Vol. 17, No. 3 Summer 2014 OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE FLORIDA ASSOCIATION, INC.

Key West to Calais East Coast Greenway is getting closer to reality... Jax’s S-Line Urban Greenway launches the 2014 ‘Cabot Tour’ by Stephen Tocknell, FBA First Coast Chapter Director wo years ago, the Cabot Cream- ery Cooperative organized the first “Cabot Tour,” a bicycle trip along the East Coast Greenway. The Green- way eventually will run all the way from Key West to Calais, Maine, a distance of 2,900 miles. The pur- poses of the 2012 Cabot Tour were to promote com- munity activism all along the East Coast Greenway, as well as the Greenway itself. PAID

Mid-FL, FL Permit #334 Permit U.S. Postage U.S. NONPROFIT ORG NONPROFIT

Here in Jacksonville and Northeast one of the most scenic parts of the entire Timucuan Preserve, and also in Nassau Florida, bicycle and trails advocates saw East Coast Greenway, the St. Johns River County. the 2012 Cabot Tour as an opportunity Ferry also provides access from the That 2012 effort to save the St. Johns P.O. Box 916715, Longwood, FL 32791 P.O. to help save the St. Johns River Ferry at Jacksonville and St. Johns County River Ferry has now paid off. The Ferry Mayport. The Cabot Tour demonstrated Beaches to the bike paths and trails that that besides forming an essential link in are located along Scenic A1A in the Please see Greenway, page 7 ADVOCATING A BICYCLE-FRIENDLY FLORIDA 2 Florida Bicycle Association

Four ways to be alert to danger... Four horsemen of the ‘Bicyclepocalypse©’ by J. Steele Olmstead, Esq. s you know, one of my lines that can also be attributed to inability to become highly visible: Hi-vis jersey, Horseman #4 HUBRIS on bicycle crashes as to why see the cyclist. pants and a white helmet. Seventy-five percent of crashes occur at is such serious If you agree your life is valuable, why But also, on the road, do a check for intersections. a business is “to cars it’s a can’t you spend $500.00 on gear to make the simple things: an approaching motor Why? The prevalent attitude I see in dent, to us it’s a disaster.” you visible (i.e. high visibility jersey, vehicle has a wide berth for you; at inter- traffic crash reports and depositions There are many lists and suggestions, pants, series of good lights, LED wheels, sections, get and keep eye contact; as the comes in the form similar to these actual articles, books and governmental and etc.) vehicle approach happens, watch the quotes: non-governmental organizations’ publi- Trick up your gear and bicycle. There motor vehicle to make sure it’s operating “I thought [the bicyclist] would get out cations that tell you of things to watch are some amazing light systems for a lit- consistent with traffic laws; assume they of the way.” out for. tle money out there on YouTube. Just won’t stop at that stop sign intersection “She was on the road right in front of I suggest a simple four-item construct search: bicycle LED wheel lights and ahead (they won’t); that oncoming car me. I couldn’t avoid her.” to help you be alert to dangerous situa- watch the videos. will turn in front of you (it will) and the “He swerved in front of me” (when the tions. one that just passed you is making a right cyclist went to lawfully change lanes) or There are so many ways to get hit by a Horseman #2 DISTRACTION turn in 3...2....1 seconds (of course). “I didn’t see him.” (in this one, the 6’2” car, but you can I heard a commercial of one of those cyclist was wearing a day-glow vest with group them Horseman #3 a white helmet in broad daylight on an into four types. DRINKING empty 4-lane in a residential area). I call them Unless you encounter a Your basic hubris is in the form of FOUR severe alcoholic, as a “what are these cyclists doing on the HORSEMEN DARKNESS bicycle hazard drinking (my) roads?” OF THE CYCLEPOCALYSE after the These are lines of motorists who, well-known other horsemen. They are through hubris or ignorance, don’t real- Darkness, Distraction, Drinking and ize we have equal right to the roadway. Hubris. They don’t recognize shared roads, DISTRACTION they don’t want us to be on the road, Horseman #1 DARKNESS and they don’t understand why How much is your life worth? A million incessant billboard/t.v. we are “blocking” traffic. It’s dollars to your family, friends and settlement lawyers talk- their world, why are we there? employer? ing about “all the dis- In any situation, assume the I drive a motorcycle, too, and one of tractions drivers face DRINKING motor vehicle is piloted by the five safety rules my partner and I t o d ay.” someone with this atti- have is “no riding at night.” However, if a To that I could add that the billboards tude. bicycle is your main transport, or if you he plasters the sides of the roads with are Do not assume the commute during winter, it’s going to be distractions too. motorist will yield when dark. There are a lot of visual distractions he or she is supposed to In addition to decreased visibility outside the car, but the point is well HUBRIS do so. Assume hubris, inexperience, and motorists are taken there are multiple things drivers occurs at predictable times and places to ignorance of all motorists. 1. Distracted by their cell phone, have in their cars distracting them. which you can be attuned. Understand some motorists are not It’s not enough that we have the Aaron The times are holidays, Saturday and 2. Sometimes have consumed alcohol willing to share roads. It is up to us to Cohen Life Protection Act now, we still Sunday afternoons, and on week-days make sure we are safe. (“just two ossifer”) and have slow reac- don’t have a real ban on texting, which is between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 12:00 tion time or are weaving, and So, please don’t assume you will die in problem #1 in all vehicle crashes. a.m. your sleep. Use this simple list of the 3. Full of hubris so they aren’t looking at A high percentage of my car crash The places are: vacation spots, tourist horsemen of the cyclepocalypse to alert or for you, because they don’t expect cases are, inexplicably, a “no-brakes” centers—like hotels and restaurants yourself to danger and drive safe. anyone to be riding a bicycle at night. impact. (think Orlando and Tampa), Bike Week “Where the #*&% were you looking?” or any community celebration, Oddly enough, there is also a statisti- Attorney J. Steele Olmstead practices law is often heard at these crash scenes. Gasparilla, King Mango Strut, Fantasy cally significant group of crashes that state-wide from offices in Tampa. One of You can’t really tell what mechanized Fest, Lake Eola Celebration, Sail occur in late afternoon toward evening his specialties is and he’ll even death is piloted by a distracted driver. So Jacksonville or Tristan DeLuna Day. come to you...wherever you got broken. Be on high alert at these places. Summer 2014 3

Thanks to Our Donors!

City names denote board and program staff member distribution. Is your area represented? Contact a board member today! Lifetime members Mighk and Carol Wilson Advocating a Jacksonville Mr. & Mrs. H. Middleton Raynal Orange Park James Nash bicycle-friendly Florida Sopchoppy Duke Breitenbach Gainesville P.O. Box 916715, Longwood, FL 32791-6715 Kimberly Cooper Dr. Joe Warren

DeLand William R. Hough Earle and Laura Reynolds Board of Directors Orlando Tampa Walter Long Jodi Hohlstein, President J. Steele Olmstead Executive Director 3838 Cardinal Oaks Circle 14517 N. 18th St. Tim Bustos Orange Park, FL 32065 Tampa, FL 33613 336 N Woodland Blvd. Titanium Partners/Legacy Phone: 904-282-2180 Phone: 813-979-4949 Deland, FL 32720 ($500 - $999) [email protected] [email protected] Phone: 850-238-5328 Stephen Steck Port Charlotte Earl Lang, Vice President Ted Wendler [email protected] 1700 Tamiami Trail, E-5 716 Ohio Ave. Ft Myers Port Charlotte, FL 33948 DeLand, FL 32724 Program/Membership Golden Gears/Champion Phone: 941-258-3400 Phone: 386-235-0057 Director ($250 - $499) [email protected] [email protected] Dan Moser David Henderson Jeff Hohlstein, Secretary 1449 Linhart Ave. 3838 Cardinal Oaks Circle Ft. Myers, FL 33901 Orange Park, FL 32065 Phone/Fax: Phone: 904-282-2180 239-334-6417 Silver Spokes/Benefactor [email protected] [email protected] ($100 - $249)

Chapters Seth Krieger & Kathy St. Marks Episcopal Mighk Wilson, Treasurer Operations Manager Peres Church on behalf of 737 S. Mills Ave. Laura Hallam First Coast Chapter Director Panthers Tandem Jerry, Michael & Orlando, FL 32801 367 Buckhorn Creek Rd. Stephen Tocknell, Director Club Robin Potts Phone: 407-488-9990 Sopchoppy, FL 32358 Jacksonville [email protected] Phone: 407-399-9961 Terrence Deeks Emerald Coast Phone: 904-638-6629 [email protected] Richard & Belinda Cyclists Tim Bol [email protected] Carlson Mark Greenberg 301 E. Pine St., Ste 800 www.fbafirstcoast.org Fort Myers Cyclery Jason Aufdenberg Orlando, FL 32801 Membership Michael & Lynn Pilato 407-393-6691 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Christopher G. Burns, Esq. Advisory Board Bronze Pedals/Supporter Terrell Hogan Becky Afonso Herb Hiller, Journalist Robert Seidler, Filmmaker ($50 - $99) 233 East Bay Street - 8th floor [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Jacksonville, FL 32202 John & Kathy Stamp Karabell Phone: 904-632-2424 Michelle Avola Reese Hope Howland-Cook John Sinibaldi, Jr Mark Sussman & Stephen Perz [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Randy Smookler Bruce Lierman Patricia Kovacs Daniel Lehmann Ron Cunningham Don Braverman Dwight Kingsbury, Historian Lisa Walker, Public Affairs Tom & Linda Al & Heidi Parker 2111 NW 20th Street [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Wentzell Steve Diez Gainesville, FL 32605 Keri Caffrey, Webmaster Henry N. Lawrence, III, Special Randall Williams, Newsletter Phone: 352-262-5798 Harold & Karen Michael Rubin [email protected] Programs [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Dan Connaughton, Director, John Egberts Florida Traffic & Bicycle Safety Laura Minns PO Box 118208 Education Program [email protected] Welcome New/Rejoining Members! Gainesville, FL 32611 [email protected] Roger Pierce, Touring Calendar Phone: 352-294-1685 Bouquin, Lou & Keiser, Maurice Steve Diez [email protected] [email protected] Catherine Lotocky, Walter [email protected] Carol Pulley Cabral, Leonard & McMillion, Geoff David Henderson [email protected] Kathryn Seda, Larissa [email protected] Drevitson, Russell Shaw, Bertram Fort Myers Cyclery Ward, Bill Franklin, Ken Join FBA Visit FBA’s Website Messenger Deadlines Join FBA online at www.floridabicycle.org Copy and Advertising Deadlines: Summer Messenger - May 15 www.fbamembership.org Log in to the FBA Blog Fall Messenger - August 15 Individual $25 Stay up-to-date on bicycle issues Winter Messenger - November 15 Family $35 with this statewide forum. Spring Messenger - February 15 Student/living lightly $15 FBA's Blog is on the website Inquiries and submissions: www.floridabicycle.org Bicycle Club $100 tim@floridabicycle org Corporate/Agency $100

