March 2007 Archive

March 2007 Archive

3-15-2007 Rains Hope Ride Team Cycleworks presented by Lowe's Mortage is proud to be a part of the Raisin Hope Charity Ride on March 31, 2007. As most of you know, Georgia's favorite cycling son, Dalton native Saul Raisin suffered a life threatening brain injury last April in Circuit de la Sarthe, a prominent European Spring Classic. What many of you may not know is that Saul is doing wonderfully. He now drives again, manages most of his own affairs and has returned to the bike with mega-enthusiasm. His recovery is nothing short of amazing and he continues to astound physicians and his fellow pro cyclists with his recovery. The Raisin Hope Charity Ride will benefit the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, where Saul recovered from his injury. The Shepherd Center is one of the nation's leading rehabilitation hospitals, specializing in the treatment of people with spinal cord injuries, acquired brain injuries, multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions. Come join us on March 31 to support Saul! Also, check out all the wonderful items in the ebay auction. The bidding has begun!

LET THE FUN START! TDG IS SO ON!!!!! Look for full coverage Wed.-Sunday from Southeastern Cycling including two guests (Thanks Nello and Barbara!!) From Velonews.com "Organizers of the Tour de Georgia announced Wednesday that the race will occur as planned, crediting a coalition of committed sponsors with saving this year's edition of the race, scheduled for April 16-22.

It's gonna happen, after all.

The 667-mile, week-long stage race begins with a 97-mile race from Peachtree City to Macon and ends the following Sunday with a 77-mile circuit race in Atlanta.

Late last month, Georgia's Macon Journal reported that organizers were still scrambling to put together nearly half of the race's $2 million budget and were poised to cancel the event if the funds could not be found. On Wednesday, Medalist Sports' Chris Aronhalt announced that the race would come off as planned.

"On behalf of the Tour's Board of Directors (Georgia Partnership of Economic Development), the Georgia Cancer Coalition and Medalist Sports, we are genuinely appreciative of the numerous individuals and corporations who responded to the Tour's call to action for additional support," said Aronhalt, who serves as the executive director of the Tour de Georgia. "This is a powerful reflection of the importance of the Tour de Georgia to Georgia's tourism economy, to our corporate partners and host communities, and to the international cycling community. While we continue to explore additional opportunities for fundraising, we are confident and committed to making this race a reality for Georgia, for cancer awareness and for the global sport of cycling."

East Wesley Alert! Join Fellow Cyclists for a Press Conference in Front of City Hall
Thursday, March 15, at 4:00 P.M. On Wednesday, March 14, the Atlanta Bicycle Campaign and Buckhead homeowners filed an petition for injunction to halt the destruction and elimination of bicycle accommodations on East Wesley Road. The emergency petition was filed in the Fulton County Superior Court.

The Atlanta Bicycle Campaign has retained the services of the law firm Jones Day for litigating this case. The petition cites the City’s violation of its own ordinances, as well as state and federal law. We have given the City every opportunity to correct this problem short of legal action. We have no alternative at this time but to ask the courts to step in and stop this project before any more public dollars are wasted on an ill-conceived and dangerous boondoggle!

Please come to City hall at 4PM Thursday if at all possible to show public support for this legal action. The press conference will be on the Trinity Avenue side of City Hall - 55 Trinity Avenue.
Bring a bike if you can, but come regardless! See you there! Dennis Hoffarth, Executive Director, Atlanta Bicycle Campaign, atlantabike@mindspring.com

3-16-2007 Everyone, please keep Jackie Tyson and the others in your thoughts and prayers. I have known Jackie for several years. She is an integral part of the Tour De Georgia and one great person.

From Velonews.com:

Birrell said he was in shock Wednesday morning after a serious freeway accident involving Jackie Tyson, director of communications for the Tour de Georgia, Judy Staton of the Georgia Cancer Coalition and Australian Health Net-Maxxis rider Nathan O'Neill, who lives in Georgia. Tyson, Staton and O'Neill were returning from a Tour de Georgia press conference in Chattanooga, the finishing city of stage 3, when Tyson's Toyota 4Runner was reportedly bumped from the rear, causing it to crash into a guardrail and flip over multiple times.

Both passengers and the driver were wearing seatbelts. O'Neill, who was still recovering from a collision with a motorist while training in Australia in late January, received over 60 stitches in his left forearm and was bruised, with facial lacerations from shattered glass. O'Neill will miss next week's Redlands Classic, but is expected to race in Georgia in a month's time. Staton is stable and recovering in an Atlanta hospital, while Tyson remains in intensive care with extensive injuries and head injuries.

Birrell and his partner at Medalist, Chris Aronhalt, visited Tyson in the hospital Wednesday afternoon following surgery to treat wounds suffered when the driver's side roof collapsed. Birrell said Tyson was coherent both at the accident scene and after surgery, and is expected to fully recover, though it was unsure whether she would return in time for the event.

"Everybody is still in recovery mode," Birrell said.

Tyson's husband Jack told VeloNews via email that his wife was still in intensive care, and asked that well-wishers not send flowers - at least not yet. "Jackie is still in ICU so no flowers are permitted anyway. I think she will enjoy them more if we have a nice display waiting for her at home. We appreciate your support."

Poll of the Week Please vote in the Poll of the Week!

take my poll at: htmlGEAR.com Poll:

htmlGEAR.com

SE Cycling? Honestly, I'm tired of people sending me mean emails. I am seriously thinking of shutting the site down. I don't need to put up with this.

3-1-2007 Welcome FS Concepts! Welcome to a new Southeastern Cycling Advertiser, FS Concepts! Let FS Concepts design a personalized coaching plan for you!

Welcome Georgia Cup! Welcome to the Georgia Cup! Southeastern Cycling is supporting the Georgia Cup with some "face time" at the top of the page. Support the state's road cycling series!

**** It Passed! I'll say it (insert bad word here). The freakin ordinance passed. STUPID COMMISSIONER THOMPSON! Thank goodness I didn't vote for you!

From Tim Carroll: Well we lost, kind of. We also won.

The single file ordinance passed. Nobody wanted this version passed.
The homeowners and cyclists had written another version of the
ordinance that they felt was better for safety and helping everybody
get along. Thompson ignored everybody and passed his rather bizarre
version. He is very out of touch with everybody. The commission voted
for 200 pages of ordinances in one vote, so it passed 5-0. There was
no individual vote on each issue.

I still believe this violates Georgia law, however this ordinance is
pretty useless. Basically you have to ride single file in the
multi-use lane on the right of the road. That is unless you can't.
Then you can ride single file in the main lane. If you violate this
and ride two abreast, the police "may" ask you to leave Columns and
not return until 7 a.m. the next day. Which I guess means that if I
ride double file, I won't get to sleep in my bed that evening. Nobody
liked this. Not the not sleeping in my bed part, but the whole
ordinance.

