michigan bicyclist magazine_spring2010
TRANSCRIPT
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
1/16
MICHIGANBICYCLIST
Bike Summit Round Ups
Michigan Goes BicycleFriendly
Texting Ban Passes
LMB Annual Report
And More
Spring 2010
In This Issue:
Bicycle Advocates Join Forces
for 2010 Lucinda Means Bicycle
Advocacy Day - PAGE 8
Bicycl is t s
Unite
May 26, 2010
Lansing, MI
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
2/16
1 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
uick Release
Ive been honored to serve many community organizations, and a num
of governing boards, including leadership stints. In many ways, theyre
same; in some, they can be quite different. Because organizations comp
human beings, they display the gamut of human personality types and be
iors. Participate in enough groups and youll see (and sometimes be) the g
the bad, and the ugly.
As an elected ofcial, I became familiar with the political model, wh
constituents communicate in many ways. They call people hired to run the city, from the
on the beat to the highest appointed ofcial. They attend public meetings, whether cit
boards or city councils. They also contact ofcials outside meetings. Surprisingly, given
heat in public meetings, they do this less often. Of course, they can always express ultim
displeasure on election day.
Theres an important distinction in cities, towns and villages, between Strong Mayor
Weak Mayor systems. A Strong Mayor actually runs day-to-day city operations, like
chief operating ofcer (COO). The Weak Mayor system, hires a separate COO (called a
Manager) to keep streets clean and people safe.
During one mayoral terms I received a fellowship to the Kennedy School of Governm
(KSG) at Harvard. (A couple of years later, our City Manager was also chosen.) There I lear
a key concept: ofcials almost invariably t one of two archetypes, each named for membe
Washingtons Cabinet. One is the Hamiltonian, whose mantra is Get er done, whether build
a bridge or levying taxes for it. She has no patience for debate, and doesnt mind stepping on
The Jeffersonian is not interested simply in goals, but in how she meets them. She c
about democratic process, through which free people reach consensus on societys goals. E
majority rule is not democratic enough; she is just as concerned about minority rights.
Not surprisingly, most mayors at Harvard were Jeffersonians; most city managers, re ch
and public works directors, Hamiltonians. Neither is best or worst. Democracy needs both acti
involved. They will always conict. Thats healthy. Its unhealthy, dysfunctional, for eithe
dominate, or to fail to engage in setting goals and managing their implementation.
Though different from municipal governments, other organizations share many of t
characteristics. It is important for any organizations members to understand its leaders r
and their own relationship to the groups leaders, employees and fellow members.
LMB is very like a Weak Mayor government. Except for chairing board meetings
writing this column), the CEO (Chief Executive Ofcer) exercises no special powers. He
board member with a gavel.
The board wields one strong power: hiring and ring Executive Directors. This is not
By DANTE LANZETTA, LMB Board Chair
Michigan Bicyclist
Editor, Art & Design: JOHN LINDENMAYER
Copy Editor: DANTE LANZETTA
Cover Photo: GARY L. HOWE
Letters/Comments/Advertisements may be
directed to:[email protected]
Visit our web site for contact information,
advertising rates and much more.
www.LMB.org Copyright 2010
LMB Directors
Region 1: STEVEN ROACH
Region 2: MICHAEL SPROULRegion 3: DANTE LANZETTA, ChairRegion 4: JIM CARPENTER, Vice Chair
Region 5: PAUL ALMAN
Region 6: RORY NEUNER
Region 7: MICHAEL BOERSMA, Treasurer
Region 8: BARBARA SCHMID, Secretary
Region 9: DAVE KINDY
Region 10: VACANT
Region 11: MICHAEL SHEEAN
Region 12: CHRISTINA RIDDLE
At Large: FRED DOREAt Large: DAVE DUFFIELD
At Large: PHIL WELLS
LMB ToursANNE BELANGER, Tour Director - Sunrise Adventure
FRED DORE, Tour Director - MUP
JIM DOUGHERTY, Ride Leader - Shoreline West
MARY DOUGHERTY, Ride Leader - Shoreline West
Staff
RICH MOELLER
Executive [email protected]
JOHN LINDENMAYERAssociate Director, [email protected]
The League of Michigan Bicyclists (LMB) is a
501(c)(3) non-prot statewide organization devoted
exclusively to the advancement of bicycling. Our
mission is to promote bicycling and increase the
safety of bicyclists on the roadways in Michigan.
Michigan Bicyclistis a benet of membership
in the League of Michigan Bicyclists. Michigan
Bicyclist is published four times a year as part
of the Leagues continuing efforts to inform
Michigan bicyclists.
416 S. Cedar St. Suite A Lansing, MI 48912
(888) 642-4537 | (517) 334-9100
(517) 334-9111 (fax) | www.LMB.org
League of Michigan Bicyclists
Printed on
100% Post Consumer Waste
Zeke Boldy rides his re bike in the
2010 Traverse City Earth Day Parade.The parade is organized each year by
Little Artshram. This year's theme wa
"pedal power," displayed here in a ban
at the front of the parade. Recently,
Complete Streets advocates have b
particularly active in the city working
to implement a community-planning
initiative called The Grand Vision, as
well as holding the city government
accountable for policies that call for m
complete streets.
Photos courtesy of Gary L Howe
www.MyWheelsareTurning.com
On the CoverSee Quick Release, continued on page
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
3/16
By being a member of LMB you have demon-
strated that you care about bicycling in Michigan.
Whether or not we want to be, each of us is a leader.
I would like to share with you my thoughts on how
we as leaders need to adapt to ensure that Michigan
continues to become bicycle-friendly.
We need to be real leaders to advance our bicycle
agenda. Unfortunately, there are many more poor
leadership role models as than good ones today. Leadership is not being
a bully and forcing your ideas down peoples throats. Nor is leadership
sitting back and doing nothing and hoping the issue will disappear or,
if someone does have an idea, criticizing him or her. Leadership is
embracing individuals who come from different disciplines, hold dif-
ferent views and want to work to make bicycling safer. A good leader
is not only a good listener, but is able to work with a diverse group and
encourage them to work as one to achieve a common goal. Being a
leader means not caring who gets the credit as long as the goals are
reached. That is real leadership.A leader doesnt have to be in charge to lead. If you are simply a
member of a group, you can still lead. We all have different beliefs.
Some of us may feel that, unless you ride a bike with dropped handle-
bars, you are not a bicyclist. When we are part of a group we must not
let individual ideology hinder the groups ability to complete the task.
We must stand up for our views, but we be willing to compromise for
the good of the whole. This is real leadership.