Higher donations are greatly appre- Membership Categories: ciated! See membership categories at right. Paceline Leaders ($1,000+) Titanium Partners ($500-$999) Pay conveniently online or make Golden Gears ($250-$499) check payable and mail to: Silver Spokes ($100-$249) Florida Bicycle Association, Inc. P.O. Box 916715 Bronze Pedals ($50-$99) Longwood, FL 32791-6715 Membership includes a subscription to the FBA Messenger. 4 Florida Bicycle Association

President’s message... We want you to want to be part of FBA Jodi Hohlstein a few weeks ago a potential who take to the roads, trails, and path- These two education programs member asked what was the ways in vehicles that are not motorized. help educate cyclists, lawmakers and the advantage of being a mem- This year FBA was able to help get the general public about cyclists’ rights and ber of FBA. “Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act” responsibilities. That made me start to passed by the Florida Legislature, and, as By partnering with these two educa- think about an answer that could really of this writing, it is now up to Governor tional groups, we also have a better help someone want to become a member Scott to sign it into law. understanding of how FBA needs to keep of FBA. Additionally, we worked with many up with changes in the cycling world. I also belong to the North Florida groups this year and testified in front of FBA is considered a premier resource Bicycle Club. They truly are a social the Florida Legislature on behalf of the center within the cycling community. organization with organized rides, “Coast to Coast Connector,” which will Through FBA, cyclists, the general of the powers that be when it comes to monthly meetings, and very tangible rea- ultimately be a 274 mile separated bike public and the law enforcement commu- making the correct decisions on behalf of sons a member would want to join. path that will nity have access to the cycling and pedestrian community. There are many other clubs like this run from the tools such as the He recently travelled to Washington, throughout Florida to help satisfy that Gulf of Mexico “Florida Bicycle and DC, to make our voices heard in our “social” need for many cyclists. to the Atlantic We can’t emphasize Pedestrian Law nation’s capital. FBA, on the other hand, is not a social Ocean. enough that membership Enforcement Guide On another trip to the Southern States club. By definition, we are a non-profit This bill also (FBPLEG), “Florida Bike Conference in Texas, Tim spent organization that, by charter, must be passed both is important to us—it Bicycling Street time with other states’ executive directors primarily an educational organization, houses, and strengthens our numbers Smarts” and, via so they could share notes and experienc- es unique to the Deep South, in order to and can have an advocacy side as well. again, as of this and our ability to have our web site, “Ask So what tangible benefit do we offer writing, is wait- Geo,” an interactive explore growth opportunities with simi- our members? Where’s the “what’s in it ing on final a stronger voice for Q & A resource lar organizations. for me?” approval from the cyclist. with cycling law With a small staff and a large charter of I mean, if we aren’t a social club, and Governor expert George tasks, FBA has its hands full in its there aren’t any organized rides or Scott. Martin, who replies attempt to fulfill the needs of the cycling monthly meetings, what is the reason Now it is to questions regard- community in Florida. people should join and/or support FBA? time for FBA ing interpretation of Florida law as it Florida is now the third largest state in There is no quick and easy answer to to start working on our legislative agenda pertains to cycling. America. That said, we are also one of that question—it’s hard to plan an “eleva- for the 2015 session. Additionally, due to FBA’s partnership the worst states for cycling/pedestrian tor speech” around what FBA is all about. But, in addition to being the cyclists’ with entities such as the Florida safety. The quickest explanation could be is voice in Tallahassee, we also play a Greenways and Trails Foundation, Bike Working with outside organizations to that FBA is “your voice in Tallahassee,” strong role in the traditional educational Florida, the National Complete Streets help remedy that situation is a huge chal- which we are. But wait—what does that delivery systems. Coalition and the Alliance for Biking and lenge for any organization, let alone one have to do with education? We helped CyclingSavvy, developed by Walking, we are able to keep our mem- the size of FBA. Well, sometimes you have to help edu- Keri Caffrey and Mighk Wilson, come bers informed of the latest and greatest With a dedicated executive director, cate the lawmakers and the general pub- into existence. And, we have partnered in the world of what is going on in two part-time staffers and a diverse lic, so that they are better informed when with the League of American Bicyclists cycling. board of directors we do our best to pro- they are passing laws and making deci- to deliver their Traffic Skills 101 classes We really are a wealth of information at vide services to our members and non- sions that affect the lives of those of us throughout the state. your fingertips. members alike. Florida Bicycle Association is also a It is not unusual to have a request to be partner with many in an attempt to make in three places in one day —something the cycling world a safer place. We part- that can only be accomplished with the Membership update ner with the Florida Pedestrian & cooperation of all. Bicycling Safety Resource Center, the The challenge of most not for profit by Dan Moser, Program Director, Membership Manager Safety Office of Florida Department of organizations is to offer our services for s of this summer FBA has been using some of these features for Transportation, and the North Florida free to members and non-members alike, now been using ClubExpress board and staff communications. Bicycle Club’s “One Road” safety cam- which we do through our website. as our membership manage- The next step is to include members paign. However, we can’t emphasize enough ment program for two years, and other interested parties. This will All of these organizations support safe- that membership is important to us—it the first six months being add to our ability to provide timely two- ty efforts and developing infrastructure strengthens our numbers and our ability set-up, administrator training and data way communication between our mem- for cyclists, and we are proud to be a part to have a stronger voice for the cyclist. entry. bership, board of directors and staff. of their efforts. We would hope those who visit our Those of us working with it—staff and In the meantime we’d love to hear from FBA’s board is quite diverse and repre- website will realize the value we offer the members alike—appear to be getting the you via our websites sents the major metropolitan areas of the cycling community and join our ranks so hang of it. While we are using the pri- state. we can be more effective in making the floridabicycle.org, roads, trails, and pathways safer for all of mary utility routinely now, from an fbamembership.org Our board members are working to organization perspective, we’ve yet to develop relationships with local bike us. Facebook (www.facebook.com/ If you are already a member of FBA, we take advantage of many of the features FloridaBicycleAssociation) clubs and bike shops to help spread the that make ClubExpress more than a education, safety and educational needs appreciate you and your support! or blog feedpress.me/florida-bicycle- If you are not a member, I encourage basic membership database manager. association of the cycling community. In the upcoming months we plan to By reaching out to these organizations you to contact us so we can answer any utilize the communication features avail- Of course, you may also use e-mail and businesses we can continue to grow questions you might have in order help able to us to provide you with important ([email protected]) or call me at our numbers and increase the strength of you make a decision to join us, and our updates and items of interest. (239) 334-6417 with your membership our voice in Tallahassee. efforts to make Florida a safer place for As part of our nearly complete strate- questions and suggestions. Our executive director, Tim Bustos, is all of us to enjoy the fresh air and sun- gic plan update process we’ve already We look forward to hearing from you. working hard to visit with local officials shine for which Florida is so famous. to make sure our needs are kept in front Summer 2014 5

Executive Director’s corner... Success in Tallahassee shows you can make a difference