I don't seem to think the police will be down there banishing people
for riding two abreast. However, I do see more horns being honked and
more motorists yelling at and buzzing cyclists. I think anger will
increase. However, I urge all cyclists to be sure to allow cars to
pass when behind you. I do this on all rides and it just makes sense.
I don't like the ordinance because I think it infringes on our access
to public roads and will lead to more restrictions. In the end the
commission is trying to legislate manners and common sense of both
cyclists and motorists. We should try to keep up our end. However, if
you are buzzed or threatened, call the police. Get any witnesses. I
don't think the police will do anything, but we should start leaving a
paper trail.

How did we win? The commissioners acknowledged that they need to start
building more areas for runners and cyclists. What may be coming up
soon is bike paths up Johnson Ferry to Lower Roswell, which would
connect up to what is going on in Roswell. I would hope one day that
we could have a path from the Johnson Ferry and Columns parking lot,
through the national park and Hyde Farm to Hyde Road and then to Lower
Roswell. However, the commissioners are very open now to increasing
bike paths in Cobb, including East Cobb. Call them on this. Write them
and thank them for this while encouraging it.

The commission also disccussed widening Columns to incorporate another
3 foot lane in each direction. I don't know if this is feasible. If
the median is narrowed the trees will surely be stressed and may die.
While 3 foot could be taken from the outside for about 1.5 miles very
easily, the middle section would be tough. Regardless the commission
knows it needs to look for solutions. I encourage everybody to keep
contacting the commissioners and pushing for more bike paths. We have
momentum and need to keep pushing. Also mention you are against any
restriction on cyclists access to public roads!

I talked with the president of the Chattahoochee Plantation Homeowners
Association, which includes the homes on Columns. (He and his board
were against the version of the ordinance passed, and wanted the one
the homeowners and the cyclists had written.) They are going to start
a permit process for the large groups that are dumping hundreds of
runners on the road with aid stations and such. Hopefully this will
cut down on the large running groups which are causing a lot of
congestion. I feel everybody should be able to run there, but the
large organized groups tend to stay together, run two or three
abreast, and cause large amounts of congestion.

In the end the meeting was worse than a Scott Stapp concert, although
honestly I have never seen a Scott Stapp concert and I am just
imagining. I met some nice people. I met some 9 hour Ironwoman who was
sending me nasty emails. She was just as nasty in person. How the
commission votes on issues all at once seems like a means to avoid
being held accountable. I think some people show uup to talk at these
meetings because they have nothing else to do. Wealthy areas like
Columns get immediate attention while poor areas in West Cobb with
serious issues are completely ignored- who wants to mess with a crack
house? Although West Cobb gets a ton of bike lanes! I guess the meth
manufacturers need them to cycle between making batches.

Commssioner Thompson is out of touch with everybody, seems to be old
and fragile and is not the sharpest knife in the drawer. Commssioner
Kesting is a very dull knife as well. Both Kesting and Thompson are
vulnerable, had to put up a fight in there repespected primaries in
their last election. A Republican is already planning a run against
Kesting, and I think she would be more vulnerable in her primary.
Thompson, if he runs again, can be beaten in the GOP primary, which is
the election in this part of Cobb. I think every cyclist should
support any opponent to all the commissioner since they made this vote
and you should let them know this. Olsen, Lee and Goreham may be safe,
but we should let them know that we care and vote.

Thanks to everybody who showed up and made an effort. Although the
ordinance did pass, and should be overturned by a judge, we made noise
and got a lot of attention which we can push to get some action. We
have momentum and should use it to our advantage. Lets turn this into
something good. Please support all the local advocacy groups- consider
becoming members and making donations. A large list of them is
available at bikecobb.blogspot.com, which I will keep up to archive
important material concerning cycling in Cobb. And again, contact your
local elected officials let them know you want more for cycling in our
community. http://bikecobb.blogspot.com

AJC Columns Article Cobb OKs law for cyclists
Bikes must ride single file on Columns Drive

By CRAIG SCHNEIDER
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 02/28/07

Cobb County officials approved a law Tuesday that restricts cyclists to riding single file on a 2.5-mile stretch of road where cyclists and drivers have clashed.

The County Commission approved the ordinance over the opposition of numerous cyclists who testified against the change on Columns Drive in east Cobb.

Commissioner Joe Lee Thompson, who represents the area, said he had thought the single-lane law was an agreeable compromise between the cyclists and residents who drive the road. He had originally floated a plan to ban cyclists from repeatedly riding laps around the road, then
came to the single-file plan after several meetings with riders and residents.

But the agreement between the two sides fell apart as more and more cyclists said they were concerned the new law would create a precedent that could spread to other communities.

The law will restrict the cyclists to riding single file on the shoulder of the road, traveling into the driving lane only when they need to pass. Over the years, drivers have complained that the
cyclists veer into the road and block traffic, while cyclists say the drivers speed and don't respect the riders' right to be there.

"Columns Drive is a residential street, not a park," Thompson said.

Mark Gernazian, a cyclist who participated in the meetings between the two groups, said he wanted the officials to simply keep the state law, which allows cyclists to ride two abreast. He said he did not believe many cyclists would support the new law.

"Just because you're making a law, doesn't make it happen," he said.

Homeowner Lawrie Jordan said he supported the new law.

"It will help us keep this residential neighborhood from being hijacked into a cyclists' training recreation ground," he said.

Trish's Note: Lawrie Jordan has been accused of running cyclists off the road and is the squeeky wheel.

MDJ Article Here is the Marietta Daily Journal article on Columns.

Team Myogenesis Announced With the 2007 season upon us, the Myogenesis Nutrition Pro-Am Cycling Team presented by Landmark Dodge, announces their roster. This year's team is built on the foundation of the successes from 2006, with the infusion of several U-23 talents, which will ensure that the Myogenesis Nutrition presented by Landmark Dodge program remains at the top-tier of Pro-Am teams. Look for these speedsters at races all over the southeast, including the fiercely competitive Georgia Cup (www.georgiacup.com) , the USA crit series (www.usacrits.com) as well as various NRC races up and down the east coast. This year will also see the team making trips to the Tour of Jamaica, Tour of Tobago, and the Bermuda Gran Prix.

