Stage One Report 02.01.2013
Transcription
Stage One Report 02.01.2013
Stage One Report 02.01.2013 1 Stage One Report Contents 1 Basic event information ............................................................................................... 4 1.1 General Event Facts ...................................................................................................... 4 1.2 Host information .......................................................................................................... 4 1.3 Contact details.............................................................................................................. 4 1.4 Organizing committee .................................................................................................. 5 1.5 Race Organization ........................................................................................................ 5 2 WC Race Rules .............................................................................................................. 5 2.1 Controlled Tires ............................................................................................................ 5 2.2 Approved frequencies .................................................................................................. 6 3 Schedules...................................................................................................................... 6 3.1 Tentative Schedule ....................................................................................................... 6 3.2 IFMAR W.C. Race schedule........................................................................................... 6 4 Pre Worlds .................................................................................................................... 7 4.1 Venue ........................................................................................................................... 7 4.2 Classes .......................................................................................................................... 8 4.3 Race Schedule............................................................................................................... 8 4.4 Race Format ................................................................................................................. 8 4.4.1 World Championship Classes ....................................................................................... 8 4.4.2 Non-World Championship Classes ............................................................................... 8 4.5 Rules ............................................................................................................................. 9 4.6 Registration .................................................................................................................. 9 5 Venue ........................................................................................................................... 9 5.1 Location ........................................................................................................................ 9 5.2 Venue Amenities ........................................................................................................ 11 5.2.1 Venue Map ................................................................................................................. 11 5.3 Track Details ............................................................................................................... 11 5.4 Drivers Stand Details .................................................................................................. 12 5.5 Timing ......................................................................................................................... 12 5.6 Pit Area Amenities ...................................................................................................... 12 6 Accommodations........................................................................................................ 12 6.1 Lodging ....................................................................................................................... 12 A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 2 Stage One Report 6.1.1 Host Hotel................................................................................................................... 13 6.2 Camping ...................................................................................................................... 13 7 Manufacturers ............................................................................................................ 14 7.1 8 Storage space ............................................................................................................. 14 Media.......................................................................................................................... 14 8.1 Accreditation for 2013 World Championships ........................................................... 14 8.2 Media Center .............................................................................................................. 15 8.2.1 Media Center Schedule .............................................................................................. 