S A N L U I S O B I S P O B I C Y C L E C L U B

SLO Coaster

President’s Messageby Robert Fuller Davis

Earlier this year, our club was honored by being selected as one of eight “Clubs of the Year” by the League of American Bicyclists. The League is a national cycling advocacy organization whose mission is to work for a bicycle friendly America. Our selection as a Club of the Year was based on our many accomplishments in support of safe cycling in San Luis Obispo County.

This month, I am turning my President’s Column over to Dave Abrecht and Ken Price who are proposing that the SLOBC become a participant in the county’s “Adopt-a-Road” program. Dave and Ken will be presenting their plan to the July general membership meeting for further discussion.

KEEPING OUR CYCLING ROUTES CLEAN

by Dave Abrecht and Ken PriceWe are fortunate to live in communities that are bicycle friendly and offer some of the most beautiful areas to tour by bike. Almost every day of the week, club members meet

at various locations and ride in all directions on well established bike lanes, bike paths and scenic rural roads. Cyclists are the first to notice roadways, bike routes and shoulders that are cluttered with trash and debris. Often, this debris representsdanger, from a simple flat tire to a sudden evasive maneuver, or even a crash. We all know, firsthand, the perils of “dirty” roads. We are proposing that our club become a participant in SLO county’s “Adopt-a-Road” program. The program allows local residents and organizations to adopt a two-mile stretch of county road and keep that section of road clean of trash and debris. Our commitment is to form a work crew of club members who

venture out to “our” stretch of roadway and remove the litter and debris that threatens safe cycling. We won’t lie to you; this effort involves some work on club members‘ part. However, we plan to make this “work” fun, with special events and goodies to reward your participation and a job well done!Our involvement in this program will further enhance our “Club of the Year” status and promote our efforts to local motorists. It will also give us the satisfaction of doing our part to keep our roads clean of unsightly and unsafe litter and debris.We will work with county staff to identify and adopt a stretch of road that is well used by bicyclists. Our initial plan is to find a road that is centrally located, but if our involvement is successful, we can easily expand our efforts to multiple sites along north or south county roads We invite you to attend the July meeting to listen to our “pitch”. We think the program is a great match for a club of cyclists who have already demonstrated a very strong commitment to safe cycling in our communities. Questions? Comments? Feel free to e-mail us at daveabrecht@me.com and kilopapa3@gmail.com.

Promoting safe and legal bicycle riding for recreation and transportation

Ride Calendarthe latest on this month’s ridesPages 6 & 7Ride Locations &Ride Coordinator’s Report Page 8

Advocates ReportPage 14

Scholarship AwardsPage 15

Program NotesBack Page

LightHouse Volunteers neededPage 9

Lighthouse Jersey ordersPage 10Help WantedPage 10

Meeting Minutes

Last month’s General meeting and Board of Directors minutes.Pages 4 & 5

Contact usHow to contact us and submit articles & picturesPage 2Aerodynamic Helmetmeditations on cyclingPage 3

A Monthly Newsletter July, 2011

HistorianA look at SLOBC at 40Page 11DMV Advice Page 12

LAB Award Article Page 13

SLOBC

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2 SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July 2011

SLO CoasterEditor: Tim Long

The SLO Coaster is the monthly newsletter of the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club. It is distributed to members, local bicycle shops and some bicycle organizations. Subscriptions are not available to nonmembers.All articles, letters, stories of bicycling experiences, appropriate classified ads, artwork etc, are welcome.The editor reserves the right to edit or reject material.Each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily represent the opinion or endorsement of the SLOBC or the editor.An online version of the newsletter is produced, so indicate any submitted material that you do not want to appear in the online edition.Submittal GuidelinesAll materials are due no later than 8:00 a.m. on the 15th of each month. Nothing will be accepted verbally. All materials should be emailed to Tim Long at newsletter-editor@slobc.org. Complete submittal guidelines are found on the club website. www.slobc.org/resources/support/newsletter-guidelines.html

Contact InformationSan Luis Obispo Bicycle Club, Inc.P.O. Box 1585San Luis Obispo, CA 93406Club Hotline Answering Machine: 805.543.5973Website: www.slobc.org Email: info@slobc.org Members only site: http://www.slobc.net/membership

SLOBC MeetingsMonthly MeetingsBoard of Directors Meeting: Tuesday before the General Meeting (5:00 PM)Location: Air Pollution Control District meeting room, 3433 Roberto Court (SLO). All Club members are welcome to attend Board meetings.

General Membership Meeting: First Thursday (7:00 PM)Location: County Library, 995 Palm, downtown San Luis Obispo. Refreshments are served starting at 7:00 p.m., Meeting begins at 7:15 p.m.

Board of DirectorsPresident Vice PresidentTreasurerSecretaryRide CoordinatorMembership DirectorAdvocateHistorianNewsletter EditorSafety DirectorDirector-at-LargePast President

Robert Fuller DavisTom RobertsChris BroomeCraig ArmstrongJeff KahnRobert LindquistDale SutliffJanie GoldenbergTim LongKen PriceSandra PittFrank Mullin

president@slobc.orgvice-president@slobc.orgtreasurer@slobc.orgsecretary@slobc.orgride-coordinator@slobc.orgmembership@slobc.orgadvocate@slobc.orghistorian@slobc.orgnewsletter-editor@slobc.orgsafety@slobc.orgat-large@slobc.orgpast-president@slobc.org

805.772.0874

805.772.5900

805. 544.4034805. 544.4720

805. 489.9779805. 489.0138

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SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July, 2011 3

El Camino Homeless Organization thank you.