Tim Bustos our Board of Directors and increasing the penalties for hit and run Atlantic in Brevard County, for a total staff here at FBA have been crashes so that they mirror the penalties distance of approximately 274 miles. very busy since the spring for DUI crashes. The good news is that nearly all of it is edition of the Messenger Additionally, for the first time in already built in separate trail links, such came out back in March. Florida Statutes, and pedestrians as the Pinellas Trail, the Withlacoochee spent countless hours working on a wide However, since the Florida Legislature are defined as “vulnerable road users,” Trail, the Van Fleet Trail, and many oth- array of committees that cover every- has adjourned for the year, I’ll begin with which is a necessary strategy to increase ers, which is why the effort is also called thing from internal issues, such as the a legislative wrap-up. penalties, and, we hope, will serve as a “closing the gaps.” way we do business, to external issues, Despite a lot of other potentially con- deterrent for errant drivers. At present, approximately 70 more including how we can better serve our troversial bills simmering in the legisla- It should be noted that much of the miles need to be built. This can seem members. ture, the bicycling community actually credit for sponsoring this bill and follow- daunting when you consider right-of- We’ve reviewed by-laws, how we recruit fared quite well. We did, in fact, have a ing it doggedly through fruition goes to way acquisition, sensitive habitats and members, and we’ve examined all of our very successful year with both of the bills Senator Diaz de la Portilla for sponsoring other challenges, but we are now one step member benefits—including ways we that were a top priority with FBA. this bill, and a dedicated coalition of closer. can improve on recruiting new members. Miami area cyclists including Mickey It appears most of the funding obsta- Members always come first, so we will Aaron Cohen Act Witte, and Patty Cohen, Aaron’s widow. cles have been cleared, and again, as of First of all, the “Aaron Cohen Life be developing membership surveys to For those of you unfamiliar with the this writing, we are only waiting on find out what you would like to see us Protection Act” passed in both the house background of this case, Aaron Cohen Governor Scott’s signature to proceed. and senate. FBA was represented at focus our energies on. was out for an early morning workout Although he did veto similar legislation However, with only one full time paid nearly all the subcommittee hearings with a friend on his bike, when he was last year, FBA and many of our partners starting back in January and continuing staff member, the Executive Director, struck by a hit and run driver coming have since been working to educate the and two part time staff members, we run into the full session from when it con- back from a night of drinking. governor’s office about the economic and vened in March until it ended in May. an extremely lean organization, so it’s It was Patty’s wish that this law—in her health benefits this kind of project would paramount that we run an organization It was impressive—and encouraging— husband’s name—would help keep other bring to Florida residents. to see that this bill was advanced every that’s as efficient as possible. family members from ever having to go As with many great projects like this, This is why, for the next phase of our time it was voted on—in most cases, through this again. much of the credit goes to Senator Andy unanimously! strategic planning effort, we plan on FBA was only too happy to assist in Gardner for sponsoring this bill, and for focusing on board development. As most of you will recall, the intent of this effort through technical assistance, working with other legislators to help this bill was to close the loophole that We’ll be bringing in an outside facilita- letter writing, testifying before the legis- ensure its passage. And, once again, FBA tor with over 30 years of experience with existed in hit and run crashes (also lature and speaking at press conferences was in Tallahassee at every meeting and known as “leaving the scene”) that has training non-profit boards. We’re confi- while in Tallahassee. hearing possible to help educate legisla- dent this will enhance our abilities to resulted in minimal penalties. As of this writing, the Aaron Cohen tors and advance this important piece of An inordinate number of bicycle and deliver what cyclists throughout Florida Bill is still awaiting Governor Scott’s sig- legislation. need to enhance their riding experience pedestrian crashes in Florida that involve nature, but sources in the governor’s serious injury or death also involve driv- ooo and make our roads safer. office have indicated that he intends to ooo ers leaving the scene. Had they actually sign it. Your Board of Directors and staff have stayed at the scene, they could have ren- also been working hard at improving Be careful out there, but remember, dered aid, or at least called for help. Coast to Coast Connector FBA to better serve you—our members! regardless of what kind of bike you ride, However, these same crashes almost Another very positive outcome from this Since January, when we launched our or how far you ride—cycling is supposed always involve DUIs, but since the penal- session of the legislature includes strategic planning process, board mem- to be fun! ties for DUIs are so severe and the penal- advancing what is referred to as the bers, staff, and dedicated volunteers have ties for leaving the scene are so minimal, “Coast to Coast Connector.” offending drivers actually had an incen- As many of you know, this is the long tive to leave the scene of the crime. awaited and much anticipated The Aaron Cohen Bill sought to elimi- project that would span the state from Share the Road Mini Grants available nate that disparity by significantly the Gulf in Pinellas County, to the Bike Florida and Share the Road invite If your Safe Routes to School program your organization to apply for a Share needs event funding, we might be able to The mission of the Florida Bicycle Association (FBA) is to advocate and educate for excel- the Road Mini Grant. help! Infrastructure projects may also fit lence in bicycling in Florida. Its vision is a Florida wherein bicyclists are safe, respected, Through the sale of “Share the Road” the funding parameters. and encouraged to cycle for transportation and recreation. specialty license plates, and sponsoring The Florida Bicycle Association was incorporated in 1997 for educational and charitable o $2,000.00 maximum partners like BILL BONE BIKE LAW, purposes. FBA is a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation under Section 501(c)(3) of the o Applications accepted from Non- Internal Revenue Code. Donations, including membership dues, are tax deductible. A copy Bike Florida and Share the Road can of the current financial statements may be obtained by contacting FBA, P.O. Box 916715, make these funds available to cycling Profit Organizations and Government Longwood, FL 32791. organizations, city or county govern- Agencies To become a member supporter of FBA, join online at www.fbamembership.org. ments and school parent teacher organi- o Applications received The Florida Bicycle Association Messenger is published quarterly as a service to mem- bers and advocates for a bicycle-friendly Florida by the zations (PTOs) or just about anyone continuously, grants awarded quarterly actively promoting safe cycling or cyclist Visit ShareTheRoad.org for an Florida Bicycle Association, P.O. Box 916715, Longwood, FL 32791. and driver education. Application and Terms of use. www.floridabicycle.org; e-mail: [email protected];­ Phone: 850-238-5238 Some of the most common awards Share the Road welcomes BILL BONE fund new bicycle purchases or repairs for Membership in FBA includes a subscription to the FBA Messenger. BIKE LAW as our newest Mini Grant organizations administering education The FBA Messenger accepts and welcomes your advertising! Please see the Website for sponsor. programs, especially those teaching the rates and specifications or e-mail [email protected]. Publishers reserve the right to Like Bike Florida and Share the Road, review advertising content and to reject advertising that, in the opinion of the Association, is Florida Traffic and Bicycle Safety BILL BONE BIKE LAW is dedicated to neither in the best interest of FBA’s members nor its goals and objectives. Although we Education Program. the bicycle safety message. carefully review articles and information submitted, FBA is not responsible for the informa- We have also funded requests to pur- tion or opinions contained herein unless explicitly stated as official policy of FBA. It is rare to see an organization with chase Share the Road signage in commu- this much passion for cycling. © 2014 Florida Bicycle Association All rights reserved. nities around the state. 6 Florida Bicycle Association

Save the date for the 2014 Florida Bicycle Club Leadership Workshop

he Florida Bicycle Club Sumter Landing Bicycle Club Leadership Workshop Terrell Hogan Law Firm returns to Clermont November Treasure Coast Cycling Association 15, 2014, in conjunction with Was your club represented? If not, the Florida Freewheelers’ 35th make sure someone attends this year. Annual Horrible Hundred. Back by popular demand, this work- Date: Saturday, November 15, 2014 shop is not just for bike club presidents, Time: 3:00-6:00 p.m. but anyone in a leadership position that Where: Fairfield Inn & Suites, 1750 wants to share ideas with other club Hunt Trace Blvd., Clermont FL, Traffic Safety Program participants, Dekova Batey, City of Gainesville Bicycle/Pedestrian leaders. 352-394-6585 Coordinator (left), author Dan Moser (center) and former Board member Steve Diaz This workshop is for you. Don’t miss Hosts: FBA and Florida Freewheelers (right) get down to some serious Crayola playtime during the summit. this opportunity to have your club well Fee: FREE; however, registration is represented. required. We welcome your agenda items and The Florida Freewheelers have gra- Florida’s Traffic Safety Program Hosts will be asking many of you to make pre- ciously offered, once again, ONE compli- sentations on your club’s best practices. mentary Horrible Hundred registration Regional Trainers’ Summit 2012 Participating Clubs and per club for individuals attending the by Dan Moser, Program Director/Membership Manager Organizations: workshop. The 35th Annual Horrible he Florida Traffic and As part of their program they were able Bike Florida Hundred is Sunday, November 16, 2014. Bicycle Safety Education to get a roomful of grown adults to Boca Raton Bicycle Club Registration for the Horrible Hundred Program (safety.hhp.ufl.edu) is behave like five-year-old kids for an Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club opens August, 2014. Contact horriblehu- a very effective program that afternoon of fun and learning. Daytona Beach Bicycle Club [email protected] or visit trains professional teachers and Needless to say, it was quite an experi- Gainesville Cycling Club http://floridafreewheelers.com/ffw/ for community educators and advocates in ence—one that left everyone a bit sore Highlands Pedalers specific details about the bike ride. the realm of traffic safety education that’s from running, jumping and generally Florida Freewheelers Join us at the Florida Bicycle Club geared toward vulnerable road users. acting silly. But it was a good hurt for North Florida Bicycle Club Leadership Workshop by registering FBA is proud to have been affiliated most of us because we all left with more Peace River Riders today: https://floridabicycle.wufoo.com/ with, and a working partner of FTBSEP tools in our toolboxes. Seidler Productions forms/2014-florida-bicycle-club-leader- ship-workshop/. since its inception and we are now fortu- I say for most because, as is usually the nate to have its Assistant Director, John case whenever kids are having too much Egberts, on our Board of Directors, fun, one of us had an unexpected meet- thereby strengthening our relationship ing with the gym floor that “left a mark,” even further. so to speak. Operating out of the University of The good news is that all’s well and no Florida, FTBSEP’s primary offering is a teeth were lost. one-day training at no cost to school dis- Thanks to FTBSEP’s leadership team of tricts and others seeking to provide high Dan Connaughton and John Egberts, and quality bike/ped education to students or the ongoing support of FDOT and UF, the community at large. the program remains on solid footing. As an added benefit, FTBSEP provides That, along with a motivated group of the training at the locations of those Regional Trainers, should keep things being trained. moving in the right direction for the FTBSEP utilizes the diverse skills of a foreseeable future. Regional Training Team composed of Although there are many challenges to Get the knowledge and experience to cycle your roadways with confidence. FBA’s League Cycling Instructors (LCI) and getting Florida off the top of the list of CyclingSavvy Instructors (CSI) to train states having the worst bicycle and cycling education program will show you simple strategies to eliminate obstacles school P.E. and health teachers, law pedestrian crashes, injuries and fatalities, and ride with ease in places you might never have thought possible. enforcement officials, school resource FTBSEP is one of our best resources to officers, Safe Kids coalition partners, reach those who can provide the direct bicycle club members, community vol- educational services needed to reverse unteers, and bike/ped advocates. this unenviable statistic. They are taught how to implement the Since its inception more than a decade lessons and skills included in the Traffic ago hundreds of professional educators Safety Education Guide in schools set- and community volunteers have taken tings, after school programs, public clin- advantage of this valuable resource, but ics (rodeos), and youth programs. that’s just a fraction of those who could This past May, Regional Trainers came and should be trained. together for a summit and discussed If you have an interest, or know others strategies for the future, updated each who may benefit, please let us know. other on local and regional efforts we’re And for those reading this who are involved in and learned about techniques LCI’s or CSI’s and would like to learn Cycling Savvy courses now available in Orlando, used by education experts who are more about the program—and perhaps among those who developed the original become a Regional Trainer (expenses are DeLand, Jacksonville, Ft. Myers, West Palm Beach, concepts for FTBSEP and similar pro- reimbursed and a training stipend is pro- Tallahassee and Tampa Bay areas. Go to the Web site grams being used elsewhere. vided)—please contact John Egberts at to contact an area coordinator near you. Roger and Sharon DiBrito came from [email protected] or (352) 294-1685. Montana to share their knowledge. Summer 2014 7