No longer can we sit back and wait for someone else to do it. Now we
need actively to involve all bicyclists and groups that are sympath
to our issues, not just those that look like us or are our friends. I c
lenge each of you to think how you can be a leader, a real leade
your community.
Thanks to Treks leadership, bicycle shops have begun to realize
importance of their involvement in advocacy. It is time that we eng
the bike shops and make them part of our advocacy and educa
efforts at all levels, not just as people we ask for freebies, but as
advocacy partners.
The average age of bicyclists in clubs and organizations like L
is in the mid 50s. Obviously, we are missing a huge segment o
bicycling population. We need to use the various social networking t
to reach out to bicyclists who may not look or act like the average L
bicyclist. How many of you are embracing Facebook, Twitter, YouT
blogs, Google groups, Flickr and Delicious? Five years ago, when I
this job, many of these tools didnt exist. No longer can we say, I d
understand this new age stuff and ignore it. We need to embrace it
are discovering a whole new world of bicyclists and supporters throthese vehicles. Many of these are younger bicyclists who have a
interest in what their future is going to look like.
For years we have thought that bicycle clubs would be an excel
vehicle for advocacy and bicycle education. Some have, but many sim
want to ride their bikes and want no part of advocating and educa
Thankfully, in many communities, coalitions such as Walk Bike L
sing!, Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition, Safe and Active Gen
for Everyone and the Washtenaw Bicycling and Walking Coalition
become leaders in advocating for bicycling. We need to take advan
of the support we can get from these types of coalitions.
Bicyclists come in many sizes, shapes and packages. We have
ferent wants and needs and dont often agree on much except tha
all want a safe bicycling environment. I challenge each one of
to make a commitment to be a leader in your community by en
ing all groups and individuals are part of making bicycling safe
Michigan.
By RICH MOELLER, LMB Executive Director
From the Big Wheel
Sleep with History!After a restful overnight and a heartybreakfast, explore southern Ohios scenic
Hocking Hills / Lake Hope region. Our
historic lodgings are all near several
bikeways and other interesting places!
All have a place to lock up your bicycle.
Historic Host Vacation Rentals
Breakfast included at
all our historic lodgings
877-364-4786
740-596-2408
www.HistoricHost.com
May 19, 2010
Join cyclists in all seven continents at
7pm in a silent slow-paced (max. 12
mph) ride to honor those who have been
injured or killed while cycling on public
roadways.
To HONOR those who have been
injured or killed
To RAISE AWARENESS that we are here
To ask that we all SHARE THE ROAD
Find Michigan Locations at: www.rideofsilence.org
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
4/16
3 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
2010 Michigan Bicycle SummitThis years Michigan
Bicycle Summit,
hosted by LMB,
brought over 100
cycling enthusiasts
from across the state
to take part in a day
of educational work-
shops and networking
opportunities.
Andy Clarke, Executive Director of the League
of American Bicyclists, kicked things off as the 2010
keynote speaker.
Fresh from the recent National Bike Summit in Wash-
ington D.C., Andy talked about what it will take to make
cycling more prevalent in American society. He shared encouraging
examples of communities across the country that have made great
strides toward being bicycle-friendly.
He spoke of the sea change in federal policy on bicycling, citing
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHoods recent statement that,
This is the end of favoring motorized transportation at the expense of
non-motorized. (see page 12) Andy built on the Secretarys remarks
with his own words of encouragement, stating, Theres no better place
than Michigan to show by example that things are changing.
Andy Clarke was certainly not the only draw at this years Summit.
Twelve diverse workshops lled the balance of the day.
Ride of Silence founder Chris Phelan and Michigan Ride of Silence
organizers Mark Hagar and Tim Potter presented the history and
importance of the Ride of Silence, which is held each year across the
globe on the third Wednesday of May to honor bicyclists who have
been injured or killed.
Other highlights included a standing-room-only panel discussion ontheMichigan Complete Streets movement, a high-energy presentation
of the 11 Commandments of Cycling Advocacy by lobbyist Jean Doss,
and A Bike Shops Role in Advocacy presented by Michael Reuter
of American Cycle & Fitness and Randy Martin of Continental Bike
Shop. Our friends at the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance
and Michigan Mountain Biking Association also gave organizational
update. John Waterman of Programs to Educate All Cyclists along with
Josh Britton and Justin Walworth of Peckham Industries presented a
2010 MichiganBicycle Summit
Providing tools for a brighterbicycling future in Michigan
March 27 - Lansing, MI
Keynote Speaker Andy ClarkeExecutive Director, League of American Bicyclists
How many cars crossed the riverbefore you built the bridge?
Andy Clarke, when asked how to respond to criticswho ask why governments should build bicycling facilities
where people dont currently ride bicycles.
Top to bottom:1) Ride of Silence founder Chris Phelan recounorganizing the rst Ride of Silence in Dallas in 2003 aft
a passing bus killed endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz an empty road.
2)Lansing City Council Member Jessica Yorko explains tcommunity organizing efforts that led to Lansing recentpassing the rst Complete Streets ordinance in Michiga
3)Keynote speaker Andy Clarke, Executive Director of tLeague of American Bicyclists, shares inspiring examplof communities across America leading the charge f
bicycle friendliness.
4) Jean Doss of J. Doss Consulting, giving a high-ener
primer on how to improve your advocacy skills.
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
5/16
At LMBs Awards Reception held Friday night before the Summit,
League of American Bicyclists Executive Director Andy Clarke,
Ride of Silence Founder Chris Phelan, and LMB Executive
Director Rich Moeller presented a panel discussion on bicycling.
An audience of over 50 asked questions ranging from How
will England fare in the World Cup without David Beckham
to Which is more eective, a Three-Foot Passing Law or a
Vulnerable User Law? For many, this was the highlight of the
weekend as the discussion was frank and the panelists did not
always agree with each other, but everyone had a great time.
From top to bottom, left to right:
1) Andy Clarke League of American Bicyclists Executive Director,Rich Moeller LMB Executive Director, Chris Phelan Ride of
Silence Founder, and John Lindenmayer LMB Associate Director.
2) Jessica Yorko Bicycle Advocate Award 3) Mike Egan LMB
Volunteer Award 4) Nancy Keener & Marylynn Balewski of West
Bloomeld Parks and Recreation Commission with Claudia &
Michael Aughenbaugh Community Support for Bicycling Award
5) Joyce Halstead LMB Distinguished Service Award 6) Michael
and Claudia Aughenbaugh Bicycle Educator Award.
Visit: http://bit.ly/cW7jMmfor more details on award recipients.
2009 LMB Award
Recipients
workshop on How to Make Your Tour Accessible.