The Aerodynamic Helmet

By Stu Goldenberg I begin this article with the telling of an actual event that occurred in The Netherlands several years ago on a Bike and Barge adventure. The point of the story is to emphasize the value of our senses. We were finishing a day of cycling and “home”, the barge, was in sight. Three of the ladies were racing toward our final goal. I was behind them and yelled out, “Blind man!” This brought them to a screeching stop just a few feet from him. To this day I do not believe they saw the blind man crossing the street with his red tipped white cane. We know he did not see them. Sure our sense of taste, and to a large extent smell and touch, won't necessarily help us navigate the hazards on the roadways. What is left is our ability to see and hear. Should one consider driving a car, riding a bicycle, or even jogging with a blindfold on. Not likely, so why is it that we see so many people out there cycling, jogging, or even walking on public, shared paths with one of their important senses impaired? It is clear that these brave and foolish people have not employed another sense, common sense. Not really surprising, for I was once told that “Common sense is not very common!” Our laws state that both ears are not to be blocked while

operating a vehicle (automobile or bicycle) but do not address others that could be on shared trails. How foolish is that jogger with a pair of carrots stuffed into his or her ears?

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4 SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July 2011

Minutes of the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club General Meeting

SLO Elks Lodge222 Elks Lane

San Luis Obispo, CA Thursday, June 2, 2011 6:00 p.m.

President Davis called the meeting to order at 6:00PM

Guests were recognized in groups based on the decade in which they joined SLOBC; past and current officers indicated positions they have held.

Following dinner, President Davis thanked Kathleen McHugh and Joan Henry for serving as greeters and the event committee members for organizing and setting up the event. He also thanked Gary Havas for volunteering to be Wildflower Chair.

President Davis made a special apology to Judie Prock for incorrectly labeling her a cheater in a past event.

The minutes of the May 5, 2011 General Meeting were approved (msc:TR/FM)

President Davis noted that the club had received thank you letters from the El Camino Homeless Assn. (for leftover food from the Wildflower) and from the Cal Poly Wheelmen for the club’s scholarship donation. In addition, he mentioned the upcoming Morro Bay 4th of July Bike Parade.

Chris Broome reported that club assets totaled $148,336 and asked members to let him know what other financial information they would like him to provide.

Dave Cantero from the Santa Maria Tailwinds bike club invited members to participate in that club’s Windmill Ride in July.

Frank Mullin presented the Bob Garing Service Award to Dale and Sharon Sutliff in recognition of their years of service to the club.

Will Benedict reminded attendees to submit their ballots for the proposed new logo.

Janie Goldenberg thanked Gail Davis, Sylvia Leap, Shelley Long, Joan Petersen, and Sandy Pitt for their work in organizing the 40th anniversary potluck. She also thanked Stu Goldenberg for his assistance with the technical part of the program, Will Benedict for designing the commemorative water bottles, and members who contributed pictures for the slide show.

Past club presidents were asked to stand and introduce themselves, and members who joined SLOBC in each of the past decades made brief remarks regarding their recollections of the club during their respective decade (Kent Brahams, 1975; Penni Powell, 1976; Heulan and Eva Brown, 1985; Ben Patrick, 1991; Chris and Alyce Broome, 2000; June Kramer, 2011).

The meeting was adjourned at 8:05.

Call For Wildflower Jersey DesignsBy Will Benedict, Clothing Coordinator

This is the first call for 2012 Wildflower jersey design ideas. All concepts must be completed and received by September 1st. The concepts will be voted on at the Lighthouse Volunteer Brunch.All ideas must be presented in a standard jersey format. For format specifications and assistance in illustrating your idea or putting your idea into the standard format, email me at willbenedict@me.com.

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Minutes of the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club Board Meeting

Air Pollution Control District Auditorium3433 Roberto Court, San Luis Obispo CA

Tuesday, May 31, 2011, 5 p.m.submitted by Craig Armstrong

Board members present: Robert Fuller Davis, Tom Roberts, Craig Armstrong, Chris Broome, Frank Mullin, Jeff Kahn, Bob Lindquist, Dale Sutliff, Janie Goldenberg, Tim Long, and Ken Price. A quorum being present, the meeting was convened.

Dave Abrecht, Bill Long, and Dan Rivoire were present as guests.

No conflicts of interest were reported.

Bill Long requested a $2,000 contribution to the Arroyo Grande Boy Scouts to assist them in recovering from the loss of their meeting place and equipment as the result of a fire.

Dan Rivoire presented 5 proposed public service announcements covering safe riding practices. Dale Sutliff emphasized that it is important for the club to provide feedback to the Bike Coalition regarding these materials.

Dave Abrecht and Ken Price presented an update on a proposal to Adopt a Highway in SLO County.

The consensus was that the next step would be to determine whether there was sufficient interest among club members to make such a commitment feasible. Ken will prepare an article outlining the proposal for the club newsletter and make a presentation at the July general meeting.

The minutes of the May 3, 2011 meeting were approved (msc:TR\JK).

President Davis stated that the club had received a letter from State Parks indicating that they want to impose a use fee for Cap Cove of 10% of the club’s gross revenue from the Lighthouse. The Board was opposed to paying the fee and agreed that we would not use Cap Cove for our event. President Davis noted that there were alternatives to using Cap Cove and that Larry Rutter will follow up as appropriate.

Chris Broome reported that the club’s assets totaled $148,336. Through May 31, expenses have exceeded income by $3,352, primarily due to a major portion of the club’s donations being paid out early in the year.

After reviewing the contribution budget, the Board declined to approve the proposed $2,000 contribution to the Arroyo Grande Boy Scouts. The Board also declined to approve a $150 contribution to the American River Parkway Foundation to match funds contributed by club members that participated in a ride on the American River bike trail.