15 8.3 Media Coverage ......................................................................................................... 15 9 Transportation............................................................................................................ 15 9.1 Airports ....................................................................................................................... 15 9.2 Rental Cars.................................................................................................................. 16 10 Side Events ................................................................................................................. 17 10.1 Opening Ceremony..................................................................................................... 17 10.2 Concours d’ Elegance ................................................................................................. 17 10.3 Drivers Banquet .......................................................................................................... 17 11 Recreation & Attractions ............................................................................................ 17 11.1 Attractions .................................................................................................................. 17 11.2 Recreation .................................................................................................................. 18 11.2.1 Bidwell Park ................................................................................................................ 18 11.2.2 Cycling ........................................................................................................................ 18 11.2.3 Mt. Lassen Area .......................................................................................................... 19 12 General Information ................................................................................................... 19 12.1 General facts about California .................................................................................... 19 12.1.1 Population .................................................................................................................. 19 12.1.2 Geography & Climate ................................................................................................. 19 12.1.3 Time zone ................................................................................................................... 20 12.1.4 Language .................................................................................................................... 20 12.2 City of Chico................................................................................................................ 20 12.3 Currency and Banking................................................................................................. 21 12.3.1 Exchange..................................................................................................................... 21 12.3.2 Banks .......................................................................................................................... 21 A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 3 Stage One Report 12.3.3 Credit Cards ................................................................................................................ 21 12.3.4 Sales Tax ..................................................................................................................... 21 12.4 Medical Services ......................................................................................................... 22 12.4.1 Medications ................................................................................................................ 22 12.4.2 Dental Services ........................................................................................................... 22 12.4.3 Vaccinations ............................................................................................................... 22 12.5 Water .......................................................................................................................... 22 12.6 Electricity .................................................................................................................... 23 A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 4 Stage One Report 1 BASIC EVENT INFORMATION 1.1 GENERAL EVENT FACTS • • • • • • • 1.2 HOST INFORMATION • • • • • • • 1.3 Official Name: IFMAR Electric Off-Road World Championships Marketing name: 2013 IFMAR World Championships Event level: IFMAR World Championships Date: September 22nd – 29th, 2013 Host: A Main Hobbies Venue: Silver Dollar RC Raceway Website: http://www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 Name: A Main Hobbies Founded: 2004 Employees: 73 Company website: www.AMainHobbies.com About us: A Main Hobbies was founded in 2004 with four unwavering principles that have allowed the company to flourish from its humble beginnings in a two car garage, to being a respected industry leader. A Main Hobbies has gained its quality reputation and success by maintaining a broad and accurate selection of inventory, delivering “old fashioned” customer service, providing expedited shipping services at reasonable rates, and ultimately giving back to the RC