends with MS since becoming a top fundraiser.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have a core group of vendors who provided about 1/3 of my fundraising. I ask all of my vendors to contribute, even several outside the US. We have 1:1 matching gifts for coworker contributions of $100 or more. I pretty much ask everyone in my address book to consider a donation. Email and Facebook updates during MS Weekend.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Gateway HS Griffon's Flight, Tri-County Hill Hopper Are you active in any other organizations? American Bar Assn Real Estate Section What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? When I set a goal, I don't give up until it’s accomplished.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising nearly $60,000 in my first two years riding the MS150.

What do you value most in life? Time spent with family & good health.

What do you miss about being a kid? Summer vacations at the Jersey Shore with no concerns about work piling up in the office.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 80's - 90's Rock. Most anything by Bruce Springsteen.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I'm typically pretty cautious. I guess I would say whitewater rafting on the Colorado River.

Timi Bernhardt Email Address: timib@sbcglobal.net Guest of TOC Qualifier: George Bernhardt Hometown: Houston, TX (really!)

City you currently live in: Bellaire, TX Name of college you attended: University of St. Thomas Occupation & Employer: Chicken Herder Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Escaping the kids, beer and hiking What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Pray.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses?

Strength - Loyalty Weakness - No patience What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being married to George What do you value most in life? My relationship with God. My dog, Ted. What do you miss about being a kid? Nothing What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country. Amazing Grace What's the most daring thing you've ever done? Get married.

Chris Berry Email address: chris.berry@bbvacompass.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Port Arthur Tx Occupation: Banker Employer: BBVA Compass Bank Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 18, 24, 34 Name of college you attended: University of Texas South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Houston Builders Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Via other Club 300 Members If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Day 1 Bike Ride in Colorado Springs What is your connection to MS? Since I began riding the MS 150 in 2002, I have become aware of many friends & acquaintances that have been touched by this terrible disease.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I typically utilized business contacts, but the last two years I have benefitted from a single non-business related contributor who basically matched all of my fundraising for those periods.

Are you active in any other organizations? I am on the Missions Committee at my church, Grace Presbyterian.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never give up.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Persistence. Sometimes I feel too busy to take the time to enjoy the journey.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising kids What do you value most in life? Faith/Family/Health/Friends What do you miss about being a kid? Ability to enjoy every day as a new adventure What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock & Blues- no one favorite song.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Probably impromptu decision on chair lift while snow skiing to follow other skiers (with much better skills) on an "out-of-bounds" run.

Terri Berry Guest of TOC Qualifier: Chris Berry Email address: terri@customcorporates.com Hometown: Clinton, Iowa City you currently live in: Katy Occupation & Employer: Custom Corporates, Director of Marketing Relationship with TOC participant: wife What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Meeting new people, and visiting Ft. Collins, I have not been there before.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Plan your work and work your plan.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Brownies/weakness What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising my daughter What do you value most in life? Faith and love What do you miss about being a kid? Having every summer off What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 70's. Give it Up by Marvin Gaye What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Starting my company and keeping it going after my partner left.

Barry Blackman

New to TOC

Email address: bablckmn@swbell.net What city do you currently live in? Schertz, TX Occupation: Mgmt.Consultant; Licensed Prof.Counselo Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: all independent adults Name of college you attended: multiple South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Team Captain MHvsMS Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: MHvsMS Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Corporate Bike Team Captain How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: none How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? being a top fundraiser How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? multiple-sweep direct mail to acquaintances nationwide

Burke Blackman Guest of TOC Qualifier: Barry Blackman Email Address: bahblackman@gmail.com Hometown: Schertz, TX City you currently live in: New York, NY Name of college you attended: University of Texas at Austin Occupation & Employer: Attorney, Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler Relationship with TOC participant: Son Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Spending time with my father, and the exercise What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't be afraid to make mistakes; they present the greatest opportunity for growth.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Too many of each to single one out What do you consider your greatest achievement? Practicing law in New York City What do you value most in life? Quality time with loved ones (and travel) What do you miss about being a kid? The summers off!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? How 'bout my most recent favorite album is The Beach Boys' Smile Sessions What's the most daring thing you've ever done? Practice law in New York City

Jenny Booth Email address: stablemind@msn.com What city do you currently live in? Magnolia Hometown: Magnolia Occupation: finance Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: NMSU Name of your Bike Team: Wellfit How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 6

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Pedaling up the Utah mountains, yea!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? There are no coincidences in life What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Knowing my strengths/weaknesses is my greatest strength What do you consider your greatest achievement? Living this long What do you value most in life? God, Family, friends What do you miss about being a kid? Irresponsibility What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song?

Country, Gunpowder and Lead

Patrick Devine Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jenny Booth Email address: pdevine@pdevinelaw.com City you currently live in: Magnolia Name of college you attended: Rice Relationship with TOC participant: Beau Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? yes If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Wellfit What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Reading the bio's What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Do something What do you consider your greatest achievement? Talking Jenny into taking me on this trip What do you miss about being a kid? Icees What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country, Long and Winding Road

Jason Bozic Email address: jason.bozic@nov.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Director of Community Investments & Sponsorships Employer: National Oilwell Varco Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Rice Univeristy Team Captain South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: National Oilwell Varco How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 6 If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? The wonderful friendships with warm-hearted people and all of the laughs that we've shared together.

What is your connection to MS? I know too many people that have MS and we MUST find a cure for them and all of the other individuals that suffer from MS. Are you active in any other organizations? I have the great pleasure and opportunity to work with several nonprofits because of my line of work and it’s a complete blessing to also work with and contribute to the MS Society.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? It’s not about where you’re going in life, but it’s about who is with you… make memories and cherish them forever.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Ha ha, this is a good question. I think my greatest strength and weakness is my perfectionism...

What do you consider your greatest achievement? The day that I gave my life over to Christ and became a believer in Him. What do you value most in life? I value my faith in Jesus Christ the most because it helps define who I am as a person and how I conduct my behavior in life.

What do you miss about being a kid? I really miss the chance to go to the pool during the summer all the time and watching all my favorite Saturday morning cartoons What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? The most daring thing that I've ever done so far in life was when I climbed Mt. Rainier in Seattle. It was a breath taking opportunity, but it was also very scary at many moments because you could fall of the mountain at any given time.

Jerry Meyerson Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jason Bozic Email address: jerry@pcm.net Hometown: Bellaire City you currently live in: Bellaire Name of college you attended: University Texas at Austin Occupation & Employer: Solutionist -ABC Doors Houston Austin Relationship with TOC participant: Good Friends Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes. Since 2002 I have done this ride If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Conoco Phillips What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Great Weather, Great Time, Great Friends What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Live, Love, Laugh, Your health is number 1 What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths - lifting 100 lbs, Weakness- Lifting 101 lbs What do you consider your greatest achievement? Riding the MS 150 since 2002 and raising money to help find a cure. I am fortunate I can do this ride for those who cannot.

What do you value most in life? Waking up everyday What do you miss about being a kid? Wanting to be an adult. Now that I am an adult, I want to be a kid What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Cannot be printed but ask and I will tell.

Ron Brannnigan Email address: ronbrannigan@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? Spring Hometown: San Rafael, Caif Occupation: Senior Manager, Adjunct Employer: University of Houston Downtown Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 28, 30 Name of college you attended: University of San Francisco South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Wellfit Group

Because We Can

Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Because We Can Support group founder coordinator, Club 300, MS Entrepreneurs Committee Member, MS Walks, MS Ambassadors, Political Advocacy How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1 Year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS Society If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Dorie Brannigan, wife, biggest supporter, most fun and giving person I know If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Meeting all the TOC members What is your connection to MS? I have it How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Multiple letters, phone calls, wine tasting, twisting arms and guilting people What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Ready to Roll, Tour de Pink, Sun & Ski rides Are you active in any other organizations? Houston Technology Center What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? The past and future are illusions all you have is this moment.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Persistence and not to give up What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising 2 children What do you value most in life? Wife and children What do you miss about being a kid? Running What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock and Roll What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Hang Gliding

Dorie Brannigan Guest of TOC Qualifier: Ron Brannigan Email address: doriebrannigan@yahoo.com Hometown: San Diego, California City you currently live in: Spring, Texas Superstar Committee Name of college you attended: University of California, Davis Club 300 Occupation & Employer: Marketing business owner Relationship with TOC participant: Wife, Empress of Ron's World Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Volunteer/Chair Superstar Committee What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Being with old friends, making new friends, and lots of laughter.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Carpe Diem - Seize The Day What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses?

Strength - gift of gab Weakness - gift of gab What do you consider your greatest achievement? My children - Megan Brannigan & Jeffrey Brannigan What do you value most in life? Family & friends What do you miss about being a kid? Multiple visits to Disneyland each year What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Upbeat pop What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? No comment. ;)

Andy Brickell Guest Susan Brickell

New to TOC

Email address: Andrew.Brickell@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Salisbury, UK Occupation: petroleum engineer Employer: BHP Billiton Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 26 and 23 Name of college you attended: Oxford University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Karbach Brewing How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: first time!

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From Larry Knox If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: words fail me What is your connection to MS? Relative: Spouse of person with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Persistence and timing What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Before you sound the charge, check that there's someone behind you ready to follow What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My warped sense of humour arguably falls into both categories What do you consider your greatest achievement? Persuading Susan to stay married to me for so long What do you value most in life? My family, good beer and cycling (in that order) What do you miss about being a kid? Who says I'm not one any more?

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Canterbury Scene - '70's UK jazz/rock. No point in picking a favourite, no-one else at TOC (other than my long-suffering spouse) has ever heard any of it What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I once ran up the longest down escalator on the London Underground to win a bet

Michael Brinkmeyer Email address: mibrink@hotmail.com What city do you currently live in? Brenham, Texas Hometown: Brenham, Texas Occupation: Audio systems for home church & business Employer: self Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 33 and 30 Name of college you attended: Blinn South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Ol' Army Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Member of the Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This will be my second How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? When I was about to reach $12,000.00 the first time.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Tony Ralf If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Spending time with other top fundraisers and staff members.

What is your connection to MS? My daughter has MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? One of my fundraisers is called Putt to Cure MS or Putt2CureMS.com. I have a video on YouTube titled Putt to Cure MS. Please check it out!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? The Tri-county Hill Hopper in Round Top Are you active in any other organizations? I am council member of St Paul's Lutheran Church Rehburg (in Burton Tx). * I also support Adams Angles - childhood cancer organization - by donating and operating my sound system at their outdoor fundraiser. * I also donate and operate my sound system for the Brenham Clinic Breast Cancer awareness fundraiser. * I provided and directed the sound for the original Burning of Brenham play * I am a part of the musical team which teaches the History of Brenham to BISD school children. * I am a member and provider of sound for Washington County Fair Talent show competition. * I provide sound and help announce at the Rotary Club of Brenham's Demolition Derby fundraiser. * I also provide sound for the Washington County Chamber of Commerce What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Trust in the Lord What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths; Music, Technology, stubbornness Weaknesses; adult ADHD, stubbornness What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising two great kids! They caused me to leave my comfort zone by coaching soccer - for my son and riding the MS 150 for my daughter!

What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? Endless energy What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Most all music; Rock, Country, Christian, Jazz. I grew up playing in a band, Country and Rock in the 70's and I played Contemporary Christian in the 80's What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I'm not a bike rider, but at age 50 I completed my first MS 150. I rode because of the connection I felt with my daughter and others with MS.

Bonnie Brinkmeyer Email address: bonniebrinkmeyer@gmail.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Michael Brinkmeyer Hometown: Brenham City you currently live in: Brenham Name of college you attended: Texas A&M University Occupation & Employer: Director of Instructional Services Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No, not other than driver for my husband What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Beautiful scenery and a chance to visit with others who want to find a cure for MS, since our beautiful daughter was diagnosed with MS in 2003 What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Lead, follow, or get out of the way!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I'm a care giver, a nurturer and a servant leader. I'm also impatient and impulsive.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising two wonderful kids while working with everyone else's children for 35 years What do you value most in life? My relationships What do you miss about being a kid? The innocence and the ability to "play" without guilt What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I pretty much love listening to all genres, depending on the situation and my mood.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I've spoken on the topic of "Bold Women".

Mary Butler Summy Email address: alijenmary@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? Seabrook, Texas Hometown: Leipsic, Ohio Occupation: Client Relations Manager Employer: Granite Properties Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Team Captain, TOC Committee Name of college you attended: Kent State University Club 300 Committee, Houston South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Leadership Council BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Granite-Petrobras Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

TOC and 300 committee member How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: Twelve How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Since the beginning of my bike journey, TOC has always been a goal! It is so wonderful to meet such gracious and thoughtful people who ride for those with MS. If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Victoria British Columbia. The area was breathtakingly beautiful along with the climate.

What is your connection to MS? Through my business organization, IREM (Institute of Real Estate Management), I mentor a young woman who has MS. Her sister is also afflicted with this disease. Several of my friends have a spouse or loved one suffering from MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have a core group of companies and individuals who have been loyal and generous. I share with everyone I meet my passion to ride for those suffering with MS. I found one to ASK for donations. People are very generous and kind.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None Are you active in any other organizations? Houston West Chamber of Commerce - Board member and Women Driving Business Committee member, Texas Executive Women, 2014 Women on the Move recipient.

IREM (Institute of Real Estatement Management). Serve on the local and national Diversity Committee and Board.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never let fear get in your way of accomplishing your dreams and goals. Obstacles are opportunities.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My strength is I have a tremendous amount of energy and passion for the people I love and the charities I am devoted in serving. My weakness is sometimes being opinionated. Haha!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My family! I am blessed with a wonderful husband, two amazing daughters and fantastic sons-in laws with three perfect grandchildren.

What do you value most in life? My family and of course good health. Having the ability to continue to ride my bike and captain a team to raise funds and awareness to find a cure for multiple sclerosis is very important to me.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having freedom without responsibilities!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like all music with the exception of Rap. "I will Survive"

by Donna Sommers.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Everyday is an adventure!!!!

Melanie Capps Guest Frank Zavitkovsky Email address: mobiledivamel@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Carrollton Hometown: Carrollton Occupation: Technical Sales Employer: Ericsson Inc. Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 beautiful canine fur-children Club 100 Member Name of college you attended: Univ North Texas / Univ of Dallas (MBA) South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Name of your Bike Team: Team Ericsson How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is my 3rd year!

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I heard about TOC from the wonderful North Texas NMSS staff 4 years ago. Unfortunately I wasn't able to attend the first year I qualified, but I've been back every year since.

Now I wouldn't miss it!

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: All my fellow TOC-ers from North Texas (Jim Casey, Brian Jones, Travis Ehrhardt, Leah Weatherl and Justin Martin) encouraged the heck out of me to attend! Thanks y'all!

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Last year's TOC in Park Cities - crying with laughter with Leah and the other TOC-ers in the VIP room after dinner.

What is your connection to MS? Multiple friends, namely Danelle Umstead - medal winning Paralympic Skier, and several co-workers.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I cast my net far and wide, often! I plead for donations by telling the story of my pedal partner and I keep my donors informed of my progress in fundraising and my progress with training. Every donor gets their name on my bandanna (I write the names with a sharpie) and I carry it with me on the ride.

I wouldn't qualify without the generosity of my company, Ericsson, who matches every dollar that an employee donates to my account.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Several North Texas Rides Are you active in any other organizations?

Women in Cable and Telecommunications Women in Leadership - Plano Chapter High Tech High Heels What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Forgiveness is Freedom.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatest strength is also my greatest weaknesses: stubbornness - it’s what gets me through BikeMS without being physically prepared every year (which leads to all of my injuries).

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement: Being a top fundraiser for the National MS Society!

What do you value most in life? I value the opportunity to learn something new every day.

What do you miss about being a kid? I miss being able to push myself physically day after day without pain or injury. That and being able to eat as much ice cream as I can and not gain an ounce. ;-p What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock. Favorite song depends on the mood, but my go-to's are: All Along the Watchtower (Hendrix), Hurt (Johnny Cash), Faithfully (Journey), Send the Pain Below (Chevelle), Semi-Charmed Kind of Life (Third Eye Blind), Jessie's Girl (Rick Springfield) What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Power hang-gliding in Kauai.

George Carter Guest Vickie Carter Email address: grc07@msn.com What city do you currently live in? Friendswood, Texas Hometown: Houston Occupation: Retired Number of children and their ages: 5 Name of college you attended: Lamar University SC Board Member, TOC Committee, South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Houston Leadership Council, Club BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin 300 Committee Bike MS: Cactus & Crude Ride, Midland to Post Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Name of your Bike Team: BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 committee, Toc Advisory , Board of Director Trustee How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 13 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS staff If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? All the Saturday night events with terrific people supporting this cause...

What is your connection to MS? Long time rider committed to finding a cure...

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Generous people who have supported this effort plus persistence....Fund raising is hard work but worthwhile...

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de Pink...Cystic Fibrosis in Oct..

Are you active in any other organizations?

Lamar University Chemical Engineering Advisory Board...

Homeowners Board.

Junior Achievement of the Mainland Board...

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Several...weakness to numerous to mention...See me in Colorado...

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Something still to come What do you value most in life? Love family friends... Life in general What do you miss about being a kid? Nothing still enjoy most kid like adventures...

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock n Roll,, Country western... Most music that is not rap.

Jim Casey Email address: casey.jim.p@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Dallas Hometown: Dallas Occupation: Software Employer: IBM Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: University of Texas South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Name of your Bike Team: plusONE

Leadership Council Member Club 100 Member, Team Captain

Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? North Texas Leadership Council member How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Justin and Leah told me about it last year If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Only been to the one last year - but I remember being very happy to be up that last hill heading into town!

What is your connection to MS? I have MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Large quantities of BBQ and booze in exchange for donations What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? a few triathlons in Texas, a bunch of local Dallas/Fort Worth bike rallies, a few rides in Austin Are you active in any other organizations? Meat Fight Endurance Labs What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Life is 10 percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I will talk with anyone - telemarketers, strangers, border agents...

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Getting my wife Cathy to go on that first date with me What do you value most in life? My time- how I spend it and who I get to spend it with What do you miss about being a kid? Lego spaceships What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Drop Kick Me Jesus (Through The Goal Posts Of Life) What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I've survived several cab rides in Mumbai

Ryan Redetzke Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jim Casey Email address: ryanredetzke@gmail.com Hometown: Marshfield, WI City you currently live in: Los Angeles Name of college you attended: Fox Valley Tech Occupation & Employer: Video Game Designer Respawn Entertainment Relationship with TOC participant: Key domestique Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? plusOne What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Visiting the beautiful state of Colorado and the New Belgium Brewery Tour!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Relax.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatest strength is identifying my weaknesses.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Improving my health on the bike. Starting from being completely out of shape to a point where I can comfortably do endurance bike rides like the MS150.

What do you value most in life? Freedom, exploration, and new experiences.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having a carefree attitude that led me to do some stupid things.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Progressive Rock. I have too many favorite songs to name just one.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I once jumped squirrel on my bike.

