Volume 46, Issue #11, November 1, 2014 |
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President's Message
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By Will Benedict
Hwy. 1 Rumble Strips
Caltrans has a "Route 1 - Rumble Strip Project" scheduled to start construction in Winter of 2015 at an estimated cost of $2.4 million. It covers Route 1 from Highland Drive in San Luis Obispo to 1.2 miles north of Hearst Castle Road (approximately 40 miles). Their plan is to install rumble strips on the inside and outside shoulder of the four-lane section and on the centerline and outside shoulder of the two lane section. After placement of the rumble strip, a minimum of 5' of outside shoulder will be available for bicyclists.
Research indicates that rubble strips are moderately successful at alerting drivers who are inattentive, distracted, drunk or sleepy so they can recover before they leave the pavement. However, a cyclist riding to the right of a rumble strip will be in the area that the driver uses to recover if possible and will therefore provide cyclists little or no improvement in safety. They do however, present additional dangers for cyclists.
For a majority of the affected section of Hwy. 1 the shoulders are 8' feet wide and provide a safe area for cyclists to ride, maneuver around obstacles and broken pavement and pass each other without crossing the fog line. Caltrans proposes to place the rumble strip under the fog line so the shoulder area for cyclists will be reduced only slightly. However, it means that cyclists will need to pay attention to their proximity to the rumble strip on their left in addition to the right edge of the pavement and any obstacles within the shoulder.
The problem for cyclists arrises when the placement of the rumble strip reduces the shoulder width to the 5' minimum Caltrans has set. A five foot shoulder constrained by a rumble strip on the left and the pavement edge on the right provides adequate room for a single cyclist to ride and maneuver around obstacles but it does not allow cyclists to pass each other without crossing the rumble strip. To pass within a 5' zone defined by danger on both sides requires two cyclists to ride within about 12 inches of each other - something few cyclists are comfortable with or skilled enough to do safely even if they know the cyclists they are passing. The choice for cyclists will therefore be to cross the rumble strip to pass and then return to the shoulder exposing them to bike control issues while crossing the rumble strip and exposure during their time within the roadway. Although cyclists have the legal right to do this, it presents additional danger and requires that cyclists check that no vehicles are approaching from behind.
I believe that the significant bicycle traffic from local riders, visitors and bike tourists on Hwy. 1 means that rumble strips, like the rough chip seal above Cambria, are not appropriate for this route. Rumble strips provide moderate safety benefits for vehicles but reduce bike safety and riding pleasure. Why are we installing rumble strips on an important bicycle route when we want more people to ride bikes? Why are we employing rumble strips when the ever increasing presence of sensors in vehicles will accomplish more?
Possible options:
- Stop the project
- Only install rumble strips on the four lane sections of Hwy.1
- Only install rumble strips on the inside shoulder of the four lane section and the centerline of the two lane section
- Do not install rumble strips if the shoulder is less than eight feet wide
- Install rumble strips that follow the recommendations found in "Bicycling and Rumble Strips" (http://www.advocacyadvance.org/docs/rumble_strips.pdf ) by the League of American Bicyclists. These include:
- Provide gaps in rumble strips at regular intervals (at least 12 feet, every 40 or 60 feet) to give cyclists a chance to avoid debris along the shoulder, merge, turn, or pass other cyclists.
- Adjusting rumble strip dimensions to make them tolerable for cyclists: Width: 5 inches (127 mm); Depth: 0.375 inches (10 mm); and Spacing: 11 or 12 inches (280 or 305 mm).
The question is what can and should we do? I would welcome your observations or suggestions. Email me at [email protected]
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General Meeting Minutes |
San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club General Meeting Minutes
San Luis Obispo Library Community Room
995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo CA
Thursday, October 2, 2014, 7:15 PM
Craig Armstrong, Secretary
President Benedict called the meeting to order at 7:15 pm and recognized new members and guests.
President Benedict thanked Ann Smith for serving as greeter and Kathy Cohon, Sandy & Gil Pitt, Sharon Chan, Dave Abrecht, and Vicki Bachman for providing refreshments.
Clipboards were circulated for various upcoming events (December potluck dinner and upcoming bike breakfast being hosted by SLOBC). Harvey Cohon indicated that he would no longer be hosting the SLOBC booth at the San Luis Obispo Farmers Market and that anyone interested into taking over that function should contact him.
The minutes of the September 2014 General Meeting were approved.
President Benedict noted that correspondence received by the club and an illustration of the 2015 Wildflower jersey designed by Phil Middleton were posted on the wall.