community who has given so much to us. Multi year history of organizing and promoting radio controlled races of different levels. Races hosted: o 2010, 2011 & 2012 JConcepts Summer Indoor Nationals (1/10th Electric OffRoad) o 2010, 2011 & 2012 Outback Shootout (1/10th Electric Off-Road) o 2012 Labor Day Shootout (1/8th Nitro & 1/10th Electric) o 2012 Nitro Worlds Warm-Up (1/8th Nitro) CONTACT DETAILS • • • • • • • Company & shipping address: 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160, Chico, CA 95928, USA Venue address: 2357 Fair St., Chico, CA 95928, USA Telephone: 1-800-705-2215 (Toll-Free) & 1-530-894-0797 (International or Local) Email address: [email protected] Host website: www.AMainHobbies.com Event website: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 General inquires / Single point of contact: [email protected] A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 5 Stage One Report 1.4 ORGANIZING COMMITTEE Name Leif Ostberg Dan Meloy Wesley McMahon Jason Sams Ruben Benitez Camdena Womack Kevin Kiser 1.5 Responsibility Project Manager / Logistics Security / Communications Marketing / Promotions / Sponsorship Media Facilities Hospitality / side events Finance [email protected] 1-530-894-0797 [email protected] 1-530-521-5843 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 1-530-894-0797 1-530-592-8799 1-530-518-1210 [email protected] 1-530-570-6717 Name Robert Ingersoll TBD Ron Schuur Douglas Hay TBD TBD Ruben Benitez Wesley McMahon Jason Sams WC RACE RULES • • 2.1 Phone 1-530-513-3432 RACE ORGANIZATION Title Race Director Assistant Race Director Chief Technical Inspector Chief Time Keeper IFMAR Referee ROAR Referee Facility Coordinator Marketing Media 2 Email [email protected] This race will follow all 2013 IFMAR General WC rules and 2013 IFMAR Electric OffRoad rules. These rules can be found on IFMAR website at www.IFMAR.org All batteries and motors must be approved by IFMAR for use in competition. Approvals lists can be found on the IFMAR website at www.IFMAR.org CONTROLLED TIRES • To be announced in Stage Two Report A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 6 Stage One Report 2.2 APPROVED FREQUENCIES • • • • • • • • • 27 MHz: Only frequencies 26.995, 27.045, 27.095, 27.145, 27.195, and 27.255MHz 75 MHz: All Channels 61 through 90 50 MHz: Channels 00, 02, 06, and 08 53 MHz: Frequencies 53.100 through 53.800 MHz 2.4GHz DSM/DSS systems Drivers using 50 MHz and 53 MHz radios must have an FCC Amateur Radio license issued for that radio in their possession All radio equipment must conform to FCC rules. Only narrow band (20 MHz spacing) radios will be allowed to use the 75 MHz frequencies The use of radios operating on 29 MHz, 40 MHz, or CB (split) channels is prohibited All radios are subject to inspection by race officials at any time during the event. 3 SCHEDULES 3.1 TENTATIVE SCHEDULE • • • • • • • 3.2 02/01/13 03/15/13 06/03/13 06/06 – 06/09/13 09/09 – 09/21/13 09/22 – 09/25/13 09/26 – 09/29/13 Opening of media accreditation Track opens for practice (weather permitting) Release of Stage 2 Report IFMAR Electric Off-Road Pre-Worlds Track closed 4wd Buggy World Championships 2wd Buggy World Championships IFMAR W.C. RACE SCHEDULE • • • Day 1 - Sunday, 9/22/13 - 4wd o 10:00 am – 5:00pm Registration o 6:00 pm Opening ceremonies Day 2 - Monday, 9/23/13 – 4wd o 7:00 am Doors open o 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Practice Day 3 - Tuesday, 9/24/1 – 4wd o 7:00 am Doors open o 8:00 am One round of heat controlled practice o 10:00 am Round 1 qualifying o 12:15 pm Round 2 qualifying o 2:30 pm Round 3 qualifying o 4:45 pm Round 4 qualifying A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 7 Stage One Report • • • • • Day 4 – Wednesday, 9/25/13 – 4wd o 7:00 am Doors open o 8:00 am One hour of unofficial practice in heat order, 4 min. sessions up and down o 9:30 am Round 5 qualifying o 11:30 am Break o 12:30 pm “A” Mains practice o 1:30 pm Mains / Finals o 4:30 pm Podium presentation of top 3 finalists Day 5 - Thursday, 9/26/13 – 2wd o 10:00 am – 5:00pm Registration Day 6 - Friday, 9/27/13 – 2wd o 7:00 am Door open o 8:00 am –6:00 pm Practice Day 7 - Saturday, 9/28/13 – 2wd o 7:00 am Doors open o 8:00 am One round of heat controlled practice o 10:00 am Round 1 qualifying o 12:15 pm Round 2 qualifying o 2:30 pm Round 3 qualifying o 4:45 pm Round 4 qualifying Day 8, - Sunday, 9/29/13 – 2wd o 7:00 am Doors open o 8:00 am One hour of unofficial practice in heat order, 4 min. sessions up and down o 9:30 am Round 5 qualifying o 11:30 am Break o 12:30 pm “A” Mains practice o 1:30 pm Mains / Finals o 4:30 pm Podium presentation of top 3 finalists o 7:00 pm Evening banquet and awards ceremony 4 PRE WORLDS 4.1 VENUE Silver Dollar RC Raceway – see section 5.2 for a complete description of the Silver Dollar RC Raceway venue. