Silver Comet Spring Ride Survey

Only 19 respondents on the Monkey so far. Please TAKE THE SURVEY - It is short!!

It is never too early to start planning a ride event. For several years we have talked about riding the Chief Ladiga and Silver Comet Trails that Run from Anniston Alabama to Atlanta Georgia. I personally have ridden the entire Silver Comet and it is a beautiful all trail ride. I am attaching a survey to this to get some initial feedback. Once you have taken the survey, please post. Please copy the link below into your browser and answer the questions.



Click Here For Survey

Frozen Toes Ride on New Year's Day

Is anyone planning on riding the frozen toes ride with Joey Holland tomorrow? I believe it leaves Bethpage utility at 10:00 a.m. with a 30 mile and 44 mile option. It looks to be 35 degrees and windy.

If anyone has the route details and plans to ride, please post them.

Chad

Happy NEW YEAR

Don't share the road.

There's a time to share and and time to hog. This from the Orlando Commuter deserves a look.
">How to ride on a narrow 2 lane road.

Missing NewBee

Greetings All,

I hope all of the Fogbees have had a wonderful Christmas.

Just wanted to give you a quick update on where I have been... I have been dealing with various leveles of back pain. Ranging from numbness in my toes, to burning sensations in my quads, and glutes. In the end, I had a bulging disc that ruptureed, and am now scheduled for back surgery on the Dec 30th.

I am dreaming of the day that I could once again ride with the Fogbees.

See you all in the Spring!

Mark Comte

Davidson St. RR Xing Now Safe

Riding between Shelby Bottoms and Downtown is much safer now that the Davidson Street RR crossing has been improved. The large, jagged crevices along the rails, combined with the angle of the crossing, posed a serious hazard between two popular greenways for many years. I was thrilled to see this improvement Wednesday on a ride home. Thank you Nashville, CSX, or whoever is responsible!

HEY MON..IT'S A PARTEE!!!

I WAS REMINDED TODAY THAT I FORGOT TO POST THAT OUR JANUARY 23 PARTY IS A GO-GO. WE ARE HAVING A "POST CHRISTMAS/NEW YEARS BLAH BUT BEFORE THE SUPERRR/BOWL" PARTY FOR ALL FOGBEES AND FRIENDS. MORE DETAILS WILL FOLLOW THIS WEEK BUT, IN A NUTSHELL, WE WILL EAT/DANCE AND BE MERRY ON SAT. , JAN. 23 FROM 7-10 PM. WE WANT EVERYONE TO COME WITH ALL THE FRIENDS YOU WOULD LIKE TO BRING. I AM HOPING THAT TOM EVANS WILL SET UP A PROJECTOR WITH ALL OUR PHOTO'S FROM RIDES ON ONE OF THE GLEN OAKS CLUBHOUSE WALLS. MUSIC PROVIDED BY THE DRAFTMASTER AND IT WILL BE A BYOB AND BRING A FOOD ITEM. KJ HAS MADE A KEG OF BEER FOR THE PARTY ALREADY! LET'S CELEBRATE OUR WONDERFUL BIKE CLUB AND THE NEW YEAR TOGETHER. PLEASE ONLY POST IF YOU ARE COMING. MERRY XMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Jersey Swap?

I have one of the new L/S Jerseys that is too big for me. I will gladly swap (or sell )my XL for a L .

It has been tried on but not worn.

THE NEW LONGSLEEVE JERSEY'S HAVE ARIVED

If you would like to pick yours up please post a note so we can make arrangements. The weather does not look like it will cooperate for a ride tomorrow, but if anybody would like to meet at Sam's for lunch. I will bring your jersey to Sam's at 12:00.

Also have following jerseys from October: Mark Comte, Carla, and Joe Howard

JibJab from Gary

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Internet training

CoastDownHills and the Cannonball have SUCCESSFULLY completed the first homework assignment and set up their own Blogs. Bob Miller has ALMOST completed his homework. He says he has a Blog but has yet to invite others to it.
Just a reminder for the others, deadline for first homework is December 19'th. I'll have new work at that time. If your having trouble, sending me a note.

FOGBEE PARTY SIGHTED!

WELL I HAVE BEEN ASKED NUMEROUS TIMES ABOUT "WHEN IS OUR PARTY"? THERE ARE NOT MANY AVAILABLE DATES AT GLEN OAKS AND MOST FOGBEES ASKED FOR A JANUARY PARTY. IS JANUARY 23 (SATURDAY) AT AROUND 7:00 - 10:00 OK WITH EVERYONE? IF SO PLEASE POST ASAP AS I NEED TO LET THEM KNOW BY NEXT MONDAY. DETAILS WILL FOLLOW ONCE WE CONFIRM THE PARTY DATE. THANKS GARY..

PS:::TOM/BOB COULD YOU LEAVE THIS NEAR TOP OF BLOG FOR A FEW DAYS?

Blue Ridge 5 day tour

Carolina Tailwinds 5 day tour
Nicole and I were planning on a tour of the Blue Ridge parkway in 2010. We found Carolina Tailwinds Bicycle Tours and they look real interesting. This tour company would be happy to make this a Fogbees tour if we had 10 to 16 people interested on June 20-24, June 27 - July 01 or August 22-26.There website is www.carolinatailwinds.com and the trip would cost 1485.00 per person. I wanted to see if there was enough interest in general to pursue this with the company. If there is, then I would try to coordinate the date best for all. We do two or three day rides with great participation so this would be a great extension to our touring in 2010.Give me your thoughts, ideas or suggestions. Thanks Bob Miller.

MPO Meeting: Hendersonville Library

Thoughtful investment in infrastructure needs –to support walking, biking, use of transit– plays an integral role in helping the region to fulfill its goals for livability, prosperity and sustainability. Now, the MPO invites you THURSDAY December 3'rd to share your thoughts in helping to further plan for transit investments, specifically in Robertson, Sumner & Wilson counties. Click here for more info.