Erin Chang

New to TOC

Email address: changet@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Engineer Employer: BP Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Rice University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is my first year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? - Club 300 mentioned the ToC, - A friend participated in ToC in previous years If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Robert Danek told me about the ToC last year and said it was a fantastic ride and event. Robert and I recently worked together on a project at BP. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? - I asked contributors to utilize their matching funds instead of using mine. This increased the amount of funds I was able to match, - I summarized the cumulative fund raising efforts in my last 10 rides and put a goal of breaking $50k...I think this motivated folks to help me reach that bigger overall goal.

Are you active in any other organizations? Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Society of Women Engineers (SWE), United States Tennis Association (USTA) What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't take yourself so seriously.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I am very detail oriented. This is a strength when there is time and an audience that appreciates it. This is a weakness when you get lost in the details.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being a loyal friend when it counts the most What do you value most in life? My health What do you miss about being a kid? Never feeling tired or sore after playing for hours What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Alternative - British Pop., Favorite Song - Just Like Heaven

by The Cure What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Drink Snake's Blood

Craig Courter

New to TOC

Email address: craig.courter@calpine.com What city do you currently live in? New Braunfels, TX Hometown: Pampa, TX Occupation: Maintenance Manager Employer: Calpine Corporation Marital status: Audra Number of children and their ages: 27, 23, 16, 14, 13 Name of college you attended: Texas Tech, Penn State South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Calpine How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is my first How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? My company told me about it.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Norma Dunn and her staff. She is a great team leader. She worked hard at encouraging everyone on the team to work towards the team goal.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I emailed everyone in my address book.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None Are you active in any other organizations? Cross Lutheran Church, LCMS, Elder What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Trust in God. What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength - leading others. Weakness - sweets, ice cream.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My family.

What do you value most in life? My wife.

What do you miss about being a kid? Football and rodeo.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I am a music fanatic. I love everything from classical to rap. Favorite song is Bob Wills, Milk Cow Blues.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Rode bulls.

Robert Danek Email address: robert.danek@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Katy, TX Hometown: Erie, PA Occupation: Engineer Employer: BP Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 7, 4 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Club 300 Event If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Making new friends and volunteering to help with lunch to get out of actually riding...

What is your connection to MS? No personal connection, other than the connections I have made through the ride and fundraising How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have no shame.... That and my wife and I threw the dopest Tacky Prom Event. The facilities, food, and booze were all donated. We sold raffle tickets for the King, Queen and Royal Court. My Mother In Law and my wife's Grandmother (Gigi) slang drinks for tips, which all went into the kitty. Be on the look out for "Tacky Prom 2: Electric Boogaloo" What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? I participate in several triathlons.

Are you active in any other organizations? Living Waters International (www.water.cc) What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Treat everybody from the janitor to the CEO exactly the same What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I can never load the dishwasher correctly.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My two kids aren't weird.

What do you value most in life? My faith and my family.

What do you miss about being a kid? Who says I'm not still a kid?

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Late 80s/ early 90s Rap What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Becoming a father.

Heather Danek Guest of TOC Qualifier: Robert Danek Email address: heatherdanek@yahoo.com Hometown: League City, TX City you currently live in: Katy, TX Name of college you attended: University of Houston Relationship with TOC participant: wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? I rode in 2013. I’m better at fundraising If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Team BP What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? I cannot wait to reconnect with some of the amazing people we met last year and make new friends this year. There are some super fun and great folks here people!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Live without fear.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I feel one of my strengths is my craftiness. I can MacGyver a toilet paper roll and some ribbon into a fully functional fairy wand in three seconds flat.

One of my weaknesses is I can sometimes bite off more than I can chew.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement has to be that I have kept both our children (and their fish Flippers) alive for 7, 3, and 1.5 years respectively. It's hard y'all..

What do you value most in life? I value our faith and family more than anything. It is those two things that help get me through not just the hard times, but the day to day as well.

What do you miss about being a kid? I miss the pink foot shaped ice cream with the bubblegum toenails that we used to get after chasing down the ice cream truck for three blocks. There is nothing so unnaturally delicious and it just reminds me of being a kid.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? If anyone saw my iTunes playlist they would think I had multiple personalities. You could be rocking out to Merle Haggard one song and Ice Cube the next.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I think the most daring thing I have ever done is travel to Central America with Living Water International. It was worth every moment of anxiety before our trip to see the Lord working in the community and the smiles on the face of the people.

Shonnie Daniel What city do you currently live in? The Woodlands Hometown: Kermit, TX Occupation: Lawyer Employer: Calpine Corporation Marital status: Bruce Daniel Number of children and their ages: Benjamin 30, Katie 28, Mitchell 25 Name of college you attended: University of Texas South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Calpine Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? This is my second year If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Fabulous ride, great food and new friends!

What is your connection to MS? My Aunt Sherry, my mother’s youngest sister had MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Developing a network of contributors who support me each year.

Are you active in any other organizations? Also participate in the Houston 1/2 Marathon and raise money for Diabetes.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never give up!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Optimism What do you consider your greatest achievement? My three children! One investment banker and two doctors.

All with a heart for others.

What do you value most in life? Family and health.

What do you miss about being a kid? Summer Vacation What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country and Western What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Hang gliding

Craig Davis Email Address: cdavis@inexs.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Indianapolis Occupation: CEO - geologist Employer: INEXS Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 17, 21, 22 Club 300 Committee South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: CGGVeritas and The Goats Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

I am on the Club 300 Committee, but wish I had more time to be more effective How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 7 or 8 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Cyclical 12-month muscle memory If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: The Goats, although our attendance will be reduced from six qualifying to three attending this year due to competing events in everyone's lives If you're a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Riding through the rain in Martha's Vineyard - it was fairly cool weather to start with, but shortly after the ride began the skies opened up, and everyone was soaked for the duration of the ride - you couldn't stop or hypothermia might set in so we pushed to the finish What is your connection to MS? I have a cousin with MS, and have made hundreds of friends through my connection with the MS Society How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Please share your fundraising secrets: Lots of emails, embedded with stories of pain and suffering while riding (heavily embellished).

The best was an email offering a "Fair Trade Agreement" wherein I proposed to spend every weekend for three months riding a total of at least 1000 miles in exchange for each of them donating AT LEAST $250 - it worked!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Several knock-off rides with friends, the 'hang onto Larry Sanders wheel 100', and a couple rides in Fredericksburg in March that made the MS150 look easy . . . .

Are you active in any other organizations? If so, which ones?

- Boy Scouts of America - Asst. Scoutmaster - Sam Houston Area Council (also BSA) Rock Climbing Instructor - Memorial Drive Methodist Church Youth Work Camp - Indiana University Geology Dept. Advisory Board What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Life ain't fair, get over it (and get on with it)

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Perseverance is my greatest strength but it can be a weakness as well - you gotta know when to fold 'em What do you consider your greatest achievement? I would say raising our children is my (our) proudest accomplishment, however, my greatest achievement may be convincing my wife Paula to put up with me for all these years!

What do you value most in life? Family, friends, fun, and frivolity What do you miss about being a kid? Making mud balls What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? The Blues What is the most daring thing you've ever done? Most daring events occur either due to a) alcohol, or b) were unplanned and unavoidable - Climbing Aconcagua in Argentina (22,841'), jumping off a dam into icy waters in January, taking our son to Yemen during recent riots, the list goes on . . . .

Paula Davis Guest of TOC Qualifier: Craig Davis Email address: paula@davistexas.com Hometown: Indianapolis City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Indiana University Occupation & Employer: Accounts - Southcoast Land Development Relationship with TOC participant: Married to Craig for 33 wonderful years Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? I rode for the first time in the 2014 MS If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? CGGVeritas What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? I'm looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones on this wonderful trip.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? The best advice I was ever given was to be accountable for your own happiness, and not to be defined by others. Also, always do your best and you will live well so do just that - Your Best -no more, no less.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatest strength is that I can open a corked bottle of wine. My greatest weaknesses is that I'm capable of finishing the entirety of that same bottle.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? I'd have to say that completing the MS 150 was my greatest achievement to date. I wore a sign on my Camelback during the ride that read "If I can survive breast cancer then I can survive my 1st MS 150."

What do you value most in life? What I value the most is my relationship with God. After that, it all falls into place - the love of my family, friends, pets, knowledge, freedom, etc.

What do you miss about being a kid? The thing that I miss most is that my mom did all my laundry.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like a little bit of everything - Classic Rock 'n Roll, Christian, Country, Jazz, Big Band and even some Rap. I don't have a favorite song that I can think of off the top of my head.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? The most daring thing that I've ever done is skydiving. Jumping out of plane at 13,000 feet in hopes that your parachute will open is pretty daring.

Michael Davis Email address: bayou_biker57@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? Livingston, TX Hometown: North Chatham, NY Occupation: Engineering Consultant Employer: Kinder Morgan Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 41 & 33 Name of college you attended: Syracuse South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Fundraising Coordinator BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Club 300 Committee Bike MS: Dat's How We Roll, Hammand, LA to McComb, MS Name of your Bike Team: Free Agent for 2015 Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 Committee, Adopt-a-Highway Charter Member (come join us!)

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 4 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Club 300 If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Riding back down the mountain on the Saturday ride in Scottsdale. The views overlooking the city were amazing.

What is your connection to MS? My cousin Greg was diagnosed with MS the year after my first ride in 1991. I now ride for Greg and 12 other friends, including 2 teammates and co-workers with MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Along with generous donors, the Team Standard Tube 2nd annual golf tournament and auction raised almost $25,000. We also had a team NCAA bracket challenge, and squares for the NCAA basketball Championship game.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Standard Tube Team Torture Ride around Lake Livingston in March. Remind me to do more training for next year's MS 150 ride.

Are you active in any other organizations? Tony's Prostate Cancer Research What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? When asked to make a decision, always ask "What do you think?" Most people know what the right decision is before they ask, and will make it succeed when they are part of the decision making process.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Drinking beer What do you consider your greatest achievement? Completing the "No Guts No Glory" ride in August 1998 with 2 friends. 240 miles in 1 day.

What do you value most in life? Being married to the right spouse.

What do you miss about being a kid? Who told you I grew up?

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country Music. No, too many favorites to pick 1.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Riding this year's MS 150 with only 60 miles of training since the last MS 150.

New to TOC

Lisa Davis Guest Roderick Potts Name of your Bike Team: Team Broadway City you currently live in: San Antonio South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels

Norma Dunn Email Address: norma.dunn@Calpine.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: El Paso Occupation: VP - Corporate Communications Employer: Calpine Corporation Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: Other...My husband and I have 6 kids between us!

Team Captain Name of college you attended: University of Texas at El Paso South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Calpine Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? I am just involved with my team at Calpine and try to get others in the company involved. I love this organization!

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is my second year.

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? The great folks at the MS office.

If you're a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Shonnie and I got first place last year! (first to sag!!)

What is your connection to MS? Team Captain for Team Calpine for the past 3 years.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Please share your fundraising secrets: People love the cause and are passionate about finding a cure.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Charity rides and Ready2Roll which is an awesome training series.

Are you active in any other organizations? If so, which ones? I am also president of the Calpine Foundation so we have other organizations that we support. We also have a marathon team and we support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. We support many children's and women's issues.

What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be where you are. (I can explain if it doesn’t make sense!)

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Stubbornness- works both ways!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Seeing my children grow to be wonderful, caring adults.

What do you value most in life? The love of my family.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having a bike. I did not get my first bike until I registered for my first MS150 ride.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I love it all.

What is the most daring thing you've ever done? Asking my husband to marry me!

Travis Erhardt What city do you currently live in? Fort Worth Hometown: Beloit, Wisconsin Occupation: Personal Trainer Employer: Self Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 0 South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Team Captain Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Name of your Bike Team: Mind Set Bike Team Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Wellness Contractor, Volunteer

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 4 If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Meeting all the other folks from around Texas & sharing the stories of why we are all involved.

What is your connection to MS? I know thousands of people with MS and I help them exercise.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Sharing my passion and letting people come to Mind Set, the wellness studio during the exercise classes.

Becky Ehrhardt Guest of TOC Qualifier: Travis Ehrhardt Email address: behrhardt@lkcm.com Hometown: Laredo, Texas City you currently live in: Fort Worth, Texas Occupation & Employer: Luther King Capital Management Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? As a rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? MindSet What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Meeting new people and cooler temps What do you value most in life? My Family What do you miss about being a kid? Summer time What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Jazz and some Country.

Michael Fletcher

New to TOC

Email address: michael.fletcher05@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston, TX Hometown: Atlanta, GA Occupation: Finance Employer: Direct Energy Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: University of Georgia South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Direct Energy How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is my first year.

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through the Direct Energy Bike Team What is your connection to MS? My company has sponsored a team for a few years now. I am fairly new to the company but quickly got involved with the Direct Energy Bike Team first as a rider and then as a fundraising coordinator.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I actually did not personally raise $12,000, but I was a fundraising coordinator for the Direct Energy Bike Team. In this role I helped raise close to $60,000. The bigger fundraising activities I helped put together included an initiative to reach out to Direct Energy vendors for financial support for the MS 150 (raised $30,000) Giving Circles (raised $13,500), which is a matching program at Direct Energy for volunteer hours completed, and an Auction for Direct Energy employees (raised $7,500).

In addition to the fundraising activities I helped coordinate, I also sent out a weekly email to the Direct Energy Bike Team. The email was a great way to disseminate important information to our riders, but I also focused heavily on personal fundraising. I was able to secure gift cards as prizes for the highest fundraiser for each week

and provided fundraising tips to help our riders maximize their fundraising efforts. In 2013 Direct Energy riders raised about $750 per rider. In 2014 the average amount raised per rider jumped up to over $1,350.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? I participated in the Baytown Gator Ride.

Are you active in any other organizations? I am an Adult Leader in the Boy Scouts of America for Troop 55.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? You are always in charge of our own attitude. So no matter what happens in life, you get to choose how you react to it.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I believe one of my greatest strengths is the ability to connect and relate to people.

One of my greatest weaknesses is not asking for help when I need it.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. It is something I achieved at the age of 17, but as time passes it is an achievement that I am more and more proud of.

What do you value most in life? Family and friends. I can't imagine a life without meaningful relationships.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having a completely carefree attitude that has not been diminished by the everyday responsibilities of being an adult. That and playing little league baseball!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Always a tough question to answer. It seems to change every few years.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I'd love to say canyoning in Interlaken, Switzerland or scuba diving in Hawaii, but it was taking control of my career by moving away from my home town and going back to school to earn an MBA and a MS in Finance at Texas A&M.

Jody (Smith) Flores

New to TOC

Email address: Jodyclayton71@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Huffman, Tx Hometown: Union City, Pa Occupation: Registered Nurse Employer: Town and Country Medical Spa Marital status: Damon Flores Number of children and their ages: 21, 18, 18, 16, 14 Name of college you attended: St. Vincent School Of Nursing South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Seadrill How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: First year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Reading about the MS150 What is your connection to MS? I have MS along with my mother, Aunt, cousin and several friends from my hometown.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I personally raised $5180 and Seadrill matched my donations and then some. I sent emails and text messages to everyone I knew.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour De Pink, Tour De Cure, numerous training rides that were non MS fundraisers. I also rode in Band Against MS. Are you active in any other organizations? No What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Pray about everything What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Being dependable is one of my greatest strengths and a weakness would be not saying "no" What do you consider your greatest achievement? My children What do you value most in life? God, my marriage and children.

What do you miss about being a kid? How easy it was.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Christian. Let Them See You by JJ Weeks Band and Blessed Assurance by Third Day What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? MS150!

Jeffrey Foltz Email address: jwfoltz@earthlink.net What city do you currently live in? Richmond, TX Hometown: Richmond, TX Occupation: Retired Employer: n/a Marital status: Janet Foltz Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: University of Houston South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: I've attended 4 times.

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Previous attendance.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? My first TOC was still the best. I got to go mountain biking for the first time EVER in the hills around Lake Tahoe.

What is your connection to MS? I have a Friend or Co-worker with MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? My email "signature" in Outlook has a message and a link to my fundraising page. I also do a lot of direct mail and phone work to contact virtually everyone I know. In short, I talk to almost everyone I meet about MS. The worst that can happen is they'll say "no", but more often they say "YES"!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? The Ready 2 Roll Training Series.

Are you active in any other organizations? I am a crew member of "Texas Raiders" the B-17 operated by the Gulf Coast Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. I'm also a member of the CAF's Houston Wing, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Wings Over Houston Airshow.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Attend the University of Houston.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I'm good at fixing things, but terrible at putting names to faces.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Becoming an instrument-rated pilot.

What do you value most in life? The time I get to spend with family and friends, followed closely by the time I get to spend flying.

What do you miss about being a kid? Playing with my train set. It was awesome!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I'll listen to almost anything, but rock n roll is still the best.

"Won't Get Fooled Again" by The Who is hard to beat.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I'm not much of a "daring" person. If I was, I don't think I would have made it this far.

Betsy Gordon Email address: betsy_gordon@oxy.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Louisville Occupation: Sr. Business Development Assistant Employer: Occidental Petroleum Corporation Marital status: Bill Number of children and their ages: 24, 25, 27, 30

Name of college you attended: University of Houston South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: TeamOxy How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3 If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Making new friends. Meeting new people who share the same passion to find a cure for MS What is your connection to MS? I have MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Beg, Borrow, Repeat Are you active in any other organizations? Greater Houston German Shepherd Dog Rescue, The Lucky Project What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be Good. If you can't be good, be good at it.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Positive attitude and I love people!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Finding the strength to leave an abusive 20 year marriage What do you value most in life? Love & Kindness What do you miss about being a kid? Not a damn thing What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country; What a wonderful world, Louis Armstrong What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Not something I can talk about here ;)

Charles Gordon Guest of TOC Qualifier: Betsy Gordon Email Address: charles_gordon@oxy.com Hometown: Anchorage, AK. City you live in: Cypress, TX Occupation & Employer: Sr. Engineer, Occidental Oman Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS/ MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? TeamOxy What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Catching up with the people I met at last year’s TOC What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? “Life is too short to live it being unhappy” What do you consider your greatest achievement? The greatest achievement to date would be marrying the love of my life. If it was not for her, I would not be the person I am today.

What do you miss about being a kid? I miss ‘Summer Vacation’ What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song I like music, all kinds, from Country\Western to New Age Jazz. I have way too many favorites to choose just one song.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? It’s a fine line between ‘daring’ and ‘stupid’. I flew Hot Air Balloons for a while (don’t ask about my crash landing).

Todd Gornick Guest Shannon Gornick

New to TOC

Email address: todd.gornick@epenergy.com What city do you currently live in? The Woodlands Hometown: Seattle Occupation: CPA and Audit Employer: EP Energy Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 21, 18 Name of college you attended: University of Washington South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Team Captain BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: EP Energy Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Team Captain, Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through my continued participation as a rider/fundraiser and team captain.

What is your connection to MS? Mainly as a fundraiser for those unfortunate folks affected by MS. I have friends with family members that have it. My continued participation allows others to share their experience.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Treat others as you'd like to be treated.