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 8 Stage One Report 4.2 CLASSES • • • • • • • 4.3 RACE SCHEDULE • • • • 4.4 **Open 2wd Buggy **Open 4wd Buggy Open 2wd Short Course Stock 2wd Buggy Stock 4wd Buggy Stock 2wd Short Course **IFMAR World championship class. IFMAR technical rules apply. Thursday 06/06/13 o 7:00 am o 8:00 am o 2:00 pm Friday 06/07/13 o 7:00 am o 8:00 am o 1:30 pm Saturday 06/08/13 o 7:00 am o 8:00 am o 1:30 pm Sunday 06/09/13 o 7:00 am o 8:00 am o 5:00 pm Doors open / driver check-in & registration Punch card controlled practice, 7 min sessions up and down One round of heat controlled practice Doors open Round 1 qualifying, all classes Round 2 qualifying, all classes Doors open Round 3 qualifying, all classes Round 4 qualifying, all classes Doors open Mains / Finals Awards presentation top 3 finalist all classes RACE FORMAT 4.4.1 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES • • • Five, five minute qualifiers per IFMAR rules All B Mains and lower will run single five minute. mains and AAA Mains ROAR qual points, best three of five points rounds of IFMAR world championship classes 4.4.2 NON-WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES • • • • Four, six minute qualifying rounds All classes single six minute mains for B main and lower Eight drivers seeded to all mains with two bump ups to each higher main ROAR qual points, best two of four points rounds A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 9 Stage One Report 4.5 RULES • • • • 4.6 IFMAR technical rules will be followed in the World Championship classes of Open 2wd Buggy and Open 4wd Buggy. These two classes will use the same spec tire to be used at the 2013 IFMAR Electric Off-Road World Championships in September. All other classes will be run per ROAR rules. All domestic drivers must be current ROAR members All international drivers must hold a national license for 2013 from their home governing body REGISTRATION • • • • Registration will open on March 1st, 2013 at www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 Open Classes & IFMAR Classes, $60.00 USD first class, $50 USD each additional class Stock Classes entry fee $50 USD first class, $40 USD each additional class Early online registration fee discount $10.00 USD per class if registered and paid prior to Friday, May 15th, 2013, 9:00pm P.S.T. 5 VENUE 5.1 LOCATION Silver Dollar RC Raceway is located in the Northern California community of Chico, California. Chico is nestled just below the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range about an hour and a half north of Sacramento. The area is a college town known for the “best party school” awards Chico State has won, but has quickly grown into a budding suburb. Outdoor activities such as cycling, fishing, hiking, hunting, and motorsports have lured young families to the area and are reasons why it’s a great place to reside. Chico Western United States A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 10 Stage One Report Northern California Oxford Suites Host Hotel A Main Hobbies Retail Silver Dollar RC Raceway A Main Hobbies Vicinity Map A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 11 Stage One Report 5.2 VENUE AMENITIES • • • • • • • Venue is 100% ADA (American’s with Disabilities Act) compliant and accessible Approximately 3 acres of parking area On site restrooms with hot & cold public showers Professional catering for large events Hotels and restaurants within walking distance Elevated seating for approximately 900 spectators PA system designed for the high noise environment of nitro racing 5.2.1 VENUE MAP 1. Pit Area 2. Drivers Stand / Timing & Scoring 3. Track 4. Grandstands 5. Portable Restrooms 6. Restrooms/Showers 7. Parking 8. RV Camping 9. Fair St. Entrance 10. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway Entrance 10 4 3 2 5 1 7 9 8 8 6 5.3 TRACK DETAILS • • • • • • 200’ x 100’ high bite clay racing surface The race will use approximately 140’ x 70’of the available racing surface Min. lane width 10’ Professional sports lighting system by Musco Track water system allowing a crew of four to water the track for watered racing conditions in under 60 seconds Redundant MyLaps RC3 scoring hardware with RCScoring Pro race management software A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 12 Stage One Report 5.4 DRIVERS STAND DETAILS • • • • • 5.5 TIMING • • • 5.6 12’ high x 55’ long covered driver’s stand Large enough to accommodate 15 drivers with 36” of space and 2 officials No visual obstructions for drivers at the guard rail The 14’x15’ (210 sq. ft.) timing & scoring booth is located on the drivers stand A 14’ x 15’ (210 sq. ft.) technical inspection booth and 400 sq. ft. media center reside on the ground floor Redundant MyLaps RC3 decoder boxes Redundant scoring loops RCScoring Pro race management software PIT AREA AMENITIES • • • • • • 80’ x 40’ Tent on asphalt surface 48 – 5’x3’(15 sq. ft.) pit spaces 110v AC power provided 6,000 sq. ft. paved and powered overflow pit area Buggy wash station with water and compressed air Wi-Fi will be fee for use provided by local wireless ISP Digital Path. Daily, weekly or monthly fees will apply. 