Bicycle Law

Click here to view Law Enforcement presentation that Kelley Segars (Knoxville TPO) created with help of Leslie Mehan. Used in 2009 at the Tennessee Lifesavers Conference, it will be used next year in a series of train-the-trainers events resulting in every law enforcement agency in the state receiving the training.

Hogan's Branch

I rode Hogan's Branch Wednesday and noticed a construction sign advertising 20 minute delays. 

There was no delay that day but several places have piles of culverts so it looks like they are planning some cuts across the road in the near future.

This is between McMurtry and the highway, so Shell road is a lovely alternative for that area if need be.

There should be no problem if your route is toward Happy Hollow and Madison Creek.

Enjoy the long weekend of riding!

New FOGBEES watering hole ?!?!

Check out the Star News for announcement of what could be an alternative post ride / spin refreshment site. I'm sure that Doug and Gary will approve. According to the article, the Tilted Kilt offers an atmosphere akin to Hooters with a Scottish twist. The new venue will occupy the location where Applebees once operated.

Who knows ? Gary might actually find Larry Bird's cousin and Doug may find a substiute for Tamatha !

Viva la FOGBEES

Associate Membership - Bike Walk Tennessee

As you know several FOGBEES are active in Statewide Cycling Advocacy and have participated in forming an Advocacy Corporation to promote cycling and pedestrian interests in Tennessee. Their Web Site is here.

The organization has provided Associate Memberships where groups with similar interests can add their voice. I am requesting that the FOGBEES become members. There is NO cost and the membership details are on their Web Site.

Please COMMENT as to your approval/disapproval.

Cyclist Problem in Rutherford County

Rutherford County Public Safety Committee has just brought up the topic of a Cyclist problem on their county roads in their October 26'th meeting. They now join Williamson County in considering cyclists to be a potential problem. Let's not add Sumner to that list! I borrowed the following from Bruce's recommendation on this topic.

You know all these already but here are Bruce's suggested talking points in addressing the Safety Commission:

1) Local clubs are just as concerned about the problem of increased motor vehicular and bicycle traffic on inadequate roads. We encourage the enforcement of laws upon cyclists who break them. Especially target
. . a) riding against traffic
. . b) no lights at night.
. . c) running red lights, stop signs, etc.
. . d) riding in packs so as to impede traffic for long distances.

2) At the same time we'd like to stress our right to the roads. I don't believe a Tennessee County alone has the right to ban cyclists from any public road.

. . a) What may appear to be obstructing traffic can well be the safest cycling practice. When road conditions make it unsafe to pass it is safest for a cyclist to move far enough to the left in a lane to make the overtaking driver consider the situation. A good cyclists will telegraph when it is safe to pass by moving back toward the right. That cyclist will also pull over if obstructing faster traffic for more than a couple of minutes. That seems like a long time to the following motorist but in reality that may be as soon as the cyclists can do so. We need to educated both cyclists an motorists in effective road sharing.

. . b) speed limits may need to be reduced and adequately enforced on narrow roads with limited sight distance. Farm equipment, wildlife, stalled cars and mail carriers also present real dangers when topping a hill too fast.

3) As rural areas get populated existing roads need to be improved to accommodate the increased traffic.

4) Most cyclists also drive cars and contribute to the building of the roads. Bicycles are very easy on the roads so the time we are not driving, we spare the roads.

5) Thank everyone for the opportunity to have input.

FOGBEE vs Dog - Dog Wins Round 1

We decided to enjoy the great weather yesterday on our bikes. Bob M. and Nicole joined us for a ride in the Coopertown area. There is a dog on Sandy Springs Road that chases and comes into the road after cyclists. Yesterday, he got a head start and came out charging into the road and cut in front of me (Phil) hitting my front tire. As you can imagine, this was not good. I went down and was out for a few seconds. I ended up with my collarbone broken in two places and a separated shoulder (road rash as well). In an effort to prevent this from happening to others, a police report was filed.

Our next visit to Bikers Choice will be to get a new helmet and dog repellant. My bike will need to get checked out as well. Although I think that I cushioned the fall for the bike.

Bob and Nicole - I cannot thank you enough for your help yesterday. It helped us get through a bad situation. Thank you again.

Obviously I will be off my bike for awhile, however, I am already thinking about my next ride.

Northeast Corridor Mobility Study report

The Nashville MPO is considering three options for mass transit from Gallatin to Downtown Nashville
1. Bus Rapid Trnasit or light rail that would follow what we all call Gallatin Rd from Gallatin to Downtown. This has the advantage of connecting existing population centers and would have multiple runs during the day. The down side is it would take longer to get from Gallatin to Downtown than the other options.
2. BRT or Light Rail along Ellington Parkway, then connect to Viet Nam Vets/386 to Gallatin. Advantage is there is existing right of way for most of the path. It would be a quicker trip with fewer stops than the Gallatin Rd option but would also have fewer access points.
3. Commuter Rail (Like Music City Star) along CSX right of way. This would only run duing rush hours but would be by far quickest route. Downside is most expensive, have to deal with CSX, and would be into next century getting done.

There was some talk of having bike routes to stations. My only contribution was a plea to be sure they had facilities for bike parking and for bikes on whatever bus or train they eventually got. This meeting was mostly about routes but I don't want them to forget us or they very likely will. One of the possible excursions I'd considered is a bike ride to Lebanon, ride the Music City Star to Downtown, then bike back to Hendersonville. The bike part is doable today but the Music City Star lists only places for two bicycles in the space reserved for wheelchairs and then only if a wheelchair does not show up. That does not exactly encourage bike commuting. From what I can tell there would probably be room for bikes most of the time but I'd not show up expecting to ride with my bike without some prior arrangement.

Anyone interested in more info can find it at this Nashville MPO link.
Bruce

Thanks

Thanks to the Fogbees who spun it last night. See you Tuesday.

NEW Fogbee Jersey

. . . We have a NEW design (just a little and NO it isn't pink). We have better prices, significantly lower minimum order quantities, and significantly reduced lead time. It all sounds TOO good to be true, but we have seen the jerseys (from V-Gear) and the quality is as good as Louie Garneau.