The roster will have returning former pro, Jonathan Atkins (GA), winner of the 2006 MAR Georgia Cup; Cleve Blackwell (GA), winner of 2006 KOM Georgia Cup; former pro and 2006 Georgia State Criterium Champion, Ryan Barnett (GA); Casey Magner (GA); 2 time Georgia State Cyclocross Champion, Brady Rogers (GA); Travis Sherman (AL); 2004 United States Paralympics Cycling Team Captain, silver and bronze medal winner in the Athens, Greece Paralympics, 2004 ESPY award finalist, Ron Williams (AL); Daryl Reynolds (GA); as well as added U-23 racers Thomas Brown (GA); Jafer Beizer (GA) and Michael Lanham (AL), Tim Barrett (GA)

This year the team will once again be working with Camp Sunshine (www.mycampsunshine.com), which is a specialized camp for children affected by cancer. Sponsors for the team include Myogenesis Nutrition (www.myogenesis.com) , Landmark Dodge (www.landmarkdodge.com) , AIM Marketing Solutions (www.aimmarketingsolutions.com) , Bike Center (www.bikecenterusa.com) , C.H. Martin Orthotics and Prosthetics (www.chmartinco.com) and Gold's Gym. The team will be riding Blue Competition Cycles RC-7’s (www.rideblue.com) , Maxxis Tires (www.maxxis.com) , American Classic Wheels (www.amclassic.com), Tifosi Optics (www.tifosioptics.com), Helmets By UVEX (www.uvexsports.com) Clothing will be provided by Louis Garneau (www.louisgarneau.com) Shoes by Sidi (www.sidiusa.com) .

YOUR Team News Does your team have news or an announcement? Email sttarlite@hotmail.com.

Silver Comet News http://www.trailexpress.com/silvercomet/
TRAIL ALERT A Contractor will be closing a section of the Silver Comet Trail near Mile Marker (MM) 16 to MM 17, starting about March 5th. A drainage pipe will be installed underneath the trail so that the water from a new subdivision will not flood the trail corridor. A proposed detour for trail users could not be implemented due to the topography. The contractor is looking at starting work on March 5th and will hopefully reopen the trail no later than March 10th.

3-2-2007 Tina Pic Wins in Australia Tina Pic won the final stage of the Geelong Women's Tour in Australia this week. Go Tina!

Ride to the Capitol Don't forget that the Ride to the Capitol is Monday, March 6! Please register and show your support for cycling in the state! I can't ride in it this year, but I'll be there with my camera for the lunch and rally.

In its second year, “Georgia Rides To The Capitol” is again a free-to-participants event where cyclists embark on police-escorted rides to the Capitol raising support for improved cycling conditions and awareness in Georgia. The first 2,000 PRE-REGISTERED riders will receive a FREE lunch too. The event is Tuesday, March 6 during the state legislature’s 2007 session.

All event information, including on-line, FREE, PRE-REGISTRATION, sponsor logos/links, and start locations (the ride has expanded to three primary locations this year, Roswell, Marietta, and Decatur), is available at:
http://www.GeorgiaRidesToTheCapitol.org

If you can't ride that day, but wish to help out, volunteers and support are welcome.
TO volunteer for the:
- Roswell start, contact BikeRoswell! at ebroadwell(at)bikeroswell.com
- Marietta start, contact Free-Flite Bicycles at info(at)freeflite.com
- Decatur start, contact Bicycle South at info(at)bicyclesouth.com
- Capitol end, contact GEORGIA BIKES! at georgiabikeshq(at)georgiabikes.org
TO lend financial support:
- see http://www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1369499

Note that select bicycle retailers will be closed the morning of the event to help stage the event and facilitate staff participation. At this point in time it is known that the Bicycle South and Free-Flite Bicycles stores are doing so.

Apologies for any cross-posting that you may experience.

DAVID CRITES
Executive Director, GEORGIA BIKES!

Welcome Sunny King Criterium! Welcome to a new advertiser, the Sunny King Criterium. The Sunny King Crit is part of the NRC Calendar and is one of the top crits in the Southeast!

3-5-2007 More on the TdG's Financial Troubles The Velonews article is here.
Apparently the ABC article the other week was to ferret out any possible major sponsors. From what I've read, heard, and talked to people, cancellation is not likely to happen. I'm not saying it isn't going to be cancelled, but it isn't likely.

Daylight Savings Time Daylight Savings Time is around 2:00 am on Sunday, March 11th (or the night of March 10th to set your clocks). Most group rides will be starting. Some will begin at 6:00, some at 6:30. Please check with the ride leader. I know the Thursday night Roswell ride will not start officially until April 5th. The crit will start at 6:30. Since DST starts so early, it will still be getting dark around 6:30. I highly suggest that everyone invest in a small white front light and a rear blinkie, so that you can be safe and be seen by cars. Your favorite local bike shop carries a wide selection.

Pedalpalooza From SORBA Woodstock: The date has been set for May 5, 2007 for PEDALPALOOZA Blankets Creek trail system MTB Festival.

The idea of a local MTB Festival to show appreciation to our members and local supporting bike shops was the brain child of Sorba- Woodstock visionary Chris Griffin (Chris is almost Cult like Charismatic too).

We will be hosting the Festival with Support of Demo Bikes from Local Bike Shops and a multitude of other vendors as well.

There will be regularly scheduled supported group rides for all skill levels. We are KID Friendly so bring your children of any skill level as we will have rides and events for them too! Food will be available for Donations. Donations will benefit Cherokee High School Bike Club. Parking will not be an issue as the Presbiterian Church next to Blankets is donating their entire parking lot to us for overflow parking.

Josh "J-Money" Boggs is the event organizer. Any questions about setting up at the event or volueteering for the event should be directed to him at carolina_cyclist_01@hotmail.com

March 17 WBL Ride From the WBL: "Get your WBL On: March 17 WBL Exhibition Ride: 10 a.m. Details coming. This is no longer an open weekend. Sprint at end with $100 winner take all on the line. More coming. Briggs Carney, Superstar"

3-6-2007 From Tim Carroll: "Just to fill in people on the happenings at Columns the first weekend of the new ordinance.

There are two new temporary signs at the beginning of Columns. One is
a "Your Speed Is Sign," which I thought meant a new game to see who
could get the high score. Sadly, it does not pick up cyclists well, if
at all. Maybe we could complain and get a more sensitive sign. The
other sign says "Buckle Up," "Bicyclists Single File," and "Strictly
Enforced." A friend and I rode Saturday and when traffic was clear
rode side by side on our warm-up lap talking, yet were not banished.
The auto traffic was much closer to the speed limit the entire weekend
and motorists were on their best behavior.

I think there were more police than cyclists for much of Saturday
morning. For parts of the morning there were four Cobb County Police
cars circling Columns. What a ridiculous waste of manpower! There were
also two police on mountain bikes who made one (1) lap before leaving.
The female officer seemed to have a lot of trouble figuring out how to
put her helmet on, so I am guessing they were not very experienced. I
doubt they would be chasing down any law-breaking triathletes. When
they first showed up, I reminded them to ride single file. They did
not find that too amusing which meant passing them on the road and
saying "Hey, be careful, the pigs are undercover out here," would
probably not go over well. When I left for the Airport Ride on Sunday,
I only saw one police car. I am sure this increase is temporary,
although my previous prediction of no increase was wrong so don't
believe anything I say.