In Chris Broome's absence, President Benedict reported that club assets totaled $239,000 and that year-to-date contributions totaled $57,000.
Ken Price reported on a recent bicyclist fatality and led a brief discussion regarding actions fellow riders should take when a cyclist is injured in a crash.
Kathleen McHugh reported that it was necessary to change the date for the December potluck and the attendees agreed to move the potluck to Friday, December 5th.
Martin Howell acknowledged Susan Atlee's passing and noted the Atlee's long time association with the club.
Red Davis noted that he would be leading bike rides in Morro Bay in October (historical bike tour) and November (poker ride).
Mr. Davis reported that there are candidates for most club positions but that candidates are still needed for Vice President, Director at Large, and Public Relations.
Steve Devencenzi from the San Luis Council of Governments reported on regional planning issues and the Regional Transportation Plan.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:50 PM.
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Board Meeting Minutes |
San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club Board Meeting Minutes
Air Pollution Control District Auditorium
3433 Roberto Court, San Luis Obispo CA
Tuesday, September 31, 2014, 5:00 PM
Craig Armstrong, Secretary
Board members present: Will Benedict, Ann Smith, Chris Broome, Craig Armstrong, Mike Balster, Brad Opstad, Dave Abrecht, Martin Howell, Kathleen McHugh, and Ken Price.
The minutes of the September 2, 2014 meeting were approved (MSC McHugh/Price).
President Benedict noted correspondence received since the last meeting.
Chris Broome reported that club assets totaled $239,000 with some Lighthouse bills still outstanding. A 2015 budget meeting is scheduled for October 15th.
President Benedict reported that candidates for board positions are still needed for Vice President, Treasurer, and Public Relations. The board discussed possible candidates for filling those positions.
The board discussed feedback from members regarding the upcoming changes regarding newsletter distribution and membership renewals.
President Benedict noted that the annual cost of renting a storage space for the club trailer exceeded the estimated cost of renting a truck to transport bikes for events such as the Indulgence Ride. The board approved disposing of the trailer and renting a truck for future events (MSC Armstrong/Abrecht).
Kathleen McHugh reported that the water provider for the Lighthouse failed to fulfill their obligations. The board agreed that individual club members may post feedback comments regarding that company on internet sites but that SLOBC would not do so.
President Benedict noted that there have been requests for ordering old style club jackets and Yellowjacket kits. Since the old jackets were replaced by an updated style approved by the membership, the club will not be placing orders for old style clothing. Will Benedict as Clothing Coordinator will assist the Yellowjackets with ordering the specialized kits for their group.
The board discussed whether the January board meeting and dinner should be combined into a working session to cover goals for 2015. The board concluded that the board meeting and dinner should be held on separate nights so that the board can focus on setting objectives for the year.
It was noted that several club rides break up into smaller groups that ride at different speeds or follow different routes and do not consistently adhere to the Group Riding Best Practices posted on the club website. The consensus was that the ride leaders are responsible for promoting improved compliance with those guidelines and should continue to work toward that goal.
The board discussed procedures for reporting and repairing damaged club equipment. The club website will be updated to indicate that rest and lunch stop captains should clearly identify damaged equipment and report the damage to the Food Ordering captain so that appropriate repairs can be made.
The board reviewed club member use of equipment in SLOBC's storage sheds. President Benedict will draft a policy stating that club equipment is not to be borrowed for personal use. In addition, the storage lockers will be rekeyed, and a list will be maintained of those individuals who are assigned keys and for what periods.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:15 PM.
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News, Notes & Events
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Safety Tip: Calling 911
By Will Benedict
Ken Price lead a discussion at the last general meeting concerning calling 911. It seems that there have been recent instances where members crashed and 911 was not called and we learned later that 911 should have been called. It is naturally difficult for us to make decisions for others in these instances and three points that came out during the discussion were very good.
1. The rider that has crashed is in some level of shock and should not be considered the person best able to make clear decisions at that point.
2. Take time to evaluate the situation. Do not be in a rush to continue or let the rider that has crashed rush to continue out of embarrassment or pride. Take time for the shock and adrenalin to subside and assess the nature of the injuries. Talk with the rider and look at their equipment. Where on the body has impact occurred? Damaged helmets should raise concerns.
3. Call 911. If there is any question, call 911. Even of the rider disagrees, call 911. The rider can always refuse to go but the decision will have the input of trained medics. The medic will also provide a record of the incident.