Here is a list of those that commented that they would like to order a jersey. If you still are wanting to order please bring a check to next Saturday's ride or mail to Bob G. a check( address on membership list). We are going to place the order on Nov 16th so we can have the jersey's in early December. Click Here for current Order Status and FINAL design.

Sizing charts on web page. We will order men's and women's. PLEASE SPECIFY Men's or Womens!

We are not going to order shorts/ bibs or socks at this time. We did not have enough socks for the minimum order maybe in the future.

Party?

SEVERAL FOGBEES HAVE RECENTLY ASKED ME WHEN THE NEXT PARTY WILL BE. ANY PARTY SHOULD BE A "JOINT VENTURE" WITH EVERYONE'S PARTICIPATION ; WOULD EVERYONE NOT AGREE? I AM ASKING ALL THE FOGBEES TO POST HERE ASAP AND LET ME KNOW IF THEY WOULD BE INTERESTED IN A CHRISTMAS/NEW YEARS PARTY SOME TIME IN DECEMBER. IT WOULD BE A POT LUCK AND WE WOULD ALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SETTING UP AND TAKING DOWN. LET ME KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS.

INTERNET TRAINING

Please click here to enroll in Internet Training. Select what interests you. Sorry no drop-ins. I have got to know who plans to attend and what every person wants to study, so enrollment is required.

Please see 11/2/09 note (on registration Web Page) regarding scheduling of these sessions. Also, got to have a deadline to see who wants to do what. Plans will be based on registrations submitted by Wednesday, November 11'th.

Greenway Report - Stones River CLOSURE

Click here for 11/10/09 update from Mayor's Office.

. . . I went for a ride on my local Shelby Bottoms/Stones River greenway to scope out the past several weeks of construction activity on the section by Ravenwood Country Club which has never been officially open but is now more-recently posted with dire warnings of tickets for bikers and all other intruders.
. . . Well, I intruded and found they have widened the roadbed to approx two-lane residential street width all the way from the greenway posted end by the farm gate to the other posted end by the entrance to Ravenwood CC, and they have put down a layer of asphalt on the lane by the Ravenwood side; I guess next week they will pave the river side lane; their paving machines were parked in a cleared area. The two or three caved-in places in the original pavement by the river have been repaired, presumably with culvert pipe. The additional street width was obtained by cutting the trees back along the river side, and placing a foot or more of compacted crushed stone up to roadbed level. They placed the crushed stone right up against the remaining trees so I guess the trees will serve as living retaining walls, a nice environmentally-green concept.
. . . Anyhow, anybody wanting to pedal to PP Dam on a weekday via these greenways may want to consider a Plan B detour around the Ravenwood section.

. . . Cheers! Dave Irvine 11/1/09

TDOT Provides Rumble Strip Compromise

. . . In December 2008 Big Bob became a YouTube movie star as rep's from TDOT watched him negotiate the rumble on SR 109. In the summer Jessica Wilson from TDOT rode with the FOGBEES and cussed out the 31W rumble with the rest of us.
. . . In today's meeting of TDOT, MPO and Bike Walk Tennessee Jessica unveiled TDOT's new rumble strip standard that very nearly meets the December Position Statement of the Middle Tennessee Cyclists.
. . . TDOT has shown leadership in setting a new standard for other States to following in finding a compromise design. We may not like Rumble Strips, but TDOT has offered something we can ride with. More information will follow.

Oh What a Day !

Thanks, Tom, for choosing a great ride route for us today. I liked your weather best. I'd forgotten how beautiful Wallace Rd valley is to ride , especially going uproad so one has time to appreciate the changing of the seasons ( and to listen to the Dollies and Rhondas chirping along the babbling brook ). Kudos to Bob G. for hammering the wind coming down Station Camp and to Dollie who proved pink power prevails at Wallace summit. Indeed we rallied more riders than since the Jack 'n' Back. Man that seems s-o-o-o long ago.

I'm In Tune, And I'm Tunin' In On You !!!

Don't let the short days of winter bring your rpm's to a halt. Gary is spinning once again at the Hendersonville YMCA on Tuesday and Thursday nights @ 6:30 p.m.

Doug and I joined Gary for a sweaty, fun filled hour of spin for the inaugural FOGAREE of the 2009 - 2010 season. WE ARE LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD MEN and WOMEN to join us in the tradition of true FOGBEES.

The best part is you don't have to reserve a bike and post ride refreshments provide an incentive that even the Y doesn't make available.

So ..... let's support Gary and extend the comraderie through the unpredictable weather and food laden holidays. See you there !

New Recruits for our Bumble Bee Group

Halloween Ride images

Thanks to Phil and Lisa for putting this on. Lisa raised the bar for cue sheets. The Depot is a great as advertised. Click below for the images that survived my dropped camera.
Bruce

Springfield Halloween 09 images

Cyclist Test

David Irvine wanted to know if FOGBEES had any cyclists, so he put together this test. I think I know a few that would pass.

New FOGBEE Photoshare Web Site

. . . SnapFish continues to get worse. Many long time users are now blocked from using our Group Room. After trying for several months to get Snapfish to fix THEIR problems, we have given up. Serendipity! We have found a Photoshare Web Site VASTLY superior to Snapfish.

. . . Go to our new site http://fogbees.shutterfly.com/ .

. . . Please set up your FREE account on Shutterfly and join our FOGBEE group. Click here for instruction on our Web Site. When you have time, please move your photo albums from SnapFish to Shutterfly, since we plan to abandon SnapFish.

. . . EVERYTHING is better on Shutterfly.

NE Corridor Mobility Study

The community and business leaders in the greater Nashville area are invited to attend upcoming workshops hosted by the Nashville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) regarding the Northeast Corridor Mobility Study. The study is a regional planning effort to analyze future development scenarios and transportation improvements between these communities. Citizens will have the opportunity to weigh in on recommendations and share ideas. The press release is attached.