(Said to a teenager): People don't "grow up", they just get bigger and older.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Open-minded What do you consider your greatest achievement? Marrying my wife What do you value most in life? My family and health although I overlook simply living in a great country at an amazing time in history.

What do you miss about being a kid? Exploring. Unstructured play and pick-up games.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Too hard to answer. Rock and funky jazzy stuff. No one song.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Move to Texas! Climb Mt. Rainier.

Steven Goudie Guest Gary Gross Email address: stevengoudie@earthlink.net What city do you currently live in? The Woodlands Hometown: Stockton on Tees UK Occupation: Hair Salon Owner Employer: Brian of London Marital status: Ami Goudie Number of children and their ages: Liam York Goudie Name of college you attended: Vidal Sassoon South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: National Oilwell Varco How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2nd year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Jason Bozic

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Captain of NOV Jason Bozic If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Making it through the hills and altitude of Park City What is your connection to MS? I have clients that have MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? This was my 10th to participate in the ride so I have built up a very generous donor base. In the salon I have a raffle that donors can win gift certificates to the salon. I have also raffled off trips to the Cayman Islands.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Most of the training rides as well as the Tour de Pink What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? You should do the MS 150 What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Being able to talk to anyone/organization What do you consider your greatest achievement? My son Liam What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? Not worrying what the next day brings What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 80's British / where the streets have no name-U2 What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Cave diving in Mexico

Keith Grothaus Email address: kgrothaus1@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Cincinnati Occupation: Commercial Real Estate Employer: Caldwell Companies Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: University of Cincinnati South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: TOC Committee BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: CGG Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

300 Club committee, TOC committee How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 11 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From a team member 12 years ago. He told me how great the trip was and I set a goal to attend the next one. I have qualified for everyone since then.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Craig Davis If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Pikes Peak. Driving up and down that mountain with 5 women. Two of them were frightened by the height and the roads and they kept telling me how to drive. It was hilarious!! By the way, one of those women was my beautiful, backseat driving, wife Mary Lou. The views from on top of that mountain were breath taking!

What is your connection to MS? Now I know many people with MS but when I started riding I didn't know anyone.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Begging and pleading friends, customers, family and people who are just acquaintances. I have an email campaign and I send emails 4 times each year starting in January asking for support and giving updates.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Your wife is ALWAYS right!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Hardheaded. I never give up.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Getting Mary Lou to agree to marry me 35 years ago. The second is not giving her a reason to change her mind.

What do you value most in life? My relationship with my Lord. My relationship with Mary Lou and my daughters.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having the energy and passion to go all day long!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I love Christian, Country and Rock & Roll. I love XM Radio because I can listen to all genres of music and can even be specific about what era I want to listen to, ie: 70's or Classic Vinyl. All-time favorite song is probably Hotel California.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Raised two daughters!!

Mary Lou Grothaus Guest of TOC Qualifier: Keith Grothaus Email address: momgrothaus@gmail.com Hometown: Air Force Brat - had none!

City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: U. of Cincinnati; U. of Oklahoma Occupation & Employer: Speech Pathologist - private contractor Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No - just moral support What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Cool weather, fun activities with awesome people!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never go to bed angry.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength: patience with my husband (he told me to say that) Weakness: I would own every dog in the world if I was allowed to What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising two beautiful daughters who have become teachers.

What do you value most in life? Family. Period!

What do you miss about being a kid? Not having to make any decisions What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country. Amazing Grace, when my husband and daughter sing it. Actually, anything my husband and daughter sing.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Moving to Texas 35 years ago, with a brand new husband, and knowing no one else. Childbirth was also pretty daring!

John Groweg Email address: jgroweg@att.net What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Mechanical Designer Employer: Baker Hughes Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: North Harris College South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Team Captain Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: C&J Energy and Holt CAT Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 BP, Club 100 Valero, Valero Hall of Fame How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? NMSS email If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: I was 'referred' by a very generous donor who wishes to remain anonymous!

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Zip line in Park City, Utah What is your connection to MS? My lovely wife thumbs her nose at MS every day. Take that, MS!!!

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Fundraising secret: years of connecting to friends and families touched by MS builds a network of donors.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Money doesn't buy happiness, generosity buys happiness.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Ability to see the big picture What do you consider your greatest achievement? 20+ years of marriage What do you value most in life? Doggies!!!

What do you miss about being a kid? I could ride so much faster!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I refuse to get stuck in a decade or genre...

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Windsurfing as a Cat 1 hurricane approached shore

Annette Groweg Guest of TOC Qualifier: John Groweg Email address: agroweg@att.net Hometown: Seguin, TX City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Southwest Texas State University Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Visiting a new place.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Fair is what you take a pig to.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Greatest strength: Putting others before myself (per my husband) What do you consider your greatest achievement? My marriage.

What do you value most in life? Family and friends.

What do you miss about being a kid? I'm having my childhood now.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like almost all genres. Favorite song right now is Happy

by Pharrell Williams.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Antagonizing a water moccasin and having it chase me.

Bob Ittner Guest Linda Ittner Email address: bittner@texasgulgbank.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Midland Occupation: Banker Employer: Texas Gulf Bank Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 26, 28, 29, 40 Name of college you attended: UT South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Gardere

Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 9 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS Staff If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Going to Scottsdale-climbing Camelback advertised as a "moderate" hike and spending the rest of the day at the pool drinking margaritas with my MS friends- Sylvia, Mary, and Johnny P. Bonus UT beat UCLA. Craig Davis hauling mimosas to the top of mountain.

Being astonished that people RUN up Camelback for exercise.

What is your connection to MS? Started because good friend suffers from it.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Having a lot of loyal friends/many of which have supported the cause every year I have ridden.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de Houston/self-guided Are you active in any other organizations? Chairman Archway Academy-largest recovery high school in the US What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? "Carpe diem" Linda Ittner What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I can go on a long time about my strengths-sense of humor, persistence, etc.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Very proud of our family-great children and wife and my extended family great friends What do you value most in life? Other than the relationships mentioned above-freedom What do you miss about being a kid? Probably youth sports What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Wide variety-favorites change-right now "Time To Say Good-bye" What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Getting out of a relationship that was not working

Melanie Johnson Email address: Melanie.Johnson@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Senior Paralegal\Case Manager Employer: BP Corporation North America Inc. Marital status: Gary Fowler Number of children and their ages: Fay - 26 Name of college you attended: Texas A & M South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS Society email What is your connection to MS? I have at least 15 friends with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have very generous family and friends and a great company matching program.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None yet.

Are you active in any other organizations?

1. Board of Directors, Bunny Buddies, 2. Co-Chair, Child Advocates Santa's Wish List Program at BP, 3. Participate in fundraising events for the following throughout the year: American Cancer Society, Child Advocates, The Rose

Foundation, MD Anderson, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, AIDS Foundation Houston Inc. and the Alzheimer's Association.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same. -Francesca Reigler What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I am very devoted to my family and loyal to the ones I love.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising a successful and well balanced daughter.

What do you value most in life? Family and friends What do you miss about being a kid? Playing outside from dawn until dusk with my sisters and friends.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Anything by AC\DC What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? The MS 150, 3 times!

Gary Fowler Guest of TOC Qualifier: Melanie Johnson Email address: gfowler@twdiz.com Hometown: Houston City you currently live in: Houston Occupation & Employer: Owner of TWD Business Systems Relationship with TOC participant: husband Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Team BP What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? A vacation with my wife What do you value most in life? Family and my rabbits What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 70s rock and roll

Brian Jones Email address: jonesbrianc@aol.com What city do you currently live in? Mesquite, TX Hometown: Santa Monica, CA Occupation: Technical Security Expert Employer: Social Security Administration Marital status: Yvonne Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: University of California at Irvine Club 100 Member, South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Team Captain BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Name of your Bike Team: Plano Cycling & Fitness Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Volunteer at MS events, Club 100 Member How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I was aware of TOC through my participation in Bike MS events. I attended my first TOC in 2013 If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Meeting so many wonderful people who share the same goal of ending MS forever. Also, being adopted by the members of the Houstonian Hammerhead

team.

What is your connection to MS? I have a Friend or Co-worker with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? My fundraising theme this year was The Faces of MS. I asked each of the five wonderful ladies I ride for to share their story of living with MS. I shared the stories through email and Facebook when asking for donations.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Wild Ride Against Cancer, Mesquite Rotary Ride and Tour de Goatneck.

Are you active in any other organizations? Knights of Columbus, Council 13158.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't eat yellow snow.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths: Great listener and loyal friend.

Weaknesses: Shyness around people I don't know.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Marrying my beautiful wife.

What do you value most in life? The love of family and friends.

What do you miss about being a kid? Not paying taxes.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like all types of music.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Cycling on any road with cars and trucks passing you.

EVAN JONES Guest Suzi Jones Email address: EJ4311@GMAIL.COM What city do you currently live in? KATY Hometown: OAK PARK, ILLINOIS Occupation: INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 3 Name of college you attended: KNOX, INDIANA UNIVERSITY South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Name of your Bike Team: DIAMOND OFFSHORE How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 12?

What is your connection to MS? My niece has MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Asked EVERYONE to donate What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Lots What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? Being naive What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock and roll

Rita Joubran Email address: ratroutj@hotmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Domestic Engineer Employer: Joubran Home Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 13-14-15 Name of college you attended: UofH South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Fugro Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

MS Ambassador How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? The first time from my shower buddy, Joy McCormack If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: While showering in LaGrange 3 years ago, Joy could not stop talking (if you know Joy, you know what I mean) about TOC... I basically got bullied into attending the first time.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Being crowned Queen of TOC (Guess who the King was....???)

On a serious note, riding in a different part of the country. I never imagined being able to ride some of the "real" hills in Colorado Springs and Park City (and I thought Austin had hills...)

What is your connection to MS? Intimately associated with the disease. I am so close to it, I carry it all the time!!!!!!!!!

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I beg, I annoy, I beg, I annoy, I beg, I annoy, I beg, I annoy ...got the message??

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None Are you active in any other organizations? It's all about MS for me What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never give up What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Determination / Husband. Guess which is which??

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being a mom What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? Not having a care in the world What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Pop, We're Gonna Beat MS by my kids and their cousins What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Get Married

Nabil Joubran Email address: nabiljoubran@yahoo.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Rita Joubran Hometown: Lebanon City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Texas A&M - gig'em Occupation & Employer: Engineer - Pepe Engineering Relationship with TOC participant: Husband Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? MS150 rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Team Fugro

What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Riding new challenging routes What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Always listen to your wife What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Patience (can be both) What do you consider your greatest achievement? Reaching Austin from Houston on a bike What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? NOTHING What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country, We're Gonna Beat MS by my kids and their cousins What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Emigrate to the US

Keith Kneale

New to TOC

Email address: kkneale@fugro.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Harrow, NW London Occupation: Business Development Manager Americas Employer: Fugro Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Team Captain South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Fugro Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Captain of team Fugro - 4 years.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Attending 300 Club meetings What is your connection to MS? Relative: grandfather had MS, Good family friend had MS, Two personal friends have MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Sending lots of personal emails, following up with emails of thanks.

Keeping people up to date with progress and how the ride went. Leveraging work contacts. Donation from fundraising committee at work What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Every week with the Katy Cycling club.

Are you active in any other organizations? Katy Cycling Club What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't look back.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Drafting / pulling the peloton What do you consider your greatest achievement? Reaching my current status without attending college. There are thousands like me who have the ability to be successful, given them a chance! Bring back "apprenterships" What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? Long summer holidays What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Getting married.... plus abseiling as I suffer from acrophobia

Larry Knox Email address: knoxl@comcast.net What city do you currently live in? Richmond Hometown: Nashville, TN Occupation: Geologist Employer: BHP Billiton Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 34, 30 Name of college you attended: Vanderbilt, U. of Missouri Club 300 Committee, South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Houston Leadership Council BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team SWN Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Committee member, Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 7 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Saw it on the MS web page years ago. Figured I'd never see it.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? The rides in Nashville, TN, my hometown.

They went past and through my neighborhood and schools.

What is your connection to MS? Know people with MS. I did not know anyone with MS when I started.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Over 95 great contributors and a very generous company matching program. I guess a Red Mohawk may have helped a little.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Texas Gran Fondo - For the uninitiated, this is a 100 mile, hilly torture test two weeks before the MS 150. A great ride presuming you are not body bagged before the end. It was initiated by Phil Pauze and administered in part by Mark Leblanc.

Are you active in any other organizations? Development Board at the University of Missouri What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Get a good education.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength - Determination Weakness - Expecting others to be the same What do you consider your greatest achievement? Marrying my Wife What do you value most in life? My Wife What do you miss about being a kid? Free time What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock - many favorites, but I'll suggest one that only really old folks will know, "Because" by the Dave Clark Five What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Skydive with Navy Seals, Descend mountains at 50+ mph on my bike (maybe a little reckless and less than smart as well), Drive my BMW at 137 mph (really not that daring, it drove like it was on rails!)

Sherilyn (Sheri) Knox Guest of TOC Qualifier: Larry Knox Email address: ssknox@aol.com Hometown: Nashville, TN City you currently live in: Richmond Name of college you attended: Belmont University Occupation & Employer: 3rd grade teacher- Lamar CISD Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Seeing people we haven't seen in a while and meeting new people. It's always a lot of fun!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I think I'm fairly easy going I can get along with almost anyone. Weakness -probably being too shy What do you consider your greatest achievement? Don't really know --Maybe my 2 kids What do you value most in life? Love, honesty, and happiness What do you miss about being a kid? Don't know --I'm surrounded by plenty of kids --and I live with a big kid (even self- proclaimed) What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Oldies What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I'm a rule follower-don't know that I have really ever done anything too daring.

Andy Kogut Email address: ajk1965@aol.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Seminole Florida Occupation: self Employer: BMK Music Service Marital status: in love Number of children and their ages: 17 Name of college you attended: I wish South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team:Team Granite Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

I just try to spread the word to everyone I can.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Mindy emailed me and told me to man up and raise more money and I hit the mark.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Arizona, my guest and I rented a convertible and drove to Sonoma to find ourselves in the middle of a Gay Pride Parade and made a wrong turn and ended up waving to the crowd as we tried to find a way off the route.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Being Relentless What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Walk away!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being a single father What do you value most in life? Family and Friends What do you miss about being a kid? healing What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 80's, I wanna be sedated What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Still waiting

Jennifer Buergermeister Guest of TOC Qualifier: Andy J Kogut Email address: jennifer@jennyoga.com Hometown: Houston, TX City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: University of Houston/Sofia University Occupation & Employer: Breathe the Cure, Inc. Relationship with TOC participant: girlfriend

Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? no What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? the cool mountain air What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? out of every pile of shit, a flower may bloom.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? strengths - tenacity What do you consider your greatest achievement? education and taking risks/facing fear.

What do you value most in life? living presently and seeing the beauty all around me.

What do you miss about being a kid? everything. I had a great childhood. Innocence.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 80s. Desert Dwellers.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Went to China and spent one month traveling from city to city. lived in Mexico for three years.

Terry Krysl Email address: tjkrysl@sbcglobal.net What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Rawlins, WY Occupation: Accounting Analyst Employer: Marathon Oil Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Team Captain, Team Safety University of Wyoming, U. of St. Thomas Coordinator South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Marathon Oil Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Superstar Top Fundraisers Committee, Team Co-Captain & Safety Coordinator How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I have been around.

What is your connection to MS? Sister-in-law living with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? My co-workers are very generous. I provide the opportunity to a lot of people and try to educate prospective donors on the disease, the services to those living with MS, and the progress made in the past on the research side.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de RACHA, Katy Flatland Are you active in any other organizations? St. John Vianney church What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Give time to visiting your parents. You will not have them forever.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength - putting forth the effort. Weakness - Liking things my way; difficult at times for me to be flexible.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Surviving the ups and downs of the oil biz What do you value most in life? My faith life What do you miss about being a kid? Small town America What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I'm basically a rock-n-roll person, but love a good song to jitterbug to.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Jumped from the top of a dam which was above the water higher than I cared for; my college "friends" were doing it so I did too

Jim Kyriacopoulos

New to TOC

Email address: jim.kyriacopoulos@crowncastle.com What city do you currently live in? Pittsburgh PA Hometown: Pittsburgh PA Occupation: Engineering Employer: Crown Castle Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 20, 22 Name of college you attended: Lehigh U, Johns Hopkins U South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Calpine Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

This is my first MS 150 and ostensibly my first fund raising event.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is my first How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Talk among fellow riders as our funding began to accumulate and on Calpine preparation calls What is your connection to MS? I had a past co-worker with MS and my wife had a close college professor with the disease as well.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Sending personal email messages, like blogging to everyone I could think of, updating them with my training and the importance of the mission. I also included pictures with each mailing.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? No other organized events.

I ride regularly with Crown Castle folks who also rode in the Houston to Austin event. We call ourselves the Steel City Riders. I also like to ride single track with my buddies from Pro Bikes.

Are you active in any other organizations? I coach wrestling for the Uppper St. Clair youth program and lead 3rd4th grade kids praise at South Hills Bible Chapel.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? -"Tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are" My Dad -When people ask me how to raise their level of performance, the first thing I ask is, How important is it to you?" Dan Gable What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength: Leadership-Determination, Weakness: Not always listening to others What do you consider your greatest achievement? Like any parent, Joanne and I are proud to have raised two great kids; Alex and John. Professionally, building my engineering team at Crown Castle is really great.

What do you value most in life? Faith, that's what it all about and I live to serve others while I'm here.

What do you miss about being a kid? Staying up all night and being able to sleep all day What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Blues rock - singer song writers.

Right now I'm listing to Ed Sheeran's new album like every day; Sing, Rita, Bloodstream, the Man ugh, this is a great album.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Catch a rattle snake.

Joseph Ernest Email address: joey.ernest@crowncastle.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jim Kyriacopoulos Hometown: Mobile, AL City you currently live in: Cumming, GA Name of college you attended: Auburn University Occupation & Employer: Director, crown castle

Relationship with TOC participant: colleague Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Team Calpine/crown castle What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Meeting new friends and enjoying the beautiful Colorado scenery.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Make your home the most popular place for your kid’s friends to hang out.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength – intuition, weakness - procrastination What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising respectful children who are believers.

What do you value most in life? My faith, my family, my friends and my job.

What do you miss about being a kid? I don't, I'm still a kid.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Most of them. The most recent one I listen to every day.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Riding 8 days in Moab including a no-dab ride down the portal trail.

David Lannes

New to TOC

Email address: lannd1@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Naperville, IL Hometown: New Orleans, LA Occupation: computer programmer Employer: bp Marital status: Tisha Number of children and their ages: 28,24,21,19 Name of college you attended: Louisiana Tech University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? member of Club 300 last year and hopefully this year How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: first year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? email communication What is your connection to MS? my close friend found out she has MS this past year, many of my supporters have family and/or friends with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I was very lucky and got a lot of unexpected contributions. I always write a story of the ride and share it with my supporters so they feel like they are riding on the back of my bike with me. I put a picture of my close friend who has MS on the front of my jersey and a picture of one of my supporter's mom who has MS on the back of my jersey. I always proudly wear my jersey the day after the ride.

