Brett Flemming - Potomac Pedalers

Transcription

January 2016
Meet Guest Speaker,
Brett Flemming
(ride with him, too!)
by Martine Palmiter & Ken Osterweil
We are thrilled to have Brett Flemming, noted seminar leader and tech
consultant, speak to our Club at this year’s Annual Meeting. Not only
will Brett be our guest speaker, but he will also be leading a workshop
and ride to the meeting. Brett’s workshop/ride/talk will focus on bike
safety techniques, and he should know, he invented the Safe Zone rear
view mirror!
Take note of what Brett has scheduled for us the day of the Annual Meeting:
• 8:45 AM - 9:30 AM: Adult Rodeo Skills Workshop at Dewey Park
• 9:30 AM - 11 AM: Ride to the Annual Meeting with Brett (from
Dewey Park)
• 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Brett’s Resource Table at the Annual Meeting
where you can enter the raffle for a Safe Zone mirror and get your
questions answered by “the Bike Wizard” himself
Non-profit
Organization
US Postage
PAID
Merrifield, VA
Permit 58
Continued on page 12.
The Annual Meeting this year has been spiffed up! In addition to the
traditional potluck which is always terrific (please bring your favorite dish
to share!) and outstanding speaker Brett Flemming who will give us his
take on “Hardcore Effective Cycling” (meet Brett in a related article on
this page), we’re going to have some new features. As you arrive, we will
have resource tables for you to mingle with fellow club members offering
advice, information, and tips on topics such as: becoming a ride leader, Club
events and weekends, bike safety & advocacy, how to get engaged in Club
activities for 2016, and a special table set up to welcome new members!
You’ll want to visit as many resource tables that interest you to enter that
table’s raffle!
Following Brett’s talk, there will be a business meeting on Club changes
and accomplishments, including updates on the Back Roads Century
and Shepherdstown collaborations, updates on the new website, and new
connections with cycling advocacy groups. We’ll also introduce the new
members of the Executive Committee – you vote as you arrive and check-in
so your attendance is crucial. We’ll also hand out our annual awards to
recognize those members who work so hard to make the Club a success.
Take note of the timing for the Annual Meeting:
• 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Register, Vote, Visit Resource Tables
• 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Presentation by guest speaker Brett Flemming
Pedal Patter
c/o Core Association Services, Inc.
200 Little Falls Street, Suite 205
Falls Church, VA 22046
• 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Potomac Pedalers Business (announce winners of
ExCom election and Club awards)
We hope this will be an entertaining, informative, and fun event for all. The
River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation served as the home of our
Annual Meetings for many years, and we are returning there once again. We
have a larger space this year in the sanctuary. If you are coming from I-495,
take Exit 39, River Rd., towards Washington. Take a left on Whittier Blvd.,
then an immediate left into the church parking lot. The church is less than
2 miles from the beltway. You can also get there by biking on the Capital
Crescent Trail to River Road. Get off the trail there and head north on River
Road to the intersection at Whittier Blvd. Or take advantage of riding with
our speaker (see page 12 for details).
Volunteers are needed to help with set-up and clean-up! Please contact
Martine Palmiter at [email protected] if you can help.
Submit your PPTC
Award Nominations!
See page 9.
1
PEDAL PATTER
Pedal Patter is published monthly by Potomac Pedalers Touring Club,
Inc., a non-profit, educational, and recreational organization for bicycle
enthusiasts in the DC metro area. Opinions expressed in Pedal Patter are
of the authors, not necessarily reflective of PPTC’s official position. Editor
reserves the right to refuse ads or material inappropriate to the Club’s
purpose. Pedal Patter is mailed to current PPTC members, member
businesses, and bicycle clubs.
Chair Matt Birnbaum, [email protected]
Delivery Problems
Please call PPTC at 703.385.1688 to report missing issues.
Denise Cohen, [email protected]
Editor: Brenda Ruby
Bulletin Board: Jo Keister
[email protected]
On The Road: OPEN
Out of Bounds: Ron Tripp
[email protected]
Layout: Julia Rosenbaum 301.527.2300 [email protected]
Advertising Manager Kate Schwarz [email protected]
[email protected]
Chair-elect OPEN
Treasurer Nancy Avitabile, [email protected]
Membership Secretary Linda Borst-Kolko, [email protected]
Recording Secretary Elizabeth Ginexi, [email protected]
Members-at-Large
Sue Gunter, [email protected]
Lee Langford, [email protected]
Martine Palmiter, [email protected]
Joe Pixley, [email protected]
RIDE COMMITTEES & COORDINATORS
Road Captain Dan Lehman, 703.241.9113, [email protected]
Sign-Up Sheets Archives Dan Lehman, 703.241.9113, [email protected]
Cue Sheets/Map Librarian Eric Pilsk, [email protected]
Ride Coordinators–Area Wide
Commercial Ads
Ad rates are as follows: full page– $550; 1/2 page– $350; 1/4 page– $200;
1/8 page– $130; 1/16 page– $80. Discounts available for durations of 3 or more
months. Contact the Advertising Manager at [email protected].
Tandem Don Schneider, 301.942.6330
Family Rides Team Brugman, 703.339.3948, [email protected]
Submitting Material
Photographs and articles from Club members are welcome. Please send
submissions to Brenda Ruby, [email protected].
Ride Coordinators–Maryland/DC
Sunday Picnic Rides Tom Doerr, [email protected]
Deadline
Editor must have material by the 5th of the month. If the 5th falls on
a weekend, deadline is the preceding Friday.
D Chris Moriarity, 301.270.3416, [email protected]
C Linda Borst-Kolko, 301.785.1342, [email protected]
CC Carol Linden, [email protected]
B Jim Quinn, [email protected]
BB Karen Berlage, 301.963.1482, [email protected]
A/AA Karen Berlage, 301.963.1482, [email protected]
Web Site
Ride Coordinators–Virginia
www.potomacpedalers.org
Please visit the web site for address changes, joining the club and other
requests.
Website Technical Support
For website technical support and to contact our webmaster, do the following..
v Go to www.potomacpedalers.org
v Click on Contact Us (top of page)
v Click on Website Technical Support
v You’ll be taken to the Website Technical Support contact form
v Complete the form and press Submit
You can expect a response within 24-48 hours.
PPTC Business Office Mailing Address
200 Little Falls Street, Suite 205, Falls Church, VA 22046
[email protected]
PPTC ExCom Meeting Schedule
The Executive Committee meets in the evening on the third Monday of every
month. Locations of the meeting may vary. Members of the club who wish to attend
should contact a Committee member the week before to get the exact location and
time of the meeting. ExCom meeting minutes are available on our website.
Mailing Information
To receive Pedal Patter via first class mail, members must pay an extra $13 per
year. Otherwise it is sent standard mail, which can take as long as 3 weeks, but
usually only takes days. Pedal Patter is mailed between the 15–18th of the month.
If yours hasn’t arrived by the 4th week of the month, call the Business Office
to report this or any change-of-address. Remember to check your membership
expiration. Membership remains uninterrupted only if renewed by the 5th of the
expiration month.
2
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
D Woody Lipinski, 703.203.4934, [email protected]
C Teresa Brooks, H 703.971.3617, [email protected]
CC Joan Oppel, 703.328.9863, [email protected]
B Dan Lehman, 703.241.9113, [email protected]
BB Dan Lehman, 703.241.9113, [email protected]
AA/A Dan Lehman, 703.241.9113, [email protected]
OTHER COMMITTEES
Century Coordinator Nancy Avitabile
Communications Director Brenda Ruby,
[email protected]
Communications Committee Eric Pilsk, Bob Bernstein,
Kate Schwarz, Tom Humphrey
Web Site Coordinator Lee Langford
Message Committee Teresa Browder, Janet Cyphers, Irmgard Dugge,
Lois Lightfoot, Susan Fullenbaum, Beth Merricks, Joan Oppel
Special Events Committee Rich Tepel, [email protected]
Advocacy Coordinator Open
Bike Case Coordinators Adam Goldberg, 202.507.9900,
[email protected]; Ann Corran, 301.439.0631, [email protected]
Volunteer Coordinator Open
For questions regarding Ride Committees please call the Road Captain. For questions or changes
regarding other areas please call the appropriate coordinator, committee member, or any ExCom member.
For changes regarding this listing please e-mail Julia Rosenbaum at [email protected].
Notes from the Chair
by Matt Birnbaum
I am at about the halfway point in my commitment to serve as chair of the
club for two years. I consequently would like to use this month’s column
to reflect on what we did in 2015 and what we anticipate for 2016.
Our focus in 2015 was to continue to reposition our Club in responding
to numerous long-term influences. These include: (1) the continued
expansion of the Internet and social media; (2) relocation of homes and
jobs in our metro region with an outward push to exurban settlements in
Maryland and Virginia and a simultaneous inward pull back into DC; and
(3) demographic shifts with perceived continued aging of our membership.
In response to these shifts, we have been doing soul searching in developing
more meaningful opportunities for diverse group recreational bike rides.
These all focus on better engaging the many volunteer members and few
paid part-time staff. Among the most momentous accomplishments over
the past year include:
1. Expanded efforts in training and mentoring aspiring and veteran
ride leaders.
2. Solidifying the 2014 pilot in offering post-ride tailgate subsidies
to select multi-class rides throughout each month.
3. Relocating the Backroads Century to Shepherdstown, West
Virginia where we now have a premier location for not only the
Sunday even but for other touring opportunities throughout that
weekend.
4. Solidifying our historic legacy events, including our signature
Farm Tour and the weekend tours.
5. Smoothly transitioning CC volunteer ride coordinators for both
Maryland and Virginia.
6. Hiring of our first part-time communications director to improve
the quality of Pedal Patter, social media and digital and print
marketing materials.
Shut Up Kit
Joel’s View
by Joel Katz
I just love the days between Halloween and New Years. People go around with
smiles on their faces. It’s the music that turns me on – “Winter Wonderland,”
“Here comes Santa Clause,” “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” sung by Gene
Autry and “White Christmas sung by Bing Crosby and written by Irving Berlin.
I know the purpose of all this is to make you feel good so you will open your
wallet. I am immune to the commercialism.
Christmas is the festival of lights and by that I mean bike lights. They are on
sale and I collect them. I bought the lighted valve caps. They make your wheels
beautiful and drivers approaching broadside can’t help but notice you. I just
bought a light that nobody else has. It’s a solar powered bike light. The top of
the light is a solar cell that charges the battery. I know it’s ridiculous because
bike light batteries last forever.