The workshops begina at 5:30PM as follows:

Hendersonville: November 9, Hendersonville Public Library
Goodlettsville: November 11, Goodlettsville City Hall
Gallatin: November 12, Sumner County Adm Bldg
Madison: November 16, Madison Senior Center
East Nashville: November 17, East Park Community Ctr

Thank you, Deborah Varallo,
Varallo Public Relations, varallo@varallopr.com
615-367.5200 ext 14

New FOGBEE Group

Les thought that since we had "Killer Bees", "Bumble Bees", "Honey Bees", "New Bees", and that Stupid Bee that we needed another category "Boo Bees." Can't show it - you have to click the link. NO, before you ask, this wasn't Doug's idea.

LG Jersey Pick Up

Please contact me if you need a special pick up. My cell and personal email are on the Fogbee member list or you can email bikenwalk@comcast.net. I will have the Jerseys in Springfield Saturday for the Bell Witch Ride. --Doug Depew

Jack and Back Photos

I finally uploaded my Jack and Back photos to the Fogbees group room. I only wish I had taken more. Hope you enjoy them.

Long Sleeve or Sleeveless Jerseys

Update:We Should have art work this week. When I receive the art work I will post on the blog.

Once we have the art work we will start to collect sizing and money for this order. we should have these jerseys in 3 to 4 weeks from the date of order. Please post if you are interested in ordering. This order is being placed with V-GEAR not LG.

(Minimum ordering policy in Blue.)

We ask for 10 of the same item (in any combination of sizes) to place an order and then you may order as little as 1 of anything we produce. Sock minimum is 50 (in any combination of sizes)..

Below are the options and pricing for each option. As of 10/15 we have commitments for 20 pairs of socks the minimum order is 50 pair.
No Sleeves $ 39
Short Sleeves $ 39
Long Sleeve $ 50
Shorts $49
Bib Shorts $59
Socks $ 5.95 ( must have 50 pcs min)

Plus Shipping

THANK YOU TO BRUCE

I want to give thanks to Bruce for a great ride to Red Boiling Springs. Sometimes you cycle for competition, sometimes for speed but once in a while its great to bike for the experience of just the beauty of the ride itself. This was one of those rides and the payoff was one of the best home cooked meals I've ever had. It's a shame we have to wait another year for this trip. I had a great time and appreciate Bruce's efforts.

Photos

Some people are still having trouble uploading pictures to our FOGBEE room on Snapfish. After working with Snapfish for a month I still don't have an answer, but I plan to keep trying OR find a substitute.

Phil and I have uploaded the Fall Foilage pictures to Snapfish. If you want to look at quick PhotoShow click here. I hope to have something better when I have everyone's pictures from which to choose.

Some people on the Fall Foilage Ride may not have access to our room on SnapFish. Please see instructions on our Web Site.

Sent: October 26, 2009
To: Armours Hotel

Dennis and Debbie,

The FOGBEES want to thank you for the great hospitality that you showed us in our October 25’th visit to your B&B. Most of us have stayed in all three of Red Boiling Springs historic accommodations and our universal opinion was the Armour House topped the list. The rooms attractively decorated with their own unique themes were comfortable and inviting. We enjoyed the nostalgia in your period decorations, music, and Debbie’s attire, although only a few of our bicycle club actually remembered it from their childhoods.

Your home and your great hospitality was an unexpected treasure for those of us who peddled 60 miles from Hendersonville and it epitomized our vision of what makes an outstanding B&B.

Tom & Sharyn Evans

JERSEYS have ARRIVED

Doug now has jerseys until Bell Witch Ride.

Please POST (or send e-mail to Fogbees@gmail.com) how you want to pickup your jersey and $4 refund per jersey. I will have them Thursday & Friday. Doug will have them over the weekend.

Pedal power anthem

I don't know for sure but I think this is in Italian. Even so the images are worth the watch. From David Irvine who monitors the European cycling scene.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6KXSBITrGM
Bruce

Holloween Card from GARY

The embed doesn't work with MS IE. You'll have to visit

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/6kWMsqHzxbMCylNt5IAv

3-FOOT PLEASE Jerseys

The Murfreesboro Bicycle Club is ordering some short-sleeve 3-feet jerseys and can get them for $50 if 10 people order.

http://www.shop.3feetplease.com/category.sc?categoryId=2

Contact Sarah Lovett silovett@comcast.net by November 5th.

. . . Leslie A. Meehan, MPA

My goodness, do I percieve a possible tail wind of approximately 10- 12 mph for the fall foilage tour ? I'll believe it when I see it ! Either way , looking forward to a colorful time with the FOGBEES original tour.

Little River Challenge 12 Hour Race

The Fogbees had a great showing at the Little River 12 Hour Challenge this past Saturday and here is a little post of how the race went...

The race had 19 participants from all over the country including some of the best long distance racers in the United States. The 12 hour race had 8 people racing in it including Paul Carpenter from Illinois(one of the top ultramarathon racers in the US as we soon found out). The race started at 8:05 AM and the experienced riders took off at a 20 mph pace leaving Tom Jennifer and I all by ourselves. About 15 miles in we picked up another rider(Tom Casson from Illinios...an experienced ultracyclist) who stayed with me for the rest of the ride.

We passed the 33 mile checkpoint at a good 15 mph pace and everything was going well until mile 36 when I was drafting off Tom alongside a cornfield when a yellow lab dog ran out after Tom. I hit the dog squarely and crashed my bike damaging the front wheel. We limped back to the 60 mile checkpoint where I borrowed a wheel from the man we were riding with and off we went.

At the 90 mile checkpoint Tom Casson and I split off from Tom and Jennifer and raced on. When we got to the 120 mile checkpoint, we were lapped by the leader, Paul Carpenter(who was now 60 miles ahead of us). At this point we switched from the 60 mile loop to the 8.5 mile loop(which was significantly flatter and faster). Tom and Jennifer continued to ride strongly and got to the 120 mile checkpoint just behind us and also started riding the 8.5 mile loop.

