Volume 3, Issue 8 – July 22, 2004

“A Newsletter Published by Bike Pittsburgh to establish Pittsburgh as a city that is increasingly safe, accessible, and friendly to bicycle transportation.”

In This Issue:

* A Voice In National Bike Advocacy
* Downtown Parking Garages Sport New Bike Racks
* Allegheny County Comprehensive Plan Survey
* Bicycling For The Cure
* Upcoming Events

A VOICE IN NATIONAL BIKE ADVOCACY

Bike Pittsburgh is pleased to report that David Hoffman, Bike Pittsburgh’s Executive Director, has been elected to The Thunderhead Alliance’s (http://www.thunderheadalliance.org) Board of Directors. The Thunderhead Alliance represents nearly 100 bicycle advocacy organizations in 45 states, and boasts a membership of more than 81,000 individuals.

“Pittsburgh is now on the map of bicycle advocacy,” says Hoffman. “Things are beginning to change here in Pittsburgh, and this is a direct result of the work that our Membership, Volunteers, and Board of Directors have put in over the past two and a half years. I’m proud to represent Pittsburgh, and I’m looking forward to working with some of the best and brightest bike advocacy organization leaders in the country and apply what we learn right back to Pittsburgh.”

The Thunderhead Alliance’s Mission is, “To create, strengthen and unite state and local bicycle advocacy organizations.” Thunderhead Alliance Executive Director Sue Knaup says, “We are honored that David has joined the Thunderhead Board, bringing his creative spirit and raw determination that have led to his outstanding success in building Bike Pittsburgh. We look forward to learning from him and the Pittsburgh experience.”

DOWNTOWN PARKING GARAGES SPORT NEW BIKE RACKS

Have you seen the new Public Art Bike Racks? They’re being installed all around Downtown Pittsburgh and surrounding communities. You can park your bike on any of these new racks at any of the following Pittsburgh Parking Authority Garages (http://www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us/pghparkingauthority/html/pittsburgh_parking_authority.html) Downtown for free:

* Bike and Blade Station, First Avenue Garage, 600 First Avenue
* Mellon Square Garage, 529-540 Smithfield Street
* Ninth and Penn Garage, 136 Ninth Street
* Smithfield-Liberty Garage, 629 Smithfield Street
* Third Avenue Garage, 238 Fourth Avenue
* Wood-Allies Garage, 228 Boulevard of the Allies

The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (http://www.DowntownPittsburgh.com has made the Downtown racks possible, through a joint effort with Bike Pittsburgh.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SURVEY

The Allegheny County Department of Economic Development is currently in the process of completing the state mandated comprehensive plan. In order to encourage all residents to have their voices heard, an online survey has been made available at: (http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/economic/survey04). The results will be used to help format public policy that will shape the future of Allegheny County in regards to housing, transportation, land use, development, historic and natural resources, and other characteristics.

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey – take note that there are specific questions regarding cycling, transportation, and access to amenities. The more people that complete the survey will result in a more accurate and comprehensive document.

BICYCLING FOR THE CURE

The summer months bring a range of rides and events that help generate awareness and funding for charities and research foundations. In this issue of The Bike Pittsburgh Leader we’re highlighting two individuals who are cycling with a purpose for one of these many foundations.

Kevin Madzia (pronounced “Mahdz-eye”) is a native Pittsburgher whom has raised more than $10,000 for the Melanoma Research Foundation in memory of his father, George Madzia, who succumbed to the disease in November 2002. Madzia is riding from Everett, Washington to Gloucester, Massachusetts, and embarked on his cross-country trek on June 20th. At last check Kevin was in Pierre, South Dakota. You can check out some of Kevin’s trip notes and photos in the “Community & Classifieds” section of the Bike Pittsburgh website. Kevin may be reached via email while on his trek across country at: (kevin@miles4melanoma.com).

Bob Thomas, Vice President of the Indiana Chapter of the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation (UMDF), is not a seasoned cyclist. In fact, before a few months ago, he wasn’t a cyclist at all. Lately, however, Bob has been riding his new bicycle over 30 miles a day, and starting July 31, 2004, Bob plans to ride his bicycle approximately 400 miles from Indianapolis, Indiana to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bob’s love for his son is the driving force that is taking him to these great lengths. Bob’s son, Gabe, has a mitochondrial disease, and Bob is riding the 400 miles from his home to this summer’s annual international UMDF symposium.