I also bought a six pack of button lights. They come with an adjustable strap
so you can place them anywhere on your bike. I use them to make an artistic
statement. I find other uses for the lights. I put a flashing one on my dog’s collar.
It makes it easier to keep track of him when we hike. I also carry a bike bell. I
ding it when I want him to come. I strapped the lights to my middle fingers and
turned them on in Zumba class. My fellow dancers loved them. Some of them
bought lights and put them on their fingers.
My wife is a substitute teacher. I gave her a bike bell and flashing light to
use with her first and second graders. When she dings the bell and opens the
flashing light the kids are instantly quiet. She is going to try it with her junior
high school classes. If this is successful I plan to market it to teachers as a shut
up kit.
I said at the beginning I feel the love of the season. The love is coming from
Amazon, Ebay and China.
As we have done this, I can attest that premonitions of our Club’s demise
are far too premature. As seen in the chart below, our membership has
increased by over 21 percent over the past 2.5 years with our membership
now right near 3,000 individuals.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
2
Club Information
3
Notes From the Chair; Joel’s View: Shut Up Kit
5
Ride Report; Ride Leader Rally
6
Out of Bounds; Welcome New Members;
Annual 5k-Miles-or-Bust-Survey
7
Spring Thaw & Tandem Rally 2016,
PPTC Lewes, Delaware Weekend
8
Biking the Magical Danube
9
PPTC ExCom Election Bios; PPTC Award
Nominations
13
Ride Schedule
20
PPTC Calendar; PPTC Membership Form
3
Sign Up For Potomac Pedalers
E-mail Newsletters Potomac Pedalers sends out e-mail blasts once per month in
the winter and twice per month during the summer. We invite
all cyclists to join our mailing list and receive information
about upcoming club events, regional cycling events, the
latest club news and more.
v Go to www.potomacpedalers.org
v On the right side of the screen you’ll see a dialogue box
“Join Our Mailing List”
v Type in your e-mail address in the box and you’ll be
presented with a series of prompts to join
You can also use this same dialogue box to update your
e-mail address or to unsubscribe. Just type in your e-mail
address and follow the prompts.
We hope that you enjoy our e-mail blasts,
and that they become a valuable part of your
Potomac Pedalers Membership!
4
Get Your Cycling Event Posted
on our Website
We post area cycling events such as Century and charity rides on our
website Regional Cycling Events calendar at no charge. To get your ride
posted online, do the following…
u
Go to www.potomacpedalers.org
u
Hover over the menu item Ride Schedules
u
Hover over the menu item Regional Cycling Events
u
Click on How to Submit an Event
u
You’ll be taken to the Regional Cycling Event Submission form
u
Complete the form and press Submit
Regional Events are typically posted within 48-72 hours of submission.
(View more pictures on our Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/PotomacPedalers)
Cueing Up and Teaming Up:
The Ride Leader Experience
by Tim Guilford
I have been a member of Potomac
Pedalers for 25 years, and have led and
created quite a variety of rides in that
time. In the beginning, I depended on
others to create the cue sheets and lead
rides. Fortunately a few of my friends
had expert knowledge of the roads in
the area (Maryland) and created some
classic cue sheets still in use.
Fall Spin from Riley’s Lock, Nov. 15 ―Liz Milor and Glen Worrell
head out on an impromptu club ride on a seasonably chilly day.
The Winter Ride, Dec. 13 (CC/B/BB/A)― Nothing seasonable about
this mid-December ride! Shorts? Maybe the luck will continue through
the winter. Check out this multi-class ongoing winter ride! Happens
every Sunday and a pace for many will keep you riding all winter long.
After a while, and somewhat selfishly,
I realized that if I wanted to ride in
a particular area, distance, elevation
gain and pace, then I should step up.
Turns out, there were other riders who
wanted to ride the same rides as me.
That worked out pretty well, except
that there were often just a handful of
riders on these single class rides.
Within the last few years, I have
teamed up with Karen Berlage, Jim
Quinn, Carol Linden, and others to offer multi-class rides. These are a
lot more fun, as we get to get to know riders from all levels. It has pretty
much eliminated the concerns about pace inflation. On a multi-class ride
you can generally find someone that is riding your pace and distance.
When we put these rides together, we offer varying distances and amount
of climbing. A classic example is the Winter Ride from South Germantown
Recreational Park. We schedule this ride on every Sunday from December
through March. Often we get 30 or 40 riders of all descriptions, sometimes
more in good weather. Because the ride is designed somewhat like
concentric circles, we see each other several times during the ride and at
the rest stop. (See ride photos this page and page 10.)
With respect to creating the cue sheets, I generally use several tools.
I start with an area I want to ride in and pick a ride start location.
Generally, I use the start locations listed on the PPTC website (www.
potomacpedalers.org). From there, I decide the distance and elevation
gain. Fortunately, I know the roads pretty well in the area, and am aware
of how flat, hilly or mountainous the roads are. I use RidewithGPS.com
to lay out the cue sheet, keeping in mind the general rule of a rest stop
every 25ish miles (shorter for newer riders). Knowing these way points
and destination, I will begin the mapping process. Fortunately there is
an Undo and an Edit function in that software because I usually need a
couple of attempts to get the cue sheet just right.
Speaking of “just right,” I have definite opinions on how to lay out
the cue sheet. I use Excel rather than the cue sheet available from
RidewithGPS. On the spreadsheet, the interval distance must be on the
extreme left, next is the total distance, turn indicator and then finally
road name. All of this must be in at least 12 point font. It is important
to have total distance and turn indicator adjacent on the spreadsheet,
as that is the information you need as you approach the turn, since
most bike computers show total distance, not interval distance. Finally,
be sure that when you format the cue sheet, that riders do not have to
turn over or manipulate the cue sheet in between rest stops. I will be
available at the Annual Meeting/New Riders Table for help with Cue
Sheets. Come see me!
Happy Riding!
Want to lead a ride but not sure what to do? We can pair you with a
Ride Leader Mentor like Tim or someone to co-lead a ride with you.
Contact Martine Palmiter ([email protected]) or Linda Kolko
([email protected]) for details.
5
Out of Bounds
Contact Ron Tripp at [email protected] to get an event on the calendar.
April 9
TSR Spring classic (Easton, MD),
tsrspringclassic.homestead.com
April 16
Ocean to Bay Bike Tour (Fenwick Island, DE),
oceantobaybiketour.com
April 16
TarWheel Century (Camden, NC),
www.rivercitycyclingclub.com
April 30
Bike to End Hunger (Huntingtown, MD),
endhungercalvert.org/events/bike-ride
May 1
TD Five Boro Bike Tour (New York City, NY), bike.nyc/
events/td-five-boro-bike-tour
May 7
Six Pillars Century (Cambridge, MD),
www.6pillarscentury.org
May 14
CAP2CAP Bike Ride (Richmond & Williamsburg, VA),
virginiacapitaltrail.org/cap2cap-ride
June 4
Tour d’Arc (Belair, MD), metric and less,
arcncr.org/events_tourd_arc.html
July 24
Firefighter 50 Bicycle Ride (Westminster, MD),
www.firefighter50.com
Oct. 16
Lifeline 100 – Anne Arundel County (Millersville, MD),
bikeaaa.org/lifeline-100
Upcoming Tours:
April 9-15 Bike Florida (Arcadia, Sarasota, Englewood, FL),
bikeflorida.org
April 16-21Florida Bicycle Safari (Live Oak, FL),
www.floridabicyclesafari.com
April 22-24Cycle NC Coastal Ride (Edenton, NC), cnc.ncsports.org/
springCNCRide
May 15-17Tour de Chesapeake (Mathews, VA),
tourdechesapeake.org
June 4-10 BRAG - Bike Ride Across Georgia (Atlanta to Savannah,
GA), www.brag.org
June 24-29Bike Virginia (Woodstock to Harrisonburg, VA),
bikevirginia.org
July 23-30 The Bon Ton Roulet (Finger Lakes Region, NY),
bontonroulet.com
July 24-30 RAGBRAI (Iowa), ragbrai.com
Annual 5k-Miles-or-Bust Survey
(aka The Order of the Cast-Iron Crotch)
by Dan Lehman, PPTC Road Captain
Fellow cyclists, with the end of the calendar year, it's time to compile
the mileage totals of members who cycled 5,000 or more miles in the
prior year. To contribute your cycling data to the survey, please send the
following information to me, by e-mail (preferably) or snail mail. It is
preferable to provide the information in an email with the data requested
given per numbered item, NOT as attachments in WORD or Excel (or ...)!
Also, please note, some send odd information for #11 (which is "Number
of 0-mile WEEKS," not *days*) and #12 (which wants "Number of 100mile DAYS").
Welcome New Members!
Please welcome new and returning members to Potomac Pedalers:
Janice Cooper
Karen Katilie
Stephanie Perri
Steve Goldberg
Abrar Lohani
Vidisha Powell
Heide Kaser
Jim Ng
L. Ray Rachuba
Phil Kaskela
1.Name
2.Age [yes, optional, for the age-challenged]
3.PPTC ride class
4.Total miles
5.Longest ride
6.% Miles commuting
7.% Miles PPTC rides
8.Date on which 5000 miles was reached
9.Most miles in a month
10. Most miles in a week
11. Number 0-mile weeks
12. Number 100-mile days
13. Most interesting cycling story [optional but inspirational]
6
Email your information to: [email protected] or mail to:
Dan Lehman, 134 Chanel Terrace, #T-1, Falls Church VA 22046-4112.
Spring Thaw and Tandem Rally 2016
5/5/2016 to 5/8/2016
When:
5/5/2016
12:00
Where:
Holiday Inn Express
2715 Ocean Gateway
Cambridge, Maryland 21613
United States
Save the Date!
PPTC Lewes Delaware Weekend
April 29 – May 1
Contact: Rich Tepel
[email protected]
Details:
Once again, Potomac Pedalers will host and partner with Eastern Tandem Rally
to show off the wonderful Eastern Shore cycling. Spring Thaw is a regional
cycling event and attracts many people from the East Coast and Mid-West. Four
days of riding: no hills, sparse traffic, wide shoulders. Perfect for getting back
into cycling after a long winter.
Routes will lead to the water with spectacular scenery among world-class
environmental ecosystems. The Saturday ride will include the Six Pillar Century
(entry price will be included in the weekend price), which visits the Blackwater
National Wildlife Refuge. (The Six Pillar Century also has rides shorter than
100 miles for those not up to the full distance.) We expect about one-third single
bikes and two-third tandems, but uni-cyclists are also welcome to join us.