Additionally, Summit-goers heard about Liability Issues of
On-Road Bike Facilities from Josh DeBruyn of the Michigan
Department of Transportation and Adventure Cycling Association
volunteers Scott Anderson and Paul VandenBosch gave an update
on Michigans part of the new U.S. Bike Route System.
Rounding out our breakout sessions were Andy Kilpatrick,Transportation Engineer for the City of Lansing, who presented
A Planners View in Making Bicycle-Friendly Streets and
Roadways, and Sarah Colegrove, of Briggs Colegrove, P.C., who
discussedMichigans No-Fault Law and how it affects bicyclists.
The Summit also marked the unveiling of LMBs new online
Education and Advocacy Toolkits. LMB Associate Director
John Lindenmayer introduced the toolkits, demonstrating the
new section of LMBs website which helps bicyclists effectively
promote and advocate for better bicycling conditions throughout
Michigan. LMB Executive Director Rich Moeller detailed the
Community Bikeability Assessment, just one of many great newresources in the toolkits.
A number of cyclists took part in a 20-mile post-Summit ride
through Lansings countryside. You will nd additional photos
and Summit presentations posted on our website at: www.LMB.
org/index.php/Events/michigan-bicycle-summit-2010.html.
We are extremely grateful to our hosts, Peckham Industries, who
went out of their way to make our Summit a resounding success.
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
6/16
5 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
MEMBERSHIP
In 2009, we had a 2% increase in the number of paid members.
Our membership renewal rate for the year was 66%.
Membership Totals(individual members)
2009 2008
Individual Members 1095 1077
Lifetime Members 104 102
Shop Members 35 31
Organization Members 41 40
Club Members 35 33
Total Members: 1310 1283
FINANCIAL
2009 was a challenging year for LMB. The downturn in the
economy was a major factor. We decided early in the year not to
cut any services or publications and to use our operating reserves to
carry us through this difcult time.Financial Trends (in 000s)
Year End of YearCash Balance
ToursNet
Administration &Program Net
2006 $165 $80 -$93
2007 $189 $108 -$84
2008 $194 $88 -$83
2009 $181 $92 -$105*
*2009 is unaudited
A copy of the 2008 Audit is available online at www.LMB.org.
FUNDRAISING
To ensure that LMB continues to provide bicycle education and
to advocate for bicycling we encourage contributions from our sup-
porters. In 2009 we identied the following projects as needs for
contributed dollars:
Reprinting our What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know
booklets (Because of demand, we actually printed it twice
in 2009, for a total of 55,000 copies);
Supporting the Lucinda Means Advocacy Day and our
advocacy work; Developing a youth version of the What Every Bicyclist
Must Know booklets.
Our two major fund raising efforts are the $1 per Rider Program
and our Annual Year-end Appeal. Nineteen rides participated in
the Program. These rides had a combined ridership of 6,539, raising
$5,539 for the above-mentioned projects.
143 donors contributed a total of $8,008 to our Annual Year-end
Appeal.
Our increase in individual donations in 2009 offset a decreas
receipts from the $1 per Rider Program.
We want to thank all who supported our efforts through t
donations in 2009.
TOURS
LMB annually conducts bicycle tours. The purpose of th
tours to:
Showcase bicycle tourism opportunities in Michigan;
Demonstrate that bicyclists are responsible road users;
Provide funding for the overall operation of LMB.
PnP Sunrise MUP West Total
Total Riders - 2009 61 129 129 417 736
- 2008 103 162 126 445 836
- 2007 104 167 148 499 918
Oldest 68 82 80 86 79
Youngest 3 7 18 5 8
Average Age 43.54 54.64 56.64 53.26 52.02
MI % of Riders 97% 89% 33% 38% 51%
We want to thank our Tour Volunteer Leaders for their outsta
ing efforts: Anne Belanger (Rogers City) Sunrise Adventure,
and Mary Dougherty (Lansing) Shoreline West and Fred D
(Commerce Township) Michigans Upper Peninsula. They w
assisted by 40 other volunteers. A special thank you to all of
wonderful folks who make our tours a wonderful experience for
RESOURCES
We provide many different resources to bicyclists in Michigan
those coming to vacation in Michigan. Through our web site, em
and telephone calls we provide a valuable service to bicyclists seek
information from where to ride to what are the laws in Michig
We answered more than 6,500 inquiries in 2009.
In addition, we work with the Michigan Department of Tra
portation to distribute the new bicycle suitability maps for the
regions in Michigan. Last year we distributed 509 maps.
We also work with MDOT in distributing Tourism Packet
people who want to learn more about bicycling in Michigan. In 2
we mailed out 1,100 Tourism Packets.
Through our online store, we sold 72 route maps of our vari
tours.
Thanks to Ralph and Janet Emmons, we completed our rst cr
state bicycle route and published maps for all to enjoy. This ro
goes through Monroe, Lenawee, Hillsdale, Branch, St. Joseph, C
2009 Annual Report
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
7/16
and Berrien Counties. The route information includes maps, a list
of services along the route and a tourism description of each county.
We began work in 2009 on a bicycle route from Detroit to Lansing
to Grand Rapids to Muskegon. We expect the route to be ready for
eld testing this summer and hope to publish it in the fall.
ADVOCACYWe monitor the state legislature and serve as advocates to our state
legislators on behalf of bicyclists statewide. We provide resource
information to bicyclists on local issues. We represent bicyclists
to MDOT on issues related to bicycling. For example, we serve on
MDOTs Context Sensitive Solution Steering Committee. We also
serve on the Governors Bike/Pedestrian Safety Task Force. We are
member of the Michigan Safe Routes to School Network Committee.
We had 67 participants at the Michigan Bicycle Summit held in
March, 2009. Topics covered included Complete Streets, Advocacy
101, Bicycling and the Law, and View of Planners. We received a
100% positive feedback concerning the content and what the partici-pants received from the Summit.
Our Annual Lucinda Means Advocacy Day was held in May.
Seventy bicyclists from around Michigan joined us. We met with
legislators to discuss LMBs legislative priorities:
Give Michigan Road Cyclists a Brake
Driver Training Bicycle Safety Component
Cell Phone/Texting While Driving Ban
Complete Streets
Stop the Raid on Act 51
LMB continued to provide leadership on the issue of Complete
Streets, an effort to ensure all future road projects are designed,
built and maintained to accommodate all roadway users. The
League was actively involved in a successful grassroots Complete
Streets Campaign in Lansing, making the states Capitol the rst
city in Michigan to adopt a Complete Streets ordinance. LMB also
played a vital role in the introduction of House Concurrent Resolu-
tion 0034 by Representative Pam Byrnes (D-Ann Arbor), as well as
the successful inclusion of Complete Streets language in the House
Transportation budget. 2009 also saw the launch of the Michigan
Complete Streets Coalition, which LMB continues to co-chair. Wemaintain the Coalitions website.