The sun set around 6:15 and while it was never warm during the daylight, the temperature was getting really awful once it got dark. At this point, other racers were starting to drop out due to exhaustion and cold, but Tom and Jennifer continued on and I raced together with Tom Casson. Jennifer ended up being the solo female winner with a total of 137 miles completed and Tom matched her mileage total and I ended up in 4th place in the 12 hour race with a total of 154 miles.

As a reference point though to show how good the people above us were, the winner of the 12 hour race, Paul Carpenter, rode 231 miles in the 12 hours managing an unbelieveable 19.25 mph pace, the 2nd place finisher, Tom Gee from Paris Tn rode 222.5 miles, and the 3rd place finisher, Dave Buyens of Florida rode 197 miles. The winner of the 24 hour race, George Hiscox of Jackson Tn road an incredible 367 miles over 24 hours.

Tom Jennifer and I are all in agreement that next year we will once again do this event and try to better our times. While it is difficult to stay on the bike for 12 straight hours, I am amazed at how quickly it went and also how quickly I have recovered from the ride. It would be fantastic if we could convince a few more Fogbee riders to join us for this ride next season.

END OF WEEKDAY RIDES???

WELL IT LOOKS LIKE WEATHER, LACK OF DAYLIGHT AND THE WINTER TIME BLUES HAS PRETTY MUCH PUT AN END TO THE TUES. AND THURS. RIDES. I HOPE WE CONTINUE TO RIDE THROUGHOUT THE FALL AND WINTER ON SATURDAY'S/SUNDAYS WHEN THE WEATHER PERMITS. AS FOR THE FOGBEES WHO SPIN AT THE YMCA IT LOOKS LIKE CLASSES ARE IN FULL SWING. IF YOU ARE SPINNING DURING THE WEEK COULD YOU POST WHAT TIME SO WE CAN STILL BE TOGETHER AS A GROUP. ALSO, LET ME KNOW IF ANYONE WANTS TO DO THE FOGBEE SPIN AT 6:30 PM AND WHAT DAY YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO THIS. MOST OF US IMPROVED OUR FITNESS SPINNING LAST FALL AND WINTER. SEE YOU AT THE "y" OR ON SATURDAYS/SUNDAYS.
. . . Gary

Public Meeting for SR109: Thursday Oct 8

Attached is a flyer about an important upcoming public meeting regarding the design of improvements to Highway 109 in Wilson and Sumner Counties. The meeting is hosted by TDOT and will be held on Thursday, October 8th from 5-7pm in the Gallatin City Hall.

I've had the opportunity to sit down with Jessica Wilson, TDOT bike/ped planner and Michael Choate, TDOT project manager for Highway 109 in the last year to discuss bike/ped facilities. From what I can remember, the shoulder on Hwy 109 will be generous - at least 8 feet and there will be ped facilities considered in the appropriate areas near the cites.

However, I strongly encourage the Veloteers, the FOGBEES, the Murfreesboro Bicycle Club, Harpeth Bicycle Club, Bike Walk Tennessee, Walk/Bike Nashville, the bike shops and any others to come out to this meeting. TDOT has been very receptive to comments regarding the need for bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and the more opportunities to encourage designs to take into account bike/ped transportation the better.

Unfortunately I will be out of town at an MPO retreat hosted by TDOT and may not be able to attend. Please let me know if you have any questions,

. . . Leslie Meehan

Night Riders

We ain't afraid of the dark!

Trouble with SNAPFISH

Snapfish Customer Service: Tuesday, October 06, 2009 5:14 PM
Subject: Why are some of my friends told in the "Uh-oh message" that they no longer have access to FOGBEE room [Incident: 091007-000266]

Recently you requested personal assistance from our on-line support center. Below is a summary of your request and our response.If this issue is not resolved to your satisfaction, you may reopen it within the next 7 days.Thank you for allowing us to be of service to you.

Hello Tom,Thank you for contacting Snapfish Customer Support.I'm sorry for any inconvenience. This might have resulted due to a temporary technical problem on our site. Please re-invite your friends to join your group room. They should access the group room normally this time. If you have any further assistance, feel free to contact us.

Thanks,
Rajesh Snapfish Customer Support

Lisa has verified that now she can access the FOGBEE room.

FOGBEES do the Jack 'n' Back in style

Congrats to all 22 who participated in the ride To Jack 'n' Back for Multiple Sclerosis !

The FOGBEES raised over $10,000 in contributions for the 15 th Annual Mid TN event. Our efforts and involvement helped set new standards with the highest number of riders ever ( 885 ) and largest total dollars ( $ 558,000 ) to date.

We had our challenges and a few disappointments; however, the overall experience was well worth doing again next year, don't you think ?

Jack 'n Back Photo

. . . Ride's over. One rider in the FOGBEE group left due to medical problems, and two due to weenie problems, but most made the loop with out difficulty, many in a cold 57-deg hi before the rains (on a day the was forecasted at 73-deg, sunny and with ZERO percent probability of rain.) With such accuracy imagine climate forecasting.
. . . However, many were snapping pictures. Time to share. Click here for instructions. We'll collect the best and put together a PhotoShow that you can send to friends and family.

. . . Lori is okay. She finished the ride on Sunday with her son.

Wounded Warrior and Alabma ride images

Thanks to the Wounded Warrior ride we got off on schedule and had great ride on to Alabama. The second half of day one and all of 2 and 3 were in great weather. Dave Irvine and I walked some of the hills but David Buckman peddled them all. My greatest fear, crossing the Tennessee River at Decatur, AL, was no problem because work on the bridge, had traffic slowed to my pace. My one missed turned revealed a hitherto unknown country store so it was a good miss. I'll trade a couple of miles out of the way for a store in the midst of nowhere. Images are on Snapfish here. Photo show:
http://www.photoshow.com/watch/Uu3pN4jR

INTERNET Training

I have been asked on several occasion to have training sessions in our Internet tools: Blogging, MapMyRide (mapping, creating Cue Lists, and loading into the Blog), PhotoShows/SnapFish/ Flickr, etc. The training would be in my home theater with its 100" screen. You can bring your laptops and connect to my WiFi so you can follow along with "hands on" lab work. I wouldn't be able to schedule anything until mid-November when the weather is snotty.