6 ACCOMMODATIONS 6.1 LODGING • • • • • • • There are approximately 1200 rooms available in Chico. Seven hotels Ten motels Eight bed and breakfast All hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts are located within a ten minute drive of the Silver Dollar RC Raceway venue http://www.chicochamber.com/visitor/hotels_motels http://www.chicochamber.com/visitor/bed_and_breakfast A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 13 Stage One Report 6.1.1 HOST HOTEL The Oxford Suites has been selected as the official hotel of the 2013 IFMAR Electric OffRoad World Championships. The Oxford Suites is a business class hotel with 184 rooms. The hotel is within walking distance, only one mile, of the Silver Dollar RC Raceway venue. • • • • • • 6.2 King Studio, $89.00 USD per night + 10% guest room tax– single king bed with pull out sofa bed, max. occupancy of two Queen Studio, $89.00 USD per night + 10% guest room tax – two queen beds with pull out sofa bed, max occupancy of two Executive King Suite, $99.00 USD per night 10% guest room tax – single king bed with pullout sofa bed and separate living area, max occupancy of two Family suite $139.00 USD per night 10% guest room tax – two bedrooms with single king beds, two bathrooms, pull out sofa bed, max occupancy of four There will be a $12 per night charge for each additional person after the max occupancy Hotel amenities o Full hot breakfast buffet o Evening reception excluding Sundays with appetizers and wine, beer or soft drinks o High speed wireless internet o Outdoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room o Business center o Fitness center o Reservations can be made online at http://www.oxfordsuiteschico.com/ or by calling 1-530-899-9090 or 1-800-870-7848 o Shuttle service provided to and from host venue o Discount reservation code – AMAIN CAMPING Trackside RV camping is available on the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds. • • • • • • Forty RV camping sites within 300’ of track with electric and water hookup Limited number of RV slots with sewer hookup $40.00 USD per night On site waste dump station included in RV camping fee Tent camping / dry camping, no use of water, electrical or sewer services $15.00 USD per night On site restrooms with showers included in all camping fees A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 14 Stage One Report 7 MANUFACTURERS 7.1 STORAGE SPACE Manufacturers will have the opportunity to rent storage space for their needs. This area will be a separate area from their pit table. More information regarding type of storage, size and price will be announced no later than the Stage 2 report. 8 MEDIA A full range of services are being planned for all media representatives for the 2013 IFMAR Electric Off-Road World Championships. Media accreditation will open Feb. 1st, 2013. All media personnel wishing to attend this event will be required to register for accreditation to gain the required permissions need to access the venue during the World Championships. All questions regarding media at the World’s should contact A Main Hobbies’ PR Coordinator Jason Sams at [email protected] or 1-530-894-0797 8.1 ACCREDITATION FOR 2013 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Accreditation for all media representatives, both national and international, print media, photographers, bloggers, websites and press agencies is mandatory. The online accreditation form will be available in the MEDIA section of the official world’s website www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013.com on March. 1st, 2013. The submittal deadline for media accreditation is Sept. 1st, 2013. There is no maximum limit for media representatives to be accredited per publication. One accreditation form listing each media representative for your publication can be submitted. Please list each media representative, their job/title (journalist, photographer, cameraman etc.) and provide one passport sized photo (2”x2”) for each listed representative via the upload section of the form. All media personnel will be required to check-in at media registration to receive their information packages and media badges. Photographers and cameramen will be required to wear special media vests when taking pictures and or video during the event. These will be issued during the media check in. Cameramen and photographers wearing these special vests will be granted permission to take photographs and video from specially marked areas on the track. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 15 Stage One Report 8.2 MEDIA CENTER The 2013 worlds will provide a fully equipped working media facility with internet connection, results, video feed and refreshments at the event venue for all accredited media representatives. Press officer and staff will be available to assist you with your needs. Please inform us of any special needs during the accreditation process and we will do our best to accommodate you and your media needs. 8.2.1 MEDIA CENTER SCHEDULE • • • • • • • • 8.3 Sunday 22nd, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday 23rd, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Tuesday 24th, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Wednesday 25th, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Thursday 26th, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Friday 27th, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Saturday 28th, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Sunday 29th, 8:00 am – 7:00pm MEDIA COVERAGE • • Host will provide a website for current and up to date news information. This site will use news and stories gathered from all accredited medias to one site LiveRC will be the official media webcast partner. LiveRC will provide both a free webcast as well as a pay to view webcast featuring moving HD cameras following all the race action with TV style coverage. 