Greenway tour 2014 taking riders from Jacksonville to New York City continued from page 1 was officially designated as part of the But, unlike the more famous Silver East Coast Greenway in 2013. Comet Trail near Atlanta, also located on On May 17, 2014, the second Cabot a former Seaboard Railroad line, Tour began right here in Jacksonville, Jacksonville’s S-Line Greenway is still and will end in New York City on June very much a work in progress. 21. On its first day, before a noon lun- On the day of our tour, the Cabot Tour cheon in honor of volunteers for Habijax, riders came up to a gap in the S-Line (Habitat for Humanity of Jacksonville, Greenway at the far end of a rundown Inc.), the itinerary for Cabot Tour shopping center. included a leisurely 20-mile trek through Jeanne turned us around and led us urban Jacksonville. back through Springfield to downtown Led by Jeanne Hargrave, Cabot Tour Jacksonville via Pearl Street. Once we riders visited: got closer to downtown we rejoined another part of the S-Line Greenway and o Jacksonville’s Historic Five Points followed that part of the Greenway all o Memorial Park (the southernmost the way back to the starting point of our point on this year’s Cabot Tour) tour, which was also the site of the noon Greenway advocates credit the project for saving the St. Johns River Ferry, once destined o The Riverside Arts Market, located luncheon in honor of Habijax. for imminent shutdown. The ferry is now part of the East Coast Greenway system. beneath the I-95 bridge over the St. Now that we’ve have succeeded in our Johns River 2012 efforts to save the St. Johns River o The Northbank Riverwalk through Ferry and have it designated as part of downtown Jacksonville the East Coast Greenway, it’s time to o Historic Springfield focus on building a link to the East Coast o The S-Line Greenway Greenway from downtown Jacksonville, and to work on finishing the uncomplet- Cabot Tour leaders Cathy and Myron ed portions of the S-Line Greenway. Skott were impressed with all of the The parts that are already built are sights that they saw, but especially with assets to the neighborhoods that the Historic Springfield and the S-Line S-Line traverses. Greenway, an urban trail along a route of All that we need to do now is to fill in the former Seaboard Railroad. the gaps.

Have You been injured wHile cYcling? ( i have. That’s why i’ll fight so hard for you.) Chris Burns is not your typical personal injury attorney. As an avid rider, he combines his experience on the road with his expertise and insight in the courtroom. This unique perspective provides cyclists across Florida with the representation they deserve. Your race for compensation begins here.

Cabot-sponsored Community Tour Rider veteran Cathy Skott chats with driver/photogra- pher/mechanic Alan Fitton who followed the tour with the Cabot support van. Cathy and husband Myron also led the 2012 tour, a 2,300 mile trip from Miami to Portland, Maine. 904- 632- 2424 The 2014 Community Tour began May 17 in Jacksonville with the “Habijax” Habitat for Humanity kick-off, the largest “Blitz Build” (50 homes in one week) in the country. Riders heading north from Jacksonville, after 900-some miles up the East Coast, are scheduled to arrive in New York City on June 21. Tour sponsor and organizer Cabot Creamery Cooperative invited cyclists to participate in shorter ride events at designated towns along the route. You can see the complete com- munity tour schedule at the Cabot Community Tour website, cabotcommunitytour.com. 8 Florida Bicycle Association

National Bike to School Day gets a boost from Miami area teamwork by Valerie Neilson, MSP, BikeSafe® Program Manager KiDZ Neuroscience Center at the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

n celebration of National Bike to Fisher K-8 Center 6th School Day on May 7, 2014, the Grade Teacher, Ms. University of Miami Kathleen Cattie; and the BikeSafe® Program University of Miami teamed up with BikeSafe® Program Fienberg Fisher K-8 Manager, Valerie Neilson. Center, the City of Miami The event concluded with Beach, and JB Bike Shop a prize raffle including two to organize a 1 mile bike bikes, a Bluetooth wireless ride to school to promote speaker and a Jersey Shore children biking safely to and Beach Game set donated by from school. SchoolPool and TV & In total approximately 60 Interactive Advertising, South children and over 20 parents, Florida. school staff, and community Participating students partners biked, skated, or roll- received a BikeSafe® goody bag erbladed to school, guided by with bike safety materials and the City of Miami Beach Police equipment, a University of Miami and University of Miami BikeSafe® Staff. Hurricanes Baseball Game Youth Event participants met at Flamingo Voucher donated by University of Miami Park to check-in, do a bike check, and Athletics. JB Bike Shop donated bike ensure proper helmet fit prior to the locks. ride. Helmets for children in need were Overall it was a great event! Fienberg donated from the Florida Pedestrian and Fisher K-8 Center registered their partic- Bicycle Resource Center and the ipation in National Bike to School Day at SchoolPool Program administered by tatives from Florida Department of listened to the school band play music. www.walkbiketoschool.org. Last year the South Florida Commuter Services. Transportation District 6 cheering the Performance and refreshments, were fol- state of Florida tied at 4th place for the The ride kicked off at 8 a.m. and upon students as they arrived. lowed by words from Miami-Dade number of schools registered to have arrival to the school, students were greet- Event participants enjoyed breakfast County Public Schools North Region participated in 2013 National Bike to ed by Sebastian, the University of Miami snacks provided by the school as well as Administrative Director, Ms. Sally School Day. This year Florida hopes to Mascot, as well as students, staff and water bottles and granola bars donated Alayon; Feinberg Fisher K-8 Center remain a leader in the Top 5 for schools community partners, including represen- by Publix Super Markets, Inc. while they Principal Ms. Mary Zabala; Feinberg celebrating National Bike to School Day.

West Volusia is a cycler’s paradise with miles of scenic on and off-road trails within a vast playground of parks, rivers, lakes and crystal-clear springs. Stay in affordable accommodations and enjoy the shops, museums, historic sites and trendy cafes of some of the most charming small towns in Florida.

BETWEEN DAYTONA BEACH & ORLANDO 800-749-4350 www.VisitWestVolusia.com/cycle (Download the Volusia Bicycling Map) Summer 2014 9

Reflections on the first Georgia Trail Summit in 15 years... Florida in the time of magic realism by Herb Hiller

he same week that the mas- ter of magic realism Gabriel Garcia Marquez died, I listened to Ryan Gravel, an engineer who, 15 years before as a grad student at Georgia Tech, dreamed up a trail for an abandoned rail line around Atlanta. That dream is now the magical Atlanta BeltLine, the most comprehensive trans- portation and economic redevelopment program ever undertaken by Atlanta. It’s a bike-ped path that on its 33-mile completion will connect 45 in-town neighborhoods, public parks, and MARTA commuter rail. The trail will run directly through the third level of the million-square-foot multi-purpose Ponce City Market that developers emphasize will have bike valet, changing facilities and showers to encourage alternative commuting options, and that “if only 10% of users arrive by bicycle or on foot [will gener- ate] 1,000+ cyclists and pedestrians clean commuting to Ponce daily.” Ryan said that “People along the route have discovered a vision better than any- body else was showing them. They’re fill- ing it out with affordable and public housing, with arts, with farmers markets, local food, pollinators, and bocce ball courts. “People are really organizing their lives around this new corridor. It lets them live the lives they want.” Georgia Trail Summit workshop attendees took a trip to the Trail Creek Trestle in Athens. The railroad trestle (a.k.a, the Murmur Trestle, Atlanta’s Beltline is only one of three a picture of which was used in 1983 on the back cover of the R.E.M. album of the same name) is on land that was sold to developers and private-public collaboratives vaulting marked for demolition. An outcry from R.E.M. fans and others led to an Athens-Clark County Commission vote in 2000 to save it for Atlanta into American trails leadership. posterity. In 2012, however, commissioners said they could not afford to keep the decaying and unsafe structure. As of this writing, the The others include the PATH trestle still stands, a photo op on the nearby multi-use trail that someday may—or may not—cross trail creek over a reconstructed trestle. Foundation that builds trails that reach Photo courtesy of Georgia Trail Summit. into Alabama and may next extend into Tennessee, and the advocacy group the almost 3,000-mile East Coast return for secure bike lock-ups and We need Florida realists to turn some MillionMile Greenway that works Greenway. Most riders avoid St. Marys workplace showers. Florida magic. throughout Georgia and beyond. altogether. We need financial incentives for — Herb Hiller writes frequently about Bottom-line backers include Coca The need for that Cumberland Sound cyclists to commute to work. alternative transportation and locally Cola, the Georgia-Pacific Foundation, crossing indicates that today’s emphasis We need our own renewed Florida resourceful development. ING Direct, the James M. Cox on trails has to become more about trail-bike-pedestrian summit. Foundation, NIKE, and Turner transportation than recreation. Broadcasting. Trails by land or water combined with Less gaudy and hardly mentioned at bikes on bus can efficiently carry people the Atlanta-centric Georgia Trail Summit across distances most of us routinely was a trail matter that affects southeast travel. Adapting city streets for multi- August 1. Georgia as well as northeast Florida. modal transportation is part of the That’s the status of a water connection answer. That’s the date when four FBA stalwarts launch a program of between St. Marys and Fernandina So is connecting trails where they’re Central Florida touring that combines SunRail service from metro Beach. already in place but un-linked. Call it an Orlando and week-long do-it-yourself rides on the 260-mile St. That connection existed a century ago easy down-payment on the high-interest Johns River-to-Sea Loop. and then briefly again before the recent loan that climate change holds over us. Check the FBA blog for news about Mighk and Carol Wilson, Laura recession made the route unprofitable. It’s time for the private sector of Hallam and Robert Seidler on their milestone adventure. Instead of a scenic almost hour-long Florida’s cities to match Atlanta’s. Florida crossing of Cumberland Sound, long-dis- is doing well with bikes on bus, bikes on Want to ride the train to the trail and tour with cycling friends of your tance cyclists today endure a 30-mile train, along on-road bike lanes, with own? Watch for blog posts about everything from navigation and diversion along dangerous U.S. Highway police on bikes. bike shops along the way to tips on places steeped in local charac- 17 (doubly problematical because the St. We need to deepen the culture. ter where you’ll want to eat and overnight. Marys River Bridge is under repair). We need municipal policy that lightens The existing gap constitutes the longest developer burdens for car parking in bi-state inconvenience for users along 10 Florida Bicycle Association

Jacksonville Bike to Work Day event by Stephen E. Tocknell, AICP

he event on May 15 was organized by the Jacksonville Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee, led by FBA Board member Chris Burns; City Cycle, led by Alice Gould; and Open Road Bicycles, led by Scot Gross. About 100 bicyclists rode in from the Open Road Bicycle Shop in San Jose, and from the Lake Shore and City Cycle bicy- cle shops in Avondale and Riverside. Following the ride, the Mayor and Chris Burns both spoke at a press event in the lobby of the Jacksonville City Hall.