That day I went for lunch at a favorite Houston restaurant and the owner approached me seeing my jersey and wanted to contribute. He wrote me a check on the spot for $500 which bp matched.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? like what you do for a living because you will be doing it for quite a while What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength - perseverance/commitment in the face of adversity, weakness - patience with others What do you consider your greatest achievement? Bicycling across the entire United States in the summer of 1986 What do you value most in life? Friends and family What do you miss about being a kid? The freedom of not having to worry about so much in life What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Christian rock Steven Curtis Chapman - Speechless What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Bicycling across the United States

Mark LeBlanc Email address: wellfit.ml@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: College Station Occupation: Health Solutions Sales Executive Employer: Humana Number of children and their ages: 3, 17 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M University Team Captain South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway Bike MS: Dat's How We Roll, Hammand, LA to McComb, MS Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: WellFit Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? cultivate sponsors, teams and fundraisers How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? A bunch of braggarts saying how much fun it was to ride and drink wine and ..... actually, when you've been involved as a volunteer / rider since 1991, you eventually get itjust raise more money! :) If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: I was encouraged by myself so I could spend a weekend out of town with my wife.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Last year's solo run up the mountain in Park City where, to my amazement and joyful pleasure, there was a herd of Goats imbibing in adult beverages.

Made for a great finish to a long day on the trail!

What is your connection to MS? I have many friends who have chosen to not let MS slow them down. I will continue to support all efforts to allow them the choice to MOVE! How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? In addition to being co-founder of the Gran Fondo bike ride that benefits MS, I "volunteer" my time to teach cycling safety courses to corporate teams. I give a price break, and safety credits, to the companies in exchange for the donation of all fees to my fundraising.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Multiple early season rides, Ride2Recovery, US Pro Cycling Challenge, Hotter'n Hell Hundred Are you active in any other organizations? Steering Committees: Gran Fondo Texas TMCO, Bike Around the Bay; Houston Business Coalition on Health What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? "A chip on the shoulder is a sign of wood higher up"; "a smile speaks in every language"; "take what you do seriously but don't take yourself too serious" What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Assessing situations and finding solutions; valuing friendships; lack of tolerance for those that oppress others What do you consider your greatest achievement? My family What do you value most in life? the blessings that have been bestowed upon me by God, even when at that time they might not have seemed to be blessings!

What do you miss about being a kid? never really having to worry about "bad things"; my Grandmother's peach preserves; horny toads What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? depends on my mood, the time of day, who I'm with, what I'm doing, who I want to annoy... ;) What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Had dinner with Andy Kogut in Park City last year.... or, 55+mph down a hill on a tri bike!!

Timeline of Progress in MS Research This timeline highlights a selection of major landmarks in research into multiple sclerosis and the launch of programs to propel this research forward. These are only a few of thousands of advances in basic and clinical research that have laid the foundation for the rapid progress we’re seeing today.

1421 First documented case of MS; St. Lidwina of Schiedam 1860-70 First studies of myelin and glial cells in brain tissue 1868 First correlation of MS clinical symptoms with central nervous system pathology; disease named "Sclerose en plaques" by Jean Martin Charcot 1869 First attempts to treat MS with gold chloride, zinc, sulfate, silver nitrate, strychnine and electrical stimulation (by Charcot) 1928 Discovery that myelin is produced by oligodendrocyte glial cells 1933 Acute experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) developed as model for MS 1936 Discovery that lymphocytes are involved in immune function 1943 First detailed description of the composition of myelin 1946 National MS Society USA Launched 1947 First research grant to Elvin A. Kabat, MD 1950 National Institute of Neurological Diseases founded at National Institutes of Health through the work of the Society.

1950 Society funds first major survey of MS in the U.S. and Canada 1954 First Fellowship programs to train MS Scientists offered 1965 Society-convened panel of experts develops precise criteria for diagnosing MS 1969 Society co-funds research of steroid ACTH, which becomes the first drug shown to speed recovery from MS relapses 1974 Society convinces U.S. Congress to appoint commission on MS; resulting report increases federal funding for MS research 1980 Society funds first large trial of any form of interferon (interferon alpha), stimulating interest in interferons for treating MS 1981 First MRI pictures of a brain affected by MS are produced, revolutionizing MS diagnosis 1981 Identification of oligodendrocytes in MS brain with capability for regeneration of myelin 1982 Society partners with MS Society of Canada to convene international conference leading to standards for clinical trials in MS. The first controlled trial of natural human beta interferon in MS was an outgrowth of this meeting.

1983 Society supports studies of the anti-cancer agent mitoxantrone in an animal model of MS. In 2000, this drug (Novantrone) is approved by FDA to treat worsening MS 1984 First modern documentation of cognitive problems in MS 1987 Pilot Research Program established to quickly test novel, high-risk ideas 1987 Society establishes program to attract research proposals in patient management, care and rehabilitation 1988 Health Care Delivery and Policy Research Program established 1988 First demonstration, using MRI, that there is significant lesion activity in MS brain, even when the disease is clinically quiescent 1992 Society supports first comprehensive search for genes that make people susceptible to MS, initiating targeted research program in MS genetics 1993 Betaseron approved by FDA for relapsing-remitting MS, becoming first drug approved that effects underlying disease. The Society had supported the first study of any type of interferon in MS 1996 Society grantees find that aerobic exercise improves physical and psychological wellbeing in persons with MS 1996 Society develops international consensus on 4 clinical descriptions of M (relapsingremitting, secondary-progressive, primary-progressive, progressiverelapsing) 1996 Avonex and Copaxone approved for relapsing-remitting MS. The Society funded early basic research underlying both therapies 1997 Zanaflex (tizanidine) approved for treatment of spasticity 1997 Sylvia Lawry Physician Fellowship Program established to train doctors in conducting clinical trials in MS 1998 Society launches targeted research initiative into gender differences in MS 1999 Society initiates first-ever longitudinal patient-focused database effort, the Sonya Slifka MS Longitudinal Study, providing quality of life and socioeconomic data 1999 Society grantees first to isolate immature cells in the adult brain capable of developing into replacements for myelin-making cells destroyed by MS 1999 Society initiates first-ever longitudinal patient-focused database effort, the Sonya Slifka MS Longitudinal Study, providing quality of life and socioeconomic data 1999 Society grantees first to isolate immature cells in the adult brain capable of developing into replacements for myelin-making cells destroyed by MS 1999/2000 Society initiates new clinical trial in estrogen treatment for women with MS and T-cell vaccination, both of which had their origins in early fundamental National MS Society research 2000 Society initiates international collaborative research effort to better correlate the MS lesion with disease state and MRI: The MS Lesion Project 2000 Novantrone approved in U.S. for worsening forms of MS 2001 Society task force develops new diagnostic criteria for MS, which may shorten the time it takes a person to receive a firm diagnosis.

2001 Society collaborates with NIH on a $20-million research initiative on gender-based differences in immune responses to increase understanding and treatments 2002 Rebif approved in U.S. to treat relapsing-remitting MS 2002 New Career Transition Fellowship Program launched to foster promising young MS investigators 2003 Society convenes international Task Force on Nervous System Repair to identify ways to speed development of repair strategies to restore nerve function in MS

2003 Society launches Collaborative MS Research Centers, 5-year awards to team up scientists and clinicians from a variety of fields to work on promising avenues 2003 Italian researchers transplant cells to enhance nerve tissue repair in mice with MS 2004 A pivotal study by a Society Fellow compares the clinical characteristics of MS among hundreds of African- and Caucasian Americans, showing that African-Americans tend to have a more aggressive course 2005 Society launches Promise: 2010 campaign to raise at least $30 million for cutting-edge research and clinical care initiatives including 6 Pediatric MS Centers of Excellence 2005 Society launches initiative to speed nervous system repair and protection clinical trials in MS with 4 international teams funded for $15.6 million 2005 “McDonald Criteria” for diagnosing MS updated by Society Task Force, speeding time to diagnosis for many 2005 Society collaborates with NIH, MS Society of Canada and University of Washington on international workshop to move MS rehabilitation research forward.

2006 Tysabri approved in U.S. for treating relapsing MS 2006 Long-term Care Caucus convened to create national agenda to foster spectrum of long-term care options for people with MS 2007 Society and MS International Federation convene a Stem Cell Research Summit of leading stem cell and MS experts to explore the potential of all types of stem cell research for MS and to set research priorities 2007 First large-scale trial of sex hormone estriol gets underway in women with MS, a result of the Society’s targeting of gender differences 2007 With support from Society to International MS Genetics Consortium, two genes are confirmed to be linked to susceptibility to MS; researchers believe many more will be uncovered 2007 Society launches Fast Forward to speed treatments to people with MS by partnering with industry to develop new drugs 2007 Society’s Task Force on MS Epidemiology meets to outline future research directions for funding agencies that will further the search for the cause of MS; through its efforts, a disease tracking system is being piloted by the Centers for Disease Control’s ATSDR 2007/2008 Congressional MS Caucus launched to raise awareness and engage in discussion about access to health care, increase in research funding, disability rights and other MS issues, with members from the House and Senate 2008 MS activists secure a place for MS research in the $50 million Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program, administered through the Department of Defense, plus $5 million restricted to MS research within the CDMRP 2008 Society funds genome scan by International MS Genetics Consortium of 10,000 patients to validate a large-scale study and to study the influence of copy number variants and gene-to-gene interactions in MS susceptibility 2009 Fast Forward makes investments in 7 companies working on early stage MS therapies 2009 International task force convened by Society publishes landmark guidelines on the complex process of telling MS from look-alike disorders (“differential diagnosis”) 2009 Extavia is approved by the FDA as a new brand of interferon beta-1b 2009 Society convenes international workshop on strategies to find the cause of MS, and factors that drive progression and ways to estimate MS frequency.

2009 Society holds first-ever Don Tykeson Fellows Conference to stimulate new research ideas and strengthen the commitment of bright young people to MS research 2009 Fast Forward joins forces with EMD Serono to fast-track new therapies for MS 2010 Gilenya, first oral disease-modifying therapy for MS, approved for relapsing forms 2010 Ampyra approved to improve walking ability in people with all types of MS 2010 Fast Forward, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Axxam SpA Join Forces to Accelerate Development of Treatments 2010 Society releases a request for proposals resulting in funding 2 feasibility studies on risk factors that drive MS progression and prognosis 2010 Nuedexta and Botox approved to treat specific symptoms that interfere with quality of life in people with MS 2010 Rapid collaboration and support for research on CCSVI 2010 International team co-supported by Society revises MS diagnostic criteria to reduce the wait for accurate diagnosis 2011 Society supports controlled study to determine whether vitamin D supplements can reduce MS disease activity 2011 Promise: 2010 Nervous System Repair initiative is completed, having jump-started the field, trained scores of promising young investigators, produced over 180 research papers, and leveraged millions of dollars in new funding 2011 Society-supported global consortium doubles the number of MS risk genes identified 2012 Launch of Progressive MS Alliance to speed the development of therapies 2012 Aubagio approved by FDA as second oral therapy for relapsing forms of MS 2012 Society task force launches effort to create a better tool to track benefits of therapies on disability in MS, leading to formation of the MS Outcome Assessments Consortium 2013 Tecfidera approved by FDA as third oral therapy for relapsing forms of MS 2013 Society partners with two foundations to form a research network of 10 leading universities aimed at screening drugs that show potential for treating brain diseases 2013 Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research is launched to inspire novel research 2013 Society commits $2.5 million to support the Network of Pediatric MS Centers to provide essential infrastructure to facilitate research 2013 Launch of MS Prevalence Work Group to update the estimate of MS prevalence in the US 2014 FDA approves new dose of Copaxone to be taken less frequently 2014 FDA approves Plegridy, an interferon taken by subcutaneous injection every 2 weeks 2014 First large, phase 2 clinical trials of myelin repair strategy for MS are launched 2014 Large trial of ibudilast, funded by NIH and Society, begins recruiting participants with progressive MS to test its ability to protect the nervous system from damage

Bruce Levy

New to TOC

Email address: blevy@rfminc.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Lawyer/Business Exec Employer: RPI Management/Rice Epicurean Marital status: Joanne Number of children and their ages: Shauna 31, Carly 29, Andrew 26 Name of college you attended: Univ of Texas Austin/UH Law School South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Houstonian Hammerheads Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: first time How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Team Captain If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Lisa Rainey is our team captain. Don't need to say more.

What is your connection to MS? Originally no connection other than to ride my bike, but over the years, as a Club 300 member, I have learned so much.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Ask as many people as I can and follow up.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Many. Notably I will ride Tour de Pink and LIvestrong again this year.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Listen to what others have to say. You learn more when others are speaking.

What do you value most in life? My family.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song?

Americana/Folk Rock

CARL LINCOLN Email address: clinc239@earthlink.net What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: RETIRED Marital status: Margaret Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: University Of Calif Berkeley South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Hammerheads How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: this is the second What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Raced sports cars

Margaret Lincoln Guest of TOC Qualifier: Carl Lincoln Email address: margaret.lincoln@gmail.com Hometown: Houston City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Rice University Occupation & Employer: Retired Frost Bank Relationship with TOC participant: spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Renewing friendships with an amazing group of volunteers.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? The only thing I have control over is what I am doing in the present moment. Still working on that one.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I'm pretty good at reading people.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My volunteerism with Girl Scouts is my fondest joy.

What do you value most in life? People.

What do you miss about being a kid? Reading non-stop in a world with no TV. What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Take me back to the sixties and play anything by Peter Paul and Mary. Turn it up loud so you can't hear me singing along.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I saved Dorie Brannagan from a moose attack in Park City.

Steve Logan Email address: slogan@stopllc.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: CEO Employer: Satellite Tracking of People LLC Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 12 and 14 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: ConocoPhillips

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: this will be my 2nd TOC (and 2nd MS ride How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Last year was my first year to do the MS150 and I was fortunate enough to qualify --- so heard it from MS society invitation.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Not really referred by, but Don McCormick was my "TOC buddy" last year since i was a newbie. Don was, and continues to be, very helpful.

What is your connection to MS? My wife, Mary, was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS in 2010.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Generous friends and colleagues What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None - i didn't own a bike before last year's (my first) MS ride.

Are you active in any other organizations? Family and business :-) What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never give up.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Stubbornness (both strength and weakness) What do you consider your greatest achievement? Marrying the love of my life - my bride Mary, and being blessed with two great kids.

What do you value most in life? See above (greatest achievement) :-) What do you miss about being a kid? Summers off What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 70's --- most anything from then.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Not sure if most daring, but maybe the most fun --"Superman" Zip Lining in Costa Rica -- the line is almost a mile long with speeds > 50mph going over deep valleys and up mountains - all while laying/flying flat (like superman). Very cool.

Mary Logan Guest of TOC Qualifier: Steve Logan Email address: mary@logan-interests.com Hometown: Houston City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Georgetown University Occupation & Employer: Recently Retired (private equity) Relationship with TOC participant: Wife What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Reconnecting with friends and making new friends. I look forward to the motivation and encouragement the weekend provides for those of us with MS! What do you value most in life? Spending time with my family and wonderful husband and children.

What do you miss about being a kid? Life without worries.

Grady Maddox

New to TOC

South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Grainger

William D. (Bill) Malone JR Email address: wdmalonejr@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? The Woodlands Hometown: Youngstown Occupation: Executive (VP Operations) Employer: ExxonMobil Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 3 Name of college you attended: YSU, MIT, U of Ok, London School of Econ South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: ExxonMobil Cycling Team Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

MS Advocate for Troops and Firefighters with MS, MS Walk, ExxonMobil Executive Contact for MS Society How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Club 300 If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Mindy LeBlanc thru the Club 300 was an excellent advocate for Top Fundraisers and the TOC If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Social events with other riders and MS participants What is your connection to MS? My wife Leona has had MS for 28yrs and my Best Friend a Marine and Fire Fighter has had MS for 5 yrs. Several close friends have family members with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Connections thru Professional and Social organizations What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Texas Mountain Biking Association rides across TX, LA and CO, ExxonMobil Cycling Club rides and sponsored events Are you active in any other organizations?

Gulf Coast United Way Alexis d'Toucqville Society Montgomery County Youth Services Junior Achievement (EM Executive Contact) Community Family Center of Houston (Board) USMA West Point Academic Board of Advisors CoreNet Houston Advisory Board Troop 204 Boy Scouts of America Asst. Scoutmaster What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? You Best Achievements are Those To Come What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths - Focus and determination, ability to modulate down when situations become critical, Weakness - Patience, it is a virtue What do you consider your greatest achievement? My Children - Victoria, Ashley and Sean Patrick, they are ALL awesome and very different What do you value most in life? Family, Friends and Faith What do you miss about being a kid? Simplicity of never really worrying about anything, it is all good not matter what What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country - Friends in Low Places What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Army Special Operations - Demolitions, specialty portable nuclear devices

Leona Malone Email Address: malone_leona@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? The woodlands Hometown: Youngstown Ohio Occupation: Desperate housewife Marital status: Bill Number of children and their ages: 25 21 13 Name of college you attended (if any): George Mason University Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? I am an ambassador for MS. Do speaking engagements for various fundraisers and serve a mean pasta dinner for carb loading before ride How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3?

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From my husband If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: I have had MS for over 25 years and my wonderful husband practically kills himself riding and raising money to help put an end to MS What is your connection to MS? I have MS Are you active in any other organizations? If so, which ones? Boy Scouts, PTO What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? As a person with MS I would say "always have a positive attitude" What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths. Optimism , Weakness. Being lazy What do you consider your greatest achievement? Getting a college degree after 10 years of moves through 4 different states 3 different colleges and 2 beautiful children and finding out I have MS in the middle of it What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? Not too much I'm old but still immature so I'm still a kid What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classic rock What is the most daring thing you've ever done? I climbed a volcano, walked the Great Wall of of Dubrovnik did the rocky steps in philly s. Scuba dived in Bali

Greg Marcarelli Email address: greg.marcarelli@cop.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Huntington Beach Calif Occupation: Oil Tankers - Logistics and Procurement Employer: ConocoPhillips Number of children and their ages: Two beautiful Dogs Kadie and Summer Name of college you attended: California Maritime Academy South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Cactus & Crude Ride, Midland to Post Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: ConocoPhillips Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Veteran of 23 years in a row Houston to Austin, MS Hall of Fame Top fundraiser, EX 300 club committee, Ex-ride marshal, 300 club over 12 years How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5 + years How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS announcements and Mindy

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Riding through the Garden of the Gods and followed with completing the Manitou Springs Incline with Brian Williams. Especially the fact that without the help of Mindy we would not had the chance to get there to do the Incline.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Lucky to have been healthy enough all these years to build a good base of supporters. Mainly getting to this level has been only possible by the generosity of Steve Moskowitz.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Bike for Mike - Fulshear, Burn Your Buns - July 4th fund raiser in Willis. Little Heros Are you active in any other organizations? I have been riding with the Mules for the past 4 to 5 years and it is a group of riders that are from all over the world that get together to focus on raising funds for as many charity rides as possible.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? At my age there are many but one that continues to resonate “Try to learn one new thing each and every day of your life!'