(Speaking of the Airport Ride, is it now officially over for the season, since DST came early?)

If you do cycle out there and get a chance to talk to the police, thank them for being out there. Be friendly, or at least wave hello at them. Encourage them to keep an eye out for speeders and aggressive motorists. I doubt they are thrilled with having to patrol the area.

One good thing is that there was no large, organized group of runners
that have become a very common on weekend mornings. I understand they
have started a permit process for these. While I do like the charity
groups and all the good they do, the congestion their huge groups
caused was becoming dangerous. Without a group Saturday, the going was
much smoother for everyone else on the road.

There was one altercation Saturday which sadly involved a cyclist, or
pinhead, on a Bianchi who was threatening three runners for not
staying single file. He ended up getting off his bike, throwing it and
charging the runners. The male runner shoved him back, and so the
cyclist, or pinhead, pulled out a pen and paper and tried to get his
name. Invariably the police became involved.

#1 The ordinance as written does not mention runners.

#2 Everybody needs to worry about themselves, and not other people.

#3 Don't be aggressive like the motorists we complain about.

#4 Don't make cyclists look bad.

Remember on Tuesday it is the "Georgia Rides to the Capital." With all
the issues facing cyclists, this might be the time to take a morning
off from work and make ourselves visible. If nothing else, get
involved with a local advocacy group, join or donate some money.
Oppose all elected officials who are not pro cycling, including all 5
on the Cobb Commission. Tim, http://bikecobb.blogspot.com

Cycling Calendar Contact: Imelda March, Director of Communications and PR,Team Kenda Tire Women's Cycling, http://www.teamkendatire.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Team Kenda Tire Women’s Cycling launches fundraiser

(Chicago, Illinois – March 5, 2007) - Team Kenda Tire is pleased to announce that it is conducting a fundraiser beginning today. The team will be selling calendars with all proceeds going toward the overall operations of the team.

Interested individuals wishing to support Team Kenda Tire efforts are requested to visit http://www.teamkendatire.com/calendar.php to use the secure payment service provider to purchase the calendars. The secure payment channel will accept credit cards and checks.

We wish to thank teammate Debra Wood who worked endlessly to make the calendar publication a reality.
About Team Kenda Tire Women’s Cycling: Team Kenda Tire began in 1999 as Team Ameritech with nine riders who excelled at bicycle racing. Over the years, the team has steadily grown in size and now boasts both Elite and Development teams with “hubs” of riders in Phoenix, Boulder, Chicago, Cincinnati, Des Moines, Atlanta and Carlisle, Ontario (Canada.). The team competes in the United States focusing on the National Race Calendar and in top Canadian events sanctioned by the Canadian Cycling Association. (http://www.teamkendatire.com)

Included in the calendar are Georgia Riders:
Chamblee Abernethy, Athens, GA
Kari Bradley, Decatur, GA
Allison Carter, Jesup, GA
Ann Koehler, Atlanta, GA
Gina Voci, Atlanta, GA
Caroline Soong. Memphis, TN

3-7-2007 Ride to the Capitol I managed to sneak away from the office for about an hour and a half with my boss's blessing to go to the Ride to the Capitol. I know there were at least 600 preregistered riders, and I'd say there were about 800 or more there. I'm sure we will hear about the numbers within the next few days. I joined at Auburn Ave. and Courtland for the last 6-7 blocks. It was amazing seeing the huge groups from Roswell, Marietta, and Decatur converge on Courtland in a well orchestrated dance, assisted by about 25 motorcycle police officers from the various cities and counties. They closed down the last few blocks about 10 minutes before the groups merged. It was a site to behold! Groups also rode from Peachtree City and McDonough, which had over 40 riders. Amazing!

I listened to a few of the speeches and heard the last bit of the DOT representative saying that a new $50 million initiative for bicycle and pedestrian facilities is in some budget in Georgia over the next few years. A good point brought up by several of the speakers was that cyclists are voters and tax payers. Don't tell us to get off the road when we pay our gas, ad velorum, and property taxes. I loved that last sentiment.

Trish's Photo Gallery My photo gallery is here.

AJC Photo Gallery-R2TC The AJC has a photo gallery of the R2TC.

Kennesaw Mountain Public Meeting United States Department of the Interior

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, 905 Kennesaw Mountain Drive, Kennesaw, GA 30152, (770) 427-4686, (770) 528-8399 FAX
March 6, 2007
Mountain Road Users (pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists):

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park will hold a public meeting on Monday, March 26, at 7:00 p.m. to present draft management alternativesfor the mountain road that address critical safety issues involving itsmixed use by pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. The meeting will be
held in the Visitor Center auditorium. These draft alternatives were developed with input generated from the public meeting held on January 22, 2007 and ensuing visitor letters and email messages, along with recommendations from transportation planners and engineers and park staff. The park also consulted with other national parks that have similar management challenges.

Copies of the draft management alternatives will be distributed at the meeting, and you will have an opportunity to ask questions, get clarification, and personally interact with myself and park staff.
This meeting is not intended to be a forum for individuals or groups to advocate for a preferred alternative, and organized groups representing a specific interest may wish to send one or more representatives rather than encouraging their entire membership to attend. We will make the draft
alternatives available for a 30-day public comment period from March 27 through April 25, directly to those who have provided us with contact information, on the park's web page, and at the park Visitor Center. This information will be made available to the media as well.

All comments should be submitted in writing during the 30-day public comment period so we have an accurate record to consider. Following the 30-day public comment period the park will evaluate and respond to all comments received. The visitor survey being conducted by the University
of Georgia will continue through August 2007 in order to compile a more complete data set that includes those who visit the park seasonally or are from outside the area and unable to attend the public meetings.

If the public comments and visitor survey indicate that the draft alternatives have adequately addressed the practical range of alternatives, we will identify a preferred alternative for implementation. If it becomes apparent that additional alternatives need to be considered
or that the draft alternatives need further refinement, a revised set of alternatives will be developed and the public comment process repeated. Once a preferred alternative is selected, if it involves substantial cost or time to implement, short-range options will be identified that can provide a measure of improved safety until the final solution is implemented.

Thank you for your cooperation and participation. Sincerely, Daniel R. Brown, Superintendent

Trish's note: Please read the above carefully. This is an input session for the proposed plan ONLY! Someone on a discussion list brought up a good point that Dan Brown seems to be genuinely interested the safety of all groups involved above anything else. This does not appear to be a Columns Dr. where cyclists are the perceived problem, and they are trying to ban them. The National Park Service is trying to find an equitable solution to balance their mission of promoting National history (the real reason for Kennesaw Mountain National Park) and those that use the park for recreation and exercise.

Double amputee Scott Rigsby rides from Roswell at the Ride to the Capitol. This guy rocked!

A statue wears his cycling gear.

3-8-2007 More Ride to the Capitol Kiet Do from Fox5 News had a nice story on their newscast. Video here.