On July 31, Bob and his team – fellow riders John Flack and Bob Jenks – will leave from the Marion County Fairgrounds in Indianapolis and ride their bicycles through central Ohio all the way to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They plan to arrive in time for the family sessions of the UMDF symposium, which run August 6-7. There will be several stops along the way to promote awareness and raise support. Bob is hoping to raise $50,000 in pledges, and all of the money he raises will be donated to the UMDF. If you would like more information on Bob Thomas’ trip or would like to pledge your support, please visit his website: (http://www.milesformito.org) or call the local UMDF chapter at: (412) 793-8077, x114. For more information concerning the UMDF or mitochondrial diseases, please visit the UMDF website at: (http://www.umdf.org).

UPCOMING EVENTS

July 24th – Trailbike Excursions

This event is sponsored by Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.org). These rides are designed for folks who like to ride a level trail but sometimes want to explore and venture a bit further. We’ll share a well-paced ride on the trail, enjoying the company of other bikers and stopping for scenic breaks and nourishment along the way. The trip leaders will share interesting information and natural history about the trail and the surrounding area, as well as providing technical support and riding tips. Bring a lunch and we’ll pick a picturesque spot for refreshment! Some biking experience required, minimum age 16.

To sign up for this event, call Venture Outdoors at: (412) 255-0564.

Event Day: Saturday, July 24th
Event Location: Stavich Trail, New Castle
Event Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Cost: $12 Venture Outdoors Members, $15 All Others

July 24th – Biking Rail-Trails: Intermediate Training Rides

This event is sponsored by Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.org). Each month this spring and summer, Venture Outdoors is offering rail-trail cycling trips for the intermediate cyclist. The trips will increase in length and duration to get the participants ready for an overnight cycling trip scheduled for September. Venture Outdoors will lead discussions on related topics during these rides to get cyclists better prepared for the September trip. The topics will include riding techniques, equipment selection, training exercises, nutrition and hydration. The group will be split based on pace: Group one is for cyclists who can average 10-11 mph on flat terrain. Group two is for cyclists who can average 15-16 mph on flat terrain. The overnight cycling trip will be on September 18th and 19th from Boston, PA to Meyersdale, PA on the Youghiogheny River Trail, a distance of approximately 100 miles.

To sign up for this event, call Venture Outdoors at: (412) 255-0564.

Event Day: Saturday, July 24th
Event Location: Franklin
Event Time: 9:00am – 2:00pm
Cost: $10 Venture Outdoors Members, $12 All Others

July 24th-25th – Keystone Country Ride

This event is sponsored by and benefits The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (www.nationalmssociety.org). The Keystone Country Ride is a two-day loop that runs over 150-miles of scenic back roads. The Bike Tour will begin Saturday morning, July 24th, with cyclists gathering at Hollidaysburg Area High School in Hollidaysburg, PA (two miles outside of Altoona). Cyclists will travel scenic back roads and rolling hills to University Park, PA where they lodge overnight at Toftrees Resort, Spring Hills, Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express.

You can register as an individual or as a team member. Each cyclist agrees to raise a minimum of $200 in pledges in order to participate. Prizes are awarded based on amount of pledges raised for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

For complete details, visit: (www.nationalmssociety.org/pax/event/event_detail.asp?e=8197).

Event Day: Saturday, July 24th to Sunday, July 25th
Event Location: Hollidaysburg, PA (just outside of Altoona)
Cost: $20 (Minimum $200 in pledges requested)

August 4th – Bike Maintenance Classes Through CCAC

Golden Triangle Bike Rentals (www.bikepittsburgh.com) is offering bike maintenance classes through CCAC. The classes are 3 sessions – 2.5 hours each, and the cost is $35. Classes are held Wednesday evenings from 6:30pm – 9:00pm at the bike shop which is located at the Downtown end of the Eliza Furnace Trail at the new Bike and Blade Station. For more information, call: (412) 600-0675.