The weekend includes: Thursday evening pizza dinner; lunch on Friday; Friday
evening ice cream social; Six Pillar Century registration on Saturday and lunch
(as part of the century); Saturday night dinner and entertainment.
You are on your own for breakfasts, lunch on Thursday, dinner on Friday. The
Holiday Inn and some of the other hotels in the area include a complimentary
breakfast. The Holiday Inn will have sign-up sheets for reservations and
discounts for group dining.
Because we are using the hotel’s conference facility, capacity is limited to
100. This is significantly less than previous so we expect to sell out early.
Registration will be closed once the capacity is reached, or on April 21, 2016.
Tandem Wannabees: If you would like to rent a tandem for the weekend, you
can contact Mt Airy Bicycles (Maryland) at 301-831-5151.
Cue sheets, interactive routes, and GPX files to be posted online.
Program Overview:
· Thursday: Ride around Cambridge. Pizza party dinner.
Be sure to get an early jump on spring 2016 by joining PPTC
for a weekend at the beach in late April. Lewes is a small,
picturesque, and historic town near Rehoboth Beach. This
weekend is noted for its sociability and ease in meeting new
people, so come alone or with a friend or spouse. This year we
will limit attendance to 84 people, so sign up early – it has sold
out the last two years.
We will have rides ranging in length from 20 to 65+ miles,
all flat (although we reluctantly admit sometimes there are
headwinds at the beach). Many rides visit nearby wildlife
refuges, a winery, and beaches. Reservations will only be on
the website this year. Pricing and other details will come soon!
Your hosts for the weekend will again be Lorraine McCall and
Cindy Marisch.
· Friday: Ride to St. Michaels, MD using ferry (remote start), lunch.
Friday night party and ice cream by the famous Scottish Highland
Creamery.
· Saturday: Short and long rides as part of the Six Pillar Century
· Sunday: Rides to points along the Choptank River and Chesapeake Bay.
Event Pricing and Lodging:
The price for the weekend before or on March 1st is $165 per person for
Potomac Pedalers members, or $190 for non-members. After March 1st, the price
is $175 per person for Potomac Pedalers members, or $200 for non-members.
This price does not include lodging (but does include Six Pillars Century
registration). Full refund (less $20 processing charge per person) available prior
to April 21st.
The rally will be based at the Holiday Inn Express in Cambridge, MD (410)
221-9900. You need to make your own lodging reservations. Call the Holiday
Inn or other hotels in Cambridge to arrange lodging. Information for this and
other options below.
Price - Spring Thaw 2016 (No Lodging)
PPTC Members Nonmembers
Before or on March 1, 2016
$165
$190
After March 1, 2016
$175
$200
Lodging Options
Phone
Holiday Inn Express (410) 221-9900
Special rate of Primary event hotel
Rate
$119 (Wed. only)
$129 (Thurs./Fri./Sat.)
Hyatt Regency
(410) 901-1234
Across the street from Holiday Inn
$200+ per night
Days Inn
(410) 228-4444
Comfort Inn
(410) 901-0926
Martinak State Park
(410) 820-1668
camping; 25 miles away
Tuckahoe State Park (410) 820-1668
camping; 25 miles away
Contacts:
Larry and Linda Black: [email protected]
Rich Tepel and Megan Wholey: [email protected]
7
Biking the Magical Danube
by Sheila Harron
A spectacularly beautiful, flat European bike tour runs along the Danube
river. The paths where the mules used to pull the boats are paved, well
marked, and maintained for bicycle and hiking use. From June 19th to
June 24th Bill Loewe, Larry Bouterie, and I did a 240 mile self guided
tour with BikeToursDirect (now BikeTours.com) from Passau, Germany
to Vienna, Austria. We flew into Vienna and then took the train (the
station is conveniently located in the airport) to Passau, where we had a
full day to unwind and explore this city at the confluence of three rivers.
The bike tour company supplied sturdy hybrid bikes, which we fitted
with our own seats and pedals. The weather for the ride ranged between
70’s during the days and 50’s at night, with occasional light rain. One of
us must have great karma because the two or three downpours occurred
while we were inside some monastery or cafe, and the week after we
returned home Austria had a sustained heat wave.
The scenery was magnificent. It’s hard to believe that this part of the
world has been settled for so long. Once we left Passau, the path along
the Danube was cupped frequently on either side by green hillsides. At
first, we were in a narrow river valley between the Bavarian Forest and
the Sauwald. A granite mountain forced the river to carve a very sharp
S-curve after which the Danube enters fertile plains—flat and green.
There were small settlements and villages along the way where it was
possible to find a cafe for lunch. Also, our cue sheets and guide map
offered suggestions for side trips to castles, churches or monasteries
that held historic or cultural interest. The churches were over-the-top
rococo, the Catholic church’s exuberant response to the Reformation.
The biggest city we encountered was Linz, where we did a blitz tour
of the Old Jesuit Cathedral, the Franciscan Church (both baroque) and
the new Cathedral (Gothic but with colored lights shining on the floor
and ceiling). It was raining and we found refuge in a confection shop—
sandwiches, cappucino, and apple strudel.
During day three the scenery gave way to rich farmland with wheat and
corn as the only recognizable crops. We stayed in a small village and
made an excellent decision to take the van up to the hotel—the Schaner
Krone—as the route was winding, steep and long. The hotel was superb
and its restaurant, memorable. Our rooms overlooked the Danube and
the valley below—little villages, stretches of forest, small mountains in
the distance, trains travelling back and forth. Walking around the village
and the church after dinner was magical. Someone was practicing the
organ. The crystal chandeliers glistened in the sunset. Another special
thing about this night was that from our balcony we could see the fires
and fireworks dotting the landscape across the river. It was the summer
solstice and near the feast of John the Baptist so the pagan custom of
lighting fires at the solstice was re-named St. John’s fires.
The next day we biked to Melk, the site of a Benedictine Abbey closely
associated with Austria’s history (the Babenbergs, St. Coloman and the
Hapsbergs). We spent half of the day touring and eating alfresco in the
View from trail, Larry Bill and Sheila on a ferry.
town outside the Abbey gates. A night in this town would have offered
us more time to explore and enjoy its hospitality. The old city surrounds
the mount of the monastery. After departing Melk the scenery along the
rive changed to vineyards and small towns. The wine museum in Krems
celebrated the process of wine-making and the history of the guilds.
We criss-crossed the river many times on very small ferries to avail
ourselves of a more scenic or less trafficked route. We stayed mostly in
small towns in local hotels, which also had restaurants: Eferding, Enns,
Maria Taferl, Krems, Tulln. The Danube trip ended in Vienna, where we
had an afternoon and a day before we had to fly home. We wished we had
more time in Vienna. There is so much to see and experience there. We
recommend that before you visit that you research tour guides to plan to
make the most of your time at each stop on the route.
Serendipitous events added to our enjoyment—concerts with enormous
organs in baroque churches where the music reverberates; cappucino and
pastry in small villages; sunsets beginning as a ring of fire; local beer
and wine; terrific meals in local establishments.
The new cathedral in Linz.
One lovely side trip after Linz was to a baroque Augustinian monastery
and church in St. Florian. It housed a school, which is still in session.
Monks have lived here since 1071, with a few years of exile during
WWII while the German army, and then the American army, took it over.
Two weddings were booked in the church during our visit. One guest
marvelled (“American ingenuity”) at our rear-view bike mirrors. This
was one of the sites where the heavens opened while we were inside and
sunshine greeted us as we left.
8
The trip is possible without a tour company. We met seven Canadian
women who brought their bikes over and were doing the Danube bike
trail from Switzerland to Budapest. They had no firm reservations but
decided each night where they would stop the next day. They rode into
the town and found places to stay with help from the local visitor center.
The trail is very well marked and there is a spiral bound map published
by Verlag Esterbauer for various sections of the route. It includes
descriptions of the terrain, routes, sights of interest, location of bike
shops, etc. You can download a GPS track for the book. The trip also
could be made more challenging by taking more side trips off the trail and
up into the villages. For us, the opportunity to soak up the culture and
the beauty as well as the joy of biking made a wonderful combination.
PPTC ExCom Election Bios
The following positions on Potomac Pedalers Executive Committee
(ExCom) are open: Chair, Vice Chair (presuming bylaw passes),
Recording Secretary and two Members-at-Large. A vote to elect these
new ExCom members will take place at the Annual Meeting, held Jan. 23
(just another important reason to attend!). If you wish to submit yourself
as a candidate, please do so by Jan. 15, 2016 by emailing your name,
intended position, short bio, and why you would like to join the ExCom
to: [email protected]. Bios for all candidates will
be available onlineand at the Annual Meeting. Pursuant to Bylaw Section
VI(2), the membership at the general meeting can increase or decrease
the size of those serving on the Executive Committee. Below are the
current candidates:
Matt Birnbaum,running for reelection as Chair
Bio forthcoming.
Martine Palmiter, running for Vice Chair (if membership passes
Bylaw change) and otherwise as Member-at-Large
I am submitting information to serve as Vice Chair (or otherwise as
Member-at-Large) of the ExCom. I joined the ExCom as a Member-atLarge in March 2015, to fill in for a exiting member, and have really
enjoyed being on the Women’s bike committee, the Ride Leaders
Committee, editing the “Ride Leader Rally” for Pedal Patter, and various
other duties that needed to be done. I feel that my energy and experience
as a relatively new Club member helps – I joined the club and started
to ride in 2010 and became a new ride leader in 2014. This year, I have
lead D, C, CC and B rides mainly in Montgomery County. There are
a lot of new Club initiatives for 2016 that I want to continue working
on, including a new focus on engaging membership through more social
bike events, involving more new members to learn about club activities
through the annual meeting, and encouraging more people to lead rides
they enjoy, in all parts of MD, DC and VA.
Bio – I am an HR manager for the Federal Government by day, have 2
grown kids in the area, a wonderful partner Vic who also cycles with me
on weekends, and taught me about training rides to improve my cycling.
I also enjoy yoga, hiking, spin class, swimming, gardening, and zen
practice. I live in Rockville, MD.
Stephen Krill, running for Recording Secretary
I'm delighted to potentially serve as an ExCom member in the role of
Secretary and to give back to Potomac Pedalers.
You may ask, how am I qualified?
Beyond the bike, I served as secretary for an international public safety
organization, preparing meeting minutes, executive correspondence, and
annual report. I currently serve for two other public safety organizations
as a U.S. delegate and as a training and education committee member,
respectively. I really enjoy these volunteer roles, being able to work with
others, and making a contribution.