3-9-2007 Monday Night Easy Women's Ride - Avondale Pizza (6:15 pm in March, 6:30 pm from April on) An easy/conversational/recovery paced ride. March will be around 15-16 miles and we'll increase the loop to 18-20 miles from the first Monday in April on. Great ride for learning about group riding skills and etiquette. No one will be left behind (no-drop ride). Meet in the parking lot behind Avondale Pizza in Avondale Estates (just east of Decatur). Please bring a red blinky for safety when daytime hours are limited.

Women's Wednesday Ride From Linda: " Daylight Savings Time arrives this weekend. Yeah! And you know what that means. We will be starting the Women's Only Ride from behind the Peachtree Bikes shop every Wednesday until November. The ride begins at 6:30 PM. For the first couple of weeks I highly recommend that you bring your lights, until the daylight catches up with our start time. As a reminder, the course is hilly and about 21 miles. It is not a beginner ride, but it is social. It is a great chance to work on your hill climbing and an occasional sprint. We will regroup at the top of a few climbs. Most of the ride is through the neighborhood of Buckhead, but we do have occasion to compete with car traffic, so please be courteous and ride single file if possible (but no more than 2 people abreast). Call out road hazards to your fellow riders. This ride is open to all women, not just Sorellas, so make them feel welcome. Last year we had quite a few women show up and we expect there could be even more this year. Depending on the size and abilities of the group we may split into 2 groups. We can play that by ear. See you next Wednesday. Linda"

InTown Rides Trish's Note: These are TRAINING/RACE paced rides. They are not for casual riders or beginners. There are no maps and no sag stops. Expect a 21-22+ mph pace.
The time changes on Sunday 03/11/07, which is three weeks earlier this year. Hence the "In-Town Classics" will begin earlier as well. By decree, for the weeks of 03/12/07, 03/19/07 and 03/26/07, Sandy Springs, Peachtree Battle and Chastain will start at 06:00 PM ET. In addition, each of these rides will be "Tempo", a standard which will be strictly enforced.

Herein is the "new world order" .....

Tuesday 03/13/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option / Tempo Pace
Wednesday 03/14/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Peachtree Battle - Tempo Pace
Thursday 03/15/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Chastain - Tempo Pace

Tuesday 03/20/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option / Tempo Pace
Wednesday 03/21/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Peachtree Battle - Tempo Pace
Thursday 03/22/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Chastain - Tempo Pace

Tuesday 03/27/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option / Tempo Pace
Wednesday 03/28/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Peachtree Battle - Tempo Pace
Thursday 03/29/07 - 06:00 PM ET - Chastain - Tempo Pace

Starting the week of 04/02/07, the rides will then move to a 06:30 PM ET start, and the "Tempo" governor will be removed, as follows:

Tuesday 04/03/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option
Wednesday 04/04/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Peachtree Battle
Thursday 04/05/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Chastain

Tuesday 04/10/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option
Wednesday 04/11/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Peachtree Battle
Thursday 04/12/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Chastain

Tuesday 04/17/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option
Wednesday 04/18/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Peachtree Battle
Thursday 04/19/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Chastain

Tuesday 04/24/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Short Option
Wednesday 04/25/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Peachtree Battle
Thursday 04/26/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Chastain

Then, effective on Tuesday 05/01/07 - 06:30 PM ET - Sandy Springs - Long Option will begin, and continue as such until the Fall.

Please also note that effective Saturday 03/17/07, Tucker will move to a 09:00 AM ET start, and continue as such until the Fall.

Best Regards, Todd Curtis Fryburger

A perspective of the number of people at the Ride to the Capitol

3-12-2007 Cyclist Killed in Gwinnett Michele Gilli was killed Wed. evening in Gwinett County. Several people of the GTC club knew him. From everything I've read from personal reports to several news stories, Mr. Gilli ran the red light, and the car struck him. Another paper reported that charges against the driver will not be filed because of the circumstances.

Relatives of bicyclist killed at Ga. 316 intersection live in Italy

By Melissa Wilson
Staff Writer
melissa.wilson@gwinnettdailypost.com

LAWRENCEVILLE - Investigators have identified a bicyclist killed Wednesday night at the intersection of Ga. Highway 316 and Cedars Road, but will not release his name until his family in Italy is notified. According to witnesses the cyclist, described as a white man in his late 20s or early 30s, was stopped at a traffic light on Cedars Road but pedaled into the intersection in anticipation of a green light, said Gwinnett County Police Department spokesman Darren Moloney. Moloney said the driver of a Lincoln Town Car entered the intersection while her light remained yellow and the Lincoln and the bicycle collided. Moloney said the bicyclist was hit from the left side as he entered the intersection and was pronounced dead at the scene. Moloney said the Town Car was driven by 37-year-old Gretta A. Baldwin of Duluth. Moloney was unsure whether or not Baldwin saw the bicyclist before the collision or if the incident happened too quickly for her to react. He said that information would be addressed in court and in a final report which was not yet available.
Chief Medical Examiner Ted Bailey said the bicyclist was not wearing reflective clothing at the time of the accident. Bailey said he was doubtful bright-colored clothing would have made a difference.
Moloney confirmed the intersection was busy with drivers at the time of the accident and witnesses were able to provide officers some information concerning the time leading up to the crash.
"It was 6:30 in the afternoon during rush hour traffic ... this is a very high traffic area," Moloney said. He added the cyclist, whose light was red at the time he entered the intersection, was determined the driver at fault. "Any time a bike enters an intersection on a red light, that's a bad idea," Moloney said.

Historic Roswell Crit NALLEY HISTORIC ROSWELL CRITERIUM BICYCLE RACE
APRIL 29, 2007 PROFESSIONAL AND AMATEUR BICYCLE RACE
IN ROSWELL’S HISTORIC DISTRICT

On April 29, Roswell will begin its celebration of the upcoming National Bicycle Month with the 6th Annual Criterium Bicycle Race. This year’s edition of the race will feature five USCF categorized amateur races, the ever popular Kids Race, a Women's Pro/1/2/3 race and the Men's Pro/1 race which is featured on USA Cycling’s National Racing Calendar. For the second straight year, The Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium will participate in the USA Crits Series, a series of 8 criteriums held over a 9 day period.

Nalley Automotive, Roswell Velo, and The City of Roswell are pleased to announce the return of Nalley - Roswell as title sponsors of the Historic Roswell Criterium for the 6th consecutive year.

The Criterium is a professional and amateur race. Races begin at noon and end approximately at 7:30 P.M. Set in the ambiance of Roswell’s Historic District, the course is mainly a flat 1-mile course with 5 left hand turns, including a slight 3% grade on the backside of the course. Speeds are amazing and thrilling to watch.