The club was notified that as a result of a contribution to support the Cambria teen center, the club is being treated as a sponsor of the Gene Cerise Memorial Ride and is therefore entitled to two complimentary registrations and other amenities. An announcement will be sent to the membership offering these items on a first come basis.

Tim Long affirmed that club member information is no longer being published in the newsletter, and it was agreed that unless the board member advises otherwise, their published contact information will be a generic email address.

Chris Broome moved that the club adopt a policy stating that refunds of payments made through PayPal and other services be made net of any processing fees charged by the respective services. Following discussion, the following policy was adopted (msc:CB/KP):

Any refund issued by SLOBC may be discounted by any bank or processing fees incurred by the club.

President Davis noted that the bylaws of many clubs provide for procedures to expel members whose conduct has brought the club into disrepute or is otherwise prejudicial to the club. He will form a committee to assess whether similar provisions should be adopted by SLOBC.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:00.

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6 SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July 2011

Ride DetailsCurrent Ride InformationInformation on all Club rides including more detailed ride descriptions and any updates to the Ride Calendar can be found on the club web site www.slobc.org under Ride Calendar.Submitting Ride InformationSubmit ride information to both Jeff Kahn and Frank Mullin to ensure the newsletter's Ride Calendar and web site are accurate.Submit any ride changes to Frank Mullin. This will ensure that the most current ride information can always be found under Ride Calendar at www.slobc.org.

Safe RidingAll cyclists taking part in club rides are expected to contribute to the ride's safety and enjoyment. You can find Safe Cycling Practices and SLOBC Club Ride Best Practices under Safety at www.slobc.org.

Scheduled club rides include both Fixed (Fixed starting location and time) and Variable (Variable starting location and time) events.

Fixed Rides (Rain Cancels)Sunday (9:00 AM) - Arroyo Grande Sunday Ride (B-2).

Gazebo (AG). This casual ride departs from Andreini's Coffee House. The length is about 35 miles. If you are riding from SLO, contact me (frankmullin@charter.net) to see if we can join up. Two popular destinations are Poly Village (SLO) and theTrilogy (Nipomo). Led by Frank Mullin (518-9003).

Sunday (8:30 AM) - Sunday Baywood / Los Osos Ride (B-2).

Show & Go from Nazarene Church (BP). Casual pace to coffee shop in Cayucos with possibility of doing an additional creek based on mutual agreement. Contact person: Jack Robison 772-7748.

Monday (8:00 AM) - Atascadero Breakers (D-3).

Atascadero Zoo. Distance about 55 miles. Destinations: Cambria, Parkfield, San Miguel, Paso Robles, Templeton, Creston, Atascadero for the mid-ride coffee stop. Route sheets / maps distributed via email prior to each ride, none available at the ride start. (See email group page for instructions on joining email groups.) Led by Kevin Matherly (matherlykevin@hotmail.com).

Monday (8:00 AM) - Atascadero Ramblers (C-4).

Atascadero Zoo. Distance: about 45 miles. Destinations: Santa Margarita, Atascadero and Templeton for the mid-ride coffee stop. Route sheets / maps distributed via email prior to each ride, none available at the ride start. (See email group page for instructions on joining email groups.) Led by Mike Duffy (meahal@sbcglobal.net).Monday (8:00 AM) - Atascadero Scramblers (B-3).Atascadero Zoo. Distance: about 35 miles. Destinations: Santa Margarita, Atascadero and Templeton for the mid-ride coffee stop. Route sheets / maps distributed via email prior to each ride, none available at the ride start. (See email group page for instructions on joining email groups.) Led by Glenn & Gail Vanderlinde (ggvaderlinde@yahoo.com).

Monday (9:00 AM) - Breakaways Mondays (D-3).

Damon Garcia Sports Field. Led by Russ Robinson (781-0903).

Monday (9:00 AM) - Yellowjackets SLO Rides (B-2).

Ben's House (SLO). Ride supports one riding group (pace, 12-14 MPH) to various destinations. Be on time because the rides leave at the scheduled time. Led by Ben Patrick (543-2803).

Tuesday (8:30 AM) - Baywood Vacillators (B-2/3).

Show & Go from Nazarene Church (BP). Group decides on a coffee shop destination in San Luis Obispo or Avila Beach by mutual agreement. Ride normally breaks into a faster and slower group. Contact person: Marina Michel 528-1732.

Tuesday (6:00 PM) - Tuesday Night Rides (B/C/D-2).

Gazebo (AG). Choose between a fast 20+ mph or a slower 16 mph group. Mileage varies according to available daylight. A knowledge of group riding skills or a willingness to learn is required. "We always go to dinner after the ride." Led by John Sasaki (474-1417).

Wednesday (8:00 AM) - Templeton Breakers (D-3).

Templeton Park. Distance: 45 miles. Destinations: Templeton, Creston, Paso Robles and San Miguel for the mid-ride coffee stop. See Monday’s listing for more details. Led by George DiMundo (gdimundo47@yahoo.com).

Wednesday (8:00 AM) - Templeton Ramblers (B-3).

Templeton Park. Distance: 45 miles. Destinations: Templeton, Creston, Paso Robles and San Miguel for the mid-ride coffee stop. See Monday’s listing for more details Led by Mike Duffy (meahal@sbcglobal.net).

Wednesday (8:00 AM) - Templeton Scramblers (B-2).

Templeton Park. Distance: about 35 miles. Destinations: Santa Margarita, Atascadero and Templeton for the mid-ride coffee stop. See Monday’s listing for more details Led by Patti & Bill VanOrden (pvanorden@charter.net).

Thursday (8:30 AM) - Baywood / Los Osos Ride (B-2).

Show & Go from Nazarene Church (BP). Casual pace to coffee shop in Cayucos with possibility of doing an additional creek based on mutual agreement. Contact person: Jerry Lundstrom 528-1069.