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Safety Tip: Three Feet Passing
By Ken Price and Dave Abrecht
The three feet passing law and riding two (or three) abreast
The three feet passing law is now in effect and there is a concerted campaign to make motorists aware of the law. We believe that most motorists want to give cyclists a safe buffer when they pass. However, we have heard from non-cycling friends that their patience is stretched thin when they have to give three feet of clearance to riders who are riding two or three abreast. If you want to be respected for your right to the roadway, move as far to the right as practicable when a vehicle approaches from behind.
We will be discussing this issue in more detail at the November general meeting.
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SLO Bicycle Club Photo Contest
By special request, we have extended the end date for the SLO Bicycle Photo Contest to Sunday, November 9. If you haven't submitted photos, please consider doing so. This contest is open all club members. We would love to see them.
Submittal Deadline: November 9, 2014
Submittal Requirements:
- Any photo taken on a biking outing anytime prior to the submittal deadline is eligible.
- A member may submit up to 3 photos - Photos must be submitted as JPEG files
Submittal Process: Attach each photo to a separate email addressed to [email protected] (the email address is case sensitive). Include the following for each photo:
- Photographer's Name
- Photographer's Email Address - Photographer's Phone Number - Description of photo including where and approximately when the photo was taken.
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Judging Categories:
- Photos taken within SLO County
- Photos taken outside of SLO County
(including overseas)
Judging Criteria:
- Technical Quality
- Artistic Quality
- Biking Content
Judging will take place in November and winners will be announced at the December 4th Potluck Dinner.
Submitted photos may be used by the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club in its website, newsletter and other venues.
Email questions to Don Thomas at [email protected].
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That Looks Familiar!
By Kathleen McHugh
Last summer, my sister and I ran into a group of Canadian cyclists riding down the Pacific Coast. Something about their jersey looked very familiar.
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Lighthouse Ride Thank You
By Frank Mullin
A big thanks for another great event. Every time I have an opportunity I make sure I'm register for the Lighthouse and the Wildflower. This ride was a bit more special at lunch. I have Celiac disease and you offered gluten free bread. Usually I need to carry my own. Hopefully you will continue that offering.
The support and logistics were second to none.
Thanks again
Jim Lanum
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December Pot Luck
By Kathleen McHugh
The December SLO Bike Club potluck will be Friday, December 5 at the
The Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay . Socializing begins at 5:30 with dinner at 6:00 p.m.
The theme this year is 'The Lights of Winter', So this year, decorate your table with any and all battery powered candles or holiday lights (no open flames!). As always, please bring a table cloth or place mats for your table, bring your own place setting (including plate, bowl, dessert plate, glass, coffee cup, flatware, napkin). Kathy Cohon will bring coffee and tea as usual-how about we bring cups and reduce the trash?
You may bring your own wine. WINE ONLY, PLEASE!
Bring your holiday spirit and a dish according to your last name:
A-G -Side Dish, Soup, Stew, or Chili
H-N -Side Dish, Soup, Stew, or Chili
O-S- Dessert
T-Z-Main Dish
Remember:
Please try to include a list of the ingredients in your dish (or the recipe) and place it on the table near your dish. This really helps people who have any dietary restrictions, such as allergies with gluten, peanuts, dairy, shell fish, lactose intolerance and vegetarians. It is sometimes impossible to tell if any of these ingredients are in a dish just by looking at it. Plus we can share recipes! So, plan on an evening of lights, great food, and excellent company on Friday, December 5, 2014.
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ANNOUNCEMENT . . . From Your 2014 Nominating Committee
By Robert Fuller Davis, Nominating Committee Chair
Hi, we're back with another request for interested club members to step forward and serve on next year's Board of Directors.
Here is the slate of candidates few have so far:
- President Will Benedict
- Vice President
- Secretary Craig Armstrong
- Treasurer Bill Martin
- Ride Coordinator Kathleen McHugh
- Membership Mike Balster
- Advocate Dave Abrecht
- Public Relations Samantha Pruitt
- Newsletter Editor Susan McTaggart
- Historian Martin Howell
- Safety Director Ken Price
- Director at Large Troy Johnston
Voting will begin online on the club's website on 19 November and close on 1 December, so it's important that we fill vacant positions before November 18th. Following you will find job descriptions for the vacant posts. For full Board job descriptions go to http://www.slobc.org/volunteering/board.html.
Vice President, in the absence of the President, shall perform all duties and have all powers of the President.
Club members are invited to throw your hat in the ring for any board position. To do that, contact either Gail Joyce Davis or Robert Fuller Davis at 772-0874 or email [email protected] or [email protected].