For those who want a full day of bicycle fun- Roswell’s the place to be. The day begins with a recreational bicycle ride for all levels of cyclists, with the Mayor’s Ride at 8 A.M. Three ride options will be offered: 5-mile Shorty; 21- mile Challenge; 41-mile Workout. There will be police escorts and rest stops. For additional information about the Mayor’s Ride visit www.bikeroswell.com

The Children’s Bicycle Safety Rodeo will be managed by the Kiwanis Club of Historic Roswell with support by Roswell Bicycles. Children can also participate in the Youth Series races which will be complimentary to any child who completes the Rodeo. The children’s races will be held on the same course on which the pro cyclists will race. Although not the fastest races of the day, the children’s races are certainly entertaining. The Bicycle Safety Rodeo is free for children ages 5 - 12 who must register and bring a bicycle and helmet. Registration and inspections can be done in advance at Roswell Bicycles - 670 Houze Way in Roswell (770-642-4057).

For those who want to catch every minute of the speeds and thrills of the Amateur and Pro races, the schedule is listed below.
Category Start Time Duration Field Limit Places Purse
Men 3/4 TBD 40 minutes 100 7 TBD
Women 3/4 TBD 30 minutes 100 7 TBD
Men 4/5 TBD 40 minutes 100 7 TBD
Men 30+/40+ (Cat 4 & up)* TBD 45 minutes 120 10 TBD
Men 2/3 TBD 50 minutes 120 10 TBD
Women Pro/1/2/3 TBD 55 minutes 120 10 TBD
Kids Races** TBD 200 yards N/A All TBD
Men Pro/1 TBD 80 minutes 150 20 TBD

For additional information , please visit www.roswellcriterium.com

Georgia Cup There is a Georgia Cup Press Release here.

Perry Roubaix and Gainesville The dates for Perry Roubaix and Gainesville have flipped. The top of the page calendar is correct.

Daylight Savings Time DST has started! Don't forget that most weekday rides start this week. Unless on this site somewhere, all start at their normal times. If it isn't listed here, I just don't have the information. THIS MEANS I DO NOT KNOW! I do know that the Roswell ride will not officially start until the first week in April. Also, most weekend rides will start at 9:00 am beginning March 17th. No, I don't know if people are still doing the Airport ride. It officially ends at the beginning of DST. Does this mean you still can't ride it? Of course not, if you want to do the route, you are welcome to. I DO NOT answer email regarding specific rides or races. That is why I have all of the information on this site! Emails from ride leaders, shops, promoters, etc. are always promptly returned.

3-13-2007 Pete and Wendy I think just about everyone knows Pete and Wendy. There is a good article about them in the Marietta Daily Journal and their charity fundraising.

TT Clinic Nathan O'Neill is putting on a Time Trial clinic this Friday in Athens. Details are here.

3-14-2007 MTB Camp FS Concepts is hosting a mountain bike clinic/camp in WV. Ride in Style!

Free Flite Monday Night Recovery Ride From a reader: "I was at Free Flite this weekend and they told me that it was VERY IMPORTANT that no one park in the small parking lot in front of Free Flite/Radio Shack/Jeanne’s for the Monday night recovery ride. They said the property owner is being VERY STRICT about parking and cars are getting booted and/or towed. The lot behind and across the street is available at 6:00 PM and the street usually has plenty of parking. This has NOTHING to do with Free Flite; it is the property owner. In fact, the spaces are now allocated to each tenant. You’ll see names painted on the wheel-stops."

Tinker in GA Tinker Juarez will be spending a lot of time in the South this spring. He has this on his schedule: April 21 Cohutta 100 Ducktown , TN, April 28 Dirt Sweat and Gears – 12 Hours Fayetteville, TN, May 4-6 Dirty Spokes 12 Hour at Fort Yargo, GA, and May 19-20 24 Hrs Pt. #2: Conyers Conyers , GA

North Loop I have word from SORBA Woodstock that they can officially begin work on the North Loop at Blanket's Creek. Yeah!

Georgia State Study Georgia State is conducting a study to investigate how two different carbohydrate beverages affect endurance performance. We are looking for highly trained cyclists who consistently ride 60 miles during their training. Participants would be required to come to the applied physiology lab at Georgia State on four separate occasions. First visit - VO2max test and body composition. You will be given your VO2max results so you can apply them to your training.
Second visit - 60 mile simulated ride during which you will receive only water.
3rd and 4th visit - 60 mile simulated ride during which you'll be given one of the CHO beverages.

This type of protocol has been done quite often in the past. If you are interested, please email dtriplett1@student.gsu.edu.

3-16-2007 Everyone, please keep Jackie Tyson and the others in your thoughts and prayers. I have known Jackie for several years. She is an integral part of the Tour De Georgia and one great person.

Poll of the Week Please vote in the Poll of the Week!

take my poll at: htmlGEAR.com Poll:

htmlGEAR.com

SE Cycling? Honestly, I'm tired of people sending me mean emails. I am seriously thinking of shutting the site down. I don't need to put up with this.

3-19-2007 TT Clinic Needless to say with the accident last week, the TT clinic in Athens wtih Nathan O'Neill has been postponed.

Carolinas News "Welcome to the new Carolinas Cycling Association web site http://www.ncsccyclingassoc.com Please pass the word to your club members and post a link on your web site. You will find basic information for members of clubs within the Carolinas including the Road, Track, and CX race calendars, upgrade procedures, and official's information.

March 24 and 25
Out Like a Loin RR and Salisbury City Park Criterium Two new events for the road racing calendar. Out Like a Loin RR will be held on the rolling terrain of Stanley County, just north of Albemarle. Uwharrie Wheelmen and the folks from Middle Ring Cycles are working hard to
organize great road race. The Salisbury City Park Criterium is held in Downtown Salisbury around the beautiful City Park. The park has loads of amenities including a lake, playground, tennis courts, etc, great place to bring the whole family. For more information, online registration and maps of the course, visit http://www.charlottesportscycling.com/city_park.htm

April 13 - 15
Rock Hill Spring Omnium http://www.rockhillbicycleclub.com/RHBCRaces.php
Cheers, Neal"

Cycle for the Cure The Komen Women's Crit is on! It will be Monday, April 16th in Macon before the finish of the Tour De Georgia. There will be a Cat. 3/4 crit and a Cat. 1/2 crit. Yes! All just for the ladies! Proceeds benefit breast cancer research.

Arrowhead Thanks for SORBA OMBA and Gone Riding for putting on a great race today! I had a fun, relaxed race. I was 5th. No, I was not last! There were 9 strong ladies in Sport today. Not bad considering I haven't breathed hard on a bike since CX Nationals in December. I am very sore right now, especially my left knee, which took the brunt of a fall on the 3rd lap. My only complaint was that they went 5 places deep in prizes for all of the men's Sport divisions but only 3 in the women. Come on! Treat the ladies fairly!

