Board Meeting: September 14th, 2009 7:00-8:40
PRESENT: Paul Adkins, Michal Young, Sue Wolling, Peggy Windle, Pat Esch, Lynda Christiansen
MINUTES: Michal did last month, in Lynda’s absence, Paul will post to web.
BIKE GLOW: Richard sent information concerning this product which coils around a bike frame, providing increased visibility. A reduced cost of $25 has been offered, with a $5 discount to the purchaser, and a $5 donation to Gears. Bike Glow can be see at REI.
NOMINATION: The club Vice President would handle nominations, but Jay has now relocated to Portland, and no replacement is available at present to complete 2 months of his term. Paul suggested the board assume this role, in preparation for the November vote.
LOW GEARS RIDES: A discussion was held about rides for prospective members seeking a slower paced ride. Having a new designation would help to change a perspective of the club having only fast riders, who, it was noted, are generally not members anyway. Under this designation, we would attempt flexible speed and distance rides, with a variety of routes, potentially including city tours. Frequency was discussed, Michal pointed out that predictability is important. This will be pursued with Gary.
COMMUTING TO SCHOOL: Michal said his 16yr old daughter, who has ridden her first metric century, was determined to commute to school by bike, but is struggling with carrying a heavy load of books. Paul noted he also has a 16 yr old student, and they will look into available racks.
PICNIC: October 17th was chosen as a potential day for Gears Picnic, to be held at Whiteaker Community Center, which Paul can get cost free. It was decided to we would serve only ice cream. SWAP MEET was agreed to be a good addition to the event, and local shops could be invited to participate. Gary, Sue, Lynda and Eric will work on details.
LEAVES: Paul has spoken with Eric Jones, Jeff Langston and Kurt Corey. This will be a city council agenda item at their work session September 16th.. Eric Jones and Paul are to prepare a new leaf brochure. Paul noted that while it is illegal to place leaves in bike lanes, the city does not want to state it is against the law. It is proposed to double the manpower and equipment, and to target 75 miles of bike lanes, which will appear on the city website. There is to be a 24 hr hotline to identify problem sites.
JAMBOREE/BIKE DAY: Moving the Jamboree to Bike Day in June was proposed by Paul, noting that Bike Day is already a celebration of bikes. Attempts to foster a family connection by having Jamboree/bRamble in one weekend has not proved effective, and is a stress for workers. It was felt that Science Factory would not be involved next year and the event would seek a new location.
RIBBON TRAIL: Sue stated the trail from Hendricks Hill Park trails to near 30th is due to be completed in two weeks. The surface is packed gravel, and has very sharp curves and steep hills. Consideration is being given to prohibit bikes, as they already are prohibited on Hendricks Hill trails. However, this is an important connection. Neil Bjorkland is the city planner involved.
BREAKFAST ON THE BRIDGES: to be held Sptember 18th, 7-9 am. At 18th and Chambers.
LEGAL CLINIC: Derek Johnson will speak at the Sloat Room, Atrium building September 24th, beginning at 6:30pm.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED, Lynda Christiansen, Secretary