In cycling, it's definitely about the journey and the destination. I often
ride the weekly Annandale Evening Excursion (aka SpeedWorks) and
enjoy longer rides, such as BRC, Seagull, Reston, and RAGBRAI.
Having ridden as a guest with other east coast clubs, I see first hand
how Potomac Pedalers really makes a difference: club rides, regional
rides, member discounts, and news and information. I appreciate what
the ExCom and our ride leaders do to make this such a great club, and I
look forward to contributing as Secretary.
Thank you for your consideration.
Paul Huey-Burns, running for Member-at-Large
I wish to run for election as an At-Large member of the ExCom. I have
benefitted greatly from being a PPTC member, and I have relied, to a
great extent, on the efforts of others. Time to “pay it forward.”
I first joined PPTC perhaps 20 years ago. I was active in the club for
many years, but then family and career obligations intervened, and I
had to de-prioritize cycling. Now that I’ve accomplished what I needed
C
PPT
ard
Aw ations
in
Nom
i
i
i
i
Deadline to submit nominations:
January 4
The Club presents a number of awards to members at the annual
meeting: The Good Shepherd, Rookie Ride Leader, and Best
Original Ride Awards are presented each year. The Neal D. Molloy
Volunteer and Linda Tischer PPTC Lifetime Awards are only
presented to exceptional candidates, so they will not always be
given. All awardees receive a plaque. The PPTC Lifetime Award
also comes with free lifetime PPTC membership. Any member
can nominate a PPTC member for any of these awards by emailing
Matt Birnbaum or any other ExCom member with the name of the
nominee and a brief statement about why the person deserves a
particular award. Email addresses of the ExCom members are on
page 2 and on the website under “Club Officers.” Awardees will
be selected by the ExCom from those nominations received by 6
pm on January 4, 2016. Detailed descriptions of the awards can be
found in the December 2015 Pedal Patter.
to accomplish for my family and career, I have reconnected with my
bike and the biking community. I rejoined the club 5 or 6 years ago,
and I generally ride B/BB and lead B rides in northern MoCo, from
Laytonsville, Riley’s Lock, and elsewhere, including my annual Birthday
Ride from Riley’s in November. (I also am a committed runner, and I’ve
run 3 marathons in the past year. I’ve recently added swimming to my
workout schedule, and I’m hoping to begin competing in triathlons this
spring, because “why not?”)
I think that I would bring valuable skills to the ExComm. I have practiced
corporate law for 33 years, first in government (at the Securities &
Exchange Commission, where I was Assistant Director of Enforcement),
then as a partner in the DC office of a global law firm. Three years ago,
in part to provide more balance to my life, I joined a smaller but still
substantial law firm in Potomac, MD. (I believe that, if I were elected to
the ExComm, I could provide not only my own expertise, but access the
expertise of my colleagues as necessary.)
I also have substantial experience with non-profit organizations. I have
served on the Executive Board of the National Capital Area Council, Boy
Scouts of America for almost 20 years, including a substantial tenure as
General Counsel to the NCAC, and as a member of several standing and
ad hoc committees (the former including the Endowment and Investment
Committees). As General Counsel, I was involved in a wide variety of
issues (including the BSA’s change in membership standards (I was a
strong internal advocate for the change), governance issues (including
revising the Council’s corporate documents), and contractual and
employment issues.
I believe that the primary responsibility of ExCom members is to be
responsive to the needs of the membership. This is a member-driven
organization, and personal agendas should be secondary. It is important
that we maintain the high quality program that PPTC offers to its
members, including the club century and other club-wide events. Having
said that, I would like to see the club undertake more programs that
involve outreach to the community, including raising the club’s profile to
“new rider” events and programs for “at risk” kids.
Thank you for your consideration.
9
Ride Report, Continued from page 5.
Volunteers Party, Dec. 12―A fantastic showing of over 100 attendees at
the Volunteers Party Dec. 12 at Tenley Bar & Grill! We listened to a great
band, connected with friends, and honored our two Back Roads Century
heroes that made the new Shepherdstown century routes. Congrats to
Eric Pilsk and Jim Quinn!
Eric receiving the “Century Whisperer” award.
Jim, our “Living GPS”.
10
Ghost Ride for Lynne Rosenbusch and John Fauerby, Nov.
22―A memorial ride was held to honor John Fauerby and Lynne
Rosenbusch, who were killed Oct. 31 by a drunk driver. As a
testament to how extensively John and Lynne were involved in
the cycling community for over 30 years, the ride and ghost bike
placement was an extraordinary multi-club effort. Groups uniting
to make the ride possible included: the D.C. Randonneurs, a group
John and Lynne rode with most frequently, the Frederick Pedalers,
BikeAAA, the Montgomery County Bicycle Action Group
(MCBAG), Bike MD, Oxon Hill Bike Club, Baltimore Bike Club,
and Potomac Pedalers. Over 100 riders met on a cold, blustery day in
Chesapeake Beach, Maryland near the site of the accident to escort
the Ghost Bike to it’s placement on Tobacco Road. Larry Black of
Mt. Airy Bicycles provided and prepared the tandem bicycle used.
Good friend Bill Smith spoke eloquently to the gathered cyclists
before the placement. This ride would not have been possible
without the whole-hearted support of the Calvert County Sheriff’s
Office – they provided signage prior to the event alerting drivers
and provided several vehicles to shepherd the large group safely
to and from the placement site. The event was an emotional and
beautiful testament to the lives of John and Lynne. The families
greatly appreciated the show of solidarity and support.
Calvert County police rode along with cyclists; A Calvert
County police vehicle led the procession of 100+ riders.
John Fauerby and Lynne Rosenbusch
Bill Smith and David Whitaker carrying the ghost bike for placement.
PPTC Chair Matt Birnbaum (left) with the Rosenbusch and
Flaurby families and Larry Black of Mt. Airy Bicycle (in yellow).
11
Brett Flemming, Continued from page 1.
Brett said he is putting together for the Potomac Pedalers, a unique
combination of safety information that he has not presented before in other
groups. His theme: Hardcore Effective Cycling! He said that often cyclists
are taught what “not to do” to get in accidents, but he will speak to us and
teach us “how to strategically manage” situations in cycling that present
collision dangers, and how to use your personal skills and techniques to
avoid an accident. How to truly do Hardcore Effective Cycling!
In this vein, he will be leading a pre-meeting “Rodeo” workshop the
morning before the annual meeting for all level riders, demonstrating
defensive techniques, followed by a demonstration bike ride to the annual
meeting. The pre-meeting workshop starts at 8:45 AM at Dewey Park
(11720 Dewey Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20906 - right around the corner
from Veirs Mill Park), and his ride to the annual meeting will depart at
9:30. Please consider attending this All-Day event. See below for details.
As our guest speaker, Brett brings a unique energy and focus to bike
safety—he worked 35 years in high performance bike shops, but found
that no one addressed the fact that accidents also happen because riders
are not trained in defensive techniques, even to avoid simple collisions.
Brett will also host a resource table at the Annual Meeting to answer any
questions on cycling safety, the Safe Zone bike helmet mirror, and any
cycling question.
Adult Bike Rodeo & Demo: Hardcore Effective Cycling Ride and
with Brett Flemming
January 23 * 8:45 AM – 9:30 AM * Dewey Park
Even if you cannot attend the ride, or the annual meeting, come to this
workshop! Or come to the workshop, then drive to the annual meeting
if you don’t want to bike there. (If you do want to bike to the meeting
we’ll have folks driving who can take your potluck dishes so you can
ride unencumbered.) Regardless of weather conditions, except for
extreme snow and ice, a demonstration of “Hardcore Effective Cycling
Techniques” will be presented in the Veirs Mill Recreation Parking Lot.
Join Brett as he shares his bold, and refreshing, educational approach to
safe-effective cycling. Learn from the “Bike Wizard” the true meaning
of synergism, and how you too can become more fully connected and
comfortable with every action and reaction you make while on a bike.
You can always find new ways of improving your skill set, no matter
where you lie in your current set of capabilities as a cyclist.
Who says that you can’t teach old dogs new tricks? Brett Flemming dares
us to ask: “How does learning and or practicing tricks like: popping a
wheelie, ramp jumping, skidding, and even grabbing a full front brake,
help you to ride with more confidence and control? How can these
techniques be employed to open up viable “escape options” in order
to avoid accidents and other hazardous situations? Watch Brett also
demonstrate the use of track stands, general bike handling skills, and
cornering dynamics, to improve your overall cycling competence. See
first- hand, how Brett uses dramatic and confident hand signals while
decisively leaning into turns, uses an extremely loud whistle, when
necessary to draw attention to him, and often uses demonstrative body
gestures. All these gestures are choreographed by Brett to convincingly
indicate what he is about to do.
Ride to the Annual Meeting with Brett Flemming (in honor of John
Fauerby & Lynne Rosenbusch)
January 23 * 9:30 AM – 11 AM * Dewey Park
Following the above Workshop, there will be a slower pace and
12
demonstration ride for all
levels, going at the D/C/
CC pace. Brett will take
his time to demonstrate
safe biking techniques
and answer questions.
On this leisurely group
via lightly traveled trails
and roads Brett will also,
by invitation, offer encouraging critiques on your riding style, shifting
techniques, gear issues and any other aspects of your overall cycling
experience and concerns. Leaving at the end of the Annual Meeting, gather
at the steps at 3:00 PM to return to the Recreation Center. This 10-mile
each way ride is dedicated to Lynne Rosenbusch and John Fauerby. All
Interested Riders Welcome. (John and Lynne were experienced longdistance cyclists who diligently practiced safe cycling techniques and
actively promoted and advocated for safer cycling facilities and conditions
within the greater Washington Metropolitan area. Their cheerful spirits
will forever burn brightly!)
Dewey Park address: 11720 Dewey Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20906
(right around the corner from Viers Mill Park (VMP)
If you have questions about the rodeo or ride, contact: Ken Osterweil
([email protected]), 301-949-6247, Cell 301-980-7951. A
drawing will be held for Safe Zone mirrors!
Be sure to visit Brett’s resource table at the annual meeting. Brett has
generously donated to the Potomac Peddlers several introductory limited
edition “All White Safe Zone” bicycle helmet mirrors. The “Safe Zone “
bicycle helmet mirror is impact resistant, has infinite pivot adjustments,
has a large field of view for a more three-dimensional panoramic cycling
experience. Easy to install, this mirror can be mounted on virtually any
helmet configuration. This product is so well-made that Efficient Velo
Tools, L.LC. has an unconditional 5-year no-fault warranty. The “Safe
Zone” bicycle helmet mirror is the only mirror manufactured by a cyclist,
who is also a premier tool-maker, master inventor and mechanic. Brett will
be bringing some to the annual meeting and can install on your helmet.