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Being a caring and kind friend. Weaknesses - Maybe taking my fitness for granted and riding above my skill level which I end up crashing and burning!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? The longevity of raising funds and riding in the MS 150 each year.

What do you value most in life? The dedication of staying fit and healthy for ones lifetime, especially if you have a spouse in which one has the greatest responsibility to do so for them.

What do you miss about being a kid? Spending summers and full days going to the beaches in Southern California.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock and Roll - Boston's " More than a feeling" Just timeless!

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Successfully climbed Mt Rainer

Hans Mayer Email address: hansmayer@aol.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Stettin, Germany Occupation: retired Marital status: Marge Number of children and their ages: 52, 50, 47, 47 Name of college you attended: Washington University in St. Louis South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Ready to Roll (formerly CoP) Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 and I visit at the office frequently to greet the great staff and to turn in money How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 14 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? By being involved with other qualifiers If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Steve Moskowitz and Marshall Cohen, who also recruited me to join the CoP If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Too many great memories including friendships and good wine throughout. My first TOC in Sedona stands out as does cycling over the Golden Gate Bridge when we were in Oakland (or was it San Francisco?)

What is your connection to MS? My pedal partner and good personal friend of many years has MS, as do a number of family members. And I now have too many friends with MS in their families How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? There are no secrets, it's the same process every year. Contact friends, business associates and family members via snail mail and email and make a clear ASK.

The primary principle is "if you don't ask, you won’t get" and if you do ask, you'll receive many donations at all giving levels.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Training rides with the CoP team and recreational rides with friends.

Are you active in any other organizations? Hillel at the University of Texas in Austin, the Holocaust Museum Houston, Houston FOlklore and Music Society and the Men's Discussion Group.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be Yourself What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses?

Strength - Perseverance and determination in achieving goals Weakness - Impatience when I can't reach those goals What do you consider your greatest achievement? In addition to my family, a successful professional career and active, satisfying retirement years.

What do you value most in life? My family - one wife, four children, four children in-laws, nine grandchildren What do you miss about being a kid? I was a happy kid and loved my summer camping experiences, both as a camper and as a counselor, all of which I recall with many good memories.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Very eclectic but mostly Classical symphony and folk music. Favorite song - many in the folk music area, but mostly those by Pete Seeger and the Weavers What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Float trip down the Salmon River in Idaho and investing in the stock market

Marge Mayer Guest of TOC Qualifier: Hans Mayer Email address: margemayer8008@aol.com Hometown: Brooklyn, NY City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: alum of University of Houston Occupation & Employer: retired.

Relationship with TOC participant: spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? no What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? The camaraderie of everyone.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't take life seriously, it's temporary.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths: be smart and don't answer this question.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Recently, I was involved at the ERjewish Center, as a volunteer, I helped plan stimulating classes for adults.

What do you value most in life? Family, friends and good health.

What do you miss about being a kid? I am happy to be an adult.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like Neil Diamond, Forever in Blue Jeans & Billy Joel's The Piano Man. What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? This summer Hans and I are taking an unusual trip to Norway.

It should be an exciting adventure.

Don McCormack Email address: domdandy@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Ft. Worth Occupation: Treasurer CAO Employer: Rosetta Resources Marital status: Joy McCormack Number of children and their ages: 10, 8, 4 Name of college you attended: UT Arlington SC Board Member, Finance South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Committee BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Cactus & Crude Ride, Midland to Post Name of your Bike Team: ConocoPhillips Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 7 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through the South Central region If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Watching my wife milk a goat What is your connection to MS? All the connections I've made over the twenty years of riding the MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I am lucky to have built up a great network of very generous people over the years. My theme this year was based on my 20th ride -- emails every 20th of the month, 20 people awarded a thank you dinner, orange "20" cookies, etc.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de Pink, Ready2Roll Are you active in any other organizations? YMCA, VOE What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Perception is reality What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Conviction What do you consider your greatest achievement? 3 kids What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? My parents and my grandparents What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Depending of the day -- alternative rock / classic rock, Kashmir What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Climbing Half Dome

Joy McCormack Email address: mccormackjoy@hotmail.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Don McCormack Hometown: Austin City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Texas A&M Univ. WHOOP!!

Club 300 Occupation & Employer: McCormack Enterprises -- COO Relationship with TOC participant: Marital Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Conoco Phillips What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Catching up with old buddies at a Beer Festival What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't sweat the small stuff AND hug those babies every night.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Weakness--inability to say NO, Strength--dedication to helping others What do you consider your greatest achievement? Hannah Caroline, Ian Avery and Evelyn Marie What do you value most in life? Don orville, Hannah Caroline, Ian Avery and Evelyn Marie What do you miss about being a kid? Miss? I still am a kid. Although I do miss selling girl scout cookies, riding my bike until dark and eating whatever I wanted at my Maw Maw's house without getting bloated.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I can't pick one genre, Road Goes on Forever by REK What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Moved to Orlando to worked for a Mouse or quit my cushy job to stay at home with my Munchkins

Mel McRee

New to TOC

Email address: mel@lubbockcc.org What city do you currently live in? Lubbock Hometown: Lubbock Occupation: Director of Tennis Employer: Lubbock Country Club Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 19 years and 17 months Name of college you attended: Texas Tech University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Bike MS: Cactus & Crude Ride, Midland to Post Name of your Bike Team: The Carney Men Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? :-), I just raise money.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: Rookie year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Lyndee Groce at the Lubbock MS office.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Lyndee Groce at the Lubbock MS office let me know that if I made it to $12,000 I would qualify for the trip.

Nobody on my team had ever raised that much so it was breaking new ground.

What is your connection to MS? I had zero "known" connections to MS before I joined the Carney Men. After getting involved I found out I knew several people with MS and along the way have become friends with many more.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I begged and begged very generous people. In reality, I work with a ton of wonderful people who support me in endeavors such as this and were very generous.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? I've done the Shiner GASP as well as the Enchanted Circle Century. The best one was the "Finish the Ride" in Tulia, TX. I bet I'm the only TOC participant that's ridden in that one. (fist pump) Are you active in any other organizations? I'm a member of the United States Professional Tennis Association and the United States Tennis Association. I'm also an advisor to the South Plains Tennis Association.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? My father always told me to never do anything half-assed.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I'd have to say my strength is I'm logical. I try to approach situations with a calm mind and not let my emotions gets the best of me. My weakness is I'm a procrastinator.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Fathering my child. Sounds cliché but it's the truth. Truly a miracle.

What do you value most in life? My family. I work long hours and don't get to spend much time with them so when I get free time I prefer to spend it with them.

What do you miss about being a kid? The value of the dollar. Remember how much $20 could buy you back then?

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I love classic rock and Texas blues. Pretty much anything from Led Zeppelin will work for my favorite song.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? That I'm willing to admit to in print??? Cliff jumping, yeah let’s just say that.

New to TOC

Rudy Mendez Email address: rmendeziii@satx.rr.com What city do you currently live in? San Antonio Hometown: San Antonio Occupation: District Services Manager Employer: Home Depot Marital status: Married to Angi Mendez Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Benedictine College South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Co-Captain Team Wingman BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: Team Wingman Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Route Committee member.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: First Time How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Cindy at the San Antonio office If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Cindy Rodriguez and Tony Ralf.

These two are a huge reason for my teams success and making us feel like family.

What is your connection to MS? My brother from another mother has MS, Chris Potter.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? By being me, and creating FUN-draisers. wine pulls, poker tournaments, market days, jewelry shows, auctions, and just ask.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Pedal through the Pines, Tour For Children, Tour de Gruene.

Are you active in any other organizations? nope.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? By being yourself wonderful things will happen.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength- My helping hands, everyone is a freind and if they need help, I take care of it. Weakness- I am like the Hulk, I get angry. No patience for stupidity.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Starting Team Wingmam... I mean, marrying my wife!

What do you value most in life? Family. Without them you are nothing, they are the mold and you are the clay.

What do you miss about being a kid? Cartoons, I love cartoons. They aren't the same now...

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country. Indian Outlaw by Tim McGraw.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Drive my Jeep along a waterfall 30 feet in the air, to where you can see the rigs under the water below.

Shane Merz Guest Michele Merz Email address: smerz@alum.mit.edu What city do you currently live in? Houston, TX Hometown: Norman, OK Occupation: Consultant Employer: MRE Consulting, Ltd. Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 16 Name of college you attended: University of Oklahoma / MIT South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team MRE Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Going to ask my own question here :) I am trying to collect the ride pin from each year's MS150. Really need help with the first 10 years or so. Believe it or not I have actually found a few on eBay!!

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 7-8 maybe?

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Michele and I look forward to spending a few days with our MS Society family each year and it is always a great time!

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Michele and I are huge fans of the MS Society and we are always excited to do whatever we can to help out. Training for the MS150 has provided a great excuse for me and Michele to share time outdoors exercising and hanging out with friends!

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Riding in the rain on Martha's Vineyard! Riding across the Golden Gate Bridge was pretty neat too!

What is your connection to MS? My Madre.

Are you active in any other organizations? Child Advocates What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be kind to others.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Hasn't happened yet!

What do you value most in life? My family and friends!

What do you miss about being a kid? My madre.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Really?! Way too many to try to list. Depends on what is going on! Eagles are always and easy answer though.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Running with the bulls in Pamplona.

Tammy Miller Email address: mstlmiller@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Web developer Employer: Norton Rose Fulbright Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 16, 23 and 25 Name of college you attended: University of Houston DT South Central Bike MS events in which you participate:

New to TOC

BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Norton Rose Fulbright Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? I am one of their biggest cheerleaders as they saved my life. I look forward to becoming more heavily involved whenever and wherever they need me.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This is first How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I noticed it on the MS website after the MS150 If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: I give credit to Azalia my guest and my firm, Norton Rose Fulbright. Without them, I wouldn't have even been able to ride in the MS150, much less this ride.

What is your connection to MS? I have MS - BUT IT DOESN'T HAVE ME! How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? The majority of my fundraising was done through telling my story. I hadn't shared it before, and I found once I was able to, people listened and gave with their hearts.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? I was hospitalized through the training session so I wasn't able to ride any up until the MS150. God willing I got out of the hospital a week before the event!

Are you active in any other organizations? I am a child advocate and member of the Texas State Air Guard - E4 What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? YOU determine what you want and YOU make it happen. If you want to LIVE... you must MOVE. What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths...I work well with people...I love to help...anyone in anyway I can... weaknesses...sometimes I give in to the temptation to feel like MS has been DONE to me...rather than a challenge...

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Becoming the first firefighter in my city in WNC and riding MYSELF in the MS150.

What do you value most in life? My children What do you miss about being a kid? LOL free room and food :) What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like all kinds of music, but my favorite song is "The Climb" by 'hannah montana/miley cyrus' What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? firefighting/training...until I was diagnosed.

Azalia SanMiguel Email address: azalia.sanmiguel@nortonrosefulbright.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Tammy Miller Hometown: Los Angeles City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: University of Phoenix Occupation & Employer: IT Project Manager/Norton Rose Fulbright Relationship with TOC participant: Friend and co-worker Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes, rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Norton Rose Fulbright What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? The whole experience of being there with my friend who rode with MS. I want to see her enjoy her time with others who raised so much for MS. What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? The only person you should compete with is yourself.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatest strengths are my faith, family, and compassion. My greatest weaknesses are shoes and food.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising my son as a single parent to be a responsible young man is my greatest achievement. He is now 20, a junior in college, and studying chemical engineering.

What do you value most in life? I value faith and family the most in life. I don't think I would be in the place I am with out either of those.

What do you miss about being a kid? What I miss about being a kid is no responsibility! That and being able to take naps.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? My favorite genre of music is Christian. Chris Tomlin's Whom Shall I fear is my favorite song.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? The most daring thing I've done is jumped 50 feet from a cliff into the ocean in Negril, Jamaica. It was a one time thing, I wouldn't do it again.

Steve Moskowitz Email address: SteveMoskowitz@Ready2RollCycling.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Facility Manager Employer: ConocoPhillips Marital status: VERY Happily Married!

Number of children and their ages: 34, 31, 26 Name of college you attended: Rice University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Team Captain, Safety BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Committee Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: ConocoPhillips Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Safety Committee (founding member), Host many Safey, Ride Marshal and Ride Director activities.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 8 recent + 2000 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From reading my e-mail...

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Spectacular view and sunset during dinner at the Grand Canyon (then it got real cold real fast...)

What is your connection to MS? Started without any but have added many friends who fight MS daily and have been amazed at the strength, dignity and courage they each display day after day.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Same two-step as usual: - Collect LOTS of small donations from LOTS of friends and supporters... - Collect procrastinator fees from procrastinators!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Just rides w/ friends and the Ready2Roll Cycling Training Series (w/ LOTS of friends...)

Are you active in any other organizations? My Temple (Emanu El), Int'l Facility Mgmt Assoc.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? "Art is 99% perspiration and inspiration is the other half."

"Art is the artifact of inspiration." (I made both of these up...)

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength - my legs, Weakness - the rest of me..., Strength Love for my beautiful wife, Weakness - ...in my knees when she bats her eyelashes!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? 1 - The wonderful family my wife and I made together.

2 - All the people I've been fortunate enough to help in all my volunteer projects.

What do you value most in life? The family and friends I've made.

What do you miss about being a kid? Who said I was not a kid?

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Unadulterated Rock & Roll #1 is a tie: - Baba O'Reilly, the Who - You Wreck Me, T Petty - For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her, Simon & Garfunkel - I Found Love, Lone Justice - Friends, Elton John What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? The first time I kissed my date (worth it, she married me 6 years later...)

Robbie Moskowitz Email address: robbiegm@aol.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Stephen Moskowitz Hometown: Houston, TX City you currently live in: Houston, TX Name of college you attended: University of Texas/Austin Occupation & Employer: Retired Teacher Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Volunteer If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? ConocoPhillips What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Spending time with people we have met on past TOCs and visiting a place we haven't been before.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? My 10th Gr.Sun.School teacher said, "Always get out of the car on the passenger side."He also said that if we got caught chewing gum in class we would have to switch gum with another person. Uh oh!!!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Grt.strength: My ability to connect with people and empathize with them. Grt.weakness: confidence in myself.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? A great marriage and raising 3 incredible children.

What do you value most in life? The love of my husband, children, parents and siblings.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having my big sister!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Contemporary Pop:Josh Groban, Maroon 5 (Adam Levine) Favorite Song: Daylight by Maroon 5. This is my song for my Granddaughter, Alexandra, in California. I have played it for her the night before I leave LA ever since she was born.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Talked back to my mother-in-law!!! I hung up the phone and knew the rest of my life was screwed!!!

Peter Nowobilski Email address: nowobilski@earthlink.net What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Chicago Occupation: Engineer Employer: BP Marital status: Dorota Number of children and their ages: 24 22 18 16 Name of college you attended: Northwestern and Purdue Universities South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: Team BP How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This will be third year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From other riders If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: George Carter and Tony Ralf If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Have always enjoyed riding in hills in the West USA in sight of impressive mountains.

What is your connection to MS? I have a Friend or Co-worker with MS. Also, my Godfather lived with MS and died in 1987 from it.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Solicited friends, family and coworkers via email.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de Pink.

What do you value most in life? Family.

What do you miss about being a kid? 20-13 vision.

Eamonn O'Connell Email address: oconnelle@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Cork, Ireland Occupation: Petroleum Engineer Employer: BP Marital status: Brenda Number of children and their ages: Ronan (20) Emer (16) Name of college you attended: UC Cork Ireland, Imperial College London South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Ride Marshal How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From MS Society members If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Cycling over the Golden Gate Bridge when we took part in the Waves to Wine Ride as part of the TOC in 2007(?)

What is your connection to MS? I rode my first MS150 in 2001 and since then have met many people who have MS and those who care for MS sufferers. As a result I have continued to support MS and to date I have raised over $100,000 for the cause.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have lots of good friends who are willing to support me and my company supports me through matched giving.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? I have supported many of the MS approved rides as a ride marshal.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Learn to drive and learn to type What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Enthusiasm and Commitment What do you value most in life? Health What do you miss about being a kid? Being able to eat whatever you like and not put on weight What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Opera. Quando, Rapito In Estasi (When enraptured in ecstacy) from Lucia di Lammermoor by Donizetti.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Two things come to mind; take up a work assignment in Papua New Guinea. Marry my wife.

Rachel Partridge Email address: rachelhpartridge@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Katy, TX Hometown: Centennial, CO Occupation: Reservoir Engineer Employer: BP L48 Marital status: Stuart Partridge Team Captain, Club 300 Committee, TOC Committee

Number of children and their ages: 3 stepkids! 19, 9, and 7 Name of college you attended: University of Texas at Austin South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Club 300 Committee member, Safety Committee member How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: Fort Collins will be my 4th TOC! How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I first heard about TOC during the Club 300 Kick-Off Ride and Social in Fayetteville in 2010.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? TOC in Boulder, CO was such a blast - we loved the Friday morning ride and inspirational group dinners! We also loved hanging by the pool in cabanas with fellow TOC'ers in Scottsdale, AZ, and spending time getting to know fellow TOC'ers better in the hospitality suite in Park City, UT! What is your connection to MS? I have a family friend with MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Mass email campaigns! I email pretty much every person I have ever emailed and ask for support for such a worthy cause.

Stuart Partridge Guest of TOC Qualifier: Rachel Partridge Email address: stuartdpartridge@gmail.com Hometown: Garmouth, Scotland City you currently live in: Katy, TX Name of college you attended: Elgin College of Further Education Club 300 Committee Occupation & Employer: Manager, Subsea 7 i-Tech Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Team BP What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Seeing old friends and making new friends that share a passion for cycling and raising money and awareness for MS. What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never trust a fart!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Weakness: speaking in public. Strength: photography.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being influential in my children's growth and well-being.

What do you value most in life? Family What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Skydiving

Brian C. Payne Email address: bcpayne@bcpayne.com What city do you currently live in? West University Place Hometown: South Bend, IN Occupation: Geoscientist Employer: Hyperdynamics Corp Marital status: Lee Ann Number of children and their ages: 5 and 6 Name of college you attended: Miami University (Ohio) South Central Bike MS events in which you participate:

BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Phillips 66 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: Second year to attend If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? I thought that last year my legs would get a good workout over the TOC weekend, but it turned out that my liver did most of the work!

It's pretty clear that once you have experienced a TOC, you have gained a new-found motivation to make it to the next year's TOC! What is your connection to MS? My first connection was a friend's mother who had MS. After 15 years, now I have become good friends with many others with MS through the Pedal Partner program. They are my inspiration to keep coming back year after year!