2009 was a busy year on the advocacy front for LMB. The League
was a vocal advocate for making texting while driving a primary
offense. LMB submitted testimony to the House Transportation Com-
mittee supporting such a ban. We thank the many LMB members
who responded to our call for action and contacted their legislators
in support of the ban. (See update on next page)
LMBs vulnerable user legislation was reintroduced in 2009
May, Representatives Gabe Leland (D-Detroit) and Marty Kno
berg (R-Troy) introduced House Bills 4958 and 4959 respectiv
which would enhance penalties for moving violations causing ph
cal injury or death to bicyclists or other vulnerable roadway u
Senator Tom George (R-Kalamazoo) introduced companion Se
Bills (529 and 530) with the same language. Senator GeorgeRepresentative Leland also introduced bills on LMBs behalf
would require a bicycle curriculum in the Drivers Education prog
(Senate Bill 531 and House Bill 4960 respectively). In June, L
testied before the House Transportation Committee in suppo
these bills.
LMB was quick to respond in August, when Greater Med
Detroit radio station WCSX aired deplorable remarks encoura
violence against bicyclists. LMB demanded a retraction and apo
from radio hosts Jeff Deminiski and Bill Doyle. When they ne
apologized or retracted the remarks, LMB launched a boyco
Greater Media, which soon collected nearly 700 signatures. L
is pleased to report that Deminiski and Doyle were relieved of
on-air duties in January of this year.
LMB also advocated at the federal level in 2009 for the Ame
Bikes agenda, which included support for the Complete Streets
of 2009 (S. 584, introduced by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), and
1443, introduced by Representative Doris Matsui (D-Sacrame
CA)), CLEAN-TEA: The Clean, Low-Emission Affordable, N
Transportation Efciency Act (S. 575, introduced by Senators T
Carper (D-DE) and Arlen Specter (D-PA), and H.R. 1329, introdu
by Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-Portland, OR), Ellen Taus
(D-Pleasanton, CA) and Steven LaTourette (R-Bainbridge Town
OH)), to develop and implement plans to reduce greenhouse gas e
sions from the transportation sector.
EDUCATION
LMB printed a new completely revised edition of our What E
Michigan Bicyclist Must Know booklet. Because of the incre
demand, we had two printings in 2009, totaling 55,000 copies.
distributed 35,000 in 2009 to bike shops, individuals and other gr
requesting them.
The youth version of the What Every Bicyclist Must Kn
booklet was started in 2009. The content has been completed.
hired an illustrator to begin illustrating the booklet. We antici
having it completed by the fall of 2010.
We began work in the fall of 2009 on two Toolkits, one
Bicycle Education and one for Bicycle Advocacy. The toolkits
introduced at the 2010 Michigan Bicycle Summit.
See Annual Report, continued on pag
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
8/16
7 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
Texting While Driving Ban Passes; LMB Celebrates Victory
On April 28th, The Michigan House pashed a the package of bills to
protect motorists and pedestrians by banning texting while driving on
all Michigan roadways. The League of Michigan Bicyclists lobbied for
the ban, which could save countless lives, including those of bicyclists
and other vulnerable roadway users. The ban will take effect July 1.
LMB submitted testimony in favor of banning texting while driv-ing and organized bicyclists from across the state to support the effort
during their annual statewide Bicycle Advocacy Day last May. This
is a monumental step toward protecting bicyclists and other roadway
users, said John Lindenmayer, LMB Associate Director, A 200-pound
bicyclist is no match for a 5,000-pound vehicle being driven by a dis-
tracted driver. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and there is absolutely
no excuse for texting while driving.
Under the new law, drivers will be prohibited from reading, manu-
ally typing or sending text messages while driving, except to report
accidents, crimes, emergencies or similar situations in which a person
feels his or her safety is in danger. The law makes texting while drivinga primary offense, which allows police to pull over and ticket drivers
solely for texting. Drivers will receive $100 ne for a rst offense and
$200 ne for subsequent violations. However, no points will be added
to their driving records.
LMB lobbied for making texting while driving a primary offense.
The original bill language would have made it a secondary offense,
requiring police to pull the driver over for another infraction before
ticketing him or her for texting while driving.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, twenty-
three states and the District of Columbia already have some sort of ban
on texting while driving. While LMB is extremely pleased to haveplayed a role in making Michigan the 24th state to ban texting while
driving, we remain concerned about the larger issue of distracted driv-
ing. The U.S. Department of Transportation says nearly 6,000 people
are killed each year because of driving while distracted.
Using cell phones while driving has become an accepted part of
our culture, despite the fact that countless lives are put at risk every
day by those who are simply too busy to pull over to text, said State
Representative Lee Gonzales (D-Flint Twp.), a sponsor of the texting
ban. Texting while driving is a clear and present danger to others and
Im glad that Michigan has nally decided to put a stop to it. Making
an excuse for texting behind the wheel wont save a life, but making itagainst the law just might.
Unfortunately, the Legislature has not yet addressed the similarly
dangerous practice of using cell phones while driving. Recent studies
show that talking on a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, still
increases the risk of an accident. We believe the ban on texting while
driving is a step in the right direction and will continue our efforts to
educate the public and the legislature about the dangers of all distracted
driving.
Michigan made history on April 30th as Governor
Granholm signed Michigan's texting while driving
ban into law live on the Oprah Winfrey Show
(bottom photo). The live bill signing was part of
Winfrey's rst National "No Phone Zone" Day.
Winfrey launched the campaign againstdistracted driving in January and has sponsored a
pledge on her website asking motorists to commit
to not texting or talking on phones while driving.
"Today is a call to action to stop the madness of
distracted driving," Winfrey said on her show.
Winfrey orchestrated the "No Phone Zone"
rallies live via satellite from her Chicago studio.
Ali Wentworth hosted the Detroit event held at
General Motors Renaissance Center headquarters.
Rallies were also held in Atlanta, Boston, Los
Angeles and Washington D.C.
"We're proud to be the 24th state now to be
able to ban texting while driving," Granholm said.
"While talking on the phone is a distraction, clearly,texting while driving on top of that where you
don't have your eyes on the road or your hands on
the wheel or your mind on what you're doing it
is clearly a danger."
The audience cheered as Granholm signed the
bill. Winfrey pronounced it "fantastic."
LMB's Associate Director John Lindenmayer
attended the event as a guest of Representative
Lee Gonzales (D-Flint Twp.), chief sponsor of the
texting ban bills (top photo).