9 TRANSPORTATION 9.1 AIRPORTS There are 3 international airports located within 180 miles or a 3 hour drive of the host venue, San Francisco International, Oakland International and Sacramento International as well as Chico Municipal Airport servicing Northern California and Chico. • SMF - Sacramento International Airport o 85 miles or 1.5 hour drive from host venue o Closest international airport with connecting flights arriving from and departing to SFO, LAX and other domestic international airports A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 16 Stage One Report • • • SFO – San Francisco International Airport o 180 miles or 3 hour driver from host venue o Direct departing and arriving international flights OAK – Oakland International Airport o 175 miles or 3 hour drive from host venue o Limited direct departing and arriving international flights CIC – Chico Municipal Airport o 7 miles from track o Connecting arriving and departing flights thru SFO o Shuttle service to and from Chico Muni Airport provided by host hotel CIC Chico SMF OAK SFO Northern California Airports 9.2 RENTAL CARS Rental vehicles can be rented thru any of the major online travel services or at your arriving airport. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 17 Stage One Report 10 SIDE EVENTS 10.1 OPENING CEREMONY Open ceremony will be held at the host venue on Sunday, Sept. 22nd, 2013 at 8:00 pm 10.2 CONCOURS D’ ELEGANCE • • • 10.3 A Concours D’ Elegance will be organized and held during the opening ceremony. Three judges will judge the competition Judges will judge the following categories: o Overall Effect o Detail o Paint o Body preparation o 10 points max per category, 40 points max. total DRIVERS BANQUET The driver’s banquet will be held in the “Big Room” of the Sierra Nevada Brewery located at 1075 E. 20th St in Chico less than 1 mile from the host hotel or host venue. The evening’s festivities will start at 7:00pm and will include the official awards ceremonies for the 4wd and 2wd buggy divisions, great food, drink and dancing. 11 RECREATION & ATTRACTIONS 11.1 ATTRACTIONS Chico is best known for two things. The first is CSU Chico and the incredible nightlife that goes hand in hand with a fun loving college town. The second is Sierra Nevada Brewery, Restaurant and Concert Hall. What you probably didn’t know is that Chico is a town with a rich history and plenty of action to keep you occupied, regardless of age. Historic Downtown Chico offers a plethora of shopping, and dining establishments, with a diverse and energetic live music scene. For the outdoors enthusiast, Bidwell Park features 3,670-acres, with playgrounds, ball fields, golfing and swimming, as well as biking throughout a vast trail network…the opportunities for adventure are unlimited, and it’s all less than 10 minutes from the track. If you’re willing to put in a few hours behind the wheel, Sacramento, San Francisco, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe and Reno Nevada are all nearby. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 18 Stage One Report For the race fans, Silver Dollar Fairgrounds is the home of more than just Silver Dollar RC Raceway. Some of the best dirt oval racers in the state can be found dicing it up at Silver Dollar Speedway every weekend. Those who want to get behind the wheel and do some racing of their own have to stop by Heart Attack Kart Racing for an opportunity to challenge their friends and line up on the grid. Silver Dollar BMX is also located around the corner from the RC track. All of this racing action can be found within 1000 feet (or so) from the Silver Dollar RC Raceway venue! So as you can see, when you make it out to Silver Dollar, you will have no trouble finding something to do with your free time. From the incredible culinary and entertainment to the shopping and recreation, if you want to spend a day enjoying more of what Chico and Northern California have to offer, the choice is yours, take your pick 11.2 RECREATION 11.2.1 BIDWELL PARK Established in 1905 with a 2,500 acre donation by Annie Bidwell the park is the home of Big Chico Creek, Sycamore Pool, Bidwell Golf Course and Big Chico Creek Canyon--to name a few of the most popular features--the park is the natural heart and soul of the community. The total Park size is now 3,670 acres (nearly 11 miles in length), making it one of the largest municipal parks in the United States. Bidwell Park website http://www.bidwellpark.org/page/explore-bidwell-park/parkoverview.php 11.2.2 CYCLING In 1997, Bicycling Magazine voted Chico as the number one cycling town in the United States. Whether you prefer smooth, flat rides across town, mountain biking in the terrains of Upper Bidwell Park, or a good road ride, Chico and the surrounding area offer exceptional cycling experiences for all levels of cyclists. Chico Bike Maps are available to pick up at the Chico Chamber of Commerce. To view the front of the map click here. To view the back of the map click here. Cycling Web Links Chico Velo Cycling Club California Bicycle Coalition Chico Corsa Cycling Club Butte Bicycle Coalition Safe Kids Coalition Caltrans A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 19 Stage One Report 11.2.3 MT. LASSEN AREA At 10,427 feet in elevation, the majestic Mt. Lassen is one of California's spectacular wonders. At the base of the beautiful mountain are numerous lakes offering a variety of canoeing experiences. These include Butte Lake, Juniper Lake, Manzanita Lake, Summit Lake, and Lake Helen. Directions: From I-5, take Highway 26 East toward Lassen National Park. For additional information, call the Lassen National Forest at (530)257-2151 or Lassen National Park at (530)595-4444. 