Thank you for your attention.
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Changing Weekly Rides
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Flyers (9:00 AM, D3)
Wednesdays
Coordinator: Russ Robinson
Phone: 781-0903
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Frequent Feeders (9:00 AM, B2)
Wednesdays
Coordinator: Frank Mullin
Phone: 602-2058
Date: November 5
Start: Biddle Co. Park, Arroyo Grande
Destination: Coastal Peaks Coffee, SLO
Leader: Chuck Wheeler
Phone: 805-541-1240 Date: November 12Start: Morro Bay State Park MarinaDestination: Cayucos via Coastal Canyons Leaders: Dave & Debbie Abrecht Phone: 805-801-9211 Date: November 19Start: Islay Park, San Luis ObispoDestination: Coffee at Lopez Lake Park Route: Hi Mountain Road Leader: Arlene Winn Phone: 805-781-9466 Date: November 26Start: Heritage Square Park, Arroyo GrandeDestination: Woodstone Marketplace, Avila Leader: Frank Mullin Phone: 805-602-2058
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Tortoises (9:00 AM, A1)
Fridays
Coordinators: Stu & Janie Goldenberg
Phone: 805-544-4720
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Poker Ride
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Start: Cloisters Community Park, Morro Bay Time: 9:00 a.m.
Ride to five locations between Morro Bay and Cayucos to pick up playing cards plus two additional locations to pick up wild cards (optional). Best hands win prizes. Cheaters will be disqualified.
Return to Cloisters Park at 12:00 for pizzas and water. Bring lawn chairs.
Questions: Red & Gail Davis, 772-0874
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Former President's Anniversary Ride (C-5)
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Time: 7:30 a.m.
We will ride up Old Creek, cross Hwy 46 and continue to Cambria on Santa Rosa Creek Road. Coffee and bananas served by the former First Lady at the top of the Wall. Return from Cambria on Hwy 1 - approximately 45 miles total. No wimps, no whiners - We ride rain or shine.
Questions: Red & Gail Davis, 772-0874
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Advocate's Report
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By Dave Abrecht
Bike Rack Donation
In my September Advocate Report, I discussed the SLOBC donation of a bicycle rack in a public location in our county. Funds for this donation were approved in our 2014 budget. I asked club members for suggested locations and received five (5) responses. The suggested locations are:
- Dairy Creek Golf Course restaurant
- Top Dog Coffee in Cayucos
- Linn's Easy as Pie Cafe in Cambria
- Along the Embarcadero in Morro Bay
- Cayucos Coffee Company (formerly Kelley's), Cayucos
In the next few weeks, club members will receive, via e-mail, a brief survey that will allow them to select their preferred location for the rack. Once the selection is made, I will work with the responsible party at the location to have a suitable rack installed. The rack will have a plaque to acknowledge that it was donated by the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club and we will publicize the donation in our local media outlets. San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG) website Transportation Planning Tool At the October 2nd general meeting, Steve Devencenzi, the Planning Director for SLOCOG, presented a feature on the SLOCOG website that allows County residents to state their transportation priorities for the next 20 years. The tool also allows residents to view how much these improvements will cost. Go to www.slocogconnectingcommunities.com then click on the "Take the RTP Budget Challenge" link. The SLOCOG board and staff are very supportive of all forms of transportation in our county and they want to hear from us! |
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Upcoming Program
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November 6, 2014, 7:00 PM, SLO City/County Library, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo
Slow Bike Trekkers
Dave Williams will be presenting his short video of highlights from a European cycling trip. Seventeen "Slow Bike Trekkers" pedaled, ate, drank and laughed their way from Berlin to Prague on just about every rough road surface on 45 pound vintage mountain bikes.
The date, time and location of SLOBC meetings can be found on our Events Calendar webpage.
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SLO Coaster
The SLO Coaster is the monthly newsletter of the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club that is automatically sent to all members. Everyone is welcome to view and subscribe to the digital edition of the SLO Coaster. To subscribe, use the Newsletter Signup Form.
All articles, letters, stories of bicycling experiences, appropriate classified ads, artwork etc, are welcome. Each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily represent the opinion or endorsement of the
SLOBC or the editor.
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Submittal Guidelines
All materials are due no later than 8:00 a.m. on the 15th of each month. Nothing will be accepted verbally. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject material.
All materials should be emailed to [email protected].
Complete submittal guidelines are found at:
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Copyright � 2014. All Rights Reserved.
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