Please place you name in the designated bin at the registration desk to participate.
In the spirit of what Brett Flemming is trying to express, and to better
acquire what he is trying to exemplify, through his instruction, we highly
recommend that you watch a video of Danny Macaskill demonstrate
with his mountain bike how cycling skills can be stretched and mastered
and seamlessly pushed to the limit in ways that most of us can hardly
imagine. Just try to visualize yourself being able to apply Danny’s BMX
skills, as a road cyclist, with an extremely heightened level of confidence
and competence in all types of traffic!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ_IQS3VKjA

PPTC’s Monthly
Ride Schedule
How to Read the Ride Schedule
Note: This ride schedule is accurate as of the editorial deadline for Pedal
Patter. For the most up-to-date listings, please consult the Ride Schedule
at www.potomacpedalers.org.
(H) *
45 *
MD * 9:30am *Poolesville HS (POO) *
40˚/35
g
g
g
g
g
g
g
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
g
PPTC rides are described according to a standardized, easy-to-read format that
always lists: (a) ride classification, (c) distance, (d) locality, (e) start time, and
(f) start location.
B
h
You may also see (b) a (F) “Flat” or (H) “Hilly” terrain indicator, (g) a start
location code, and (h) weather notes. Directions for ride starts given in the
Reference Manual.
The ride listing above is read a “B” class ride over hilly terrain (expected
overall pace of about 12, 13 miles per hour), about 45 miles long, with a ride
start time at 9:30am in Maryland from Poolesville High School. The ride will
go if the forecast high temperature is 40˚F or higher, AND the chance of rain
is less than 35%.
Ride Classification Table
This table shows the range of average riding speeds, the range of typical ride distances,
and typical intervals between rest stops.
Average Riding Speed (ARS)
(Miles)(Miles) Ride
Class (H)illy
(M)oderate (F)lat
Route
Length
Rest Stop Use of
Intervals Pacelines
D
6.0–7.9
8.0–9.9
10.0–11.9
10–25
5–10
no
C
8.0–9.9
10.0–11.9 12.0–13.9
20–35
10–15
no
CC
10.0–11.9 12.0–13.9 14.0–15.9
30–50
15–20
occasional
B
12.0–13.9 14.0–15.9 16.0–17.9
40–60
20–30
occasional
BB
14.0–15.9 16.0–17.9 18.0–19.9
50–70
25–35
frequent
A
16.0–17.9 18.0–19.9 20.0–21.9
60–80
25–35
common
AA
18.0–19.9 20.0–22.0 22.0–24.0
60–100
30–40
common
R
Randonneuring is long-distance (endurance) cycling over scenic and
challenging terrain. Randonneur rides often leave early in the morning and
require lights, go under most weather conditions, and typically are challenging
all-day affairs with distance and speed determined by the participants. This
includes the annual Brevet series of qualifying rides between 125 and 625
miles in length.
ATB These are rides for all-terrain or mountain bikes. the individual
ride descriptions should be read for specific information regarding terrain
(e.g., single-track, double-track, or gravel roads), distance, and equipment,
requirements (e.g., type of bike or tire with).
T
Specialty rides for bikes with two or more cyclists. Tandem ride
leaders often choose routes that are particularly well-suited to these types
of bicycles, as they typically go much faster downhill and flat sections, and
slower uphill, than single bikes.
Weather Notes
A ride description may contain minimum GO conditions– limits of temperature
or chance of rain, given as “temp/chance” e.g., “40º/35% or less. Otherwise,
the ride will be cancelled. Temerature is a maximum in the summertime. A
general rule is that a ride is cancelled if there is rain at start time, or if it
is winter, snow is falling, or roads are covered with ice and/or snow. The
National Weather Service number is 703.260.0405. Call the Ride Leader if
you’re in doubt.
January - Mondays
B/BB * 30ish * MD * 10:00 AM * Glen Echo Park (GLE)
The Usual Monday Ride From Glen Echo
Moderately hilly ride through Potomac, with a probable stop at a cafe near the
end. Leaders regroup periodically with an average speed of 16 - 18. Cue sheets
and a longer ride options are usually available only on holidays. No go in rain or
on wet roads. Please park in the lower portion of the lot, off Oxford Rd, farthest
from Macarthur Rd.
BB: WarrenFarb * [[email protected]] 301/320-4942
B: Cathy Wilson [[email protected]] 703/328-1029
January - Tuesdays
CC/B * 17 * VA* 6:00 PM * Wakefield Park (WKP) * 40º
Annandale Evening Excursion
Join us for an evening ride on the wide and quiet streets of North Springfield.
Several different paces will be available. This is a no-drop, multi-class ride.
LIGHTS ARE REQUIRED. The typical route is 17 miles long, but variations
can be shorter or longer, as desired. Cue sheet can be found in the PPTC Library
under title "Annandale Training Works-Your Ticket to Fitness".
Peter Klosky [[email protected]] 703-727-4939
January – Thursdays
C (MH)* 21-29 miles * MD *10:00 AM *Glen Echo (GLE)
Glen Echo Loops
Come out and join us for a new addition to the weekly ride schedule. We
will go out mostly flat MacArthur Blvd, with one or two nice hills but the
rest through scenic neighborhoods on quiet easy rolling roads or bike paths,
including Potomac, Avenel, Glen Echo, and Palisades DC. Route/distance will
vary each week. Rest stop at Starbucks Potomac Village or MacArthur Plaza.
Lunch at one of several local eateries close to end of ride. The park address is
7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, Md. The ride starts in the back parking lot;
turn off MacArthur onto Oxford, follow it into parking lot.
Polly Choate [[email protected]] 202-966-5571 land; 202-538-5715 cell
CC/B * 17 * VA * 6:00 PM * Wakefield Park (WKP) * 40º
Annandale Evening Excursion
Join us for an evening ride on the wide and quiet streets of North Springfield.
Several different paces will be available. This is a no-drop, multi-class ride.
LIGHTS ARE REQUIRED. The typical route is 17 miles long, but variations
can be shorter or longer, as desired. Cue sheet can be found in the PPTC Library
under title "Annandale Training Works-Your Ticket to Fitness".
Peter Klosky [[email protected]] 703-727-4939
B/BB * MD * 15-25 * 12:00 PM * Marriott HQ loading dock
Thursday Noon Training Ride Bethesda
Come join us for a rolling 15-25 mile ride every Thursday lunchtime. Ride
leader sweeps. We meet at the bike racks by the loading dock at Marriott HQ.
Take Democracy to Fernwood, right on Fernwood; first left into the HQ and
bike racks are right in front of you. Please note that parking and bathrooms
are a security palaver at HQ. If you don't live or work in the neighborhood, it's
best to park and pee at DSW Shoe Warehouse on the corner of Democracy and
Fernwood and ride the couple of blocks to the ride start.No go in temps below
13
freezing; ice on roads or steady rain. Please let me know if you'd like to be
added to the email list for this ride.
Ruth Sheridan [[email protected]] 202-258-0788
January – Fridays
C * 15-30 * MD * 10:00 AM * Veirs Mill Park (VMP)* 30/40%
Friday Lunch Ride
The regular Friday ride to Bethesda is moving south for the winter. We'll start at
Viers Mill Park and head out on a ride. We might go down to the end of the CCT
and then back up to Bethesda for lunch or we might stay on the roads. We're
planning an adapting our route to the weather. If there is snow on the trails, we
might head down to Pearce Mill or over to NIH and down to Bethesda. Don't
forget locks, helmets and lunch money.
Deborah Turton [[email protected]] 301-482-0675
CC * 35 * MD * 11:00 AM * Buddy Attick Park (BUD) * 50 º
Bud Bike Friday
Join our crew on this rolling ride with a few nice climbs for your trouble. There
are 2 rest stops but only vending machine food. Park in Buddy Attick Park, not
at Ivy Lane. Lunch afterward, if warm enough, at Greenbelt Center.
No ride on New Year's Day.
Rob Dahlstrom* [[email protected]] 301-758-2598
George Schneider [[email protected]]
C/CC/B * 10/20 * VA * 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM * Wakefield Park (WKP)
*40°/70%/wind <10 mph
One or Two Loops
NO GO IF BAD WEATHER CONDITIONS!
Parking and start at Wakefield Park, 8110 Braddock Road, Annandale, Virginia
22003 with access from I-495 and Braddock Road West exit, first right into
Park. Public transportation is available. First warm up 10 miles ride loop will
start at 1:00 PM on http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6748170. Second
up to 18 miles loop will start at 2:00 PM on http://www.gmap-pedometer.
com/?r=6748180 or two other options with destination of NVCC or/and
Kings Park areas and finish with a special designed hilly loop on http://www.
gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6748185. Members and non-members of the club
are welcome. Registration by an email or phone call is recommended. For this
ride you can use road as well as hybrid or mountain bikes. Some short hills
and ups are the best exercises for your cardiovascular health. You will have an
opportunity to meet friendly bicyclists. After biking, an optional happy hour
social time at The Swiss Bakery & Pastry Shop - Ravensworth Shopping Center,
5224 Port Royal Rd, Springfield, VA 22151 (www.theswissbakery.com).
CC/B: Stuart Graves [[email protected]] 703-371-3933 and
Charles Feerick [[email protected]] 703-440-8782
D/C: Shirley Lipinski [[email protected]] 703-470-6637 and
Woody Lipinski * [[email protected]] 703-203-4934.
January 1 – Friday
All Classes * MD * 12-45 mi * 12:00 PM * Mt. Airy Bicycles
Mt. Airy Bicycles 21st Annual "I've Ridden Every Day This Year!" Ride
This is an all class ride with multiple distance options. Cue sheets will be
provided for self-organized rides. Bring snacks to share post-ride! Start point
is Mt. Airy Bicycles, 4540 Old National Pike (MD Rt 144), Mt. Airy MD.
Restrooms for changing are available. Check the website www.bike123.com
for additional information.
Larry and Linda Black [email protected] [email protected]
ALL (F) * 3.2-??? * D.C. * Day Time * Hains Pt. (HAI)
The Circle of Cycles, 31st Annual
14
Come join the D.C. Social Circuit. What a ride: you can hardly be late, and
can ride warm-up if "early"; can't get lost, can change ride class & companions
at various times, and will be able to adjust any winter gear at your team vehicle
every 3mi or so. This is a ride to meet old & make new acquaintances, at all
ride levels; to share some refreshments if you want, & enjoy the day. Total
distance & time is up to each rider. It should be possible to have a grill to heat
water for coffee, hot chocolate, and whatever else. Whatever you want (for
yourself and to share), put it in your car, which you'll repeatedly pass.