New law will crack down on distracted drivers, save lives Michigan Texting Ban Signed
Into Law Live on Oprah Show
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
9/16
Bicycle AdvocatesJoin Forces for2010 Lucinda Means
Bicycle Advocacy DayThe three top cycling-advocacy groups in Michigan, the
Michigan Mountain Biking Association, League of Michi-
gan Bicyclists, and Michigan Trails and Greenway Alli-
ance, are teaming up their efforts and organizations for the
Lucinda Means Advocacy Day on Wednesday May 26th in
Lansing, MI. to meet with legislators and promote cycling
interests.
The Lucinda Means Advocacy Day is a day for all
cyclists across the state to join together with one voice topromote cyclists needs to their local legislators. All attend-
ees will be scheduled to meet with their local Representa-
tives and Senators to talk about cycling concerns across the
state. The cost is $10, which includes lunch. The event is
open to anyone interested in getting involved in advocating
for pro bike policies in Michigan.
The day kicks off at MSU Bikes with a bike rally into
downtown Lansing. The North lawn of the State Capitol
has been reserved and bike racks will be set up for the day.
Representatives from all three organizations, as well as a
lobbyist from Capitol Services, will be on hand to answer
any questions.
Two webinars will also be held prior to the event for
interested participants (check website for details).
Bicyclists will advocate for a statewide Complete Streets
law to insure that ALL roadway users, including bicyclists,
are routinely accommodated when roadwork is done in
Michigan. All bicyclists, on- and off-road, need safe routes
to their destinations, everywhere in Michigan. Many other
states already have mandated Complete Streets, and LMB,
MTGA, and MMBA all rmly believe it is overdue inMichigan. In addition to Complete Streets, Advocacy Day
participants will ask their representatives in Lansing to
support a number of other initiatives to protect all Michigan
bicyclists, including our vulnerable-user bills to increase
penalties for striking or killing a bicyclist. We will also
continue to ght for stronger distracted driving legislation.
Register today at www.LMB.org
Bicyc l i s t s
Uni te
May 26, 2010
Lansing, MI
2009 Advocacy Day attendees on the Capitol steps.
Photo by Kirt D. Livernois
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:
8:30 am - Bike rally from MSU Bikes to State Capitol
9:15 am - Issue Briengs10:15 am - Meetings with Representatives & Senators
1:00 pm - Lunch on Capitol grounds
2:00 pm - Group photo on Capitol steps
2:30 pm - Lansing by bicycle tour
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
10/16
9 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
We were recently asked by a
League of Michigan Bicyclists mem-
ber how he could obtain copies of
public records under the Freedom
of Information Act. This Act is oneof the most important state laws in
Michigan, because it enables the public to gather practical informa-
tion as well as more esoteric data easily. As lawyers, we make FOIA
requests frequently to obtain specic government records for clients
and to evaluate potential litigation. Any individual, however, has the
right to request public information under the Act.
Practical Tips When Making Your FOIA Request:
Prior to submitting your request for information, we suggest contact-
ing the unit of government to nd out the following: 1) the address to
which the request should be sent; (2) whether there is a required form
for the request; and (3) the fee, if any.
Essentially, that is all the practical knowledge you need to request
information. You should receive a response to your request within ve
business days of its receipt. If you do not, we have outlined your rem-
edies below. For those of you that would like more details about the Act,
following is a legal outline of your rights and procedures under the Act.
The Freedom Of Information Act In A Nutshell:
The Michigan FOIA Act, found at MCL 15.231, denes the purpose
of the law:
It is the public policy of this state that all persons, except those
persons incarcerated in state or local correctional facilities, are
entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs
of government and the ofcial acts of those who represent them
as public ofcials and public employees, consistent with this act.
The people shall be informed so that they may fully participate
in the democratic process.
According to the Act, a person has a right to inspect, copy, or receive
copies of requested public records of a public body. An individual starts
the process by putting the request in writing (facsimiles, electronic mailor other electronic means are acceptable), usually directed to the public
bodys FOIA coordinator, that describes a public record sufciently to
enable the public body to nd the requested record.
MCL 15.232 denes a person entitled to obtain records as an
individual, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, rm,
organization, association, governmental entity, or other legal entity. Pub-
lic records eligible for review are any writings prepared, owned, used,
in the possession of, or retained by a public body in the performance
of an ofcial function, from the time it is
created. However, public records do not
include computer software. Public body
means, among other things, a state ofcer,
employee, agency, department, division, bureau, board, commissi
council, county, city, township, village, school district or municicorporation.
A public body may charge a fee for the public-record search a co
fee, mailing costs and the incremental cost of labor for the searchi
examination, review, deletion and separation of exempt from nonexem
information. The public body must specically respond to a requ
for a public record within ve (5) business days after the public bo
receives the request (MCL 15.231). The public body may be exem
from disclosing information of a personal nature if public disclosu
of the information would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion
an individuals privacy. It may also exempt records that interfere w
law-enforcement proceedings or constitute an unwarranted invasion
personal privacy. To learn about other specic exemptions, see M
15.243.
What To Do If Your Request Is Denied:
If a public body makes a nal determination to deny all or a port
of a request, the requesting person may do one of the following at
or her option: (a) submit to the head of the public body a written app
that specically states the word appeal and identies the reason
reasons for reversal of the denial or (b) commence an action in circ
court to compel the public bodys disclosure of the public records with
one hundred and eighty (180) days after a public bodys nal determi
tion to deny the request. If the appeal is denied, the requester can th
choose the litigation route. MCL 15.235.
Under MCL 15.240, the proper court to bring litigation is the circ
court for the county in which the requester resides or has his or h
principal place of business or the circuit court for the county in wh
the public record or an ofce of the public body is located. The co
shall determine the matter de novo (a legal do-over) and the burd
is on the public body to sustain its denial. If the requester prevails
the action, the court shall award him or her reasonable attorneys f
and costs, which shall be assessed against the public body liable failure to disclose. If the court decides to grant the request in part a
deny it in part, the court may award all or an appropriate portion of
reasonable attorneys fee and costs against the public body. Additio
ally, if the court determines that the denial was arbitrary and capricio
the court must award $500.00 in punitive damages to the requester
addition to any actual or compensatory damages.
Typically the rules are simple and straightforward. A practical tip
How to Obtain Public Records Under theFreedom of Information Act (FOIA)By SARAH W. COLEGROVE & TODD E. BRIGGS
See FOIA, continued on next p
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
11/16
This spring, as Lance
prepares for his 8th Tour de
France win, all of us will also
begin our season by getting
our bikes and ourselves ready
to go. Preparation is important
before, during and after you ride. I used to
bike train during my hockey days. When I
was younger, my body did not hurt as badly,
and after-ride aches did not happen. As we
get older, we need to prepare, we need to train
and we need to work after we ride. This article
will teach you strengthening before your ride
and after, so you can make your back, hip, and
trunk muscles stronger.