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Show your devotion to a great cause... And send out lots of reminders!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? This past year I was lucky enough to ride the Kona Coast on the Big Island over Thanksgiving. I also ride every Wednesday night, all year round. Then of course, many nice long Saturday rides and the occasional race.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Keep the rubber side down.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I'm a nice guy. e.g. After I ride you into the ground, I won't leave you for dead, and will pull you all the way to the end.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Figuring out that my wife is, has been, and will be the love of my life! And being part of "Team Payne" in raising two wonderful boys!

What do you value most in life? Faith, family, friends, health, time, quality tools, good beer, aged cheese, sunshine, and bacon.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having a Chauffeur, Chef, Maid, and Benefactors. (aka: Parents) What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Queen: Bicycle Race (I Want to Ride My Bicycle) Just kidding... That is not my favorite song...

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Leaving my wife at home with the kids for a couple weekends each year while I go off and ride my bike!

Juan Pinzon Email address: pinzonja@hotmail.com What city do you currently live in? Katy Hometown: Bogotá, COLOMBIA Occupation: Drilling & Completions Manager Employer: BHP Billiton Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: Laura (16), Santy (12) Name of college you attended: Universidad De America Bogotá South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Club 300, Hall of Fame How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? National MS Society - Club 300 Director If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Kelli Dreiling What is your connection to MS? Relative: Sibling of person with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Birthday Party, in lieu of presents, I ask for donations, Dinner & Music Gala Night, Wine Tasting events. Double Matching (BHP) and single matching (BP) is the best for Fundraising, thanks to these companies for their commitment on Social Responsibility efforts!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de Pink (Breast Cancer), Independence Ride (Supporting Veterans) Are you active in any other organizations? Boy Scouts of America - Troop 925 (Katy) What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Go extra Mile! it is a rewarding moment.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength: Power and confidence through the courage and commitment to accept a challenge that exceeds my previous experience.

Weakness: ride my bike during summer....

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Help and support MS patients!

What do you value most in life? The opportunity to share quality time with my family.

What do you miss about being a kid? Play time with my parents What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 70' - 80's - Hotel California by Eagles (1977) What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? 11 consecutive MS bike tours (Houston to Austin)

Gloria E. Lazaro-Pinzon Guest of TOC Qualifier: Juan A. Pinzon Email address: gloria_lazaro_03@yahoo.com Hometown: Popayan, Colombia City you currently live in: Katy, Texas Name of college you attended: Universidad Industrial de Santander Occupation & Employer: Manager, BP Amercia Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No, I help with fundraising If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Juan Pinzon's Team of course What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Spend quality time with my hubby and supporting him in his passion to raise resources for a great program that helps MS patients like his uncle Ramiro; who we love so much.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Whatever you decide to do, make sure you put your heart on it!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Loyalty, passion and persistence / impatient, perfectionist and blunt What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raised two wonderful kids in the love of the Lord, happy and full of talent.

What do you value most in life? My family and God What do you miss about being a kid? The time I spent with grandma.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Michael Buble & Adele's music What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I moved my family to another country and created a new beginning.

Maurice Potlongo Email address: mopotlongo@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Katy, TX Hometown: New Orleans, LA Occupation: Network Engineer Employer: Paragon Offshore Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 girls 12 and 6

New to TOC

Name of college you attended: Loyola University of New Orleans South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Noble Drilling Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

I haven't participated in any other MS Society events.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I heard about the TOC through one of my team mates who was a top fundraiser last year. He enjoyed the ride in Utah so much he stepped up his fundraising efforts to make sure he would qualify again.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I think the reason why I was able to raise so much money this year was because I tried to mention the MS150 to everyone I met. Getting the word out to as many people as possible, along with contributions from Team Noble Drilling, are to blame for my success.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None Are you active in any other organizations? I am active in the Wounded Warrior Program.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? The best piece of advice that I was given was to train as much as possible leading up to the ride. As long as I put in the miles, my hard work would pay off.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I think one of my greatest strength is determination.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? I think my greatest achievement would be serving my country in the Army for 6 years.

What do you value most in life? I value my family most in life.

What do you miss about being a kid? I miss being able to be carefree and not having to live by a schedule.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? The most daring thing I've ever done was jump out of airplanes in the Army.

Christopher Potter

New to TOC

Email Address: Chris.potter@teamwingman.org What city do you currently live in? San Antonio Hometown: Binghamton, NY Occupation: Hotel Revenue Management Employer: Marriott International Marital status: Married, Melissa Potter Number of children and their ages: 0 South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Co-Captain Team Wingman Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River, San Antonio to New Braunfels Name of your Bike Team: Team Wingman Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? 2015 SA Route Planning Committee How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: First year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? On MS website What is your connection to MS? I have MS my uncle has MS and many dear friends I know have it as well How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Please share your fundraising secrets: Hotel certificates in Silent Auction for Spike MS Volleyball tournament. In addition to asking family and friends. Also had multiple fundraising events and we split the funds to each fundraising account raised among the volunteers that put event together What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? A couple but if fundraising required only do the minimum requirement on fundraising as MS ride is my passion Are you active in any other organizations? If so, which ones? No What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? What's the worst they can say....no

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Dedication to growing Team Wingman.....not having enough time in the day :) What do you consider your greatest achievement? Hitting $100K+ in funds raised on behalf of Team Wingman growing What do you value most in life? My lovely wife, my family and my Team Wingman family, cycling, and spreading MS Awareness What do you miss about being a kid? Not having to work What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country, Sweet Caroline Neil Diamond What is the most daring thing you've ever done? My first Bike MS completed both days all 159 miles

Eric Powell Email address: espowell@att.net What city do you currently live in? Houston, TX Hometown: Tularosa, NM Occupation: Retired Tax Attorney Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 0 Safety Committee Name of college you attended: New Mexico State University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: ExxonMobil Cycling Team Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? BP MS150 Safety Committee (Member and past Chair) How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 8 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Past Participant If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Too many great memories to pick a favorite.

What is your connection to MS? One of our best friends has lived with MS for 50 years!

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Continue to ask people on your list, whether they give or not; you will be shocked one of these days with a large contribution.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Chair the Steering Committee of the TWFG Gran Fondo Texas TMCO charity bike ride, in which one half the proceeds goes to the MS Society.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Being an attorney, I always give great advice!!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Believing in others (can be both a strength and weakness).

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Getting through law school.

What do you value most in life? Family and friends.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I like most music, but mostly listen to Classic rock and roll.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Bike the BP MS150 with less than 150 miles of training miles.

Cindy Reece Guest of TOC Qualifier: Eric Powell Email address: espowell@att.net Hometown: Louisville, OH City you currently live in: Houston, TX Name of college you attended: Marrietta Collage (Ohio) Occupation & Employer: Retired ExxonMobil Petroleum Engineer Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Reconnecting with other TOC participants and guests.

Joe Powers Email address: powers@powersbrown.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Austin Occupation: Architect Employer: Powers Brown Architecture Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 22 and 24 Name of college you attended: Southwest Texas State University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Houston Builders How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 4 or 5 If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? The hilly rides, mostly I like the downhill parts.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I sent a lot of emails.

Are you active in any other organizations? NAIOP board of directors; AIA; SIOR; HOLBA; ACRP. What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Golden Rule.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising two great children, and starting my own architecture firm (Powers Brown Architecture).

What do you value most in life? Friends and family.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classic Rock, Steppenwolf - "Born to be Wild" What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Most Dumb Thing - Cliff diving into Lake Amistad from the Del Rio side IN THE DARK after a night at the bar in Acuna. We went back the next day, and no one would do the same dive in broad daylight - it was way too high!

Chris Powers Guest of TOC Qualifier: Joe Powers Email address: czinnpowers@gmail.com Hometown: Denver City you currently live in: Houston, Texas Name of college you attended: UT Austin and CU Boulder Occupation & Employer: development & graphics The Jung Center Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse

Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Houston Builders What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Seeing TOC friends and meting new ones.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be kind to yourself What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I always have an outlet for my creativity. Currently, I am practicing the art of Zentangle - an artform that inspires mindfulness and enables anyone to create beautiful images.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising 2 boys who have turned out to be fine young men.

What do you value most in life? Friends and Family What do you miss about being a kid? Doing cartwheels in the front yard  What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Oldies, Build me up Buttercup

John Putnam Email address: jputnam@pinoakinterests.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Principal - Pin Oak Interests Employer: Pin Oak Interests Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 26 & 28 Name of college you attended: Sam Houston State University Name of your Bike Team: Gardere How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3 previous trips with TOC How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Heard about TOC form the Lone Star MS staff.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? The 'hills' ALL of them; California, Tennessee & Arizona. Favorite is a 'relevant term' right???

What is your connection to MS? Friends stricken with MS.....

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? That is going just a little to far, I know some of the other TOC participants and WE know the same contributors.......

Are you active in any other organizations? Archway Academy.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never go to bed angry....

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Answering this question......

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Convincing Deb to marry me.....

What do you value most in life? My family, pets and good health.

What do you miss about being a kid? Sleeping late on Saturday mornings.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country music, any CW music will do just fine.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Swore I would never tell....

Deborah Putnam Email Address: debsputnam@att.net Guest of TOC Qualifier: John Putnam Hometown: Houston City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Dominician College Occupation & Employer: Licensed Language Therapist (CALT) Relationship with TOC participant: Wife

Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No, support my husband If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Gardere What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Spending time with good friends in very cool weather......

What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Treat others with respect and dignity.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I think women refuse to answers this questions on the grounds that it might be used by the significant others.....

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Two grown very grounded happy daughters.

What do you value most in life? My family and pets.

What do you miss about being a kid? The fountain at the local drug store.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classical and Country What's the most daring thing you've ever done? See response to "What is one of greatest strengths/weaknesses"

Zamir Rauf In what city do you currently live? Houston South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Calpine

Finance Committee

Thomas Read

New to TOC

Email Address: tr@tomread.com What city do you currently live in? DALLAS Hometown: Dallas Occupation: Mobile Broadband Business Development Employer: Ericsson, Inc. Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Thomas Read South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Club 100 Member Bike MS: Sam's Club Round Up Ride, Plano to Texas Motor Speedway 1Name of your Bike Team: Ericsson Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? My main involvement with the National MS Society is around the MS150 event(s). This involvement has become more of a year long commitment. This is driven by my being a dedicated cyclist who is active in the community and a super fan of the event, how it is run and what kinds of teams are built by the event.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Last few years as friends have attended and the promotion of the award has come about.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: The MS150 team (Justin) and my fellow Ericsson rider Melanie helped push me towards making the goal.

What is your connection to MS? I have friends, either through my social or work worlds that have MS themselves or have a friend or family member suffering from MS. My mother has Parkinson's and I am sympathetic to any of the current neurological conditions we have to eliminate.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Please share your fundraising secrets: While I am supportive of multiple charitable efforts every year, the MS150 event is my big push. I have been growing my sponsors, either in numbers or in donation amounts and I have begun challenging them to personal matches. We are all fortunate that Ericsson matches my giving for this cause. That all combines to a "$3 to MS for every $1 you give" message that is quite compelling. MY SMU connection has also expanded my pool of great contacts who want to help.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? The Goatneck 100K, The Hotter than Hell Hundred.

I would like to expand my MS150 events list over the next year.

Are you active in any other organizations? If so, which ones? United Way, the Dallas Morning News Charities, Deerfoot Youth Camps... and I am easy in for Movember.

What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? 2 ears, 1 mouth, use proportionally. I clearly don't take advice well...

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? See "mouth" per above.

What do you value most in life? Let's all have a good time, huh?

What do you miss about being a kid? My waistline What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Punk Rock, Grunge, Classical and Jazz will do nicely thank you. Maybe some classic rock from the Who mixed in (they were just early punks anyway) and how about some of the jazzy techno bits from the last decade or two.

What is the most daring thing you've ever done? Go to grad school when I did? Keep alive while getting dragged down 5th avenue on the outside of a cab? Snowboarding the longest double black in North America?

Chris Ryan

New to TOC

Email Address: cryan@noblecorp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston, TX Hometown: Kingsville, TX Occupation: Marine Engineer Employer: Noble Drilling Marital status: Serious Relationship Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Team Captain BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Noble Drilling Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300 Member, Captain of Team Noble Drilling How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: First Year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Mindy LeBlanc, Cyronica Upshaw, and riders on Team Noble Drilling If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Mindy LeBlanc and Cyronica Upshaw support and push us along the way! They are true assets to the National MS Society and make our experience priceless.

What is your connection to MS? A friend of mine Jennifer McDaniels acts as an MS Ambassador and has been an asset to Team Noble Drilling. I ride for her and all the amazing things she stands for, fighting for the cause. She is an inspiration and a blast to be around!

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Please share your fundraising secrets: Through the support of family, friends, and Noble Drilling. I sent out a letter for the cause as well as my company matched our amounts in fundraising over 100%. Additionally, I challenged our team that I would shave my head if we met our goals.......We did by over $30,000! Needless to say I will be bald soon!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? N/A

Are you active in any other organizations? If so, which ones? Marine Technology Society, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, International Standards Organization, Howdy Club, Young Professionals in Energy, Space City Hockey Club, Southwest Indoor Soccer League, and WAKA Kickball What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Do everything to the best of your abilities with a smile on your face.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strengths: Social Integration, Weakness: Over Commitment What do you consider your greatest achievement? Graduating college, entering the workforce, and being able to help and treat everyone that helped me along the way.

What do you value most in life? My family is my universe.

What do you miss about being a kid? What do you mean miss being a kid hahaha.....I am just a big ole kid now What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Genre: Everything, UB40 - Red Red Wine....been my jam since 1987 What is the most daring thing you've ever done? Sky Diving and Attempting to Rock Climb Cliffside in Big Sur, California.....it was unsuccessful and I had to be rescued.

Mike Sailor Email address: mike.sailor@adp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: St. Louis Occupation: Sales Employer: ADP Dealer Services Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: Other...32, 30, 26 Name of college you attended: St. Louis Univ., Washington U. South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Houstonian Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? My wife Lisa has MS and volunteers extensively for the Houston Chapter as an Ambassador. I enjoy supporting her efforts in many different ways. We are also both part of the Club 300.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5?

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Website If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Nashville, and all of the TOC's are great.

By far the best part is socializing with all the TOC participants and staff.

What is your connection to MS? My wife Lisa has MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? We leverage email requests to family, friends, and my business associates. Fortunately we have a large network of folks who know us and specifically that know Lisa and appreciate her living daily with MS. What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None, just the Houston/Austin ride.

Are you active in any other organizations? Not really, just work, family, and the MS Society.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Always try to see the world from other's eyes, it makes a big difference in connecting and supporting others.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Working hard and working too hard.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Fatherhood What do you value most in life? God, family, work, and play What do you miss about being a kid? The world looked so much bigger.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock, Stairway to Heaven What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Jumped out a raft on a raft trip when Lisa accidently fell out to pull her out.

Lisa Sailor Guest of TOC Qualifier: Mike Sailor Email address: lisasailor626@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Louisville, KY Occupation: Domestic Goddess Employer: I wish Houston Leadership Marital status: Married Council Number of children and their ages: 1 grandchild Name of college you attended: Southeast Missouri State South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Houstonian Hammerheads Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? MS Society Ambassador and on the MS Society Leadership Council How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? How do you NOT HEAR ABOUT IT! If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Piling into a van with Mindy and Mark LeBlanc in Colorado Springs. Then about 20 of us pouring out of that van to go into the Broadmoor hotel for a drink. Classy!!!

What is your connection to MS? I've had MS almost as long as the BP MS150 has been around!

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Beg, borrowed and stole!! Or bugged a LOT of friends and family.

Are you active in any other organizations? I go to the Harris County Jail to mentor women.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Shit happens!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatest strength: knowing my weaknesses. My greatest weakness: reality TV. What do you consider your greatest achievement? 35 years of marriage to my best friend who happens to be my one and only boyfriend since I was 15 yrs old. I guess making the Hall of Fame this year for our fundraising would be on my list too.

What do you value most in life? I value my 3 adult children and the great humans that they've grown to be.

What do you miss about being a kid? I miss the opportunity to run, jump, climb a tree, walk on a beach, play sports and the other physical things that MS has stolen from me. I miss dancing the most though.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? My new favorite song is Happy by Pharrell Williams. It's become my new anthem.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Mike carried me up the Acropolis in Athens. It was quite a trek for both of us.

Larry Sanders Email address: lsan337794@hotmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Dexter, Iowa Occupation: CPA Employer: CGG Services US Inc. Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: UH Clear Lake South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: CGG How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 5

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Brochures If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Hiking to the top of Camelback mountain in Scottsdale and enjoying mimosa's, cheese, and crackers. Oh yeah, that was supposed to be an easy hike.

What is your connection to MS? Co-workers with MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I spent countless hours cooking brisket, ribs, chickens, and turkeys and selling them or catering to my work.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? None Are you active in any other organizations? Volunteer at church What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don't count your chickens before they hatch.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Stubborn What do you consider your greatest achievement? Passing the CPA exam.

What do you value most in life? Family What do you miss about being a kid? Energy What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Not too daring.

Kim Sanders Guest of TOC Qualifier: Larry Sanders Email address: knacol35@yahoo.com Hometown: Palestine, Texas City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Sam Houston Occupation & Employer: HR Generalist Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Volunteer If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? CGG What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Shopping What do you miss about being a kid? I still am.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country - Bartendar What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Driving with my husband.

Jim Sandt Email address: jsandt@Comcast.net What city do you currently live in? HOUSTON Hometown: HOUSTON Occupation: VP Tax - Calpine Corporation Employer: Calpine Corporation Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 3 Name of college you attended: University of Kansas South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Calpine Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Club 300 member How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: this is my 3rd year at TOC!

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? The first year as a Team Co-Captain I read the MS 150 website page to page. The TOC section under Fund Raising got me to the right section. We now tell all Calpine Team members about TOC and encourage them to set this as a goal.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Great friends, Great food, Great rides! The 2012 TOC took the group to Colorado and into the Garden of the Gods and the scenery was pretty cool! The 2 mile hill climb in Park City UT was also a memorable event. (ok maybe it was only a 1 mile but it was long to me).

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I start early by asking family and friends to participate. I have great participation from our company vendors that I deal with and I let them know what is a recommended contribution. I also let them know what others are contributing (shame them). Starting in 2014 I give my top 3 corporate contributors a Calpine Team Jersey. They thought that was pretty cool.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? My wife, Roxanne and I try to ride every weekend, even if it’s a local bike shop ride. We do a ton of the MS recommended rides along with other charity rides. We found riding in groups is a lot safer.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never, never, never quit. You started it so finish it! and "stay away from the water while riding"!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My great weakness is my wife rides faster than I do! LOL What do you consider your greatest achievement? Every time I finish the MS 150 without injury I think that's victory.

What do you value most in life? My wife, Roxanne. Family has to up there next to the top! All relationships family, fiend and business come next.

What do you miss about being a kid? No one ever tells you when you're in grade school that once you get older, there's no recess! Sometimes you only get a 5 minute lunch break and no time for "kick ball".