Please post if this training is something in which you are interested.

IMPORTANT: Team Photo Jerseys for Jack 'n' Back

Remember to join the FOGBEES for a team photo op @ Page High School start point 6:55 a.m. Located at the end of main hallway opposite the entry doors into the school.

If you are still looking for a jersey to wear in the photo op, then post stat so that we can locate one which you can borrow. The September LG Order will not arrive in time for the Jack 'n Back. Please make arrangement to have a FOGBEE jersey for the TEAM picture.

I'll be wearing my two jerseys on day one and two; however, I'd be glad to let someone slip one on for the photo shoot. Then I'll simply stick it in my bag and throw it on the baggage truck for transport to Motlow College for my Sunday return ride.

Wet and Wounded but satisfying !

Water to the left of us , water to the right of us, water in front of us, water behind us , and water above us. The rain never abated, but the spirit of the Wounded Warriors made the rain more a baptism than a bath. Bob Glutting, Nancy Parrott, Ron Williams, Bruce Day, David Irvine, Les, and Phil rallied to represent the FOGBEES at the Wounded Warrior ride today. Warm comraderie and hot grilled food at the end of the ride put a rather dreary day in perspective.

Gary, " I was having so much fun , I could've gone home and still been happy". Every FOGBEE needs to experience their own Wounded Warrior Ride , without which one's biking journey is incomplete.

Click here to view PhotoShow by Phil Vickery

Wounded Warrior Ride Sat Sept 26th

FOR PLANS FOR THIS OFFICIAL FOGBEE RIDE CLICK HERE
The link will take you to our web page for this ride you can join the FOGBEE team from this web page. If you would like to car pool from Hendersonville please post. We will meet behind Sam's at 7:00 AM.

A little photographic memory to encourage everyone to turn out for the Wounded Warrior Ride on September 26. I'm with you Bob G.

Riding a Bike Beats Angioplasty

Worth your time, just thought I’d share / Just FYI:Very interesting, in case you missed the A.P. story in Monday’s Tennessean, “For some heart patients, exercise beats angioplasty” NOTE-- the study detailing the facts that riding a BIKE is the best exercise for your heart! Click here to read article

“90 percent of heart patients who rode bikes regularly were free of heart problems one year after they started their exercise regimen”

All the best, Paul R. Goode

Thanks to Everyone

Thanks to everyone who called to check in on me after my wreck on Labor Day. As of now we know of no broken bones, however my hand and wrist are still not getting any better. If the hand and wrist isn't feeling any better over the next couple of days, I am going back to the Dr. to re-evaluate it. Though I can use my hand it still hurts with some numbness and tingling.. I should be getting my bike back sometime this week ($$$$), and hope to try and ride as soon as I get it. Hope to see you all on Thursday..

FOGBEES Everywhere

Although Bob had a good turnout for the local ride. FOGBEES could be found at other area charity rides: Hope On Wheels - 100 and Makin' Macon Fit. I bet you can figure who is where.

Jersey ORDER RELEASED TO PRDUCTION

We have enough paid to submit our order to Louie Garneau. We HAVE submitted on Monday 09/14/09. Artwoork approved & released to PRODUCTION on 9/16/09.

Once we submit to Louie Garneau the order is locked -- no adds, no changes of any kind. (See the Web Site)

Also FOGBEE membership is the BEST BARGAIN in cycling - we have NO Dues. We rather everyone spend on riding and supporting their favorate advocacy group, such as Bike Walk Tennessee.

. . . Tom_E

Found - Front Wheel

I found someones front wheel in the grass at Sams Grille, an obvious major oversite (not like just forgetting to pick up your water bottles). If it is yours, please contact me and ID the wheel. I will also notify Bikers Choice that I have the wheel.
Doug Depew

Lites No Longer?

It is with great pleasure that I announce that 5 Fogbees have joined the ranks of other cyclists who have officially lost their minds.

Bob G, Christy, Jennifer, Lisa, and Phil completed their first century ride. I propose that they should be formally declared graduates of the Fogbee Lite program, and bestowed with all the rights and privileges of such achievement.

Joining them in Clarksville were Andrea and John D. , Bryan, Evan, Ann and myself. Bryan posted a personal best of over 19 mph for the course and I understand John completed it in 3 hours and 50 minutes, despite a badly timed train at one of the crossings.

If I missed anyone, sorry, please post corrections.

Help in Coopertown Requested.

Can some of our members in Coopertown or nearby help out. Good PR for that FOGBEE jersey helps when we may need help in return.

I serve on the Community Development Committee for the Town of Coopertown. We are interested in having a Bicycle Rodeo to focus on bicycle safety in April/May time frame 2010. We do have some designated bicycle riding areas in Coopertown and wondered what services or assistance you and TDOT may be able to provide us in planning for this event or any type of displays that may be available for the day of the event? I have contacted Tn Dept of Safety LT Barham and he is going to give us some assistance. Look forward to any additional resources or guidance you may be able tooffer.

Thanks, Bob Fletcher

Enjoy your freedom? What have you done to help a SOLDIER?
Bob Fletcher, CET, CHMM Environmental Education Support
Building 2186; 13 1/2 StreetFt. Campbell, Ky 42223-5130
Work: 270-798-9595; Fax: 270-798-3561; Cell: 615-207-6894Email: bob.fletcher1@us.army.milLTC, MP, USAR, Retired
http://www.campbell.army.mil/envdiv

Governor Bredesen Announces $17 Million In Enhancement Grant

Governor Phil Bredesen and Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely announced Wednesday $17 million in transportation enhancement grants for projects in 39 Tennessee communities and one statewide grant. The grants will assist local communities with the development of a variety of projects designed to enhance the state's transportation infrastructure. Of local interest are the following:

Davidson Harding Place Sidewalk and Bikeways Enhancement $880,440
Sumner Station Camp Greenway and Trailhead Development - Phase I $339,936
Wilson Cedar City Trail - Phase V $500,000

Jerseys - Please PAY Doug ASAP

Please go to Swap Shop Page to see the order. We have 22 Men and 9 women. We are now collecting $55 each and will refund the overage when we get the jerseys (just like we did last time) This is a GREAT Price on a high quality custom jersey. DON'T MISS THIS CHANCE!