My patients enjoy both short and long rides.
Their training includes both getting their bod-
ies back in shape and strength work for their
spine, legs and trunk. When they are not in
the controlled environment of the clinic, they
must deal with the elements of land, wind,
bugs, heat and cars. All affect their ability to
train; wind has a stronger effect on your spine
than you know. When the wind is against you,
you must work much more to overcome the
elements, so your trunk, legs and belly muscles
must work harder. To help this, I recommend
this series of exercises (on line at: http://bit.ly/deBs60) before you ride:
After you ride, you may feel some strain in
your lower back. To overcome this, do these
exercises:
Post-ride exercises keep your back and
trunk strong and relieve any muscular or
ligamentous soreness from your ride.
If you feel back achiness during your rides,
make sure that your bike is lined up correctly
and that you are not stretching out your spine
too much. If you are leaning forward too
much, you will cause pain or a shutting down
of the lower back muscles. This will, or can
over time, contribute to lower back pain, a
bad way to start the biking season. If you do
not feel comfortable when you get on your
bike, or feel you are leaning too far forward
to reach your handle bars, have a professional
check your bike t. Keep your spine in good
alignment and remember that your leg power
comes from your spine; make sure your bike,
foot-on-pedal placement and handlebar height
are also all properly aligned.
If you have any questions, please contact
me at [email protected]. Happy spring
and good riding, so that you can get ready for
your own tour!
Spring has begun and you want to ride!By SCOTT BENJAMIN, PT, DScPT
Exercises Repetition
Slings on all fours 30 on each side
External rotation of
the hips
30 on each side
Squats against the wall 100
Trunk extension 10
Exercises Repetition
Trunk extensions 30 seconds
Slings on the table 3 sets of 20 each s ide
Piriformis stretching 30 seconds each side
Hip abductions 3 sets of 20 each side
to keep copies of all requests and replies from the public body and keep
proof and a record of all signicant dates. When we have brought suit
against public bodies for denying a FOIA request, courts have usually
been sympathetic. If you need assistance with a denial, we recommend
seeking assistance from an experienced attorney.
For more information see LMBs new Advocacy Toolkit article on
FOIA at: www.LMB.org
FOIA, continued from previous page
Sarah W. Colegrove and Todd E. Briggs are lawyers in private practice. In addition to h
ing athletes injured in bicycle and sports-related accidents, they concentrate in the area
civil litigation, including personal injury, real estate, probate and corporate law. Todd
Sarah are competitive cyclists, triathletes and adventure racers. Each has competed in
state and national running, biking and triathlon competitions, including the Hawaii Iron
where Todd has gone sub-10 hours. You can read past arti cles from Sarah and Todd on o
web site at: www.LMB.org/pages/Resources/Legal_Info.htm. You can contact them at:
Briggs Colegrove, P.C.
660 Woodward Ave., Suite 1523Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 964-2077
Fax: (313) 961-2345
Have a suggestion for a bicycle-rela
legal topic for an upcomingMichig
Bicyclist Magazine? Send suggestio
Quick Release continued from page
ticularly useful, as any councilperson
can tell you. Anyone foolish enough
to have fired a City Manager with
less than a unanimous vote certainly
regrets it.
Your League of Michigan Bicyclist
consists of dues-paying members, who
elect most of the board from geo
graphical regions. These represent
tives may appoint another one to three
members. The boards job is to set th
Leagues goals, but not in a vacuum.
The LMB board has set one goal
To promote bicycling and the safety o
bicyclists on the roadways of Mich
gan. It has let the Executive Directo
choose what he wishes to do to achieve
the goal a Hamiltonians dream job
Yet, the boards job is both to set thi
overall goal and any more-detailed
goals it chooses and to charge him with
achieving them.
Today, when most communication
seems one-way, outreach, getting
the message out, or staying on-me
sage, we cannot function effectively
without what I call inreach. Th
most important thing you can do is to
keep us continually aware of the goal
you want us to set for the League. You
need to reach in and tell us what you
want LMB not just to do, but be.
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
12/16
11 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
Michigan bike advocates descended on our nations capital in
March for the tenth annual League of American Bicyclists National
Bike Summit. The event brought over 700 attendees, including 13
Michganders, to Washington, DC for a fun-lled and action-packed
three days of networking, lobbying on the Hill, and learning about
the latest and greatest in bicycle advocacy and policy.
In a refreshing repeat of the 2009 Summit, Michigans delegation
was a diverse group, including representatives from local and state-
wide advocacy groups, trail groups, disability advocates, a handful
of shop owners, one University bike shop, and representatives from
at least one bicycle touring organization. In addition to the usual
suspects, this years Michigan delegation included 20% of the town
of Copper Harbor. Two leaders of the Copper Harbor Trails Club, an
advocacy group that builds trails
in Michigans northernmost town,
joined the Michigan delegation.
Yes, you read that correctly, twocitizens constitutes 20% of the
town. But whats even cooler is the
message they were there to send
our elected ofcials: bicycling is
a key part of Michigans
economic recovery. In fact,
thanks to its breathtaking,
pristine trails and robust
mountain biking culture,
Copper Harbor is pinning
its economic future in parton the bicycle.
With reauthorization of
the federal transportation
bill on hold until sometime
after this falls mid-term elec-
tions, our key asks on the
Hill were a group of marker
bills designed to build sup-
port for measures
bicycle advocates
hope to wrap into
the reauthorization
bill. These marker
bills included Com-
plete Streets, a set
of Safe Routes to
School bills, and the
Active Community
Transportation Act.
Here are the details:
2010 National Bike Summit
Top to Bottom:
1) LMB Associate Director John Lindenmayer gives athumbs-up at the Congressional Reception with Gary Fisher,one of the inventors of the modern mountain bike.2) The Michigan delegation with Allison Pascal of SenatorCarl Levins ofce. 3) Michael Reuter of American Cycle andFitness, John Waterman of Program to Educate All Cyclists,Congresswoman Candice Miller (R -10th District) with ToddScott, Detroit Greenways Coordinator for the Michigan Trails andGreenways Alliance. 4) Lindenmayer receiving LMBs BicycleFriendly Business award from Andy Clarke, Executive Director ofthe League of American Bicyclists. 5) Lindenmayer with USDOTSecretary Ray LaHood and Sarah Schillio, Legislative Directorfor Michigan State Representative Lee Gonzales.