Dan Lehman [riDEsigns AT yahoo.com] 703-241-9113
B * 36/48 * MD * 10:30 AM * Sherwood Elem School (SES)
Oxygen Cures Headaches, Part 3
This will be the third year that we'll organize a New Year’s Day ride to help
recover from the previous night's festivities (weather permitting). We'll have 36
and 48 mile cue sheets available. Both rides will be on familiar roads navigable
even by those with champagne-impaired brain function. Plus, a later than normal
start time. I'll ride a B pace but everyone who can read a cue sheet- blurry or
not- is welcome. No go if temps much below freezing, or if precipitation (we'll
post on website if we need to cancel).
Paul Huey-Burns [[email protected]] 202-255-2785
A/BB * 51 * MD * 9:00 AM * Monocacy Middle School (MMS)
Wake Your Legs Up for the New Year
Start off the New Year with a half-century ride before catching the day’s
football bowl games and not feeling bad about over-indulging in your favorite
New Year’s Day food! There are no restrooms at the Monocacy Middle School
starting location. The ride will be cancelled if the temperature is expected to be
below 20 at the start time, or precipitation has occurred or expected during the
time we’ll be riding. Check the PPTC Web site for last minute updates (a no-go
decision will be made 2 hours before the scheduled start). http://ridewithgps.
com/routes/11307341
Mike Skinnell [[email protected]] 703-231-4855
January 2 – Saturday
CC *(MH)* 31 * MD * 10:30 AM * Poolesville HS (POO)
Poolesville Meander
In case you had a little too much fun on New Year’s eve and day, you might
prefer to start your biking season with a short, low-key ride around the Ag
Reserve. The scenery is great in winter, and if the temps are still in 70s, we
might even see apple blossoms! The distance is short, but steady rollers will
keep your heart pumping. I always try to stick to the most lightly traveled
roads. No go in heavy precipitation. See the Pedalers' Google Group, MD ride
forums and the online schedule for any weather related announcements.
Denise Cohen [[email protected]] 301-233-7535
CC/B (MH) * 25-30 * MD * 10:00 AM * Cabin John Regional Park
Cabin John Fever
Join us for a challenging ride in the Potomac area. Learn about neighborhood
streets and trails connecting Potomac to Rockville, Bethesda, and beyond while
having fun and meeting other cyclists. Cue sheets provided at ride start. Ride
length will depend on the weather, so please wear appropriate cold weather
cycling gear! Cabin John Regional Park (CJRP) is located at 7400 Tuckerman
Lane, Bethesda MD. Use Tuckerman Lane entrance to park (not Westlake
Drive). The entrance sneaks up on you so be careful when arriving. If you
see the Cabin John park sign, you are literally there and need to turn into the
entrance IMMEDIATELY. Meet near the exit of this parking lot (behind the Do
Not Enter sign that is visible from Tuckerman lane).
Relax in CJRP after the ride or stop at Cabin John Shopping Center & mall
(corner of Tuckerman Lane & Seven Locks Road) for California Tortilla,
Subway, Broadway Pizza, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, Baskin Robins, BGR,
Jerry’s, McDonalds, etc. There’s something for everybody!
No-go in rain, wet roads, ice or snow. If you have questions about go/no-go,
check the website for cancellation before you head out.
Julie Marders [[email protected]] 240-750-0754 (cell, texts OK)
January 3 – Sunday
D/C (MF) * 16 * VA * 9:45 AM * Shirlington Library/Signature Theater
(SHR) * 40°/30%
Lunch in Shirlington
Another great ride from the original Ride-To-Eat™ production team! Both
MEMBERS AND NON-MEMBERS are very welcome to join us for this social
ride, followed by lunch at one of the many restaurants in Shirlington (free
parking in garages and lots on weekends). NO REGISTRATION is needed –
just show up. We meet at 9:45 AM for a 10 AM departure on the brick plaza
in front of the Shirlington Library / Signature Theater on Campbell Avenue in
Shirlington (in Arlington). We select a restaurant, then go to lunch at about 12
PM. See you there!!!! [P.S. Between 10 AM and 12 PM you are welcome to join
the leader on the bike trails of Arlington (the Arlington Loop: traveling first on a
portion of the W&OD Trail, then the Custis Trail, the Mount Vernon Trail, and
the Four Mile Run Trail) with a rest stop in Lyon Village, and a brief regrouping
at Gravelly Point (cue sheet on PPTC website). The 3-4 miles on the Custis
Trail are hilly; the rest of the ride is pretty flat. Leader rides a slow "C" pace;
all levels welcome (those wanting more or fewer miles may wish to continue
up the W&OD and return to join us for the main event: lunch!). The ride leader
is very likely to cancel the ride if the temperature during the hours of the ride is
less than 40 degrees, the chance of rain is greater than 30%, or the wind speed is
greater than 10 MPH. If the weather looks doubtful it is particularly important
to check the Ride Schedule on the PPTC website for a late cancellation notice.
Alternatively, you may email the ride leader to see if the ride is a go.
Ron Trueworthy [[email protected]]
C (MH) * 27 * VA * 10:00 AM * Gunston ES (GES)
Lorton Springfield Loop
Here's a challenging ride that's Northern Virginia suburban with a little bit of
rural. Moderately hilly to hilly. Take a spin and judge for yourself. Part of the
route goes past a section of the old Lorton Penitentiary in the latter half. Lunch
afterwards at a nearby eatery. Call in the event of questionable weather. For
detailed directions, do an internet map search on Gunston Elementary School,
Lorton, VA, or contact the ride leader.
Jeff Mankie [[email protected]] 571-332-2130
CC * 25 - 30 * MD * 10:30 AM * Whole Foods Silver Spring
Creek to Beach
In this new year, this is a new ride start from the Whole Foods parking lot near
Fenton and Ellsworth Sts. in downtown Silver Spring . There is a large parking
lot here and bathrooms, food and drink inside the deli for before and after the
ride. Park in the corner near the church and meet at Fenton and CVS near the
door to the snack bar. Ride will include a loop through Takoma Park, Rock
Creek Park, Kensington, and possibly Bethesda. No go on wet roads or below
35 degrees at the start.
Jerry Collins [[email protected]] 240-281-4861
CC * 28 * MD * 10:00 AM * Sandy Spring Fire Station
Olney Winter Warmup
We will start at the fire station in Sandy Spring, then head up into Brookeville
and Howard County, with moderate but short hills. I will lead at a CC pace and
may need someone to share lead/sweep. Faster and slower riders are welcome
but the ride leader will stay with the CC level, no drops. Brief rest stop at
mile 11 at the High's. Optional post-ride lunch at the Urban BBQ (BBQ, beer,
veggie burgers) near start point, on Rt 108. The start is17921 Brooke Rd, Sandy
Spring, MD 20860; meet at far left parking lot. There is no rest room at the
start, but Passions Bakery Café is 1/2 mile down the road on 108/Brooke (816
Olney Sandy Springs Road). They have coffee and a bathroom and great baked
goods!!! Or there is a shopping center near Rt 97 and Rt 108. Cue sheets will be
provided but can also be found in cue sheet library (Olney Meander Reverse).
Martine Palmiter [[email protected]] 301-787-4556]
CC/B/BB/A * 40/50 * MD * 10:00 AM * SGR Adventure Playground
(SGRAP)
The Winter Ride
Welcome back to the ninth annual installment of this ever popular Sunday ride
out of South Germantown Recreational Park. We will do between 40 and 50
miles, depending on the weather. We will ride on relatively flat roads up to
Sugarloaf and back all in a big circle. All bikes are welcome, but fixed gears are
particularly invited. As usual I will be riding my
Cinelli. We will start at the Adventure Playground on Germantown Park Drive.
At the traffic circle adjacent to the "old" parking lot (SGR) head southeast
(opposite direction of SoccerPlex) on Germantown Park Dr. and go about 1/2
mile. You will see the playground on the right with a large parking lot adjacent.
You will also notice a nice heated bathroom, hence the reason for this location.
A:Tim Guilford * [tim . guil4d.net] 301/704-2723
BB:KarenBerlage [[email protected]] 301/963-1482
B:Paul Huey-Burns [[email protected]] 202/255-2785 and/or
Jim Quinn [[email protected]] 301/916-8868
CC: Carol Linden [[email protected]] 240-205-5035
CC * 25 - 30 * DC * 10:30 AM * Tenleytown Metro
Tenley Surprise
I will pull a ride from the cue sheet library or use my own cue. We might go
through Potomac, Bethesda, Beach Dr or Sligo Creek Park. Meet at the corner
of Albemarle and Wisconsin Ave near the Metro station. If you live near a Metro
station, this is easy to get to. After ride snacks at Panera Bread or one of the
many restaurants nearby. No go on wet roads or below 35 degrees at the start.
CC (MH) * 43 * MD * 10:00 AM * Riley's Lock (RIL)
Ag Reserve Meander
Fingers crossed, roads will be dry and the temps moderate so we can enjoy a
pleasant winter tour around the Ag Reserve. With Montevideo shortly after
the start you'll be warmed up in time for the climb UP Mount Nebo! The
rollers remain steady and the traffic light throughout. Unless the weather is
horrendous (steady precipitation), I'll show up ready to ride. See the Pedalers
Google Group, MD ride forums and the online schedule for any weather related
announcements.
Denise Cohen [[email protected]] 301-233-7535
BB/A (H) * 60 * VA * 10:30 AM * Haymarket Bicycles Fit Studio
The Plains Bear, Bull, and Bust (CX)
This ride combines the best of dirt climbs in the vicinity of The Plains, with
the route dipping down to Warrenton for Bear Wallow, then looping through
Marshall, and finally a "lollipop" that includes climbs on Bull Run Mountain
and Bust Head. We will stop in Marshall at the Red Truck Bakery (mile 33).
Note: Ride starts from Happy Creek Coffee & Tea/Haymarket Bicycle Fit
Studio, 6485 Main St, The Plains VA 20198 See http://RideWithGPS.com/
routes/11391013 for the route. Check the PPTC website and Google Group
"Pedalers" for updates, if the weather's iffy. No go if chance of ice or unplowed
snow on roads or temps less than 20F.