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? It was called Rock n Roll in the 70's/80's but now it’s called Classic Rock. Got to be The Rolling Stones - Gimme Shelter What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Cave diving was a little intense. Not sure if that's my thing!

Roxanne Sandt Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jim Sandt Email address: Roxans@iclouod.com Hometown: Colorado City you currently live in: Houston Occupation & Employer: Retired Relationship with TOC participant: He's my Husband Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes, rider MS 150 If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Calpine What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Meeting other TOC participants and spending the weekend making new friends. I'm looking forward very much to the activities planned especially the ride and visiting the state where I was born and raised.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? My Grandma always said "don't wait until you get old to have fun, go now while you're still young and can enjoy yourself" I'm doing my very best to do just that!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatest strength and weakness is my stubbornness. It serves me well when I'm trying to accomplish or finish something, but not so much in my personal relationships.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? There's been many, a move across the U.S. to follow my dreams, moving to live and work in London, but seriously my greatest achievement was 4 years ago buying a road bike that I did not know how to ride, learning to train and ultimately doing the MS150.

What do you value most in life? My health. After a recent bad scare I realize that without your health it is impossible to do or enjoy anything, including your family, job, pets etc.

What do you miss about being a kid? Who said I wasn't a kid???!!!!! I miss spending summers with my Grandparents in the mountains of Colorado - it was the best time of my life.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Top 40 and Rock & Roll. I don't have a favorite song, it depends on my mood at the time.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Para-sailing off the back of a snowmobile. Almost got killed doing it - would not recommend it.

Eulalio Sepulveda Guest Maria Sepulveda Email address: gsepul@comcast.net What city do you currently live in? Houston Tx Hometown: Edinburg Tx Occupation: Engineer Employer: Dril-QuipInc. Marital status: Maria Sepulveda Number of children and their ages: Andrew & Sebastian Name of college you attended: University of Houston South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Dril-Quip Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

No other involvement other than spreading the word about the society and its goal.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1yr How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through club 300 and MS Website If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Doing a 2 day ride through the great scenery of Utah.

What is your connection to MS? My sister in law has had MS since 2011.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Have been building a network of family and sponsors who believe in the cause and what the society does for patients and their families. In addition we held a burger plate fundraiser which helps the fundraising tremendously.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Try to ride on as many fundraising rides around the Houston area. Participated on the Tour De Gruene.

Are you active in any other organizations? None What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Never stop trying until you reach your goal.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Setting goals and reaching them.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Finding my soul mate and marrying her.

What do you value most in life? My family!

What do you miss about being a kid? The summer vacations spent with my grandparents in Mexico.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Mexican, too many songs to list.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Taking on the challenge of riding a bike from Houston to Austin.

Randall Shafer Email address: randall.s.shafer@cop.com What city do you currently live in? Houston, TX Hometown: Harborcreek, PA Occupation: Petroleum Engineer Employer: ConocoPhillips Marital status: Sandra Shafer Number of children and their ages: 30, 31, 31 Name of college you attended: Penn State and University of Chicago South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: ConocoPhillips Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Nada, only top fundraiser How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Pushing Steve M If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Steve everyone knows him, right?

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Olympic Center Dinner and presentations, it was a once in a lifetime experience What is your connection to MS? Got two co-workers, a friends wife, my son friends mother died from it, and more.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Plain old persistence and not taking no for an answer!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Tour de Houston, and Ready2Roll training series Are you active in any other organizations? Junior Achievement What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? You are only limited by yourself, no one else What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Diplomatically brutally blunt at times which is also a weakness What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising three great wonderful sons!

What do you value most in life? my health and my wife What do you miss about being a kid? Swimming in the creek or pond with the neighbor kids What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classic rock, Radar Love by Golden Earring What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Most of these have been accidental, skiing off a cliff, skiing down a glacier face, solo parachuting, etc.

Sandra Alonzo Shafer Guest of TOC Qualifier: Randall Scott Shafer Email address: sandra.shafer@sbcglobal.net Hometown: San Salvador, El Salvador City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Culinary Institute LeNotre Occupation & Employer: Chef Sandra Shafer Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Rider If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Conoco Phillips What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Every year this event helps our relationships with TOC organizers and participants become stronger. Feels like a big family reunion that we look forward to attend.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? To stop trying to rescue people around me and focus on myself, it is a way to micromanage other peoples life. Once I started focusing on me and letting go of the rest, I had a much more clear mind and have been able to work on larger causes that mean more What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My greatness strengths is that I have a huge network of friends that can help me to expand the support I need for the causes that are important to me. My huge weakness is still the focus I need to put on my physical and mental health on a daily basis.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Having become a successful Latino in USA. It was hard work, but the legend is real "Dreams do come true in America, if you are willing to work hard" What do you value most in life?

My family every day, my sons are very good men and my husband and I are very proud of them.

What do you miss about being a kid? El Salvador, the mango and guayaba trees, soccer in front of my house with a bunch of boys and packing up our Christmas or new years leftovers and driving up to the beach the next day, with the whole family and bunches of friends!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I love all kinds of music from classic to Fergie! lately John Legend and salsa mixes by the pool!

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? In 1995, I decided I was going to go to Europe for the first time and alone. I remember putting my cash inside my pants on a train trip from Milan to Florence, I knew to be aware of gypsies, and went to the bathroom and my money went down the toilet.

Chris Shaw In what city do you currently live? Katy, TX South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Shaw Systems Team Captain, TOC Committee

Margaret L Shelton Email address: sheltonm4007@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston, Tx [inner looper] Hometown: Austin, Tx Club 300 Committee, Safety Occupation: Accounting Professor Committee, Finance Committee, Employer: University of St Thomas TOC Committee Marital status: Mike Randall Number of children and their ages: Mikes's daughter Kalli 25, son Cody 21 & wife Kelsie 20 and soon to arrive granddaughter!

Name of college you attended: Rice Univ BA, UH MBA & PhD South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Conoco Phillips

Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

I serve on the Finance Committee, Safety Committee, Club 300 Committee, TOC Committee, and any assorted task forces to which I can contribute. Mike and I prefer to participate in multiple BikeMS events... when we are not busy having hip replacement surgeries How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 10 glorious ToCs!!!

How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? From other top fundraisers prior to 2002, my first ToC If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: originally, Steve Moskowitz and MS Society staff members encouraged me. Since then, the dynamics and collective commitment of all the ToC-ers keeps me focused along with support from key folks!

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? so many memories: leading a small group of less experienced cyclists on my 1st ToC at Lake Tahoe, surviving the hurricane conditions in Newport, and especially interacting with all the wonderful fundraisers & loved ones along with the FANTASTIC MS Society staff What is your connection to MS? Through the years [15 but who's counting?], I continue to meet so many amazing folks who live with MS. Each of them inspires me to continue my commitment to ending MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Each January, we have an Open House in honor of our donors who are all invited. Annually, I send 3 fundraising requests during the January - July time frame. In October, I send out an update about our involvement in MS events. I send all donors a Christmas card with our annual letter. Besides that, I have great support from friends and my team captain, Steve Moskowitz.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Many of the recommended rides. Independence Ride in November. Tour de Pink novice training rides. Ride Director for Tour de Pink in mid-September [2014 is our 10th anniversary!!!!]

Are you active in any other organizations? Pink Ribbons Project, a small local breast cancer not-for-profit, for which I am the Tour de Pink ride director and serve on the Tour de Pink steering committee What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be true to myself What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? strengths: 1 passion and full commitment to anything to which I commit; 2 full belief in the goodness of each person I meet; 3 joy in my life and the choices I have made.

Weaknesses: learning to say NO to requests [I am getting better at this!!]; What do you consider your greatest achievement? Affecting the lives of others -- through teaching [high school 9 years, university 35 years], through volunteer activities where I reach out to others to inspire their fuller commitment to the cause What do you value most in life? My true love with my husband, Mike Randall; my sisters; all of my amazing friends What do you miss about being a kid? The freedom to just run around unsupervised until called into dinner What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 1960s folk music and country music [sort of substitute] -no particular favorite What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Whitewater kayaking on challenging rivers, particularly in central Mexico

Michael Randall Guest of TOC Qualifier: Margaret L. Shelton Email address: mister75@aol.com Hometown: Houston, TX City you currently live in: Houston, TX Name of college you attended: University of Texas at Austin Club 300 Committee Occupation & Employer: Accountant, Envibe, Inc. Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Conoco Philips What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Cooler Weather, a hot air balloon ride.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? If it hurts when you do that, don't do it again.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I am open minded with a positive attitude. I don’t dwell on my weaknesses.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Saving a kid from drowning.

What do you value most in life? Love and Friends.

What do you miss about being a kid? Running barefooted with my dog, when there weren’t fences. Riding my Stingray Bicycle. Staying out until just before dark. The beach in the summer. Running.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Currently on Pandora, Allison Krause. Asleep at the Wheel is also good, it meanders over to Texas Swing and older Western Singers.

I did grow up on Rock and Roll. I can still listen to some of that.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? SCUBA dived down to 220 feet on air at Palancar Reef near Cozumel Mexico. That was 1976.

New to TOC

Ino Sofjan Email address: inosof@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? Tomball Hometown: Soroako, Indonesia Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Baker Hughes Express - NWCC Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

My schedule is too stacked currently. I wish I had more time in my hand...

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Mindy LeBlanc If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: George Bernhardt - for without him, I would just settle for Club 300 :-) He is a good guy. Very enthusiastic about fundraising for MS. What is your connection to MS? None. Luckily I have no family or close friends with MS. I'm just a universal giver. All good deeds need to be supported.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I begged, I twisted arms, I kicked people's butt - all through my charm :-) What other non MS rides have you participated in this year?

Many.

- Ride with your family - Ride with your friends - Ride with people you don't know and make friends.

Every week I ride 120-150 miles. Oh, you mean organized ride? ZERO. Rides do not need any promotional tags or organized by anyone.

Are you active in any other organizations?

Yes. - Northwest Cycling Club - the USAC Cycling Club of the year. Best cycling club - BAR NONE. - CF Foundation What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Follow your heart - from my mom. I have followed that advice and it always leads me to a positive frame of mind.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Willingness to learn. There will be no day without learning something new.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being able to give back to people and the community. Any other achievement is just a stepping stone to be able to pay back.

What do you value most in life? Life itself. Honestly, this question is deep, vain, absurd - all in one package.

How can you put value in life? And if you can, how do you rank them to make sure that you have "one" that you value the most?

What do you miss about being a kid? Laughter, carelessness (in a positive way), curiosity...

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Anything but country, rap, bluegrass, death, and lame love songs - all different sub-genre of those genre. I have many favorite songs. But I'm old-style: Bohemian Rhapsody What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Leaving my childhood home to pursue my dreams. For without it, I won't be what I am today - for better or for worse.

Jack Stone Email address: jstone1958@sbcglobal.net What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Akron Ohio Occupation: Project Manager Employer: Calpine Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of your Bike Team: Team Calpine How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS Society and Team Calpine If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Norm Dunn If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? A beautiful weekend with great people What is your connection to MS? MS-150 Houton to Austin How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Relentless reminders of the great cause What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Train hard What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Determination What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising to beautiful daughters What do you value most in life? God and Family What do you miss about being a kid? School What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classic Rock What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Left home at 18 years of age with no money or job and moved 1200 miles away to pursue work and a carrier

Sandi Stone Email address: sandi@stoneinsurancegrp.com Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jack Stone Hometown: Spring Texas City you currently live in: Spring Texas Name of college you attended: Cosummnes River College Occupation & Employer: Insurance Agent Self Employed Relationship with TOC participant: Spouse Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? The weather!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Greatest strength – Loyal, Weakness - Insecure What do you consider your greatest achievement? My children and my successful marriage

What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? Not working What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classic Rock and Roll, Bruce Springsteen, any song! OMG I love him.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I am basically a chicken and I don't take many risks.

David Stowe

New to TOC

Email Address: davidwstowe@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Parker, CO Occupation: Chemical Engineer Employer: Phillips 66 Marital status: Divorced Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: Colorado School of Mines South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Phillips 66 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? My fellow rider Brian Payne made the TOC list last year.

Between his competition & a little employer matching I was able to make it in myself this year!

What is your connection to MS? Two of my close friends have MS. Both of the relapsing-remitting variety.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Please share your fundraising secrets: I've been working over my friends (especially the ones that work for matching gift companies) for years & try to make it an annual habit for them. They have all come to expect "Dave's Annual Shakedown Letter"!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? ConocoPhillips/Phillips 66 training series What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? Take a deep breath.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Persistence. (Weaknesses: craft beer & dark chocolate, not necessarily in that order.)

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Becoming a father.

What do you value most in life? See above! My two children - they give me a sense of purpose that is hard for anything else to match.

What do you miss about being a kid? A seemingly endless ability to consume sugar without gaining weight.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Foo Fighters - Times Like These What is the most daring thing you've ever done? I'm afraid those records are sealed . . .

Thank you!!

TOC Advisory Committee for your guidance in planning the 2014 Tour of Champions!

George Carter - Marshall Bendalin - Mary Butler Summy Jan Cohen - Rachel Partridge - Bob Pohl - Harold Harris Chris Shaw - Margaret Shelton - Karla Zielke - Keith Grothaus

Julie Streich

New to TOC

Email address: Jkstreich@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Milwaukee, WI Occupation: VP Finance Employer: Direct Energy Marital status: Jeff Number of children and their ages: 7 Name of college you attended: Ripon College and UTSA For Masters South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Direct Energy Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Fund Raising Chair of the DIrect Energy Team How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 1st Year How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through Bill Kovach What is your connection to MS? I have friends, family and colleagues impacted by MS. How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? My secret is simple, I found an Angle (or two) What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Too many to count. I am a member of the Mules, an international cycling team dedicated to raising funds for charities world wide. A few key rides: Tour de Pink, Ride for Little Heroes, Katy Flatlands, Magnolia Miles.

Are you active in any other organizations? I serve as the Fund Raising Chair for Direct Energy’s MS150 team. My colleague Michael Fletcher (also on the TOC Trip), however, did most of the heavy lifting this year and deserves the credit for a very successful 2014 campaign. DE raised $186K overall.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Wow, this is a tough one...for the golf course, thing long think wrong...for life, the more you give the more you have What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I am a rock in the storm What do you consider your greatest achievement? I've been happily married for 21 years surviving 7 moves, 2 home builds and several remodels!

What do you value most in life? It may sound cliché but friends, family, and personal integrity.

What do you miss about being a kid? Summers off!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? My tastes are highly eclectic. As a child of the 80's Prince is one of my all time favorite artists but I equally enjoy Florida Georgia Line, Nickleback and Bach What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Go into a Fez in Morocco during Ramadan with two strangers after someone offered to trade 40 camels for me (I still don't know if that was a good price :-))

Justin Sunseri Email Address: jmsunseri@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: New Orleans Occupation: Software Developer Employer: Calpine Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: University of New Orleans South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Calpine

Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? I'm not involved with the National MS Society otherwise.

Is this your first year on the Tour of Champions? No How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through the website.

What is your connection to MS? My father has MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I got my vice president to twist the arms of our vendors and solicited my friends for donations using email and Facebook.

What other non-MS rides have you participated in this year? Too many to name.

What are you most looking forward to on this TOC trip? The rides and the change of scenery / weather What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Finances, finances, finances! My grandfather’s favorite words of wisdom.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Graduating college What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? My curiosity and stubbornness What do you value most in life? New experiences What do you miss about being a kid? Recess!!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Alternative Rock, Cant’s pick one right now.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? With no lessons or prior training I took the ski lift to the top of the mountain in Steamboat Springs strapped a snowboard to my feet and rode all the way down. (falling many, many times )

Catherine Tsao Guest of TOC Qualifier: Justin Sunseri Email Address: catherinetsao0923@gmail.com Hometown: Taipei, Taiwan City you currently live in: HOUSTON Name of college you attended: University of Texas at Austin Occupation & Employer: Sr.ISO Market Analyst, Calpine Relationship with TOC participant: Friends Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? Calpine What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Meeting new people, riding bike in Fort Collins and having a great time!

What's the best piece of advice you were ever given? You may never become somebody else but you can always strive to be a better self.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? persistence, aptitude of learning What do you consider your greatest achievement? Get my graduate degree What do you value most in life? Family and cats What do you miss about being a kid? discount admission everywhere!(I don't miss being a kid that much, I love being an adult.)

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? whatever the cool kids are listening to What's the most daring thing you've ever done? I came to a foreign country and started a new life all by myself.

Sam Teuton

New to TOC

Email address: teuton01@yahoo.com What city do you currently live in? Katy, TX Hometown: Canyon Lake, TX Occupation: Homebuilder Employer: Lennar Homes Marital status: Shanna Teuton Number of children and their ages: 5, 2 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Lennar Homes Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Although I've been a top fundraiser before, This will be my first year in the club 300!

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS150 website What is your connection to MS? I have a Friend with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Many companies and coworkers are more than willing to donate once they understand the cause. Also, many corporations have donation/charity money set aside in their yearly budgets. Just ask!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? none What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Hard work pays off!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Weakness is procrastination. Fortunately my greatest strength is I perform better under pressure!

What do you value most in life? my kids!

What do you miss about being a kid? More time for playing! Bikes, boats and outdoor fun.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I listen to everything! Can’t even pick a favorite...

David Tumino Email address: dtumino@hal-pc.org What city do you currently live in? Katy Hometown: Bethpage NY Occupation: Engineer Employer: self Name of college you attended: USAF Academy Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 11 South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team Audrey's Heroes How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 4 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? the web site, emails, fellow riders If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? The Stanley was very interesting (the Boulder CO TOC) What is your connection to MS? Friends who suffer How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Lots of email... matching my highest donor... seeking out corporate matching.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Friends and neighbors... local riding groups...

Sun'n'Ski, Bike Barn, Y, Lifetime, etc.

Are you active in any other organizations? SPE... Society of Petroleum Engineers. BSA... Boy Scouts of America.

PTA... Parent Teachers Association Neighborhood Watch What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Hmmm... tough questions.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Diligence/procrastination What do you consider your greatest achievement? My son, Logan.

What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? The innocence... the good ole days What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Blues, Jazz. Too many favorites What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I'm not that daring. Crewmember on a nuclear armed B-52 bomber.

Brian Williams Email address: williadb@bp.com What city do you currently live in? Houston, TX Hometown: San Juan Bautista, California Occupation: Project Manager Employer: BP America Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 14 Name of college you attended: UC Berkeley (BS, MS); Univ Hou (MBA) South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Team BP Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

Club 300, and sponsor of other riders. I also support my sister-in-law who has MS and who will be riding the MS Waves to Wine in California this year.

How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? I've qualified for years but only realized the nature of the event through the rave reviews of my dear friend Greg Marcarelli.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Riding loops in the rolling countryside through the beautiful 'Garden of the Gods' 2 years ago.

What is your connection to MS? Sister-in-law and several friends.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Building my existing list of established donors, by expanding my network further, to grow sponsorships by ~25% this year. Sharing personal stories during my fundraising.

Thanking contributors individually with personal notes.