Saying Goodbye to a Cyclist I got an email the other day from one of our own, a fellow cyclist and racer thanking me for Southeastern Cycling. He is being deployed to Iraq and is not sure when he will be home or see his family or bike again. He said that websites are the only connection he will have to his cycling community here. No, Thank YOU! Here's to you and all of your fellow soldiers bravely serving their country! Chapeau! May you return safely! (Whether or not you agree with the Iraq war, please support our brave soldiers and their families. We have brother and sister cyclists over there!)

OTR Cycling Teammates Julia Radmann and Trish Albert at the Arrowhead GCS race

3-21-2007 Komen Cycle for the Cure The Komen Race for the Cure will be April 16th in Macon in conjunction with The TdG State 1 finish. The flyer is here.

24 Solo Screening From SORBA OMBA: "The new Gripped Films documentary, "24 Solo", will show in Macon on Monday, April 16 at 7:30 pm, following the end of the first stage of the Tour de Georgia. "24 Solo" follows Trek/VW rider Chris Eatough over his 2006 season as he attempts to defend his 24 solo world title from all comers. A significant portion of the film was filmed at our very own Horse Park in Conyers. See the trailer here.

http://www.24-solo.com/trailer/

The doors to the Capitol Theatre on Second Street in Macon, a block up from the TdG finish line, open at 7pm for dinner in Second Street Pizza. Pizza by the slice and a good selection of beer will be available for purchase. The film starts at 7:30.

This is a free event sponsored by The Telegraph, the local middle Georgia newspaper, Thomson, makers of beloved seat posts and stems, and the Ocmulgee Mountain Bike Association. Donations to OMBA will be accepted at the event.

3-22-2007 USA Crits SE Series Press release:

Some of the best men and women cyclists in the world are ready to participate in the second annual USA CRITS Southeast series from April 28th thru May 6th. The eight races will not only define the best criterium* cyclists over several fast-paced days of competition, but also qualify top finishers for the Las Vegas World Criterium Championships in September.

The 2007 USA CRITS schedule is as follows:

Athens Twilight Athens, GA Saturday, April 28th
Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium Roswell, GA Sunday, April 29th
Beaufort Criterium Beaufort, SC Tuesday, May 1st
Walterboro Criterium Walterboro, SC Wednesday, May 2nd
Uptown Greenwood Criterium Greenwood, SC Thursday, May 3rd
Spartanburg Criterium Spartanburg, SC Friday, May 4rd
Sunny King Criterium Anniston, AL Saturday, May 5th
Downtown Decatur Criterium Decatur, AL Sunday, May 6th

A subset of the USA Crits series, USA CRITS Southeast has been added to the USA Cycling’s NRC Calendar with the most points ever awarded a criterium series. Cash prizes totaling $150,000 will be awarded to riders and an overall series winner will be crowned based on accumulated points over the eight days of racing.The races that form the proposed USA CRITS and USA CRITS Southeast series have been specifically chosen according to the ideals that have made criterium racing an American legacy: challenging courses that showcase arts and entertainment districts; a large and growing base of spectators; broad community support; and strong marketing opportunities for sponsors. Each event will also feature unique festival activities for the entire family.

This year’s addition of women’s racing to the series will bring new internationally ranked teams to the field including Team Cheerwine, Aarons Corporate Furnishings and Colavita. Certain events will also feature amatuer races.

Additionally, this year the usacrits.com website will provide media professionals with unique up-to-the minute tools to assist in the preparations of their event coverage. Through customized podcasts, journalists and sponsors will be able to access interviews, race results, and local color elements direct from the race site just hours after the racers have crossed the finish line. This will facilitate deadlines as well as providing the expert, inside track to those not familiar with the sport or its participants.

For more information, visit: www.usacrits.com/se2007

* Criterium races are held on short courses (1/2 to 1 mile) allowing for up close viewing of team strategies and individual performance every minute. Professional commentating and lap award primes (pronounced “premes”) provide non-stop race action and updates for the veteran fan or the new spectator.

TdG Teams Announced For more, see www.tourdegeorgia.com.

Tour de Georgia roster
ProTour teams
Team CSC (Denmark)
Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team (USA)
Prodir-Saunier Duval (Spain)
Quick Step-Innergetic (Belgium)
Predictor-Lotto (Belgium)

UCI Professional Continental teams
Tinkoff Credit System
Health Net-Maxxis
Team Slipstream-Chipotle
Navigators Insurance Professional Cycling Team

UCI Continental (USA) teams
Jittery Joe's Professional Cycling Team
Priority Health-Bissell
Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team
BMC Professional Cycling Team
Colavita-Sutter Home-Cooking Light

National team
USA Cycling National Development Team

Weekend with IMBA Trail Care Crew From SORBA: The SORBA Trail Weekend is an event that is all about the trail. This is your oppertunity to help maintain or build a trail, learn the how and why of sustainable nature surface trails, meet other volunteers and have fun. We provide volunteers with free volunteer Saturday night dinner. We like to give out schwag (free stuff) too! SATURDAY, March 31, 9:00am-12:00 noon Elachee Nature Science Center (2125 Elachee Drive) "IMBA Trailbuilding School classroom session" (Lunch on your own) SATURDAY, March 31, 1:30pm-4:30pm Chicopee Woods Park "IMBA Trailbuilding School field session" SATURDAY, March 31, 5:30pm-9:30pm Elachee Nature Science Center (2125 Elachee Drive) Volunteer Dinner and "Around the World with IMBA" (slideshow starts at 7:30) "

3-22-2007 Sandy Springs Race I have it on good word that the Sandy Springs race in May will be an omnium this year. Wow! An omnium all but in Atlanta. Sweet!

Gwinnett Bike Fest?? Does anyone know who is supposedly putting this on? It's the first I've heard of this 4 stager race. http://www.gcvb.org/bikefest/

3-22-2007 Want to Be a Podium Hostess? Do you dream of being a podium hostess in the Tour De France? Realize your dreams right here in Georgia! They are looking for sophisticated ladies with a conversational knowledge of cycling. You don't need to be a cycling expert, just familiar with the sport.

From the TdG (sent specially to me!) From Anji Roe Wood of the TdG: "I'm working with the Tour de Georgia to find Tour Hostesses (better known as Podium Girls) for the 2007 event.

We need bright, energetic, athletic, intelligent girls to travel with the Tour Entourage during the week of the event. They don’t necessarily need to be experts in the sport of cycling, just open to learning a great deal about the sport so that they can speak with the international peloton of cyclists, sponsors, the media, and the public about the event.