By Rory Neuner, LMB Region Six Representative
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
13/16
S. 584/H.R. 1443 The Complete Streets Act of 2009. More
than 100 state and local government entities have adopted Complete
Streets policies, an approach to planning that the Federal Highway
Administration has endorsed since 1999. However, federal leadership
and oversight is necessary to ensure it is implemented effectively. S.
584, the Complete Streets Act of 2009, was introduced by Senator Tom
Harkin (D-IA) and currently has 12 co-sponsors, including SenatorCarl Levin. On the House side, H.R. 1443, the Complete Streets Act
of 2009, was introduced by Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA) and
currently has 43 co-sponsors.
The companion bills would require states and metropolitan planning
organizations to adopt complete streets policies for federally funded
projects within two years, or a portion of the states exible Surface
Transportation funding will be directed to safety improvements.
However, the bills would also ensure that policies are exible and cost-
effective, allowing exemptions when costs are demonstrably prohibitive.
H.R. 4021 The Safe Routes to High School Act and S. 1156 TheSafe Routes to School Program Reauthorization Act. Safe Routes to
School (SRTS) is a proven national program to create safe, convenient
and enjoyable ways for children to walk and bike to school. In 2005,
the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efcient Transportation Equity
Act A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) provided $600 million over
ve years to enable states and local agencies to implement construction,
education and encouragement programs for kindergarten to eighth
grade schools. Michigan, an early adopter of the concept, continues
to be recognized as a national leader in innovation and successful
implementation of Safe Routes programs.
The SRTS program is part of the larger pending federal trans-portation reauthorization bill. We asked members of Congress to
co-sponsor bills that would further expand the scope and funding of
the program. S. 1156, the Safe Routes to School Program Reauthori-
zation Act, was introduced by Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA), Bernie
Sanders (I-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Susan Collins (R-ME)
and currently has 21 co-sponsors. The bill would increase funding
to $600 million annually (triple the FY 2009 level of $183 million),
improve project delivery by reducing paperwork and unnecessary
regulations, and expand eligibility to high schools. It would also allow
funds to be used for bus-stop safety and rural access programs, and
add a research and evaluation component. On the House side, H.R.
4021, the Safe Routes to High School Act, was introduced by Rep-
resentative Earl Blumenauer (D-Portland, OR) and currently has 21
co-sponsors. The bill would expand SRTS eligibility to high schools.
Active Community Transportation Act, H.R.4722. Representative
Blumenauer also introduced the easy-to-remember ACT Act in early
March. This groundbreaking bill creates a competitive grant program
funded with $2 billion to help communities build bicycling and w
ing networks.
Aside from these legislative asks, there were plenty of big, ne
worthy events announced at this years Summit:
Google announced a new feature for its popular mapping to
biking directions and extensive bike trail data for the U.S.! In o
words, when you need directions, you can now select a bicy
routing option, in addition to current tools for driving, walking
using transit. Google software engineers were on hand at the Sum
showing off the new tool in the exhibitors hall, and the lead engin
gave a keynote speech to announce the tool, which is currently
beta version. (That means they want your feedback!) See more h
http://maps.google.com/biking
The Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance was awarded a $15
grant from REI and Bikes Belong to help the Motor City earn a Lea
of American Bicyclists Bike Friendly City designation. Congrat
tions to MTGA and to the City of Detroit; we cant wait to hear m
The League of Michigan Bicyclists was designated a bicycle frie
business by LAB, as was The HUB of Detroit.
Perhaps the most exciting moment of the Summit came when
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood gave an impassioned sp
from atop a table dur-
ing a reception fol-
lowing our long day
of lobbying on the
Hill. In what is nowdubbed his table-
top speech (view it
here: http://fastlane.
dot.gov/2010/03/
my-view-from-atop-
the-table-at-the-
national-bike-sum-
mit.html), LaHood
announced the end
of an era favoring
motorized transporta-
tion at the expense of
non-motorized. The
U.S. DOT is work-
ing to integrate the
needs of bicyclists in
all federally funded
A malfunctioning microphone did notstop US Secretary of Transportation LaHood from thanking a packed crowand expressing his support for bicycfrom atop a tabletop at the closingreception for the 2010 National BicycSummit.
See National Bike Summit, continued on next
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
14/16
13 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Spring 2010
With spring in the air, the
League of Michigan Bicyclists
(LMB), Michigan Trails and
Greenways Alliance (MTGA)
and Michigan Mountain Biking
Association (MMBA) announce
that May is Bike Month, May 17-21
is Bike to Work Week, and Friday,
May 21 is Bike to Work Day.
Representative Jon Switalski (D-Warren) who introduced H.R.
273 declaring May Bike Month in Michigan, said, Biking to work
is an efcient and fun way to get the exercise you need, without
having to nd extra time to work out. And this year, with gasoline
prices as high as they are, biking to work makes more sense than
ever.
Americans have been commemorating National Bike Month
each May for 54 years. Timed to coincide with the arrival of
warmer weather, the event has inspired countless bike rides, safety
inspections, commuter challenges, ribbon cuttings, "share the road"
promotions, and other celebrations of bicycling in communities
across the nation.
One of the most popular activities in Bike Month is encourag-
ing people to bicycle to work and forsake their motor vehicles for
at least one day and bicycle to work. Friday, May 21 is designatedas National Bike to Work Day, although many communities pick
other dates for the event.
Commuting by bicycle is rewarding on so many levels.
Whether it is improved health, helping the environment, saving on
soaring energy costs, or simply enjoying a ride, it is worth being
part of the solution, said Rich Moeller, Executive Director of the
League of Michigan Bicyclists.
Bike Month will culminate on May 26th at the State Capitol
where all three organizations will co-host the Lucinda Means
Bicycle Advocacy Day. The event is an opportunity for all cyclists
across the state to join together with one voice to promote cyclistsneeds to their local legislators.
LMB, MTGA and MMBA reminds all roadway users that:
Bicycles are vehicles, with the same rights, rules and
responsibilities of other road users.
Motorists should only pass a bicycle when its safe to do so.
Slow down and give bicyclists at least three feet of passing
room.
Motorists should never cut off a bicyclist, but should
yield to bicycles as the do to any other vehicle.
Bicyclists must obey all trafc laws, stop signs, and traf
lights, and ride in the right-most lane, with the direction
trafc.
State law requires bicycles to have lights at night, and
common sense dictates that cyclists wear helmets and be
visible.
Whether you ride a bike or drive an automobile, please share
the road!
Contact your local city ofcials or bike shop to get involved
with Bike Month activities in your area.
To request a free Michigan bicycle information packet, whichincludes a Ride Calendar, Trail Directory and a safety handbook
titled What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know, please visit
www.LMB.org.