Friday (9:00 AM) - Breakaways Fridays (D-3).

Bandstand (AG). Led by Larry Bradford (474-8764).

Friday (8:00 AM) - Paso Robles Breakers (D-3).

Marriot Courtyard Hotel. Distance: 55 miles. Destinations: Cambria, Parkfield, San Miguel, Paso Robles, Templeton, Creston, Atascadero for the mid-ride coffee stop. See Monday’s listing for more details Led by Bill McBride (bandjmcbride@verizon.net).

Friday (8:00 AM) - Paso Robles Ramblers (B-3).

Marriot Courtyard Hotel. Distance: 45 miles. Destinations: Templeton, Creston, Paso Robles and San Miguel for the mid-ride coffee stop. See Monday’s listing for more details Led by Mike Duffy (meahal@sbcglobal.net).

Friday (8:00 AM) - Paso Robles Scramblers (B-2).

Marriot Courtyard Hotel. Distance: about 35 miles. Destinations: Santa Margarita, Atascadero and Templeton for the mid-ride coffee stop. See Monday’s listing for more details Led by Monica Robinson (mrobi52@gmail.com).

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Friday (9:00 AM) - Yellowjackets SLO Rides (B-2).

Ben's House (SLO). Ride supports one riding group (pace, 12-14 MPH) to various destinations. Be on time because the rides leave at the scheduled time. Led by Ben Patrick (543-2803).

Saturday (8:00 AM) - Slabtown Rollers (C-4).

Sotheby's Realty (Cambria). Variable itinerary, call for details. Led by Tom Parsons (927-5514).

Saturday (9:00 AM) - SLO Velo (C-3).The rides are designed for the intermediate rider who is comfortable riding a 15+ mph pace on 40 - 55 mile routes. The starting location on the first Saturday of each month will be variable. More information at web page.

Saturday (8:00 AM) - Wanderers (B-3).

Variable. The new ride is a sub ride of the Ramblers and Scramblers. Pace will be moderate and distance 30 to 40 miles. Start times will be the same as other rides. The starting location will vary from week to week. The routes will be primarily outside of the north county area and different than the routes normally ridden by Ramblers and Scramblers. The terrain will be varied. As we are always looking for new routes, we are eager for your suggestions! Contact the ride leader to find out the starting location. Led by John Kaiser (johnncarol@sbcglobal.net).

Variable Rides (Rain Cancels)Be sure to check our website (www.slobc.org) for late changes to these rides.

Wednesday (9:00 AM) - Flyers (D-3).These rides are tailored for people wanting faster paced rides with some pace line riding.6 Bob Jones Trail Head. Led by Steve Vines (202-8114).13 Bob Jones Trail Head. Led by Bill Buckalew (543-9940).20 Santa Margarita Park. Led by Russ Robinson (781-0903).27 French Park (SLO). Led by Bill Goodger (782-9197).Wednesday (9:00 AM) - Frequent Feeders (B-2).This a a social group which rides at a moderate pace with regular regroups and a very social coffee break midway through the ride.6 Islay Park (SLO). Led by Dale Sutliff (544-4034).13 State Park Marina (MB). Led by Dave & Debbie Abrecht (528-2571).20 Bandstand (AG). Led by Mark Lyon (929-5998).27 Hardie Park (Cayucos). Led by Jay Johnson (627-1511).

Wednesday (9:00 AM) - SLO Pokes (A-2).These rides are tailored for riders wanting to travel no more than 12 miles per hour.6 Laguna Lake Park (SLO). Ride to Morro Bay and back. Led by Val Barboza (772-7168).13 Bandstand (AG). Do the "old and new Nipomo" ride, about 25 miles. Led by Peggy Coon (904-6050).20 Nazarene Church (BP). Do the "Morro Rock and Role" ride, about 25 miles. Coffee at French Bakery. Led by Bob Lindquist (441-7063).27 Shamel Park (Cambria). Ride to the elephant seals. Led by Genie Seagrave-Smith (434-0514).

Friday (9:00 AM) - Tortoises (A-1).This group is intended for people that just want to get out for a short, easy, slow ride. We will ride about 10 to15 miles and average 10 miles per hour. We will also try to minimize hill climbing. A coffee stop is included.1 Shamel Park (Cambria). Ride to Linn's Fruit Bin Farmstore - 14.8 miles total. Led by George Birk (595-7124).8 Dinosaur Caves Park (SB). Ride south to visit Oceano and Halcyon, with a coffee stop in Pismo Beach. Led by Bruce Collier (543-9514).15 Throop Park (SLO). This is a southerly excursion which is around 15 miles, stopping at Higher Groundz. Led by Martin Howell (544-5389).22 Beach Ramp (GB). Tour of some of the 5 Cities region. Led by Bob Young (489-4755).29 Hardie Park (Cayucos). To and up Toro Creek Road. Snack at the end of teh ride at Old Cayucos Bakery for coffee, tea, etc. Led by Patricia and Hans-Henning Boerst (534-9660).

Saturday, July 9 - Wandering with Will (B-3).

Ride into the countryside averaging about 12 mph. We will often do favorite rides from our web site. No one lost from view or left behind. Lunch after for those who want to join in. When: First Saturday (Saturday after the club meeting) of each month (Rain Cancels) Contact Will Benedict (544-3504) for more information. Hearst State Park. Ride to Gorda and back - about 54 miles with 3,850 feet of climbing.

Pace Description Terrain Description

AAVery Slow

Less than 10 mph. Regroups often. Waits for slowest rider.