We have a NEW SPONSOR - The Smile Center - replacing Big Looy. Please get your payment to Doug ASAP to avoid unnecessary delays.

Bike Walk Tennessee Becomes Official

Pat Clements signs Corporate Charter while Bruce watches. I filed it today making Bike Walk Tennessee official. Thanks to FOGBEES Tim Nichols and David Irvine who also participated with the Founders' Committee in the preparation.

East Tennessee Adventure

On August 28, Phil & I are traveling to the Jonesborough/Johnson City area. I grew up there and have re-connected with an old friend, who, as coincidence would have it, is also a cyclist. She will take us on a route around the area so we can enjoy some of the local sights. This is, by no means, a formal FOGBee excursion, but I do want to let everyone know that they’re welcome to come along. I think it will be nice to get to see a different part of the state via bicycle. I have a “connection” so we’ve gotten a pretty sweet deal on a room at The Carnegie Hotel (www.carnegiehotel.com).

I actually have two rooms reserved JUST IN CASE anyone else is interested!

It’s about 5 hours away – I-40 East to US 81 to 11E – but in my opinion, worth the drive. We’ll be staying both Friday & Saturday nights and will return on Sunday, August 30.

If you’d like to join us, please let us know! We’d love to have you. :)

Goodlettsville - Bike/Ped Plan Meeting

The City of Goodlettsville will hold a public meeting on Monday, August 17, at 6:30 pm to receive community input on how to make Goodlettsville a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly community. The public meeting is one step in an effort to develop a plan that is intended to result in a bicycle and pedestrian master plan for Goodlettsville that will increase walking and biking opportunities within the City and to adjoining communities.

“Having sidewalk and bikeway facilities that connect neighborhoods with commercial centers, the library, parks, and schools is extremely important for our citizens and those visiting Goodlettsville,” said John Finch, Mayor of the City of Goodlettsville.

FOGBEES, especially those who live in and near Goodlettsville, have a civic duty to attend this meeting. For more info click here.
. . . Tom_E

Jeff Smythe

Jeff Smythe crashed this morning on Indian Lake Blvd. near Demos. He is now home with a concussion and road rash, but otherwise in ok, but sore condition.

new FOGBEE rap song

Sorry guys, my computer linking skills are stinking

so I was forced to redo my thinking

follow the link to You Tube and search " Robin Moore"

for his video "Performance" and a tune you can't ignore

Follow Bike Walk TN on Twitter

Bike Walk Tennessee is on Twitter. If clicking on the title doesn't take you there directly, you can go to Twitter.com and enter

bikewalktn

If that doesn't work, well . . .

Seriously, one of those avenues should work. I am having a wee problem due to working this account and mine on the same PC (don't tell the Governor, but I am stealing a few post-lunch minutes). What I am seeing probably won't be what you see.

While you are out there in the social cyber arena, if you are a FaceBook user, go to our new group Bike Walk Tennessee.

Sunrise Century

We are two weeks away from the early registration deadline for the Clarksville Sunrise Century. Early registration saves you $10. The site is www.clarksvillecentury.com. There are 32- and 61- mile options as well as the century. I've ridden many of these roads... beautiful, mostly flat with minimal traffic. It should be a lovely ride.

Grocery Getter

Pool Party & Kids' Tri

. . Please excuse my bad manners for not getting this THANK YOU out earlier. Bob and Peggy, the pool party was great. Thanks for having it. It sure looked to me that everyone was enjoying themselves and maybe a few were over-enjoying themselves. Even the rain couldn't chase away a few guests that never seemed to want to go home.
. . We also got a big thanks from Charlene and Marilyn for the half-dozen FOGBEES (& wife) that volunteered a couple hours of their time to help at the Kids' Tri and watch future FOGBEES do their stuff.

Saturday Ride Aug 1'st: & Activities.

All the details for events this Saturday's Ride on on our Web Site. Please click here.

- Details for After Ride Pool Party
- Directions to Bob's House
- Ride Map and times
- Margarita Madness
- Kids' Triathlon Volunteer Sign-up & Info

Marilyn Meyer is coordinating the 7AM Kid's Triathlon at the YMCA and has asked for FOGBEE help. She needs 20 volunteers. Bob, Sharyn & I have volunteered. We will join the regular FOGBEE ride at 8:30, when Triathlon ends.

Club House is CLOSED

. . Those who pass Big Looy's notice it is closed and seemingly permanently. One of the great things about Big Looy's is it provides an intimate setting that helps cement the comradery that helps make the FOGBEES unique.
. . We are now in search of a new "club house." How about POSTing some suggestions.

Last night's meeting and Kids' Triathlon

. . With about 12 particpants attendance at last night's MPO meeting was anemic and may have undermined importance of bicycling and walking in Sumner County that attendance at the February meeting expressed. (I don't know how it compares to other counties with which Sumner is competing for attention.) Nevertheless, the open discussion periods were lively and beneficial.
. . At the end of the meeting Charlene (aka SpinJunkie) from Kids' Triathlon made an appeal for volunteers. She is still 10 volunteers short. The timing of the Triathlon does not interfere with other FOGBEE activities. In fact the group will be riding on the Triathlon course almost immediately at the completion of kids' ride. So all anyone has to do to help is to awake a couple of hours earlier. Never seemed to bother most when they choose to head out of town for a Charity Ride. Please see earlier post for info on how you can help.

Bike/Ped Public Meeting - Thursday July 30 - No Ride Tonight Please Attend and Support the MPO

5:30pm at the Hendersonville Library

The Nashville Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will host a series of public meetings between July 27 and July 30 (Sumner County at Library) to report on the development of a Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Study: A Strategic Vision for Walking and Bicycling in the Greater Nashville Region. This study relies on information gathered and priorities identified at community meetings held earlier this year and will incorporate input from the upcoming public meetings. For more information click here.