Are you active in any other organizations? Boy Scouts of America, Asst Scout Master, Troop 641. Thrilled to lead a group of 9 kids to Rocky Mtn High Adventure Base in Colorado this past June for climbing a 14000 ft peak, rafting the Arkansas and rappelling 150 ft!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Do unto others as you would wish...

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? + Willing to try new things, - Less spontaneous now What do you consider your greatest achievement? Marrying my wife, and still being happy with our mutual selection after 24 years What do you value most in life? Time spent outdoors. Also time traveling to & exploring new places, with my family.

What do you miss about being a kid? Having the free time to explore, play and try new things.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Chick bands like the Go-Gos, Bangles, Pat Benatar, etc.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Scuba-diving the Blue Hole in Belize (~140 ft deep).

Loran Wilson Email address: wilsonj5200@sbcglobal.net What city do you currently live in? Katy, TX Hometown: Crosbyton, TX Occupation: Process Engineer Employer: BHP Billiton Petroleum Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 25, 24, 23, 22, 21 Name of college you attended: Texas Tech University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: BHP Billiton Pedal-Up Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? (ex: committee member, Club 300, board member, etc.) Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 2 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? MS Society Staff and Fund Raising prizes list.

What is your connection to MS? We have a good friend, who plays in the praise band at our church, who has been diagnosed for about 9 years.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I have wonderful friends and family, who generously support my fundraising for MS. My company, BHP Billiton also has a 2 to 1 matching program for employee charitable donations.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Blue Bonnet Express, Katy Flatland Century, TriCounty Hill Hopper, Schlumberger Education Expedition, Gran Fondo: Texas TMCO, Katy Ram Challenge Santana Cycles Colorado Rockies tour - 4 days at Keystone, Vail, and Glenwood Springs.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Be true to yourself What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I'm a sort of a MacGyver when it comes to troubleshooting and fixing things, with Duct Tape and my Swiss Army knife.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being a wonderful husband (according to my wife) and a great Dad to our five young adult children. College tuition is about to kill us.

What do you value most in life? My faith in God What do you miss about being a kid? Time to nap and play.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Texas progressive country, London Homesick Blues What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Descending down Mont Ventoux, at 50 mph on our tandem (my wife was trying to pass me... LOL)

Jim Woomer

New to

Email address: jim.woomer@enipetroleum.com TOC What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Houston Occupation: Superintendent Employer: eni Petroleum Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 27 and 25 South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: eni Petroleum Cycling team How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 0 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? e-mails and fellow cycling team members.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Didier Terroir and Kip Othold are fellow members on my cycling team - eni Petroleum Cycling Team.

What is your connection to MS? Ride in the BP MS-150.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? Sending out e-mail solicitations.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? Numerous warm up rides from January to early April.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Ride in the MS-150 two years age for the first time!

Kelly Woomer Guest of TOC Qualifier: Jim Woomer Email address: kelly.woomer@enipetroleum.com Hometown: Houston City you currently live in: Houston Name of college you attended: Lamar University Occupation & Employer: Communications Manager - eni Petroleum Relationship with TOC participant: Wife Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? Yes. Last year as a rider.

If you are on a team, what is the name of your team? eni Petroleum Cyling team What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Touring Colorado

Pieter Wybro Email address: pieter.wybro@gmail.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Beirut, Lebanon Occupation: Retired Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 32 and 34 Name of college you attended: U of Virginia, U of Hawaii South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: ExxonMobil How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: This will be my 4th How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Through team captain.

If you were referred by someone (or if someone encouraged you to qualify), please tell us about that person: Eric Powell, team captain for ExxonMobil, encouraged me to qualify.

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? My wife Barbara and I have attended last three TOCs...Scottsdale, Colorado springs, and Park City. We loved each venue and had a great time connecting with other TOCers.Its hard to pick a favorite What is your connection to MS? When I think of MS, I first think of a dear friend who has been dealing with MS for more than 25 years. I knew him when he was first diagnosed. He was the first person I knew that had the disease, and I saw him go from fully functioning to a wheelchair.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I am very serious about the fundraising. I spend alot of time connecting with my prior donors, and finding new ones. I have over 500 potential donors. Before the ride, we have a party at our house for all the donors. I also match each donor's contribution.

Are you active in any other organizations? Run for the Rose benefiting brain cancer and children’s hospital.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Rock and Roll classics, Eagles, Eric Clapton, Elvis are favorites.

Barbara Montagnino Guest of TOC Qualifier: Pieter Wybro Email address: Bmontagnino@gmail.com Hometown: Katy City you currently live in: Katy Name of college you attended: Northeast Louisiana University Occupation & Employer: Clinical nurse specialist Relationship with TOC participant: Husband Do you also participate in the Bike MS or MS 150 Bike Rides as a rider or volunteer? No What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Seeing old friends and meeting new friends.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? If you are going the right direction all you have to do is keep walking!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Compassion/chocolate What do you consider your greatest achievement? My nursing career which has allowed to care for children in the U.S.A. As well as Africa , Asia and Central America.

What do you value most in life? Health What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country, My True Love by Jack Scott What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Fly in a two-seat stunt plane

Ellen Yarrell Email address: ellen@eayatty.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Fort Worth Occupation: Lawyer Employer: self Marital status: single by choice Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: UT Austin undergrad and law South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Club 300 Member BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Bike Barn Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society? Club 300 How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 7, I missed Newport and Nashville How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Promotion from the society- great motivator!

If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Great friends, great riding and lots of fun!

What is your connection to MS? I have a Friend or Co-worker with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I use email and personal arm-twisting - works pretty well!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? none Are you active in any other organizations? Many law related groups- trying to learn to say "no" now!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change oftenWinston Churchill What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I have a very long memory!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My two great children!

What do you value most in life? My health and my friends!

What do you miss about being a kid? Nothing!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? I am partial to country but like everything- not sure I have a favorite songWhat is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Climb mountains like Kilimanjaro, Whitney, Grand Paradiso and Rainier-

Karla Zielke Email address: karla.zielke@ihs.com What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Lake Jackson, TX Occupation: Sales Engineer Employer: IHS Inc. Marital status: Single Number of children and their ages: 0 Name of college you attended: Texas A&M Club 300 Member, TOC South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: Committee BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Name of your Bike Team: Standard Tube Besides being a top fundraiser, in what other ways are you involved with the National MS Society?

MS Ambassador Club 300 Committee TOC Committee How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 6 How did you hear about the Tour of Champions? Dr. Hutton challenged me to increase my fundraising goal to qualify for TOC. If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? Hiking with friends. Some carry wine & cheese, some guide you up rocky ridiculous trails and some just make you laugh. I look forward to our time off the bike together!

What is your connection to MS? After I registered for my first ride in October 2007 I decided to get FULLY committed to the cause. I was diagnosed with MS three months after I registered in 2007.

How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? As usual, I used numerous methods for fundraising this year.

Outside of the typical email assault I worked my sister's photo booth and donated my pay. I charged people $5 when they referred to the ride as a race. My family sweated through two hot July days to bring in over $1,500 from a garage sale. I also collected $300 from selling Super Bowl Squares.

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? zippo - none - couch potato Are you active in any other organizations? Animal Assisted Therapy What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? There's no such thing as the last great deal.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength - Loyalty with a healthy dose of self-preservation Weakness - Over-committing myself What do you consider your greatest achievement? Becoming the person I am today. Honest, empathetic, trustworthy, passionate, resourceful, determined and many more adjectives. Friends, family and strangers can count on me to listen, communicate and act appropriately consistently.

What do you value most in life? Family, both blood related and friends adopted into the family!

What do you miss about being a kid? Not having to cook dinner.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Favorite Genre - Rock Favorite song - The Adventure by Angels & Airwaves What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Bungee jumping? Maybe sneaking up on a moose to get within 20 yards for a photograph. Following fresh cougar tracks down a mountain at dusk. Or maybe going to eat a Super Chicken after dark. Too many choices.

Staff Brenda Buchanan Email Address: brenda.buchanan@nmss.org Office you work in: Houston Your role with the MS Society: Sr. Director, Development How long have you worked for the MS Society? 11 years Hometown: Houston Name of college attended: University of Houston What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Hearing all the fun stories that people tell, and meeting all the new attendees.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? When you want to do something, set your mind to it and do it. Do not second guess yourself.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Having 2 beautiful and healthy kids.

What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? Able to have fun and not have a worry in the world.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 1980s

Kelly Dooley Email address: kelly.dooley@nmss.org What city do you currently live in? Spring Hometown: Dallas / Lake Highlands Occupation: Development Director Employer: National MS Society Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 2 Name of college you attended: University of Oklahoma South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin Bike MS: Rock'n Hot Ride, Central Arkansas Name of your Bike Team: My own team, Team Bad-Ass How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 3 What is your connection to MS? Uncle Kirk in Dallas How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? I raised $4,800 for the San Antonio Bike MS in 2013.

Are you active in any other organizations? OU Club of Houston What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Do Your Best, that is all that you should give....nothing less.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Confident for a strength and for my weakness I would say I need to slow down and think things through.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Getting married, and staying married b/c it AIN'T easy....(9) years and counting.

What do you value most in life? Putting God first, then family (wife, then kids), friends, and work....I love all of them.

What do you miss about being a kid? Shooting snakes with my BB gun & Atari games...good times; Not having to shower everyday and when jumping in the pool counted for taking a bath.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? 80's music!

Favorite song, Depeche Mode...."Can't Get Enough" or "Route 66" What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Deep water start for barefoot waterskiing; close second is cliff jumping at Possum Kingdom Lake

Lisa Dannenbaum-Shaw Email Address: Lisa.shaw@nmss.org Office you work in: Houston Your role with the MS Society: Manager How long have you worked for the MS Society? 8 yrs.

Hometown: Houston Name of college attended: U of H - Go Coogs!

What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Creating new fabulous memories with our incredible fundraisers.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given?

It only gets better!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Perseverance What do you consider your greatest achievement? My Family What do you value most in life? My Family What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? All music-more top 40 but I love Les Misrables, Aladdin and Avita What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Too many to mention and

Kelli Dreiling Email address: kelli.dreiling@nmss.org What city do you currently live in? The Woodlands Hometown: Cincinnati Occupation: VP Development Employer: National MS Society Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 12 and 7 Name of college you attended: The Ohio State University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 10 on staff What do you consider your greatest achievement? My two awesome kids, Dylan and Alison What do you value most in life? All the things I take for granted (faith, family, friends and time) What do you miss about being a kid? Houseboating and waterskiing on Lake Cumberland with my family, swinging with my dad in the back yard, playing softball, sleeping through the night without worrying about all kinds of things What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Contemporary Christian, rock, pop and country.

Favorite songs right now are "Can't Stop" and "Counting Stars" from OneRepublic, "Rise" from Shawn McDonald and "This is Amazing Grace" from Phil Wickham What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done?

After graduating from college, I left Ohio and moved to Houston with a friend. One year later the friend moved back to Ohio and I chose to stay in Texas, essentially on my own with no family and only a few new friends. That was 21 years ago!

Clarissa Horner Email address: sc_toc@nmss.org What city do you currently live in? Austin, TX Hometown: Dallas, TX Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: Audrey is 9 months old and Kate, almost 3 years Name of college you attended: University of Texas at Austin Your role with the MS Society: Tour of Champions Event Planner How long have you worked for the MS Society? 6 years What is your connection to MS? I have a number of friends living with MS – many whom I’ve met through TOC. What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Live every day to the fullest.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Loyalty/Disorder What do you consider your greatest achievement? My two girls, Kate and Audrey What do you value most in life? My family and our health, will never take that for granted!

What do you miss about being a kid? Naptime!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Alternative Rock is probably my favorite, but I like all types, really….

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Driving in Austin traffic…. It’s crazy y’all.

Mindy LeBlanc Email address: Mindy.LeBlanc@nmss.org What city do you currently live in? Houston Hometown: Wichita Falls, Texas Occupation: Development Manager Employer: National MS Society Marital status: Married Number of children and their ages: 3 years old Name of college you attended: Texas Tech University South Central Bike MS events in which you participate: BP MS 150 a bike MS signature event, Houston to Austin How many years have you attended the Tour of Champions: 6 Office you work in: Houston Your role with the MS Society: development manager over Club 300 How long have you worked for the MS Society? 9 years If you’re a TOC veteran, what is your favorite memory of a past TOC? I look forward to the organic conversations that occur and the relationships that are built during the weekend.

What is your connection to MS? I have many friends who are living with MS How did you raise $12,000 or more this year? My husband, Mark LeBlanc, did!

What other non MS rides have you participated in this year? I worked our Arkansas ride in early September.

Are you active in any other organizations? About to be really involved with Addi's new school, Saint Catherine's Montessori.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Keep your mouth shut! My husband and mother probably tell me this several times a week.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Strength- connecting with people. Weakness- See best advice: Keep your mouth shut!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My Addi Grace!

What do you value most in life? Faith and Family

What do you miss about being a kid? Summer break, being on my parent's payroll, and playing tennis What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country, Classic Rock, and 80's!

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Embarrassing or Daring??? :) Sneaking out of my parent's house in high school or Rappelling and Ropes Courses

Taylor Mallia Email Address: taylor.mallia@nmss.org Office you work in: Houston, Texas Your role with the MS Society: Associate Vice President, Strategic Philanthropy Hometown: Philadelphia

Mark Neagli Email Address: Mark.Neagli@nmss.org Office you work in: Houston, Texas Your role with the MS Society: Executive Vice President Hometown: Bellaire, TX

Tony Ralf Email Address: tony.ralf@nmss.org Office you work in: San Antonio, Texas Your role with the MS Society: Vice President / Development How long have you worked for the MS Society? 12 years Hometown: Sydney, Australia Name of college attended: No college What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Not being able to breathe, so I appreciate being alive back in San Antonio!

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? my wife, Bow / anger towards MS What do you consider your greatest achievement? Growing a bike ride that a year before my arrival was being considered for termination What do you value most in life? My wife, Bow What do you miss about being a kid? Everything; its tough being all grown up!

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Heavy Metal and Disco “Dancing Queen.”

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Zip-lined on a cruise ship 6 decks above the floor of the boat!

Barry Turner Email Address: Barry.Turner@nmss.org Office you work in: Houston Your role with the MS Society: Development Director How long have you worked for the MS Society? 13 years 8.5 months Hometown: Jasper, TX College you attended: Stephen F. Austin State University What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Cooler temperatures, visiting with old friends and making new friends What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? “Remember who you are and where you came from”….Rodney Wall….Father of my best friend from high school and what he would tell us every time we would head out for an evening on the town. We always knew that the honor of our name and family was our responsibility.

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? Greatest Strength = Good Listener, Greatest Weakness = Impulsiveness at times What do you consider your greatest achievement? My faith in Christ What do you value most in life? My family What do you miss about being a kid? Being able to eat as much as I want and not gaining a pound! That, and all the team sports I played growing up.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Classic Rock….Too many favorites to name, but, one of them is Carry on My Wayward Son by Kansas What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? During my first semester in college I was attending a fraternity party with a buddy and a girl I was getting to know. During the party, just at the time three of us were leaving, the girl’s ex, who was a member of this fraternity, made a derogatory comment to the girl that upset her greatly. I was immediately faced with leaving or standing up for her honor. Long story short, I grabbed my buddy, the only buddy I had at the party, and I proceeded to confront the ex and demanded that he apologize to my new friend. After some discussion and coercion, he apologized. Little did I know until afterwards that I had attracted quite a crowd of his fraternity brothers and other guests who were standing behind me and my buddy. I was completely oblivious to the crowd but my buddy was understandably concerned we weren’t going to make it home in one piece. We did, unscathed, and my new friend was very appreciative.

Cyronica Upshaw Email Address: Cyronica.upshaw@nmss.org Office you work in: Houston Your role with the MS Society: Coordinator, Teams How long have you worked for the MS Society? 6 years Hometown: Dallas Name of college attended: University of Oklahoma BOOMER! What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? I am looking forward to enjoying the great weather and having fun with a great group of people What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? Don’t sweat the small stuff What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I am always calm!

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Working my way through college and finishing What do you value most in life? My family and my salvation What do you miss about being a kid? not having to pay bills What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? R&B, I am a Beyonce fanatic! any Beyonce song What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? ate iguana in Honduras

Leah Weatherl Email Address: Leah.Weatherl@nmss.org Office you work in: North Texas (Dallas/Fort Worth) Your role with the MS Society: Vice President, Development How long have you worked for the MS Society? 2 years Hometown: Duncan, Oklahoma Name of college attended: Oklahoma State University What are you most looking forward to on this TOC? Celebrating the amazing accomplishments of our South Central riders and thanking them for giving help and hope to people like me who are living with MS! What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given? People won’t remember what you said or what you did…they will remember how you made them feel. You get the opportunity to choose your attitude every minute so choose positivity and grace!

What is one of your greatest strengths/weaknesses? I can literally talk for minutes without stopping to take a breath!

What do you value most in life? Friends and Family---It’s not about the stuff, it’s about the people!

What do you miss about being a kid? Nap Time, Arts & Crafts and Afternoon Snacks prepared by someone else.

What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite Song? Country- “Stand” by Rascal Flatts What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Riding an elephant in the Thai Jungle- yikes!

Thank you TOCers!

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Staff

Progress in MS Research Word Search A P A V C I F Z S E M U H O F H F A N W P L C O K

H K E R G N V Q Y X C F G I L E N Y A G R Z A H Q

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MYELIN NEUROLOGICAL CHARCOT INTERFERON REMITTING COPAXONE FATIGUE MOBILITY LYMPHOCYTES

L K K O J P W U S S N N D V E C F X T G G B D A J

X N T A K G M S R U M L A L J N T E R M R T B Y G

N H S E U L B A K O U J F J D N C P V I E K G E U

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TECFIDERA GILENYA AMPYRA ZANAFLEX PROGRESSIVE EXTAVIA DEMYELINATION REHABILITATION NOVANTRONE

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X L V F O R A M S M P N Q H L B U S B X E C Z E A

B E F K T P E W H Q O P E K E I M U O M O V S R T

X Y C C D R L A D X C R B B K M B K R O C I C O X

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V D Y K Z F O D G R G G B N V S P J I A C Q E B Y

B P N S W C T J U K L V F N R Z C M W K B E G L T

CROSSWORD CLUES ACROSS 1. Appoints commission on MS in 1974 6. Type of stimulation given in first attempts to treat MS 7. Plegridy interferon is taken every two weeks in this manner 9. Given first research grant for MS 11. Produced by oligodendrocyte glial cells 13. MS Outcome Assessments Consortium tracks the benefits of these DOWN 2. Drug approved in 2000 by FDA to treat worsening MS 3. Improves physical and psychological well-being in persons with MS 4. Criteria used for speeding the diagnosis of MS for many 5. Drug approved in 1997 to treat spasticity 8. Name for the Society’s partnership with drug industry to speed treatment to people with MS 10. Drug used to improve walking ability 12. New brand of interferon beta-1b approved by FDA in 2009

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2013 TOC in Park City, Utah