1 Generally Flat

A Slow 9 to 12 mph average. Regroups occasionally. (SLO Pokes)

2 Easy Grades Some Hills

B Moderate 12 to 15 mph average. Regroups every 30 minutes. Waits for slower riders. (Frequent Feeders)

3 Rolling Hills (North County Hills - Peachy Cyn)

C Brisk 14 to 17 mph average. Regroups every 30-45 minutes. Waits for slower riders (Flyers)

4 Hard Hills (Hwy. 46 - coast to Paso Robles)

D Fast Averages over 16 mph. Requires experienced riders and pace line riding. (Tuesday Night Rides)

5 Very Challenging Hills

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8 SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July 2011

Directions to Starting Locations

Atascadero ZooTake 101 north from San Luis Obispo to

Atascadero, take the Santa Rosa exit (218A), turn left on to Santa Rosa Rd for 1.4 miles, turn right on Highway 41, continue 0.2 miles to zoo on right.

Bandstand (AG)Take 101 to Grand exit in Arroyo Grande.

Turn east 0.2 miles to Traffic Way, right 0.2 miles to Nelson St, left 0.1 miles to Short Street. Park on street.

Beach Ramp (GB)End of Grand in Grover Beach. Take 101 to

Highway 1 off ramp in Pismo Beach. Go south 1 mile to Grand Avenue. Turn right into and go to the parking area.

Ben's House (SLO)Take 101 to Los Osos Valley Road. Go east

0.5 mile to Higuera, left 0.4 mile to Tank Farm Rd, right 1.9 miles to Poinsettia St, right 0.1 mile to Alyssum Court, left one house -- Ben's house is first on left.

Bob Jones Trail HeadTake 101 toward the five cities. Exit at San

Luis Bay drive. Go left on Ontario for 0.8 miles. Park in the lot on your left.

Damon Garcia Sports FieldTake 101 to Los Osos Valley Road exit, east

0.4 miles to Higuera, left 0.2 miles to Tank Farm, right 1.5 miles to Broad, left 0.2 miles to the park on the left (across from Industrial Way).

Dinosaur Caves Park (SB)

Take 101 south to Spyglass Drive off ramp, go right to light, left on Shell Beach Road 1.4 miles to Cliff Avenue, right 0.1 mile to park on left.

French Park (SLO)Take 101 to Los Osos Valley Road. East 0.5

mile to Higuera, left 0.4 mile to Tank Farm Rd, right 1.9 miles to Poinsettia St, right 0.4 miles to Fuller, left 0.1 mile to park (on the left).

Gazebo (AG)Take 101 to Grand exit in Arroyo Grande. Go

east (becomes Branch St) to Bridge Street. Turn right past Ira's Bike Shop and left into parking lot. Gazebo is halfway through lot on your right.

Hardie Park (Cayucos)Take 101 to Highway 1. Go west (through

Morro Bay) 19 miles to Cayucos Drive. Go west 0.2 miles to Birch, right to park.

Hearst State ParkExit 101 to Highway 1 west bound in SLO,

continue 41.5 miles through Morro Bay, Cambria and San Simeon to park on the left.

Islay Park (SLO)Take 101 to Los Osos Valley Road. East 0.5

mile to Higuera, left 0.4 mile to Tank Farm Rd, right 2.8 miles to park (on right).

Laguna Lake Park (SLO)Take 101 to Madonna exit in SLO. Going

west, 0.7 miles to entrance to Laguna Lake Park on your right. Generally park in second lot to the left (near the bathrooms).

Marriot Courtyard HotelTake 101 (north or south) to the Spring St.

exit, turn east onto 1st St, then south (left) onto So. Vine St. Entrance to the hotel parking lot is on your left; park along So. Vine St.

Nazarene Church (BP)Corner of Santa Ysabel and South Bay Blvd

in Los Osos. From 101, take Los Osos Valley Rd exit. Travel west for 9 miles to South Bay Blvd. Travel right about 1 mile to light, church is on your right.

Santa Margarita ParkTake 101 to highway 58 off ramp into Santa

Margarita. Follow highway 58 through town and stay on it when it turns to the right. After crossing the tracks, you will find the park to your right.

Shamel Park (Cambria)Take 101 to Highway 1 and go north to

Cambria. At the north end of town, turn left at Windsor Rd. The park is 0.3 miles down the road.

Sotheby's Realty (Cambria)Take 101 to Highway 1 west, continue 34

miles to Cambria Rd, then turn left onto Main St. Continue 0.4 miles to Sotheby's Realty on the right (east of Main).

State Park Marina (MB)Take 101 to Highway 1. Go west 12 miles to

the Los Osos/Baywood Park exit. Left to 0.3 miles to State Park Rd. Right 1.7 miles to marina parking area on the left.

Templeton ParkTake 101 to the Vineyard exit in Templeton.

Turn east for 0.2 miles to Old Country Road, turn left for 0.4 miles to 6th Street. Park is on your right.

Throop Park (SLO)Take 101 to Highway 1. Go west 0.8 miles to

Foothill Blvd, left 0.3 miles to Ferrini Rd, right 0.1 mile to Cerro Romauldo Ave, left 0.1 mile to park on right.

Ride Coordinator’s Report by Jeff Kahn

Special Events2011 Indulgence Ride

• When: Saturday, October 22, 2011• Where: Nipomo and Santa Maria to Santa Ynez• Cost: $35

This year's Indulgence Ride will be a repeat tour of the Nipomo to Solvang (Santa Ynez) ride.  We will be bussed from San Luis Obispo to Nipomo (or Santa Maria for the 35 mile option) where the ride will begin.  Three routes are available, with approximate distances of 35 miles, 50 miles and 60 miles.  A longer route option is being developed to include the TT route to add about 15 miles to any of the routes, or you can add two

laps for up to about 85 miles.  The tentative plan is to have snacks provided at a rest stop en route.