David Helms [[email protected]] 301-466-5561
15
A * 44 * VA * 9:00 AM * Lake Braddock HS
Tour de Mason Neck In December
Leonardo debuted "A New Adventure & Leader" from this start site; this month,
though he is no longer so new himself, he does have a new adventure, going
southwestwards to Mason Neck. See http://RideWithGPS.com/routes/11410445
for the route. Check with the leader if conditions are dubious.
Leonardo Vieira [[email protected]] 703-731-1127
(SHR) * 40°/30%
C/CC (MF/MH) * 35 & 50 * VA * 10:30 AM * Brentsville Park (BVP) *
45°/50%
Forward and Reverse
Mostly downhill and always a tailwind. The ride is a compilation of mostly flat
terrain in the Brentsville and Nokesville area, first traveling clockwise. When
just short of BVP, the direction of travel somehow becomes counterclockwise
and retraces itself. If need be, at that point you can shorten the ride to only 17
miles. Traffic is very light, and the flat route is easy pedaling especially with
the guaranteed, aforementioned tailwind. So come on out! The short route is
particularly appealing to tandems. Ascent is a gentle 1,330 or 38 feet per mile
for the short route and 2,050 or 42 feet per mile for the long route. IMPORTANT
NOTE: Ride start is behind the Brentsville Presbyterian Church. I may cancel
if the forecasted high is below 45 degrees or chance of precip is 50% or more.
Please call if weather looks marginal. HELMETS REQUIRED. Toilet not
available at ride start, but there are many rest stop opportunities along the way.
Questions? Call me at home NLT 2 hours prior to ride start or on cell thereafter.
Len Wilkinson [[email protected]] 703-455-0368 or Cell 703-350-9209
(SGRAP)
The Winter Ride
16
Georgetown Tailgate Ride
This awesome multi-class ride caters to all bicyclists in the Club. While all
rides will enjoy Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park and scenic northwest DC
neighborhood roads, the routes vary based on ride class. The CC through A
routes favor great quiet roads to Potomac and adjoining areas before heading
back to DC along Beach Drive with one to two rest stops. These latter rides will
feature rolling hills and periodic lung-inhaling climbs. All are welcome and
encouraged to stay around at ride’s end where the club will partially subsidize
lunch at Mr. Smith’s pub across the street from the park. Depending on the
weather, we will kick up the distance by around 10 miles if it is warmish. Note:
we highly encourage folks to leave their vehicles at home. For those needing to
drive, you can probably find free parking on residential streets above M Street
or otherwise try www.spothero.com for discounts at the local parking lots.
Matt Birnbaum* [[email protected]] 202-702-5720
Linda Kolko [[email protected]] 301-785-1342
CC * 30* DC * 10:00 AM * Georgetown Waterfront Park
Debi Strong [[email protected]] 703-568-8011
B * 30* DC * 10:00 AM * Georgetown Waterfront Park
Ron Tripp [[email protected]] 301-237-5079
Tony Lehr [[email protected]] 202.497.4064
BB/A * 40 * DC * 9:30 AM * Georgetown Waterfront Park
The rider leaders expect to maintain a BB pace, but faster riders are welcome
on the route.
Matt Birnbaum [[email protected]] 202-702-5720
Matt Ossolinski [[email protected])
Steve Wartik [[email protected]] 703-927-4722
D * 10 * MD * 10:00 AM * Thomas Farm Community Center
Carl Henn Millennium Trail Loop
This 10 mile loop is dedicated and named for Carl Henn, a Rockville city
bike advocate. We'll meet in front of the Thomas Farm Community Center,
bathrooms open. The paved trail loops around Rockville. Note: We will cross
a few busy intersections and there are a couple of long slopes uphill. This ride
is a good ride for D riders since it mostly stays on the trail. There will be
some crossings at lights at busy intersections. We will regroup at the top of
any inclines and no one will be dropped. Make sure your tires are pumped up,
you have a helmet and water. Ride start location is at 700 Fallsgrove Drive,
Rockville, MD 20850. Online information about the ride start, including map
and directions, is at http://www.rockvillemd.gov/index.aspx?NID=403
Gordon Smith [[email protected]] 240-299-3384
C * 23 * VA * 10:30 AM * Pohick Bay Park (PHP) * 45°/50%
Pohick Bay Social Ride
This relaxing social ride goes along lightly-traveled roads and paved bike trails
on this scenic peninsula near Occoquan. We will ride through Mason Neck
State Park, the adjacent National Wildlife Preserve, Gunston Hall historic
plantation, and some lovely neighborhoods facing the Potomac River. There is
even a covered bridge along the route. This is mostly a flat ride (only one hill
towards the end) with lots of shade and natural beauty the whole way. There
is no charge to get into Pohick Bay Park if you have a driver's license showing
you live in Alexandria, Arlington, City of Fairfax, Fairfax County, Falls Church
or Loudoun. If you live outside these member jurisdictions then there is a $7
entrance fee per car to get in the Park. Once inside the Park, continue straight
to the first parking lot on the right. The ride leader may cancel the ride if the
forecasted high during the time of the ride is below 45 degrees or chance of
precip is 50% or more. Please check the on-line ride schedule or contact the
ride leader if the weather looks marginal.
Peter Dassira [[email protected]] 703-851-2274
A/BB (H) * 61 * MD * 10:00 AM * Brunswick MARC Train Station
Sailing to Shepherdstown
This ride will start off from the Brunswick MARC train station parking lot. To
arrive at the meeting location on South Maple Ave, go past the Brunswick train
station on your right, cross 3 sets of train tracks, and park in the parking lot of
your left. The route will have 3 featured climbs. The first will be up Gapland
Road to Gathland State Park. We’ll zoom down towards Harpers Ferry and then
encounter the second featured climb up Hoffmaster Rd. We’ll have a chance
to recover by cycling along the Potomac River (via roads) to Shepherdstown
where we can refill water bottles and grab a quick snack. From Shepherdstown,
we’ll pass through Sharpsburg and then size up our last major climb up Reno
Monument Road. We’ll make a quick stop at South Mountain Creamery
before returning to Brunswick. There are restrooms on the C&O canal near
the Brunswick starting location. The ride will be cancelled if the temperature
is expected to be below 20 at the start time, or precipitation has occurred or
expected during the time we’ll be riding. Check the PPTC Web site for last
minute updates (a no-go decision will be made 2 hours before the scheduled
start). http://ridewithgps.com/users/66767/routes
Mike Skinnell [[email protected]] 703-231-4855
TANDEM * 20 * MD/DC * 1:00 PM * KENSINGTON
Kensington Parkway-Beach Drive Loop
We will meet at Kensington RR Station, 10417 Howard Avenue, and loop down
Kensington Parkway and Beach Drive to horse stables, 5100 Glover Rd, NW,
Wash DC. Cue sheets will be provided. Cancel if precipitation or temperature
below 40 deg F. Enjoy the charm of Old Kensington and beauty of Rock Creek.
Jean Chin and Don Schneider, [email protected], cell 301-351-0149
(SHR) * 40°/30%
(SGRAP)
The Winter Ride
January 18 – Monday
C (MH) * 27 * VA * 10:30 AM * South Run Rec Center (SRRC) * 45°/50%
Loop de Loops
This is my traditional MLK Day ride. Traditionally, the temperature is usually
in the low-to-mid 60s, and it snows the next day. The ride itself is close in and
takes us on several loops that use bike paths or quiet and wide neighborhood
streets. The first loop is around Burke Lake Park and also using short, hilly
17
roads inside Fairfax County Parkway and Ox Road. Another is past the old
Lorton prison and into Occoquan Village - the hill out of the village is very
LONG but gradual. Yet another loop is along Lake Mercer and points east; a
short portion of this loop has been widened and repaved, but it is still a narrow
bike path. HELMETS REQUIRED. Directions: South Run Rec Center, 7550
Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA. Go through the paved parking lot adjacent to
the Rec Center and to the gravel lot at the lower field house. I may cancel if the
forecasted high is below 45 degrees or chance of precip is 50% or more. Please
check the PPTC ride forum if weather looks marginal. Questions? Call me a
day before the ride or on my cell phone thereafter.
Len Wilkinson [[email protected]] 703-455-0368 or CELL: 703-350-9209
B/BB * 30ish/50ish * MD * 10:00 AM * Glen Echo Park (GLE)
The Usual Monday Ride From Glen Echo
Moderately hilly ride through Potomac, with a probable stop at a cafe near
the end. Leaders regroup periodically with an average speed of 16 - 18. We
will have longer cue sheets available on the holiday. No go in rain or on wet
roads. Please park in the lower portion of the lot, off Oxford Rd, farthest from
Macarthur Rd.
BB:* Warren Farb [[email protected]] 301/320-4942
B: Cathy Wilson [[email protected]] 703/328-1029
CC/B (MH) * 25-30 * MD * 10:00 AM * Cabin John Regional Park
Cabin John Fever
Join us for a challenging ride in the Potomac area. Learn about neighborhood
streets and trails connecting Potomac to Rockville, Bethesda, and beyond
while having fun and meeting other cyclists. Cue sheets provided at ride
start. Ride length will depend on the weather. We will ride in cold weather so
please wear appropriate cold weather cycling gear! Cabin John Regional Park
(CJRP) is located at 7400 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda MD. Use Tuckerman
Lane entrance to park (not Westlake Drive). The entrance sneaks up on you so
be careful when arriving. If you see the Cabin John park sign, you are literally
there and need to turn into the entrance IMMEDIATELY. Meet near the exit of
this parking lot (behind the Do Not Enter sign that is visible from Tuckerman
lane). Relax in CJRP after the ride or stop at Cabin John Shopping Center &
mall (corner of Tuckerman Lane & Seven Locks Road) for California Tortilla,
Subway, Broadway Pizza, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, Baskin Robins, BGR,
Jerry’s, McDonalds, etc. There’s something for everybody! No-go in rain, wet
roads, ice or snow. If you have questions about go/no-go, check the website for
cancellation before you head out.
Julie Marders [[email protected]] 240-750-0754 (cell, texts OK)
All * MD * 8:45 AM * Dewey Park
Brett Flemming’s Adult Rodeo Skills Workshop
Learn from our Annual Meeting guest speaker how to feel more confident
riding and keep yourself safe. See page 12 for details. Followed by a ride to the
meeting. Attend just this workshop or both the workshop and ride! (Dewey Park
address: 11720 Dewey Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20906)
Ken Osterweil [[email protected]] 301-949-6247; 301-980-7951 (cell)
D/C/CC * 20 * MD * 9:30 AM * Dewey Park
Ride to the Annual Meeting with Brett Flemming
This slower paced demonstration ride is 10 miles each way and will follow
Brett’s skills workshop which starts at 8:45 AM at the same location. Please
note, we will have drivers available to transport your potluck offerings so you
can ride hassle-free!