National Bike Summit, continuedfrom previous page
May 21 is Biketo Work Day
road projects, discouraging transportation investments that
negatively affect cyclists and pedestrians, and encouraging
investments that go beyond the minimum requirements and
provide facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and
abilities. To move this forward, the DOT has since releasedrecommendations for state DOTs and communities to treat
walking and bicycling as equals with other transportation
modes.
In addition to LMBs Blog, you can read additional coverage
from other Michigan bike advocates at:
m-bike: http://bit.ly/agjaU9
Wheelhouse Detroit: http://bit.ly/daZaam
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
15/16
MICHIGAN RIDE CALENDAR
LMBs signature publication, our annual Michigan Ride
Calendar, continues to be an essential resource for bicycle enthu-
siasts in Michigan and beyond. With support from MDOT, the
League published and distributed 50,000 Ride Calendars, listing
150+ bicycling events in Michigan for 2009. The Ride Calendaris the primary means of promotion for most of these events,
distributed extensively throughout the state at MDOT Welcome
Centers, Convention & Visitors Bureaus, all known bicycle clubs
and shops, and numerous bicycle-related events. Ride Calendars
are distributed to all LMB members and to individuals request-
ing Michigan biking and tourism information. The League also
delivers copies of this publication to all Michigan legislators, who
distribute them to constituents.
SPECIAL EVENTS
LMB assisted in two statewide special events, the annual Rideof Silence and the Bike to Work (Smart Commute) activities in
many communities across Michigan. With LMBs promotion
assistance these events continue to grow each year.
COMMUNICATION
We completed a major revision to our website in 2009 and
launched the new site in the fall. The site is helping us use the
latest cutting-edge tools to communicate efciently and effectively
with bicyclists across Michigan.
We continue to publish the Michigan Bicyclist Magazine four
times a year. To supplement this, a Monthly E-newsletter is sentto all LMB members.
Regional e-mail groups are being used to communicate more
effectively with cyclists on regional issues.
In 2009 we also embraced Facebook, Twitter, You Tube and
other social networking tools to communicate with bicyclists all
over Michigan.
Annual Memberships q New q Renewal
LMB Membership Applicatio
q Individual/Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25
q Organization/Club/Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50
q L i f e - I n d i v i d u a l . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 4 5 0 (3-Pay Plan - $170/
q Life-Organization/Club/Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..$1000 (3-Pay Plan - $35
Name
Address
City State Zip
Home Phone
E-mail
County LMB Region
Membership Total Subtotal $
Additional Tax Deductible
Donation to the LMB Subtotal $
Grand Total $
Join, renew, or donate by check or credit card today!
Please make checks payable to:League of Michigan Bicyclists
q Visaq MasterCardq Discoverq American Express
Name on Card
Card #
Expiration Date (mm/yy)
Signature
Donations (tax deductible)
q Yellow Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500 and up
q Rainbow Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$250 - $499
q Polka Dot Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125 - $249
q Green Jersey.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50 - $124
q White Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .up to $49
Annual Report, continued from page 6
H E A D L I N E S
Have you signed up for email updates from LMBsblog yet? Heres what you are missing:
Bicyclists Celebrate Smoke Free Michigan
On Road Bicycle Facility Design Training
Anti Bicycling Sentiments Have Michigan Roots
Google Maps Adds Directions for Cyclists Michigan Receives $55,000,000 in Tiger Grants
Subscirbe today at www.LMB.org
-
8/9/2019 Michigan Bicyclist Magazine_Spring2010
16/16
MICHIGANBICYCLIST
416 S. Cedar St. Suite A, Lansing, MI 48912
NON-PROFIT OR
US POSTAGE PAI
LANSING MI
PERMIT #686
Dated Material May, 2010
The League of American Bicyclists (LAB)
recently announced 16 new Bicycle Friendly Com-
munity (BFC) awards, three of which are in Michi-
gan: Lansing, Marquette and Portage.
All three Michigan communities earned the
entry-level Bronze status for Engineering, whileLansing also received a Bronze in the Education
category. These communities now join the ranks
of Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids and Traverse City,
communities previously designated as BFC's in
Michigan. The Cities of Saline and Midland also
received honorable mention during this latest round
of awards
A joint press conference between the City of
Lansing and Walk Bike Lansing! was held on May
3rd to publicly announce the Bronze level designa-
tion. Speakers included Virg Bernero - Lansing
Mayor, Chad Gamble - Public Service Director,
John Lindenmayer - LMB/Walk Bike Lansing! Co-
chair, Jessica Yorko - Councilmember, Kathie Dunbar - Coun-
cilmember and Lyndon Babcock - LMB member/Walk Bike
Lansing! member.
"The BFC Bronze award showcases the Lansing community
for its bicycle-friendly initiatives and recognizes its progress to
accommodate and encourage a bicycling culture," said Jessica
Yorko, 4th Ward Lansing Councilmember. "Plus, Lansing is
joining an elite group of communities that have been recognized
not only as bicycle-friendly communities, but as desirable places
to live."
This designation comes three and a half years after Mayor
Virg Bernero formed the Task Force on Walking and Bicycling,
a collaboration that has since transformed into Walk and Bike
Lansing!, a partnership of city government, citizens, and over 30
agencies working toward a more walkable, bikeable, and livable
Lansing.
Dozens of Lansing volunteers collected over 5000 signatures
in less than three months last year to help pass the rst Complete
Streets ordinance in Michigan.
"I am condent that passing the rst Complete Streets ordi-
nance in the state weighed heavily in LAB's decision to rec-
ognize Lansing as a BFC," said LMB Associate Director John
Lindenmayer.
The BFC application process was spearheaded this winter
by Walk Bike Lansing! in cooperation with the City of Lansing.
Lyndon Babcock with the help of other Walk Bike Lansing! vol-
unteers organized the collection of data needed before submit-
ting the 28 page application to LAB.
"Today's designation is really just a springboard...an oppor-
tunity as a community to live up to a higher standard. For years
we have built roads to move automobiles, not people. Times hav
changed and Lansing is helping to lead the way towards a more
bicycle friendly Michigan," said Lindenmayer.
LMB will report further on the Bronze level designations for
both Marquette and Portage as more information is available.
Michigan Goes Bicycle Friendly - Lansing Celebrates
From L to R: Kathie Dunbar Lansing Councilmember; John Lindenmayer
LMB/Walk Bike Lansing! Co-chair; Virg Bernero Lansing Mayor; Jessica Yorko
Councilmember; Lyndon Babcock LMB member/Walk Bike Lansing! Member;and Andy Kilpatrick Lansing Trafc Engineer/Walk Bike Lansing! Co-chair.