Specific route maps will be provided at the start. However, the preliminary routes are posted on http://ridewithgps.com/routes, “Search” for “Bike Rides” with the “Keyword: Indulgence”. The ride will end at the Santa Ynez Family YMCA where you can shower and change clothes before we go to dinner at a yet to be determined restaurant. 

The Indulgence Ride is limited to club members. Because of the bus ride, the bike ride is limited to 56 participants.  The cost is $35 per person (lunch and dinner not included).  You may sign up for the ride by sending Jeff a check, payable to SLOBC.  You will be added to the list when your check is received. Please include your e-mail address with your check.

Questions or need more info? Feel free to call or e-mail

(ride Coordinator’s report continued on page 9)

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Ride Coordinator’s report cont. from Pg. 8Out-of-area and non-club Local Rides

Calendar

One of my goals as ride coordinator is to encourage people to venture out to other parts of the state once a month for a ride with other SLOBC members. I will also list interesting rides that may be a little closer that you may wish to ride in. In an effort to facilitate this, I have prepared a list of rides that you may like to join.

If you are going to attend an organized ride outside of SLO County, please share it with me so I can post it and encourage participation. I would also hope to see everyone wearing either our new 40th Anniversary Jersey or a Club Jersey at “away events” to make us easy to identify as a group.

Central Coast Century, Ride for ALS, July 9, 2011more info at: www.centralcoastcentury.org

Windmill Century, July 16, 2011 Pioneer Park, Santa Maria, CAVisit: www.tailwindsofsantamariabc.org for the flyer and details.

Tour of Napa Valley, August 22, 2011Visit: www.eaglecyclingclub.org/tour.html for details when updated.

Las Vegas Century, October 15, 2011Visit: www.rtcsnv.com/vivabikevegas/index.cfm for details.

SLOBC Indulgence Ride, October 22, 2011Visit our website http://www.slobc.org/news/special-events.html for more detailed information.

Volunteer for the Lighthouse Ride- September 24, 2011

Many great spots still available - act now!

To volunteer for the upcoming Lighthouse ride, go to the SLOBC web page - http://www.slobc.net/membership - fill out a volunteer information and submit it on line. For more information, contact the Lighthouse Volunteer Coordinator, Ernest Cole,

732 Manzanita Drive, Los Osos CA 93402, 528-6686 or elcolejr@gmail.com.

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10 SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July 2011

Lighthouse JerseysMembers can buy Lighthouse Jerseys at member prices until July 15.   Go to www.slobc.net/membership and log in.  You'll find the order form under the clothing tab.   Fill it out, check out and either pay with PayPal or print the form and mail it with your check to the address shown.

H E L P W A N T E D :

The club's nominations committee is continuing its search for members who are willing to make a commitment to help lead our club in 2012. You can toss your hat in the ring for any position, but we are focused on those without candidates. Descriptions of the duties of these positions can be found in the Volunteer area at our website (http://www.slobc.org/volunteer/support/board.html) or feel free to contact the "incumbents" and talk with them about their job. Please contact Frank Mullin, frankmullin@charter.net, 602-2058, if you're interested.

Position Candidate(s) IncumbentPresident Robert Davis Robert DavisVice-President Tom Roberts Tom RobertsTreasurer Chris Broome Chris BroomeSecretary Craig Armstrong Craig ArmstrongMembership Coordinator Robert Lindquist Robert LindquistRide Coordinator Open Jeff KahnNewsletter Editor Tim Long Tim LongAdvocate Open Dale SutliffHistorian Open Janie GoldenbergSafety Coordinator Ken Price Ken PriceDirector at Large Open Sandra Pitt

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SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July, 2011 11

Pedaling Through the Past by Janie Goldenberg, Historian On June 2, 2011, the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club celebrated our 40th Anniversary at our annual summer potluck. We had many members from the early days of the club, and many from the other decades. Food was amazing, catching up with old friends was fun, and hearing about the first 4 decades of the club, and the present, was interesting and entertaining. We presented the 2011 SLOB Bob Garing Service Award to Sharon and Dale Sutliff. Frank Mullin told about all of their past achievements that made them worthy of receiving the award. Thanks to my committee - Gail Davis, Sylvia Leap, Shelley Long, Joan Petersen, and Sandy Pitt - for all your help. The evening came off without a hitch. The decorations were our club colors - yellow and blue. Members came in t-shirts or jerseys from the decade they joined. Kathleen McHugh and Ernest Cole set up the hot drinks and acted as Greeters. Many members came early to set-up and stayed late to clean-up. If you weren't able to be there and haven't gotten your commemorative water bottle, see me at club rides or at club meetings

40 years of SLOBC members at the anniversary potluck

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12 SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7 - July 2011

Advice from the California DMV

FOUR BASIC SAFETY TIPS

Maintain Control of Your Bicycle: There are many things you can do to control your bicycle, even in an emergency. First, ensure your bicycle is the right size and properly adjusted to fit you. A properly fitted bicycle is easier to control, more comfortable, and causes less fatigue. A bicycle shop can help you choose the correct size bicycle. Ensure your bicycle is in good working order by inspecting it regularly.

The California Vehicle Code (VC) contains specific laws pertaining to bicycle riders. For example, it is unlawful to operate a bicycle while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or drug (VC §21200.5). Convictions are punishable by a fine of up to $250. If you are under 21, but over 13 years of age, your driving privilege will be suspended or delayed for one year once you are eligible to drive.Protect Yourself: Even a simple fall can cause a life threatening head injury. The brain is fragile and often does not heal the way that broken bones can. The damage can stay with you for life. Helmets provide protection. By law, bicycle riders under 18 years of age must wear a bicycle helmet while riding on a public road (VC §21212). Wear your helmet correctly!