12 GENERAL INFORMATION 12.1 GENERAL FACTS ABOUT CALIFORNIA 12.1.1 POPULATION California is the most populous state in the United States with 37.25 million residences per the 2010 Census. This gives California a population density of 239.1 persons per square mile. California has distinct regions with very different population characteristics. The northern coast and mountains of California are lightly populated, with just over 400,000 people spread out over an area of 32,000 square miles and a population density of only 14 people per square mile. At the other extreme is Los Angeles, the nation’s second-largest city, with 3.8 million residents, and second-largest metropolitan area, with 18 million inhabitants. Over the past four decades, inland areas of the state have experienced faster growth rates than coastal areas. The Inland Empire (San Bernardino and Riverside Counties), the Sacramento metropolitan area, and the San Joaquin Valley were the fastest growing regions in the 1990s and 2000s. The median age of Californians is 35.2 years old. The average household consists of 2.9 persons. 56.7% of California households are home owners. 12.1.2 GEOGRAPHY & CLIMATE Northern California's diverse geography ranges from the sandy beaches of the Pacific coast to the rugged, snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains in the east. The central portion of the region is dominated by the Central Valley, one of the most vital agricultural areas in the country. The Sierra Nevada contains Yosemite Valley, famous for its glacially-carved domes, and Sequoia National Park, home to the largest trees on Earth, the giant sequoia trees, and the highest point in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney. The tallest living things on Earth, the ancient redwood trees, dot the coastline, mainly north of San Francisco. It also includes one of the largest BrackishMarsh's in Western United States, Suisun Marsh. The area is also known for its fertile farm and ranch lands, wine country, the high mountains of the southern Cascade Range, A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 20 Stage One Report the Trinity Alps, and the Klamath Mountains, lakes, and the windswept sagebrush steppe, in the northeast portion of the region. Lake Shasta, located between the north end of the Sacramento Valley and Mount Shasta, is the largest reservoir, and is the third largest body of water after Lake Tahoe and the Salton Sea, in California. It was created by the construction of Shasta Dam across the Sacramento River, which was completed in 1945. The climate can be generally characterized by its marine to warm Mediterranean climates along the coast, to somewhat Continental Mediterranean Climate in the valley to alpine climate zones in the high mountains. Apart from the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento metropolitan areas (and some other cities in the Central Valley), it is a region of relatively low population density. 12.1.3 TIME ZONE California is located in the Pacific Time zone. The Pacific Time zone observes Standard Time, more commonly referred to as Pacific Standard Time (PST). Pacific Standard Time (PST) is 8 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-8). Daylight savings time is observed from the second Sunday of March to the first Sunday in November. Daylight savings time is 7 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. 12.1.4 LANGUAGE California has a very diverse population thus a wide variety of languages are spoken by its residents. 60.5% of Californian’s speak English only. 25.8% speak Spanish, 2.6% speak Chinese, 2% speak Tagalog, 1.3% speak Vietnamese and the remaining 7.8% speaking Korean, Armenian, Japanese, Persian, German, French and Russian. 12.2 CITY OF CHICO • • • Founded in 1860 by John Bidwell and incorporated in 1872 Population 87,500 in the incorporated area Websites: http://www.chico.ca.us/ Chico is the most populous city in Butte County, California, United States. The city is a cultural, economic, and educational center of the northern Sacramento Valley and home to both California State University, Chico and Bidwell Park, one of the country's 25 largest municipal parks and the 13th largest municipally-owned park, Bidwell Park, which makes up over 17% of the city. Other cities in close proximity to the Chico Metropolitan Area (population 212,000) include Paradise and Oroville, while local towns and villages (unincorporated areas) include Durham, Cohasset, Dayton, Hamilton City, Nord, and Forest Ranch. The Chico Metropolitan Area is the 14th largest Metropolitan Statistical Area in California. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 21 Stage One Report The official city nickname is "City of Roses", according to the Seal of the City of Chico, California. Chico has been designated as Tree City USA for 27 years by the National Arbor Day Foundation. 