Tour de Georgia – Call for Tour Hostesses The 2007 Tour de Georgia is currently seeking qualified candidates to be official Tour Hostesses during the Tour de Georgia scheduled April 16-22, 2007. A prestigious opportunity, Tour Hostesses will act as ambassadors on behalf of the Tour de Georgia and have the honor of presenting the cyclists with awards during the daily award ceremonies. Tour Hostesses also work directly with Tour Staff to facilitate daily award ceremonies and special events, while working hands on with Tour sponsors, staff and athletes. As representatives for the Tour, Tour Hostesses will also be photographed extensively and presented in front of media, fans and athletes at the Team Presentation event, all Start and Finish ceremonies and other select special events throughout the duration of the Tour.
This is not a paid position; accommodations, apparel and a $30 a day per-diem will be provided.

We are looking for qualified individuals to act as ambassadors for the Tour. If you understand and
appreciate the sport of cycling (or are willing to learn), are comfortable on stage and in front of large crowds, and believe you could represent the state of Georgia, as well as the Tour organization, with grace and dignity, we’d like to hear from you!

Requirements for Tour Hostesses
• Candidates must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must be available to work the entire length of the 2007 Tour de Georgia, plus entourage staging -
Mandatory dates include: Saturday, April 14 to Sunday, April 22, 2007.
• Ability to speak a foreign language fluently is preferred, but not necessarily required (Spanish, French and/or Italian).
• Professional in manner and dress.
• Knowledgeable in current affairs.
• Considerable conversational knowledge regarding the Sport of Professional Cycling – or willingness to learn

For more information about the Tour de Georgia, visit the Tour’s official website at
www.tourdegeorgia.com.

Anyone interested should send a full-length photo and letter of interest to Anji at anjiroewood@yahoo.com or call 678.643.9719 wih questions."

Rare Appearance! I will be making a rare appearance at a road race this weekend. Look for me in the TT in Gainesville. I may also stay for the crits to photograph if anyone wants me to.

Biking for Beans From Team H&R Block: Before Stage 6 of the Tour de GA, April 31st, we will be hosting a charity ride for the Georgia Cancer Coalition. If you would list this event on your website, it would be greatly appreciated. The ride leaves from Lake Lanier Islands, heads to Jittery Joe's in Buford, and then makes the return trip to the islands. We are also having a Lil' 500 event for the kids. http://teamhrblock.org/BikingforBeans/"

3-26-2007 Gainesville Georgia Cup Photos I have plenty of Gainesville Georgia Cup photos of the TT and crit at http://sadlebred.smugmug.com. Check em out! You can always get to the race photos by clicking the race photography link in the top left frame of the home page near the rides listing!

Women's Ride-Tuesdays Join Grace for a women's ride on Tuesdays. Meet at the Atlanta Cycling Vinings store on Hwy. 41/Cobb Parkway. The ride will leave at 6:15 this week and will then move to 6:30. The ride will do the traditional Silver Lake loop for about 22 miles. The map is here. The ride is beginner friendly, but you need to be able to average 15 mph on hilly terrain. Road bikes and helmets are required.

Calendar I updated the calendar at the top of the page.

Future Jailbirds! What did they do with the Myogenesis bikes?!

3-27-2007 Race Reports Myogenesis checks in with two race reports from Spring City Cycling Classic and the Gainesville Georgia Cup. Find out why these men in the picture are going to jail and what they were doing with the 2 Myogenesis bikes!

3-28-2007 Kennesaw Mountain From a letter I received: United States Department of the Interior, NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, 905 Kennesaw Mountain Drive, Kennesaw, GA 30152, (770) 427-4686, (770) 528-8399 FAX

March 27, 2007

Mountain Road User,

The park conducted a second public meeting last evening to review and
distribute draft management alternatives for the mountain road to address
critical safety issues involving its mixed use by pedestrians, bicyclists,
and motorists. The attached draft alternatives for managing the mountain
road within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park represent ideas
presented by professional highway engineers and transportation planners,
park staff, park partners and stakeholders, and park visitors. The park
seeks written comments on these alternatives from the public, and will
consider and evaluate these comments within the framework of the park's
legislated purpose and NPS management policies. Any management solution
must continue to allow vehicular access to the top of Kennesaw Mountain for
interpretive purposes, and must provide for visitor safety.

The park will receive written comments addressing the alternatives during a
30 day public comment period from March 27, 2007 through April 25, 2007.
These comments can be dropped off at the park visitor center or mailed to
the park at:

Attn: Mountain Road Comments
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive
Kennesaw, GA 30152

Comments may also be emailed to the park at:

Email address: KEMO_superintendent@nps.gov
Subject line: Mountain Road Comments

Those submitting comments should include personal contact information with
their comments; email addresses are preferable. Following the public
comment period the park will evaluate and respond to all comments received.
Similar comments will be grouped together for a single response. The park
intends to complete all comment responses by August 31, 2007.

The University of Georgia, Warnell School of Forestry, is conducting a
visitor study to obtain additional social science data on the mountain road
safety concerns. This study began in January 2007 and will continue
through August 2007 in order to compile a more complete data set that
includes those who visit the park seasonally or are from outside the area
and unable to attend the public meetings. When the park receives the
compiled results and conclusions from UGA, this data will be evaluated
along with all public comments received.

If the public comments and UGA visitor study indicate that the draft
alternatives have adequately addressed the practical range of alternatives,
the park will identify a preferred alternative for implementation. If it
becomes apparent that additional alternatives need to be considered or that
the draft alternatives need further refinement, a revised set of
alternatives will be developed and the public comment process repeated.
Once a preferred alternative is selected, if it involves substantial cost
or time to implement, short-range options will be identified that can
provide a measure of improved safety until the final management solution is
implemented.

During the intervening months prior to selection of a preferred
alternative, the park will continue to allow mixed use of the mountain road
by private vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. The park will implement the
following measures to help improve safety:

· Post additional signs instructing pedestrians to stay left going uphill and stay right going downhill.
· Post speed limit advisory signs at specified curves.
· Place radar activated speed display device when available from the County.
· Increase patrol and enforcement as staffing permits, focused during heavier use times, to educate mountain road users of the laws: i.e. bicyclists and motorists must comply with the posted speed limit; pedestrians are required to walk on the road shoulder where it exists and to the far edge of the pavement where there is no road shoulder.
· Bicyclists determined to be exceeding the speed limit will be issued a citation for a mandatory appearance in Federal court, and their bicycle seized as evidence until the court date.
· Pedestrians unable to comply with the law (ex. groups not intending to walk single file, those with pets and strollers) will be redirected to the foot trail or multi-use trail.

Thank you again for your cooperation and participation.

Sincerely, Daniel R. Brown, Superintendent
Click here to see the proposal/suggestions.

FATS Trail System From SORBA CSRA: "FATS will open for public use on Monday March 26.

Starting April 1st, by order of the U.S. Forest Service, all the FATS trails will be closed to Bicycles until 10:00am each day except for Sunday for the complete month of April due to turkey hunting season. The FATS trails will be open all day every Sunday. For more information contact USFS Long Cane Ranger District at 803-637-5396."