Be Visible and Alert: Even if you obey all traffic laws, there is always a risk of being hit by a motorist who is not obeying the laws, or who simply does not see you. Ride carefully—Vehicles waiting at stop signs, in driveways, or parking spaces may suddenly pull out in front of you. Watch for vehicles that have just passed you and may turn right, as well as vehicles across the street that may turn left in front of you. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action. Signal before making turns or changing lanes to warn traffic around you. To signal a left turn, look behind you, over your left shoulder, and then extend your left arm out. To signal a right turn, hold your left arm up with your elbow bent (you may also hold your right arm straight and point to the right). You do not have to keep your arm extended while completing the maneuver—Always have at least one hand on the handlebars to maintain control. To signal that you are slowing or stopping, extend your left arm down.

Using lights and reflectors at night is the law (VC §21201). Increase your visibility by wearing light or bright colored clothes, such as yellow or lime green. Red appears black in fading light and is not a good choice for riding in the evening. Mirrors provide opportunities for increased awareness of your surroundings, but use mirrors only as an aid. Always look over your shoulder to make sure the lane is clear before turning or changing lanes. Make sure your brakes are in good working order.

Ride With Traffic: Ride in the same direction as the traffic. This will make you more visible to drivers entering roads or changing lanes because they will know where to look for possible conflicts. On a one-way street, you may ride on the left as long as you are riding with traffic.

How Far to the Right?: Ride on the right, but not so far that you might hit the curb. You could lose your balance and fall into traffic. Do not ride too far to the right:

When avoiding parked vehicles or road hazards.

When a traffic lane is too narrow for a bicycle and vehicle to travel safely side by side.

When making a left turn so that vehicles going straight do not collide into you.

To avoid conflicts with right-turning vehicles.

Hazards: Keep your eyes on the road ahead. Avoid running over potholes, gravel, broken glass, drainage grates, puddles you can’t see through, or other unsafe road conditions. Look over your shoulder to avoid swerving suddenly into traffic. When possible, signal before changing lanes.

Parked Vehicles: Bicyclists should ride far enough away from parked vehicles to avoid being hit by an opening door.

When to Take the Traffic Lane: If there is no shoulder or bicycle lane and the traffic lane is narrow, ride closer to the center of the lane. This will prevent motorists from passing you when there is not enough room. You should also use the traffic lane when you are traveling at the same speed as the traffic around you. This will keep you out of motorists’ blind spots and reduce conflicts with right-turning traffic.

Obey Traffic Signs and Signals

Bicyclists must obey STOP signs and red signal lights. It’s a good idea to stop for yellow lights too—rushing through a yellow light may not leave you enough time to make it across the intersection before the light changes.

Left Turns

There are two proper methods for making a left turn on a bicycle:

1. Using Traffic Lanes

As you approach the intersection, look over your left shoulder for traffic. If clear, signal your turn and move over to the left side of the lane, or into the left or center turn lane. Position yourself so that vehicles going straight cannot pass you on your left while you are making your left hand turn. Yield to oncoming traffic before turning. If you are riding in a bicycle lane, or on a multi-lane road, you need to look and signal each time you change lanes. Never make a left turn from the right side of the road, even if you’re in a bicycle lane.

2.  Using Crosswalks

Approach the intersection staying on the right. Stop and either cross as a pedestrian in the crosswalk, or make a 90 degree left turn and proceed as if you were coming from the right. If there is a signal light, wait for the green or WALK signal before crossing. Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.

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CLUB PROFILE: BY: KATIE OMBERG

VITAL STATS:Location: San Luis Obispo, CaliforniaCurrent membership: 530Club President: Robert DavisClub founded: 1971

Coalition Executive Director: Dan RivoireCoalition founded: 2001

501(c)(3) status: The club is a 501 (c)(4),incorporated in 2004

Club Motto: San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club promotes the common good and the general welfare of the people of San Luis Obispo County through safe and legal bicycle riding and encourages bicycle riding as an accepted mode of transportation.

“We ride to eat and eat to ride”

The ClubFrom its humble formation in

1971 to being named Club of the Year 40 years later, the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club (SLOBC) has been making big changes in SLO County. In 1971, Larry Souza- who was to become the first club president- “placed an ad in the paper asking if any cyclists wanted to meet in front of the mission on a Saturday morning and go for a ride. They rode around Cerro San Luis and agreed to pay 25 cents a month dues to publish a newsletter,” says current president Robert Davis. From that first ride, the SLOBC has increased to holding at least 17 rides each week.

The club additionally hosts two huge annual rides, which sell out of their 1,300 spots within hours of registration opening: the Wildflower Bike Ride for Scholarships in the spring and the Lighthouse Bike Ride for Charities

in the fall. "Between the two," says Davis, "we net about $40,000 that we contribute to local scholarships and charities." Both routes have a half- and a full-century option, with some intermediate routes. The Wildflower Bike Ride is coming up soon, on Friday, April 29, 2011.

The CoalitionAfter riding in SLO for years,

the community noticed a need for more advocacy work. In 2001, the San Luis Obispo County Bicycle Coalition (SLO Bicycle Coalition) formed from a $5,000 donation from local physician and triathlete Jim Hannah to help fund a coalition to "to improve bicycle safety, access and awareness." Once formed, "the Coalition approached the bike club ... because it recognized the need for a growing membership and funding and saw the bike club as a natural source for both," reports club president Robert Davis.

The organizations have grown close over the past 10 years, each capitalizing on the strength of the other. The club is "made up primarily of middle class retirees who ride for recreation," says Davis, whereas the coalition appeals to the growing number of young people who use their bicycles for transportation. Davis sums up the relationship nicely:

"The bike club provides field intelligence and funding; the Coalition provides muscle and tactics." In no small part because of this cooperation, San Luis Obispo is a Silver Bicycle Friendly Community and has been a BFC since 2007.