12.3 CURRENCY AND BANKING The base currency of the United States is the U.S. dollar, and is printed on bills in denominations of $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 and minted into coins in denominations of Penny (1₵, $0.01), Nickel (5₵, $0.05), Dime (10₵, $0.10), Quarter (25₵, $0,25), Half Dollar (50₵, $0.50), and Dollar ($1). 12.3.1 EXCHANGE Foreign currency may be exchanged at some U.S. banks and at arriving and departing international airports. Currency can also be withdrawn at US bank ATM’s (automated teller machines) with Visa Debit cards displaying one of the following symbols Use of debit and ATM should be the most cost effective and convenient method of exchange but users should be aware that exchange fees still apply. 12.3.2 BANKS There are many banks within 2 miles of the venue and host hotel. All these banks will have ATM’s where cash can be withdrawn with major credit cards and Visa Debit cards. The closest bank/atm to the venue is going to be located inside the AM/PM gas and convenience store located only a few hundred feet north of the host hotel. 12.3.3 CREDIT CARDS Most major domestic credit cards are widely accepted by most retail and service outlets in the U.S., California and Chico. Some foreign cards are accepted but users should make themselves aware of international transaction fees before using their credit cards. It is not uncommon for credit card companies to add as much as an additional 3% to international transactions without customers ever knowing. Master Card and Visa are the most widely accepted domestic or international credit cards in the U.S. 12.3.4 SALES TAX California has a base sales tax of 7.5%, and can total up to 9.75% with local sales tax included depending on the city in which the purchase is made. Sales tax for Chico and Butte County is 7.5%. In general, sales tax is required on all purchases of tangible personal property to its ultimate consumer. Services are not subject to sales tax (but may be subject to other taxes). Unprepared food, bakery items, hot beverages, livestock, crops and seeds, fertilizer used to grow food, certain devices related to alternative energy, and one-time sales are among the items exempt from sales tax. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 22 Stage One Report 12.4 MEDICAL SERVICES Non-emergency medical services can be found at any of the many medical clinics and or hospital emergency rooms in the region on a fee for services. Emergency medical attention can be found at any of the regions hospitals or emergency medical clinics. 1. Enloe Medical Center 1531 Esplanade Chico, CA 95926 2. Chico Immediate Care Medical Center 376 Vallombrosa Ave. Chico, CA 95926 3. Enloe Prompt CareCalifornia Park Lakeside Village Cmns, Chico, CA 95926 4. Silver Dollar RC Raceway 2357 Fair St. Chico, CA 95928 5. Oxford Suites Chico 2035 Business Ln. Chico, CA 95928 3 1 2 5 4 12.4.1 MEDICATIONS There are two types of medications sold in the U.S. Over the counter drugs such as simple cold remedies, non-narcotic pain relievers, and aspirin are a few of the different types of medications sold over the counter in most retail stores in the United States. Prescription medications are those that can only be sold with a prescription from a licensed U.S. doctor. These medications will be found in pharmacies. Many major retailers in the U.S. now include pharmacies as part of their retail operations. 12.4.2 DENTAL SERVICES Dental services can be provided by any one of the many private dental practitioners located in the region. 12.4.3 VACCINATIONS There are no regulations requiring vaccinations when visiting the United States 12.5 WATER Tap water in the U.S. is safe to drink and is regulated by local, regional, state and federal agencies to insure the safety and quality of drinking water in the U.S. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected] 23 Stage One Report 12.6 ELECTRICITY Electric power is standardized in all states across the USA at 110 Volts and 60 cycles. 220 Volt power is used in homes only for large appliances like stoves, water heaters and clothes dryers. It is not normally available for personal appliances. Standard electric plugs and outlets have two flat blades, as illustrated below in fig 12.6.1. The plugs on some newer appliances have a third round grounding pin, as illustrated below in fig 12.6.2. Almost all homes and commercial buildings are equipped with electrical receptacles that can accommodate either type of plug. If you bring any electrical appliance to the USA, you may need an adaptor to fit the US electrical receptacles. You may also need a converter to change the voltage from 110 volts to 220 volts. Figure 12.6.1 Standard Non-Polarized NEMA-15 outlet and plug Figure 12.6.2 Polarized NEMA-15 outlet and plug Most common appliances will function with either 50 or 60 cycle current. Electrical frequency can affect electric clocks, audio equipment and some other electronic gear. You should check your electrical equipment for compatibility with 60-cycle current before you bring it to the USA. A Main Hobbies 424 Otterson Dr., Suite 160 Chico, CA 95928 web: www.AMainHobbies.com/IFMAR2013 email: [email protected]