Above left: In the foreground are (left in the green): Mayor Alvin Brown, behind Mayor Brown is Denise Chaplick (City of Jacksonville Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator), and beside the Mayor, Hon. Don Redman (City Council Member and Long Time Bicycle Rider and Advocate). Above right: FBA board member Chris Burns with Mayor Brown. Left: Mayor Brown (right) with Chris Burns (center) and other riders get ready for the Bike to Work ride.

Central Florida’s Polk County is the “Cycling Capital of Florida.” Explore more than 60 miles of paved multi-use trails and 1,700 miles of pre-mapped road routes. Unlike most of Florida’s flat terrain, Central Florida’s unique topography provides elevation changes of more than 300 feet, so your cycling adventure won’t fall flat! Ready to ignite the fire inside yourself? Scan the QR code now to learn more.

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CFSM641 FL Bicycle Association 2013 Newsletter ad.indd 1 8/6/13 11:45 AM Summer 2014 11

Do you have a question about the laws related to bicycling? Ask Geo @ FlBikeLaw.org* George Martin

The statute above concerns all areas, period exceeding 48 hours, in other than s. 316.0775 – Interference with Official including in municipality jurisdiction. designated parking areas, and is within 30 Traffic Control Devices or Railroad Another statute addresses areas outside feet of the pavement edge; and Signs or Signals aomi asked: in Cape municipalities. NCoral FL is it illegal to 3. Where an operative vehicle has been (1) A person may not, without lawful chain a bicycle to a meter or s. 316.194 – Stopping, Standing or parked or stored on the public right-of- authority, attempt to or in fact alter, street stop sign? Parking Outside of Municipalities way for a period exceeding 10 days, in deface, injure, knock down, or remove any (1) Upon any highway outside of a other than designated parking areas, and official traffic control device or any rail- Yes! Not just in Cape Coral but is more than 30 feet from the pavement road sign or signal or any inscription, throughout Florida. municipality, no person shall stop, park, or A leave standing any vehicle, whether edge. However, the agency removing such shield, or insignia thereon, or any other Keep in mind that bicycles are vehicles, attended or unattended, upon the paved vehicle shall be required to report same to part thereof. and vehicle regulations apply unless they or main-traveled part of the highway the Department of Highway Safety and Each county and municipality require- specifically apply only to motor vehicles. when it is practicable to stop, park, or so Motor Vehicles within 24 hours of such ments may differ, so it will be necessary This may sound facetious, but parking leave the vehicle off such part of the high- removal. to check your county and municipality is permitted anywhere that it is not way; but in every event an unobstructed Parking near mailboxes is prohibited codes to determine your local parking unlawful. In other words, there must be width of the highway opposite a standing under some circumstances. requirements. a specific prohibition in the statutes, vehicle shall be left for the free passage of ordinances or regulations for a parking s. 316.1965 – Parking Near Rural s. 316.008 – Powers of Local other vehicles, and a clear view of the violation to occur. That can be in state Mailbox During Certain Hours; Authorities stopped vehicle shall be available from a statutes or local ordinances. Penalties distance of 200 feet in each direction upon (1) The provisions of this chapter shall The following is the state statute that the highway. Whoever parks any vehicle within 30 not be deemed to prevent local authorities, addresses parking: feet of any rural mailbox upon any state with respect to streets and highways under (2) This section shall not apply to the s. 316.1945 – Stopping, Standing, or highway in this state between 8 a.m. and 6 their jurisdiction and within the reason- driver or owner of any vehicle which is Parking Prohibited in Specified Places p.m. shall be cited for a nonmoving viola- able exercise of the police power, from: disabled while on the paved or main-trav- tion, punishable as provided in chapter (a) Regulating or prohibiting stopping, (1) Except when necessary to avoid con- eled portion of a highway in such manner 318. flict with other traffic, or in compliance and to such extent that it is impossible to standing, or parking. with law or the directions of a police offi- avoid stopping and temporarily leaving If parking a bicycle is deemed to inter- Municipal ordinances can be found at cer or official traffic control device, no per- the disabled vehicle in such position, or to fere with traffic control devices, it is this link: http://www.municode.com/ son shall: passenger-carrying buses temporarily unlawful. (a) Stop, stand, or park a vehicle: parked while loading or discharging pas- sengers, where highway conditions render 1. On the roadway side of any vehicle such parking off the paved portion of the FDOT Districts stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a highway hazardous or impractical. street. (3)(a) Whenever any police officer or 2. On a sidewalk. traffic accident investigation officer finds a 3. Within an intersection. vehicle standing upon a highway in viola- tion of any of the foregoing provisions of 4. On a crosswalk. this section, the officer is authorized to District 1 5. Between a safety zone and the adja- move the vehicle, or require the driver or Cities: Bradenton, Fort Meyers, cent curb or within 30 feet of points on the other persons in charge of the vehicle to Naples, Sarasota curb immediately opposite the ends of a move the vehicle, to a position off the Counties: Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, safety zone, unless the Department of paved or main-traveled part of the high- Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee, Transportation indicates a different length way. Okeechobee, Polk, Sarasota by signs or markings. (b) Officers and traffic accident investi- District 2 6. Alongside or opposite any street exca- gation officers may provide for the remov- Cities: Gainesville, Jacksonville, Lake City, St. Augustine vation or obstruction when stopping, al of any abandoned vehicle to the nearest Counties: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, standing, or parking would obstruct traf- garage or other place of safety, cost of such Duval, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Nassau, fic. removal to be a lien against motor vehicle, Putnam, St.Johns, Suwannee, Taylor, Union 7. Upon any bridge or other elevated when an abandoned vehicle is found unat- District 3 structure upon a highway or within a tended upon a bridge or causeway or in Cities: Destin, Panama City, Pensacola, Tallahassee highway tunnel. any tunnel, or on any public highway in Counties: Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, the following instances: Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Wakulla, 8. On any railroad tracks. 1. Where such vehicle constitutes an Walton, Washington 9. On a bicycle path. obstruction of traffic; District 4 10. At any place where official traffic 2. Where such vehicle has been parked Cities: Fort Lauderdale, Fort Pierce, Palm Beach, Stuart control devices prohibit stopping. or stored on the public right-of-way for a Counties: Broward, Indian River, Martin, Palm Beach, St Lucie As a part of the Bicycle Law Enforcement Program, a web site exists to provide a place to District 5 ask questions about the laws. This is a continuing series that addresses some of the ques- Cities: Coco Beach, Daytona Beach, Kissimmee, Melborne, Ocala, Orlando tions and provides updates about FBA’s Bicycle Law Enforcement Program. Counties: Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Sumter, Volusia *DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this column is to inform about bicycling laws. The material pro- District 6 vided here and through other means is for general informational purposes only and shall in no Cities: Key West, Miami; Counties: Miami-Dade, Monroe way constitute or be construed as legal advice by the officers, directors, agents or employees of the Florida Bicycle Association. If your experience in a court of law or on the streets differs District 7 from that presented, we want to know about it, but George Martin and FBA are not accountable Cities: Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa for a ruling contrary to our interpretation of Florida Law or other consequences of cycling. You Counties: Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas should seek legal advice on a particular situation. 12 Florida Bicycle Association

Getting to know the city by Ron Cunningham

ve long believed that the best Florence: The seemingly fluid and fric- And motor scooters advancing in fits autos must go here, and pedestrians ’way to get to know a strange tionless movement of people, bicycles, and stops. And the city’s boxy compact there, and bikes over there. city is from the seat of a bicycle. motor scooters, taxis and automobiles buses that gingerly turn sharp corners In too many American communities Over the years, I have had the through narrow passages and twisting with only inches of space to spare. And public streets are no so much shared as opportunity to explore New York, streets that were originally designed to drivers of cabs and delivery vans inching parceled out; these slivers of asphalt Denver, Chicago, Philadelphia, accommodate nothing more imposing forward here, halting there. given over to cars, that narrower one to Nashville, Washington, D.C. and other than horse-drawn carriages. One might expect constant chaos and bikes, this raised strip of concrete to urban centers north, south, east, and Not to put too fine a point on it, but collisions from all this unregulated mix- pedestrians. And mix at your own risk. west on two wheels. Florence is a traffic engineer’s worst ing of transportation modes. But over The American method of transporta- It is always an adventure, and each nightmare. It is chaos by design. the course of three days, I witnessed tion allocation is the antithesis of expedition comes with its own unique And, illogically, it works. none—save an especially nasty exchange Florence’s expectation of sharing. Rather, charms and challenges. This is one of the most visited cities in of insults between two pedestrians who sharing is sacrificed on the alter of speed. And so, upon finding myself recently the world. At any given time of the day had roughly jostled each other without Recently, I read a story in the New York in Florence, Italy—the birthplace of the and evening, tens of thousands of people so much as a perfunctory “pardon.” Times about one of the consequences of Renaissance—I naturally wanted to get walk its streets and piazzas. They move What makes Florence work? Well, for the resurgence of walking and cycling in to know, via my preferred means of loco- in tightly clustered groups led by guides. one thing, the sheer volume of users is a Los Angeles, arguably the birthplace of motion, the streets where Michelangelo They are constantly craning their necks natural traffic calmer. No one can drive, American car culture. With more people grew up. to look up at the imposing structures bike or scooter very quickly, rather, one than ever choosing to get out of their It was a revelation. around them. They stop at odd moments must constantly search for the next open cars, the LA cops have embarked on a Of course there is much to see and to click photos and gaze into exclusive seam in which to advance. new campaign: basically, citing pedestri- amaze in Florence. The massive and fashion stores. There is something else that is harder ans in the downtown area for the offense gaudy Duomo, startlingly illuminated by The crowd is a living thing that moves to pin down. Call it a collective sense of interfering with the quick and efficient the last rays of the setting sun. The in unpredictable patterns; now parting, that all present have a right to be there...a movement of automobiles. Uffizi, stocked to the brim with the now coming together, and all seemingly right to share the narrow streets, to get Los Angeles police chief Charlie Beck, works of old masters. The Ponte Vecchio without rhyme nor reason. from one place to another. the Times reported, said “the crackdown Bridge, lined by the shops of gold mer- And then there are the cyclists…hun- No one mode of transportation was a matter of public safety and traffic chants, and topped by the private pas- dreds of them. Tourists on rented bikes. supreme over another. flow, noting the frustration of drivers sageway built for the exclusive use of the Business people in three-piece suits and And that of course, the biggest chal- trying to make turns and faced with Medici family. The statues of David, waiters winding their way to work—all lenge facing bike-ped advocates here in crosswalks filled with people.” Neptune, and the Rape of the Sabines. weaving their bikes carefully through the what I have cynically referred to as But here’s what really filled me with throngs of tourists. “auto-America.” This pervasive notion of aweKPHadFBM03-2014Mech_Layout and wonder during my bike 1 tour3/6/14 of 2:24 PM Page 1 segregation by means of mobility. That Please see Florence on page 13