Ken Osterweil [[email protected]] 301-949-6247; 301-980-7951 (cell)
B/BB * 8 – 45? * MD * 9:30 AM * Takoma Park Metro
Annual Meeting Ride
What better way to get to the Potomac Pedaler’s Annual Meeting than to ride
our bikes! If the weather is not too frightful, we’ll take the long way out by
first heading to Travillah and then going to the meeting. If the weather is very
18
cold or windy, we will shorten to accommodate the mood and condition. I will
ride at a mellow, Holiday-laden BB pace or less, and will make sure that no one
is dropped so A, B and CC riders are welcome. Take the Metro to the start, or
drive and find parking on the street. If temperatures that day are predicted to
stay below freezing, check the Forums or Pedalers Group Friday night, or call
my cell after 7:30 a.m., for possible revised start time and/or distance. No go in
steady rain or if there is frozen precipitation on the ground.
Eric Pilsk [[email protected]] 240-893-3499
(SHR) * 40°/30%
C/CC * 43 * VA * 10:00 AM * Harris Teeter Heritage Hunt SC * 38°/50%
The Mug and Muffin Ride
This is a good winter ride if roads are dry and frost free, on pretty rolling terrain
that tracks old to new Virginia in western Prince William County with enough
rollers to make it interesting. Coffee or Hot Chocolate and a Muffin at the rest
stop. No go if temperature or wind chill is below 38 degrees or roads are wet
at start time or if rain or snow is predicted. Ride start is Harris Teeter Heritage
Hunt Shopping Center: 13901 Heathcote Blvd. Gainesville, VA 20155. Please
check the PPTC ride forum if weather looks marginal or call the ride leader.
John Zebatto [[email protected]] 540-680-0077
(SGRAP)
The Winter Ride
B(H) * 50 or less * MD * 10:30 AM * Fulton Park and Ride * 35 deg/No go
in rain
Howard County Loops
This was my normal training route when I lived in Laurel. It is a loop with
possibilities from 9 miles to the full 50 mile loop which goes all the way up
to Frederick Rd. I'll let the weather and consensus decide on the loop that the
group will ride although anyone is free to take any or none of the shortcuts. I
will not ride a distance longer than the temperature. This is a new ride start for
this ride as no one seems to want to drive the additional two miles to Bollman
Bridge Elementary. Rest rooms across the street at McDonalds.
Bob Bernstein [[email protected]] 240/593-2539
CC * 25 - 30 * MD * 10:30 AM * Whole Foods Silver Spring
Creek to Beach
In this new year, this is a new ride start from the Whole Foods parking lot near
Fenton and Ellsworth Sts. in downtown Silver Spring. There is a large parking
lot here and bathrooms, food and drink inside the deli before and after the ride.
Park in the corner near the church and meet at Fenton and CVS near the door to
the snack bar. Ride will include a loop through Takoma Park, Rock Creek Park,
Kensington, and possibly Bethesda . No go on wet roads or below 35 degrees
at the start.
(SHR) * 40°/30%
C*21*MD*11:00 AM * Olney Swim Center
Olney Loop
This ride will loop along the ICC, the Matthew Hensen Trail and up through
Olney. There are constant hills, but none of them too arduous. It’s a good shorter
ride for colder weather. We’ll stop at Sol Azteca for lunch in Olney. Bring locks
and lunch money. Check the website for cancellations. If there is snow on the
trails, we won't go. We leave promptly at 11 am.
Deborah Turton [[email protected]] 301-482-0675
(SGRAP)
The Winter Ride
b
Notes From the Chair, Continued from page 3.
We will save detailed discussion of our financial picture for a later issue
of Pedal Patter. Suffice it to say, we are extraordinarily healthy fiscally.
Our revenue streams are solid, and our rainy day savings are more than
ample. We consequently are in a position where we can smartly reinvest
to get better bang for our buck. This includes grant making and the
revamping of our website and virtual footprint.
We made over $16,000 in grants last year alone and have contributed
around $70,000 since 2007. These donations have gone to major
bicycle advocacy groups; they also have been targeted more narrowly
at particular projects, including our partnership with Phoenix Bikes who
work with at risk teens, another group offering weekly tandem bike
rides to visually-impaired individuals, and our tying into the League
of American Bicyclists’ call with WABA in overcoming obstacles that
prevent more women from participating in group recreational bike rides.
As we look forward to 2016, a major focus will be in revamping our
website as we begin a relation with a new webmaster. Among the first
major changes that should be visible to all will be rolling out a new
user-friendlier ride calendar. The web also will better integrate the great
content in Pedal Patter and social media thanks to the talents of Brenda
Ruby, our part-time communications director.
We further will be looking to more seriously examine what we can do to
better foster safer bicycling given too many accidents and deaths. Too
many are unnecessarily getting hurt.
Finally, as we continue to offer a wide diversity of rides and touring
opportunities, we also will be looking to enhance other opportunities for
us to socialize together. This is after all our Club’s 50th anniversary, and
we have much to celebrate.
Happy spinning.
19
PPTC 2015/2016
Events Calendar
Contact [email protected] to get an event on the calendar.
Jan. 4
2015 Award Nominations Due (See page 9 for details.)
Jan. 23
Annual Meeting & Potluck Events (See page 1 for details)
8:45 AM – Adult Bike Rodeo, Viers Mill Rec Center
9:30 AM – Ride to Annual Meeting, Viers Mill Rec Center
Noon – Annual Meeting & Potluck, River Road Unitarian Congregation (Bethesda, MD)
April 29– Lewes Weekend, Lewes, DE
May 1
May 5-8 Spring Thaw & Tandem Rally, Cambridge, MD
Pedal Patter First Class Mail
Pedal Patter is normally sent via bulk mail. You have the option
of upgrading to First Class postage for $13.00 per year. Go to
our online store to purchase the First Class mailing upgrade and
we'll make the change to your account.
PPTC Rents Protective
Bike Boxes for Travel
Potomac Pedalers has several wheeled, hard-shell bike boxes (and one soft
case) for short-term rental. The boxes are available exclusively to club
members, and help keep your bike safe while traveling.
Demand for the boxes is high, particularly in the summer and fall. So
reserve early.
The rental price is $20 per week, and $3 per additional day, with a $20
minimum fee (nonrefundable). You will need your own tools, including
Allen wrenches and a pedal wrench, to disassemble your bike. These are not
provided by the club.
Size: 46” by 30” by 10”. (Many airlines charge an oversize luggage fee of
$50 or more each way; be sure to get specifics from your individual carrier.)
For more information, or to reserve a box, please email coordinator Ann
Corran in Montgomery County or Adam Goldberg in Virginia. Include
information on the dates of your trip AND approximately when you would
like to pick up and drop off the box.
Adam Goldberg, [email protected], 202.507.9900
Ann Corran, [email protected], 301.439.0631
No Longer Wish to Get Pedal Patter in the Mail?
Some people don’t want to get hard copy. Saves the club only
a small amount of money but it might save a small tree! To opt
out of receiving Pedal Patter by regular mail the instructions
below assume you have already logged onto the PPTC website
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To opt out you need to access your profile. To do this
1. Click on Manage Profile
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3. In the Additional Information section you will see a
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Why Bike Alone?
Join PPTC!
www.potomacpedalers.org
Enjoy the benefits of social and recreational bicycling in DC, MD,
and VA by joining the largest bike club on the East Coast!
POTOMAC PEDALERS offers hundreds of
year-roundbike rides for everyone.
With varying lengths and speeds, there are rides
to suit beginners to experienced cyclists
all over the Washington metropolitan area.
Plus we offer many weekend trips and
discounts to many bike shops and more!
Check out our website to find the best rides for you!
Potomac Pedalers Touring Club Membership Form
Name:________________________________________ New member  or Renewing 
Address:___________________________________________________________________
City:_____________________________________State:_______ Zip:__________________
Home Phone:________________________Work Phone:_____________________________
E-mail address:______________________________________________________________
Emergency contact:___________________________________________________________
Number of cycling members if it’s a family membership:_______Today’s Date:____________
PPTC is mostly a volunteer organization, and we cannot function without the assistance of
many members. If you can help with any of the categories below, please circle the number.
This information will be added to the PPTC database.
1. Leading rides
5. Database/computer expertise
2. Organizing or planning rides or events6. Writing a column for Pedal Patter
3. Recruiting volunteers 7. Seminar and workshops
4. Membership Drives 8. Non-cycling jobs at Club events
Where or from whom did you hear about PPTC ? _________________________________
To ensure speedy processing, make sure you fill out the form completely and LEGIBLY!
Allow 3-4 weeks for your application to be processed. Enclose check or fill out payment
information. Do not staple check to form. Mail to PPTC, 200 Little Falls Street, Suite 205, Falls
Church, VA 22046. You may also join the PPTC via our web site at www.potomacpedalers.org
Please DO NOT print the following in the Membership Directory:
 my entire listing  my phone number  my e-mail
20
Member Dues
1 year
Individual
$30
Family
$37
Lifetime
Student
$20
1st class postage $13
PPTC Membership Total:
Voluntary Contribution:
PPTC
PPTC Community Services Grant
Total Amount
Change of Address Form
2 years
$55
$69
$350
n/a
$26
$______
$______
$______
$______
Individuals must be 16 years or older.
Pedal Patter is mailed bulk rate. 1st class
delivery is availible for an additional $13
per year.
Payment: check
 credit card
VISA Master Card Discover
 American Express
Name on card______________________
Card #____________________________
Exp___/____Amount $_ ______________
Signature__________________________
-Notify the PPTC Business Office of your
move, especially if your Pedal Patter
arrives via third class mail (the Post
Office does not forward third class mail).
-Notify us by the 8th in order to affect that
month’s mailing.
-Include your phone number and legibly
PRINT all information. What you print is
what we will use as your record in the
database, as well as as your listing in the
Membership Directory.
-You may use this form to simply change
an e-mail address, phone #, a name, or
zip code.
-Mail this form, ALONG WITH YOUR
OLD MAILING LABEL, to: PPTC c/o
Core Association Services, Inc. 200 Little
Falls Street, Suite 205, Falls Church, VA
22046
Name
New Address______________________
________________________________
City_ ___________________State_____
Zip______________________________
Day phone________________________
Eve phone________________________
e-mail____________________________
goes into effect on:_ ________________

Brett Flemming - Potomac Pedalers

Transcription

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