Where do we go from here?Davis says that the level of

education for road users is what he would change the most about San Luis Obispo county: "[I would] make bike education a mandatory class in grade school, middle school and high school and driver education mandatory in high school." Regarding the future of the club, he wants to use it to "communicate seamlessly and coordinate activities in an integrated and mutually supporting fashion" with the rest of the bicycling community. With this strong history of fun rides and strong advocacy, the SLO Bicycle Club and SLO Bicycle Coalition are well on their way to making SLO a safe and fun place to ride in.

This article appeared in the April 2011 CueSheet, a publication of The League of American Bicyclists. It is used with the permission of the LAB. Find out more about the LAB at www.bikeleague.org.

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Advocate’s Report

Its Not Great, But It Keeps Getting Better For Bicyclists By Dale Sutliff

The growth in public awareness, along with ever-increasing numbers of bicyclists, continues to result in more bike plans, facilities, regulations, laws, signage, pavement markings, and other improvements that support bicycling.

A down economy and increasing gas costs have also fueled a broad interest in alternative transportation. Bicycling has been at the forefront of discussions in communities, states, and agencies across the land. To get more bicyclists out there, these same entities have been coming to grips with the reality that places must be made safer for bicyclists.

Most recently, the State Senate of California passed SB910 (Lownthal) by a 27-9 margin. The bill now moves to the State Assembly, hopefully for final approval, then on to the governor for enactment. Deemed “Give Me 3”, this legislation changes the vehicle code to require that drivers give bicyclists three feet of clearance, for safety, when passing. It also allows that when insufficient space exists, drivers slow down to not more than 15 mph above the bicyclists’ speed when passing. California could become the 19th state to enact this legislation to protect bicyclists.

Our State Senator, Sam Blakeslee, voted in support of the legislation. A release from his office states: Throughout the 15th Senate District, many of the two-lane roads do not have bike lanes or shoulders of sufficient width. Cars and trucks attempting to pass cyclists on these roads often speed around or try to narrowly squeeze by the cyclists to pass. Each year in California, accidents caused by drivers in these situations are the leading cause of death for cyclists. Senator Blakeslee is hopeful that people will feel safer on the road and be more likely to choose cycling as a form of transportation and exercise. For details on Give Me 3, go to: http://givemethree.squarespace.com/

Source California Bicycle Coalition

Shandon HS SLOBC Scholarship winners

Left to right: SLOBC President Robert Fuller Davis, Javier Rivera, Thomas Harris, Rio Contreras, and Lupita Ayon

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June 14, 2011

San Luis Obispo Bicycle ClubP.O. Box 1585San Luis Obispo, CA 93406

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:

Thank you so much for continuing to sponsor the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club Scholarship at Shandon High School. Red Davis delivered an excellent presentation of the awards at our graduation ceremony on June 9. In addition to your wonderful gift this year of $3,000, another $840 became available when a previous recipient was not able to collect an award. Of this year's senior class of 20 graduates we had four scholarship winners who split the funds evenly at $960.

As the brief summaries below will show, two of this year's recipients will start at four year colleges and two will start at community colleges. Interestingly, all have an interest to study law enforcement and two plan to become California Highway Patrol officers. It makes me wonder about the programs they are watching on television.

• Lupita Ayon: Lapita will attend Cal State Los Angeles to major in criminal justice and pursue her dream of becoming a crime scene investigator. Her activities include student body treasurer and secretary, softball, cheerleading, Future Farmers of America, AVID, Friday Night Live, and Educational Talent Search. Lupita is our top volunteer with 133 hours of service to the school and community.

• Rio Contreras: Rio will attend Cuesta College to study law enforcement and earn an associates degree before pursuing his goal of becoming an officer of the California Highway Patrol. He is a three sport athlete in football, basketball, and baseball, and earned all league honors in football and basketball. For his athletic achievements Rio was honored as this year's Male Athlete of the Year.

• Thomas Harris: Tommy will attend West Hills College in Coalinga to major in law enforcement and plans to become an officer of the California Highway Patrol. He is a solid three sport athlete in football, basketball, and baseball, but he especially loves baseball. It is my understanding that Tommy is the first student at Shandon High School to earn first team all league honors in baseball for each of grades 912.

• Javier Rivera: Javier will attend Fresno State University to study law enforcement and counseling. He played basketball and baseball, and was varsity co-captain of both teams. Javier is our top math tutor, was this year's student body vice president, and completed over 100 hours of service to the community. Javier is our recipient of the Congressional Merit Award and is this year's valedictorian.

It was our pleasure to help with the setting up and taking down tasks for the Wildflower lunch in Shandon at Crawford W. Clarke Memorial Park. Eleven students participated at either the morning or afternoon shifts. I received some great photographs of the groups and a wonderful card from Janie and Stu Goldenberg that I displayed outside my office. The students on the afternoon shift appreciated being given some of the perishable leftover goodies.

Thank you again for your generous support of our graduates. We are truly fortunate that you found us along your travels and chose to share your wealth with us. We look forward to next year.

Sincerely, Jon Svinth, School Counselor

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SLO Coaster Volume 43 Issue 7- July, 2011

San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club, Inc. P.O. Box 1585 San Luis Obispo, CA 93406

7 / 5 / 11B O A R D M E E T I N G 5 : 0 0 P . M . 7 / 7 / 11G E N E R A L M E E T I N G 7 : 0 0 P. M .

The July General Meeting presentation will be by Dale & Sharon Sutliff.

Titled Bird, Bike & Hike, it records their exploration last spring along the southern tier of the U.S. from California to the Texas Gulf in search of places and critters.