Representing individuals injured in bicycle accidents, auto accidents and falls

As a cyclist, I understand the challenges you encounter when riding on Southwest Florida’s roads. Enjoy the ride, and if “you are injured while riding through the fault of another individual, please give me a call.”

2205 McGregor Boulevard ~ Fort Myers ~ Florida 33901 239.337.4800 HartofJustice.com Summer 2014 13

Free roads cost too Introducing… the “Rumble Stripe” much by Earl Lang by DeWayne Carver, FDOT State Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator

fter decades of building more Yes, Toll Roads. ike a new baby, we discussed and better roads, we still We need to turn what to name it. Safety Stripe? have too much congestion. the most used and Rumble Edge? Alert Line? In Tim Hartford’s book, most popular roads into toll roads. If we FDOT is about to adopt a new “The Underground applied surcharges (tolls) for using con- safety feature serving the dual Economist,” he said, “It is because roads gested roads we could reduce the number purposes of protecting cyclists are free that we have run out of spare of users congesting that road. and reducing run-off-the-road crashes, road space.” Fewer users of a given road equal less and if you can envision a room full of He explains that the marginal cost of need for additional lanes. This will work engineers and planners pretending to be driving is so small that we never consider almost immediately because many of our marketing experts… well, it wasn’t pretty. it. smaller, non-limited access roads are Funny, yes, but not pretty! Here are under utilized, while our interstate and some facts about the new safety feature: Marginal Cost: city centers are over crowded. 1. It goes underneath the center line Marginal cost is the cost of doing one By adding tolls for driving on over- and edge line pavement markings of the more of anything; given that the original crowded, popular, congested roads and roadway, not on the shoulder cost of the equipment, the infrastructure areas, drivers would begin to look for less 2. It gets applied on rural roadways is in place, and the annual fees like expensive ways to get around. with posted speeds of 50 mph or greater licenses, registration, insurance, and Picture this: You need a loaf of bread 3. The feature has a minimum depth of taxes are already paid. for dinner, you grab your keys, drive on ⅜” and a maximum depth of ½”, this is In our mind, one more trip costs nearly the interstate, and zoom to the SuperMall 1/8” shallower than the depths on inter- and back across the rumble stripe, nothing. We believe that it is efficient where you dash into a MegaMart, get state shoulder rumble strips. regardless of where the 5’ gap was (in and inexpensive to jump in the car to go that loaf of bread, jump in your car, back 4. It is one of the Federal Highway fact, you can pretty much ignore the to the market for a loaf of bread. We on the interstate, no zooming now Administration’s proven safety counter- gap.) And while the rumble stripe will don’t see all the costs. because traffic is stopped for an accident. measures for keeping motorists in the get your attention when you cross it We don’t relate our “quick trip” to the You finally get home to enjoy your late traveled way. This reduces run-off-the- (that’s the purpose, after all), it seems destruction of our environment caused dinner. road crashes for motorists, and also helps unlikely to cause a crash even if you drift by wide roads, the damage caused by If you had to pay a toll to use the keep motorists off the shoulder where into by accident (while checking your extracting oil and refining it, the global superhighway, would you think twice? cyclists are often found. map, for instance, or fishing a Payday bar warming caused by burning fossil fuel. Would you say, “There is a 5. It is easy to cross on a bicycle, even from your jersey pocket.) Unless you are Do you ever think of the coal, iron ore, Convenience Store just two blocks over, I with skinny tires and even at high speed. actually attempting to ride right on top rubber, glass, and oil based materials that could save the money with my bike and With facts like these, any of the names of the edge line, the rumble stripe is go into the car we all take for granted? be back in a few minutes.” could have worked, but the preferred crossed so quickly that any teeth rattling Can you even imagine the waste prod- PayPass linked with a GPS system is name was Edge Line Rumble Stripe. The is kept to a minimum. And one could ucts generated by the production of all available today to pinpoint and assess Rumble Stripe shows the difference one argue that if you DO happen to drift these bits and pieces that make a car? charges for road use, or for driving in letter can make. Many of us cyclists are from the shoulder into the travel lane Can you see how our “Marginal Cost” congested areas. familiar with the dreaded rumble strips unintentionally, wouldn’t you want the thinking is destroying us and the world More and better roads have not cured (a.k.a. Shoulder Spoilers), such as those pavement marking to let you know about we live in? congestion, but alternative transporta- found in neighboring states that shall it? Is there an answer? I offer one solution tion, walking and bicycling does. remain nameless (but one of their names In short, we found the rumble stripe and there are many. The money saved by not building more rhymes with Porgia.) did its job of alerting cyclists and motor- Most answers will not be popular with expensive roads could be used to build a But with the addition of the letter “e”, ists to the presence of the edge line with- everyone. Not Popular? I ask you, “Just lot more multi-use paths, bicycle lanes “strip” becomes “stripe”, and we get a out creating a hazard in the process. It what is popular about the way our world and sidewalks. bicyclist-friendly rumble stripe instead of allows us to cross back and forth into the is going now?” This can begin to stop our roads from a bone-shaking rumble strip. How cool travel lane as needed, but provides a I suggest that we increase the use of costing too much. is that? measure of additional protection by graduated tolls. The design is a divot of ground-in alerting motorists when they are also pavement, 8” wide by about 6 ¼” long, crossing over the edgeline. Statistically, and 3/8” to ½” deep. It’s ground in using rural areas are the most common loca- Florence tion for rear overtaking crashes, and safer for all users...mostly by slowing cars a grinding wheel so the shape is a shal- wide paved shoulders are one counter- continued from page 12 down and making them behave. There is low trough. These divots are arranged in measure for this crash type. Yet we still Beck said. “A lot of that traffic can be a clear and demonstrable cause/effect 7’ of rumble array and a 5’ gap. Then see rear overtaking crashes even on impeded by pedestrians who are not fol- relationship between traffic calming by you lay 100 mils of thermoplastic edge shoulders, and we think the edge line lowing the rules in crosswalks.” design, and quality of life improvements line stripe over the top. When driven rumble stripe will be an effective addi- Following the rules is supposed to in communities that have embraced over in a car, they generate an attention- tional countermeasure against these make us safer, of course. But more than complete streets. getting “rrrrrrr-ump!, rrrrrrr-ump!” crashes. half a century of mobility segregation I know, Florence is unique. But every sound. We’ve asked FBA to partner with us on “American style” has not curbed bicycle- community is unique in its own way. We A few months ago, several of us from evaluating the rumble stripes further. I pedestrian fatalities...indeed, it has argu- don’t have to erect towering cathedrals the FDOT Roadway Design Office went am confident that cyclists will find the ably exacerbated it. and build our cities to medieval specs in out to test-ride the Rumble Stripe, in part rumble stripe to be a valuable tool for I am proud to say that in my little uni- order to make our streets safer for all because we were concerned about just more comfortable and confident cycling versity city, Gainesville, police have taken users. We do need to work on cultivating how innocuous it is. What if you didn’t on our rural State roads. If you’ve the exact opposite tack...setting up and promoting this shared sense that we know it was there, and hit it with your encountered the rumble stripes and have “stings” and citing motorists for failing to all belong, no matter our chosen means bicycle? What if you couldn’t tell where an experience or opinion to share (posi- yield to pedestrians. Gainesville is among of mobility. the 5’ gap was? Would the rumble stripe tive or negative—we need to hear it a growing number of communities that That’s a tough nut to crack in auto- cause a crash? Would it rattle your teeth? either way), please feel free to contact me are embracing “complete streets” policies America. We found that from a bicycle saddle, at [email protected]. intended to make the public roadways But it’s a campaign worth waging. the rumble stripe is pretty easy to see. We also found it was easy to cross over 14 Florida Bicycle Association Upcoming Events in Florida This printed version is ABRIDGED from promotional material provided by tour organizers. We’re not responsible for accuracy of information or quality of these rides. Use the con- tact information for more details about each ride. Ask your friends. Data are gleaned and summarized from an online calendar database maintained by Roger Pierce and published on the FBA web site. To add an event to his (and our) calendar, e-mail to [email protected] or go online to post your own entry. See complete calendar, including many out-of- state rides we don’t have room to print here, and much of the hype we edited out in this here version, at www.floridabicycle.org/touring.