Event Day: Wednesday, August 4th
Event Location: Golden Triangle Bicycle Rentals, Downtown
Event Time: 6:30pm until 9:00pm
Cost: $35

August 7th – Mountain Biking: Advanced

This event is sponsored by Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.org). Extra Rockalicious fun is the only way to describe these single track sojourns through our local State Parks. We will spend the day cruising through the backcountry in search of rocks, stumps, and bumps to challenge our two wheel technical know-how. Expect challenging terrain with lots of rocks as well as some sweet hills to muscle up and over. These rides will offer a challenge to even the most advanced rider and are not for the faint of heart. For those of you who are looking to step up the challenge in a safe environment this is a great way to do it and you may learn a few things from our biking experts. All riders must wear a helmet when riding with Venture Outdoors.

To sign up for this event, call Venture Outdoors at: (412) 255-0564.

Event Day: Saturday, August 7th
Event Location: Moraine State Park
Event Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Cost: $25 Venture Outdoors Members, $35 All Others

August 7th – Trailbike Excursion and Train Ride

This event is sponsored by Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.org) Explore the “Valley that Changed the World” by bike, then hop on the train on the way back! The lush landscape and sparkling waters of Oil Creek State Park is the setting for a nostalgic train journey through this historic valley, where the modern day oil industry was born. You can either ride in the vintage passenger cars or the open-air gondola cars. The one-way bike ride will cover 10 miles of easy terrain.

To sign up for this event, call Venture Outdoors at: (412) 255-0564.

Event Day: Saturday, August 7th
Event Location: Oil Creek State Park
Event Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Cost: $25 Venture Outdoors Members, $30 All Others

August 11th – Trailbike Excursions

This event is sponsored by Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.org). These rides are designed for folks who like to ride a level trail but sometimes want to explore and venture a bit further. We’ll share a well-paced ride on the trail, enjoying the company of other bikers and stopping for scenic breaks and nourishment along the way. The trip leaders will share interesting information and natural history about the trail and the surrounding area, as well as providing technical support and riding tips. Bring a lunch and we’ll pick a picturesque spot for refreshment! Some biking experience required, minimum age 16.

To sign up for this event, call Venture Outdoors at: (412) 255-0564.

Event Day: Wednesday, August 11th
Event Location: Frick Park, Regent Square Tennis Courts
Event Time: 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Cost: $12 Venture Outdoors Members, $15 All Others

August 14th – Mountain Biking: Intermediate

This event is sponsored by Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.org) We will be riding on single track trails through the backcountry enjoying different levels of challenging terrain. Expect twisty-turny delights with some rocky spots and a steady dose of ups and downs. There will be some technical parts but nothing overly challenging. With plenty of pointers from our biking experts you can expect to learn key skills along the way. All riders must wear a helmet when riding with Venture Outdoors..

To sign up for this event, call Venture Outdoors at: (412) 255-0564.

Event Day: Saturday, August 14th
Event Location: Blue Knob State Park
Event Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Cost: $25 Venture Outdoors Members, $35 All Others

Post the miles that you ride on the Bike Pittsburgh website in the Community & Classifieds area! Just send us your monthly mileage, and if you want your name to be available as an email link to: miles@Bike-Pgh.org

Become A Member! Bike Pittsburgh is Western Pennsylvania’s only cycling advocacy, awareness, and safety organization. We rely on your support for many of our activities and initiatives. You can help us to continually transform the Pittsburgh Region into a better place to cycle by becoming a Member starting at $25 per year ($15 for Students). With your tax-deductible Membership Donation you will receive a Membership Card good for discounts with participating organizations that share Bike Pittsburgh’s vision, priority invitations and/or discounts to special Bike Pittsburgh-sponsored events, and the satisfaction that you really are helping to make a difference for all of us. For complete details, go to the Bike Pittsburgh website: http://www.Bike-Pgh.org and click on the Become A Member! section.

“The Bike Pittsburgh Leader” is an electronic newsletter published about every three weeks. Previous issues of “The Bike Pittsburgh Leader” can be found on the Bike Pittsburgh website in the section called “The Leader”. Bike Pittsburgh, Inc. does not rent, sell, or make available any personal information, including email addresses, that you may send to Bike Pittsburgh. If you would like to be removed from the distribution list, simply email: remove@Bike-Pgh.org and request to be removed. cell ringtone free samsung a310 phone1221 monophonic ringtone nokiaringtone free 5400 sanyo sprintringtone a680 samsung midibarrington 30 movies amcringtone easy text nokia 3585i free8910 ringtone audiovox cricket1000 clowns ringtone nextel Map