June information. Helmets required. minute items needed for the ride. Tour (Interstate 75 CR 318 exit). police.fsu.edu 25/65 miles through southern Clay An on- tour along the Registration open to 9 a.m. If you June 13-14 Tallahassee County along safe roads. All scenic back roads of southern Polk want to start with a group, we′ll The Ride for Hope 2014 July money raised stays in local chari- County. Choose from a Family Fun send you off at 8:30 a.m. At the North Florida Fairgrounds, a ties. Fully supported SAGS with Ride of 16 miles for $20.00 37 Otherwise, you can start whenever fun-filled cyclist and wellness July 6 (Sun) Punta Gorda restroom facilities along the route, Mile TowTour $30.00 and 65 Mile you wish. 25/30/45 mile routes. event for all ages, Six distance Peace River Riders Wheels and Fresh cooked day of the ride BBQ TowTour $35.00 TANDEM Rolling terrain. http://gccfla.org/ rides ranging from a family fun Wings V lunch at the end of the ride. RIDERS we′d love to have you gcf/ ride/walk to a 100-mile century 50/32/15 mile rides and a 10 mile “Jersey” registration at $70 (go to too. Just add 15.00 for extra rider. through the rolling hills and cano- gentlemen′s mass start race within website to view). Early t-shirt reg- New bike givaway to kids who November py roads of Tallahassee. Excellent the 50 mile route. Speed Trap istration is $35 with $40 day of: otherwise wouldn′t be able to SAG support and water stops! Alley— break the speed limit and Go to www.RotaryBikeRide.com afford one. Ride stages at Central November 1-8 Key Largo Jersey order discount for early reg- receive a written warning from for registration, route map, times between Main and Summerlin. BubbaFest--Florida Keys istration! Free insulated water bot- Punta Gorda Police suitable for and details. Central kept clear of cars and park- A bicycling vacation. You will tle for Century & Metric riders. framing. Mystery Ride for the 15 ing but there is plenty of parking bicycle the entire Florida Keys sys- While supplies last. Event begins milers. Includes Ride, SAG stops, August 30 - September 1 Sebring on Central between Summerlin and tem, down and back. Starting in at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 13 with a T-shirt, 10 Wings and two drinks. 32nd Annual Tour of Sebring Parker and at the Oaks Parking Key Largo to Key West and back Vendor Expo that includes pre-reg- Watch our Facebook page for even Labor Day Weekend. Enjoy one, Lot. For more info, call ride coor- to Key Largo. Lay over days in istration, dinner, entertainment and more exciting features. https:// two or three days of cycling in the dinator, Trish at @863.640.1024, Marathon and Key West. This is a the “Hero of Hope” presentation. www.facebook.com/groups/peac- gently rolling hills of Highlands or click the Active.com link. bar- fully-supported event with great All rides take place on Saturday, eriverriders/ Registration: $30 pre- County, excellent buffet lunch towcyclingevents.com food. Swim with the Dolphins. starting with the 100-mile century $40 day of (no t-shirt) It′s a Ride, a meals by Chef Mac, Ice Cream Snorkel. Dive. Sun-sets like only at 6:30 a.m., with the “family fun” Party and an Event all rolled up Socials, Door Prizes, etc. Riders October the keys can provide. See you on events and Health Fair from 9 a.m. into one. www.peaceriverridersbi- will especially appreciate our light- the beach where it is...ALL Good! - 1 p.m. All attendees receive free cycleclub.com ly traveled back roads, friendly October 5 (Sun) St. Petersburg www.BubbaFestBikeTours.com/ health and fitness information and motorists, citrus groves, cattle Cystic Fibrosis Foundation′s Cycle other benefits. Music, food, face ranches, and small towns typical of For Life November 2 (Sun) Melbourne painting, and fun for the whole July 13 (Sun) Boca Raton rural Central Florida. Fully sup- Multiple routes up to 62 mile. The Cycle4Alz - Cycle 4 Alzheimer′s family. Proceeds benefit the Frank Stark Celebration Ride ported routes with cue sheets and rides begin and end in Fort Desoto 100/65/10 Miles Ride through the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer It’s time for a gala celebration. maps, on-road route marks, excel- Park, and pass through some of the Central and Northern areas of Center and help to keep quality Start and End: Boca Raton City lent rest stops, bicycle mechanic, most scenic and cycle-friendly Brevard County, FL. There will be cancer care close to home. Over Hall, 201 West Palmetto Park and dispatched SAG service vehi- roads in the Tampa Bay area. This several well stocked Rest Stops, 3,000 foot elevation gain on the Road corner of Palmetto Park Road cles. Daily rides ranging from 11 to ride is fully supported with well t-shirts, lunch after the ride and century! The Florida Highway and Boca Raton Blvd (2nd Ave) 62 miles, Sunday Bok Tour stocked rest stops every 10-12 plenty of fun!All proceeds will Patrol will escort for lead groups in Boca Raton Florida 33432. Century (100 miles). A massage miles, support and gear (SAG) benefit the Brevard Alzheimer′s both the metric and century race REGISTRATION BEGINS AT therapist available after the rides. vehicles, bike mechanics, on site Foundation, Inc. (www.brevardalz. components. The Century race 6:00 a.m. 62 mile RIDE BEGINS Meals: daily expanded continental medical services, complimentary org). Registration and route details component includes a 3-lap criteri- AT 7:00 a.m. 30 mile ride begins at breakfast including scrambled eggs breakfast, lunch and finish line fes- will be available on the event web- um finish. Sponsorship, Vendor 8:00 a.m. Ride Support Ends at & home fries, cereals, yogurts, fruit tivities. For more info, please con- site. www.cycle4alz.org Booth and Volunteer opportunities 1:00 p.m. Register Early (Before and a deluxe buffet lunch that tact Ryan Reid at (813) 374-9041. Active.com Online Registration. as well. Visit TheRideForHope. July 11th) and get a FREE Fanny includes salad, carving, vegetable http://cycle.cff.org. com for registration and informa- Pack to the first 750 people who and desert stations as well as an November 2 (Sun) Fort Myers tion. register and a Free Wallet for the entree buffet line. Event Co-Hosts: October 25 (Sat) Gainesville Streets Alive! first 1,000 people who register Highlands Pedalers bicycle club & 22nd Annual Orthopaedic RESCHEDULED from April 6, June 28 (Sat) Woodville $40.00 online (closes July 11 at the historic Kenilworth Lodge Institute Santa Fe Century 2014 Matthew Beard Memorial Ride to 11:59 p.m.) $40.00 By Mail post- where registration, packet pick up A tour through the lush forest and Streets Alive! was created to incor- the Sea marked no later than July 11th and all rides originate. Early pasture land north of Gainesville porate fun, fitness and food to pro- Ride begins on the St. Marks Trail $50.00 Late Registration/Day of Registration by August 22 (event up through the Santa Fe River val- mote healthier lifestyles by tempo- at the Wakulla Station at 10am. Ride WE RIDE RAIN or SHINE. t-shirts guaranteed). No refunds ley. Rides start at 8:30 a.m. from rarily closing streets to motor vehi- The ride is FREE and is intended NO REFUNDS. Helmets are after this deadline. tourofsebring. the North West Boys and Girls cles and opening them for people to allow all levels of cyclists to required The Frank Stark Ride has com/index.php. Club at 2700 NW 51st Street in to have fun and get active. ride to show their support of vic- been a tradition for the last 24 Gainesville. Enjoy a 100 or 55 mile http://streetsalivelee.org/ tims and survivors of DUI drivers. years. It features a scenic ride September ride, or 18 or 28 mile Millhopper Riders will have support along the along the Atlantic coast as well as Ramble family fun ride, with well November 2 (Sun) Sunrise way, including snacks and drinks. a tour through Boca Raton. Well September 14 (Sun) Fernandina stocked rest stops. http://gccfla.org/ Adopt-a-Bike Ride The ride follows the St. Marks stocked rest stops along the way Beach gcf/. Markham Park. Registration $40. Bike Trail to the St. Marks River and full Sag Support during the 25th Annual Endless Summer Raffles & Continental Breakfast Park in St. Marks, Florida. Here is ride. Post-ride meal. Proceeds ben- Watermelon Ride October 26 (Sun) Gainesville included. Register & details on the where the river feeds into the efit bicycle advocacy groups on a Amelia Island through Fort Clinch 34th Annual Horse Farm Hundred web site below. Six Ride Levels Apalachacola Bay at the Gulf of local, state and national level. State Park and points along coastal The Gainesville Cycling Club′s tour starting at 12mph - 22+mph - 62 Mexico— a beautiful area in a lit- Contact info for registration: www. roads. Visit League of American through the picturesque horse mile route w/SAG & Police escort. tle sea oriented town. At the park, BocaRatonBicycleClub.com or Bicyclists’ 2013 Bronze Level farms of northern Marion County. Helmets required. All proceeds riders will be able to make a dedi- club info line at (561) 391-6109. award winner, Fernandina Beach. The 102 mile ride and a 55 mile benefit the ADopt-a-Bike cation to a loved one, and sign a Pre-ride snacks, rest stops, a post- option that doesn′t get into horse Foundation. Adopt-a-Bike is a non- pledge to be a designated driver August ride lunch, mechanical support, farm territory start at 8:30 a.m. at profit organization that provided and not drink and drive. At the ride motorcycle escorts, and roving Loften High School at 3000 East bike, helmets and bike safety infor- finish, t-shirts for all finishers (lim- August 23 (Sat) Fleming Island SAGs. Details and prices for hotel University Avenue. Bagels and mation to disadvantaged and physi- ited supply). The total out and back Rotary Bike Ride packages on website. Five routes: muffins available before the start. cally challenged children. ride distance is 12 miles. The ride 6th Annual, hosted by Rotary Club 20/34/58/80/100 miles Sign up at http://gccfla.org/gcf/ Donations to Adopt-a-Bike is organized by the Florida State of Green Cove Springs. Staging www.NFBC.us. Foundation are tax deductible. University Police Department and area is Hibernia Baptist Church on October 26 (Sun) Flemington www.adoptabike.org the Dori Slosberg Foundation. Hwy 17, there is plenty of parking September 20 (Sat) Bartow Horse Farm Tours E-mail Major Jim Russell for more and a local bike shop to get the last Tour de Tow 2014 - Scenic Road Start: Flemington on CR 329 Summer 2014 15

They make bike lanes, don’t they? by Ted Wendler, FBA Board Member

The following text was part of an e-mail Many communities on the west coast It is unrealistic to expect that there will lead, after all—we are the experts—or at exchange between board members earlier have progressive policies and practices in be bicycle facilities everywhere you want least we should be. this year in regards to bike lanes and other place with a long history of attending to to go—you will have to use the road at Post Script: To illustrate the dichotomy bicycle facilities in Portland, Oregon: bicycle and pedestrian concerns. We some point. between the mindset in other parts of the don’t have that here. There was a time when I supported country and efforts to improve condi- omething to consider in the If you are already feeling marginalized, bike lanes for the communities that tions for cycling in Florida, our Executive “There vs. Here” debate: the I don’t know that making that marginal- wanted them. However, the “mandatory Director, Tim Bustos, was involved in the two cultures are fundamentally ization official by drawing a line and law” caused me to reconsider creation of a consortium of statewide different. resigning yourself to the other side is the that position. Now I offer an abundance bicycle organizations in the Deep South I lived in Oregon for five years answer. Once we are there, that is where of caution. Be sure they are absolutely (think, Southern Solutions to Southern and spent two summers in Berkeley. they will expect us to be: where we’re necessary before you commit, and there Problems.) Anytime I stepped off the curb in those supposed to be. This will further exacer- is not a less restrictive alternative avail- The first symposium was hosted by places, with or without a crosswalk, traf- bate the “Get Out of My Way!/I Didn’t able. Once they are in place, they will be Bike Texas this past spring, where he pre- fic stopped in both directions. This See Them!” dynamic we already face. difficult to remove—especially, if they do sented a paper as an invited speaker. overall courtesy transferred to cyclists as Florida is a small government state not garner the results you were looking Other states represented at this first ever well. (I also spent a week in Montreal with small government solutions, histori- for. meeting included Texas, Mississippi, and never felt threatened while cycling cally. Facilities are expensive, if they are While I think it important to be Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. there, though the space was confined well designed, well executed, and proper- responsive to the wishes of our members, According to all reports, it was a very and shared with numerous automobiles.) ly maintained. I also think it is our responsibility to enlightening meeting.

Journeys from home...

Racers in the lane Robert Seidler

ometimes I just cannot take Those big boxes constantly combat rac- People quit messing with motorcyclists the abusive nature of conflicts. ers. Racers spend 40 hours or more a pretty much since they could not tell The conflict between bicycling week training and much of the time Angels from other riders. I was a motor- racers training in packs and the alone in traffic being abused. They are cyclist in those days—and still am—and I driving public is out of control. cut off, hollered at, pushed off the road thank Hells Angels for suffering the Since the invention of the bicycle, by impatient passers in their boxes. It agony and enduring the legacy of a trans- wasp nest, something to let go without a byproduct has been the bicycle racer. seems that drivers believe that their box portation system too big, too arrogant, disturbing. Racers who ride bikes are different than has more rights than the little person on and too driven by speed alone to be Begin to be careful of those single bicy- those who race cars. a 20-pound device. fixed. clists that are all around you. They are Bicycle racers are racing reality. Sure the lone racer could do better So the bicycle racer is being run out of easily injured by traffic, easily made Nothing is more physically demanding of interfacing with traffic, but they are pack towns, off the roads, and seen as a nui- unstable by being passed too closely, so many muscles or so many senses. animals running on predatory senses, sance. He/she is a reflection of a system turned in front of, or just blasted by the Watch the 21 days of the Tour de France afraid and alone while engulfed by that is still arrogant, intolerant, and not horn. just once and feel the emotion and the motorized traffic. fair to other users. Times have to change They already have to ride through all mission. Day in and day out the racer gets now that our health, the planet’s health, the debris blown to the edge of the road- Bicycle racers race in packs and must abused. Then on weekends they get to and oil is no longer affordable or soon way by traffic with tiny tires that pop at train that way to gain the expertise nec- ride in packs. Packs are like hornets’ available. the smallest piece of glass, metal or essary to win. Bicycle racers may go 50 nests pulsating with energy not to be dis- Give the packs some room and some thorn. miles per hour or more. turbed. Packs have a mission and that is relief. Stop and rest five minutes, and let THE LANE IS A PUBLIC UTILITY. It Bicycle racers worldwide train on the training and flowing. They also have real them go ahead out of sight and mind. is full of people using different devices. roadway system. There is NO other place power and use it often to keep the abuse Cool off and think about them differ- Learn how to cooperate. to train and no other way to learn but to from rising out of the boxes all around ently. Think of them as heroes of the — Robert Seidler is a filmmaker, cyclist train as you race—IN PACKS. them. Messing with 50 or 100 cyclists is roadway powered by intense personal and nature-based guide who leads fractal I am not a bicycle racer—was never different than running a lone one off the energy and a small 20-pound device. adventures in Panacea/Sopchoppy, one—but I am a bicyclist and have been roadway. They are models of health and trans- Florida. all my life. I love the bicycle because it In the ’60s motorcyclists had similar portation, inspiring to watch and, like a offers me health, economic freedom, problem with drivers—constant harass- social networks and affordability that’s ment, blatant abuses, and endless con- never imagined by most people in our flicts. A group formed from all the con- Add your voice consumer world. flict and set its mission as a unity of one Look: most bikes are less than 30 for all and all for one. for the future pounds, last pretty much forever and Since the law was not assisting, they of bicycling have a small impact on the planet. A bike implemented a strategy of fear into the in Florida. is a supremely sustainable device that driving public. If you messed with a Hells does what it is suppose to do. It is one of Angel, other Angels would get you no the few devices that exceeds expecta- matter where you lived. tions. Offending motorists were tracked Toss yourself into a 4,000-pound box down and beat up by the brothers. Very JOIN FBA and drive around endlessly, complacently quickly word spread and still exists: if and unsustainably and notice the differ- you mess with an Angel you will get TODAY JOIN ONLINE at www.fbamembership.org ence. Our planet needs some of the hurt. Membership includes the FBA Messenger! health the bicycle brings to us. Florida Bicycle Association Messenger — Summer 2014

What IS FBA? 2013 Annual Awards Winners Announced by Mighk Wilson While admittedly late, FBA recently announced the winners of our 2013 Annual Awards, recognizing those who go above and beyond in forward- ing the cause of improving Florida’s cycling environment. Since 1999 ur members and other we’ve chosen individuals and organizations as leaders in a number of Floridians interested in categories. Congratulations to all our winners! bicycling likely have some them than to other types of organiza- idea of what Florida Bicycle tions. Bike Club – Polk Area Bicycle Association Association is about. A quick For our board members and staff, this Off-Road Bike Club – Flagler Area Biking; IMBA/SORBA (covering Fla- read of our vision and mission state- status means we have to ensure the orga- gler, St. Johns, and Volusia Counties), Kevin Phelps, President ments will make that clear. But an equal- nization adheres to the exempt purpose ly important question for members, and to state and federal laws and policies. Enforcement Officer/Agency – Tallahassee Police Department donors and our board of directors is Legally speaking, FBA is an educational what we are. organization, not an advocacy organiza- Bike/Ped Educator – Lyndy Moore, FTBSEP* Regional Trainer FBA is a not-for-profit corporation tion. This doesn’t mean it cannot do Supporting Agency – operating under section 501(c)(3) of the Polk County Sports Marketing, Mark Jackson, some advocacy and lobbying for favor- Director federal tax code. Here’s the definition able legislation, but those cannot be the straight from the IRS: main efforts of the organization, and Bicycle Professional – Sarita Taylor, FDOT Safety Office The exempt purposes set forth in sec- there are limits on how much of our Citizen Bike Advocate – Darla Letourneau, BikeWalkLee tion 501(c)(3) are charitable, religious, budget can be spent on lobbying. educational, scientific, literary, testing for Advocacy and lobbying are primary Bike Store Advocate – Orange Cycle, Owners Deena Breed & Howard public safety, fostering national or inter- purposes of 501(c)(4) organizations. Larlee national amateur sports competition, and Knowing that we are an educational preventing cruelty to children or ani- organization, we might then ask, “What Volunteer – Jim Shirk, Tampa Bay area mals. qualifies as “education?” Wikipedia Elected Official Champion – District 13, Coast- FBA’s articles of incorporation state Senator Andy Gardiner, describes it as “a form of learning in to-Coast Trail Funding Bill Sponsor that “The purposes for which the corpo- which the knowledge, skills, and habits ration is organized are exclusively chari- of a group of people are transferred from *Florida Traffic & Bicycle Safety Education Program table and educational within the mean- one generation to the next through ing of section 501(c)(3)...” teaching, training, or research.” For our For donors, the 501(c)(3) status means purposes, education can be directed to sibility to be the expert—especially when Florida Bicycle Association is clear: to donations are tax deductible (if you motorists, engineers and planners, edu- safety is at stake, while the advocate provide expert education for bicyclists itemize your taxes). Many government cators, and elected officials, as well as— merely has to be good at marketing an and for those whose actions have an agencies and foundations limit their of course—bicyclists. idea. impact on cyclists, and to carry out grants only to 501(c)(3) organizations, or I believe education differs from advo- Understanding the above, our primary efforts to improve and expand such edu- have policies making it easier to give to cacy in that the educator has the respon- responsibility as directors and staff of cation.

Good News, Mr. Smith! The IRS now allows your employer to give you a tax-free reimbursement of up to $20 per month for reasonable bicycle related expenses as a qualified bicycle commuter.*

We can keep you up to date with the latest rulings affecting cyclists everywhere, offering quality tax and financial accounting services with the confidence and solid reputation that comes from over 30 years of quality service to the Central Florida business community. We're proud to support FBA and its mission to promote good health and well-being in our communities through bicycling. Scearce, Satcher & Jung, P.A. CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS Kenneth L. Scearce, CPA David A. Satcher, CPA Carla M. Hansen, CPA 243 W. Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789 (407) 647-6441 Office (407) 645-0099 Fax *See Publication 15-B at www.irs.gov for more information.