. . . Leslie Meehan

Tennessee Advocacy

This is kind of long, but everything is worthy of reading. Please take the time to read. It's less than two weeks out before our founding meeting for our state advocacy organization and I'm REALLY EXCITED! To read more, click here.
. . . Pat Clements

P.S. For those who can't make the meeting, please share your ideas about Statewide Advocacy by completing this questionnaire.

FOGBEES for MS

Time for a comeback ! Come back to the Jack 'n' Back to ride for Multiple Sclerosis, F()GBEE fun, and the best two day tour around ( unless you're with Bruce Day ).

Some who are participating have yet to register on the MS Jack'n'Back team site. Go ahead and get your name on the roster so we can better envision the F()GBEE peloton cruising to Motlow State College. As last year, accomodations are tight ( unless camping ) and arrangements will have to be nailed down in the next 8 weeks as to who is where and who is riding with whom. Let me know if you have any questions or concerns ASAP.

Updated info on rooms and roomates are as follows ( if you have a ? mark by your name, then let us know whether a bed is available ) :

1) Philip V. & Jeff Smythe
2) Doug & Marsha
3) Tom Evans & Mike Knake
4) Phil & Lisa Houston
5) Allen Ehmling & Ed Thomas
6) Christy Tedrow & ?
7) Gary Williams
8) Bob Gluting

I just phoned the Exec Inn and determined that currently there are no vacancies. Also determined that no roll aways are available; however, I bet if you threw a sleeping bag on the baggage truck you could sleep on the floor if need be.

Sorry that I've not been riding lately. Please chat via the blog since I may not be on the road for a few weeks yet. ** Phil "Cannonball" Vickery **

IT"S FLORIDA FOGBEES

Gary here on vacation with the family in Sunny, Hot and Very Humid Panama City Beach, Florida. Well I brought my bike and did a very easy, flat 55 miles on Friday. Thought I'd let you know that I came across a very rare creature down here that is virtually extinct in Tennessee that I believe is called a "DESIGNATED BIKE LANE". This rare bike lane is everywhere here in the Gulf Coast area and I will be taking it to Destin early in the morning for a flat 75 mile ride round trip. I hope you all had a great ride today and I will see everyone on Tuesday night.

July Newsletter

I had several items to share and it seemed simpler to put them in a newsletter rather than posting everything individually on the Blog. Click here to read newsletter

OOPS! . . .

All,

I have not been hanging around the blog for a while. Shame on me.

I have not been on a FOGBEE ride in a while. Double Shame on me.

I have not visited everyone at BL's in quite a long, long while. Triple Shame on me.

Everything is fine--just a few issues of getting back on a bike, and riding the roads, that no one can resolve but me. Thanks to Tom Evans for suggesting that everyone at least deserves to know all is well.

But that Tom, or anyone else, needed to remind me of the egregiousness in this lack of communication is just not right. And to all an apology is given.

The promise to ride again soon is etched in stone. After all, I have three FOGBEES jerseys just begging for a reason to need laundering. And I have a bounty of friendships that I would not trade for a Powerball payoff (well maybe if it were $100M, but even then I'd share a bit with everyone).

Hope everyone is planning on attending at least one of the area Nashville MPO meetings July 27-30 (Davidson is 7/27; Sumner is 7/30). Also look to seeing a strong FOGBEE turnout for the August 8th state association founders chinwag.

Tim

Statewide Advocacy Corporation

Members of the FOGBEES have been active with others in the Tennessee Bike Advocacy Group in forming a non-profit corporation to serve broad bicycle and walking issues across Tennessee. They are having their Founders' Meeting on August 8'th. To read more about what they are doing, go to their Web Site at www.BikeWalkTN.org

Ride with an Australian - Saturday 25'th

. . My Aussie cycling friend, Bob Schofield, is back cycling in the USA this year. He is riding from Chicago to Nashville this July.
. . I plan to join him at Kenlake state park on the western edge of Land Between the Lakes on Saturday, July 25 and ride with him 4 days. First to Clarksville, 60 miles, then through Ashland City to Montgomery Bell State park, 50 miles,. From there we will go to Hohenwald via the Ride Across Tennessee route, 62 miles, then back up the Natchez Trace Parkway to the Loveless Cafe. We will stay In motels and forage as we go, otherwise known as credit card touring.

All Fogbees and anyone else up the treat of lunch in such places Ashland city's Riverview Restaurant should consider joining us for some or all of the ride. Let me know if you are interested and we can discuss details. I hope to get him on our Thursday ride on July 30th.
Bruce

Hounds of Baskerville (er, ah, Bug Hollow)

Hey all, on a ride up Bug Hollow with Dave M. and Mike K., we encountered three very aggressive dogs. Although they were small (20 pounders or so), all three had better sprint techniques than Mark Cavendish. One of them actually bit the back of my shoe (unfortunately for his teeth).

After parting ways with Dave and Mike, I met the hounds again on my descent. This time I was riding about 25 mph and steered directly at them. They scattered but regained their composure in time to chase me for another quarter mile when I hosed them down with my water bottle........this ended the chase.

Just a heads up. At least one was a pure breed, and another had a collar which suggest to me they belong to someone. I will be riding there again very soon to determine if they enjoy the smell and feel of Halts!

Another Tennessee Cyclist Hit

Here's another example of "traffic justice" that's geared up to fail bicyclists once again. Police are unaware of the 3ft law on the scene, or they're reluctant to write a ticket when someone is seriously injured because of the legal ramifications or they simply think the bicyclist shouldn't have been there.

In the case of David Meek in Chattanooga, killed after being run over by a truck on the way to work, law enforcement didn't write a ticket. The Grand Jury decided not to pursue charges against the driver. The only justice is for David's family to sue the driver and the company he works for. And I'm not sure the family is that interested, but we'll see.

Here are the lessons, and we'll see them again. The public thinks bicycles don't belong, including law enforcement. That means unless something is done, tickets won't be written when the 3ft law is violated. Grand juries won't find fault because the bicyclist should have been on the sidewalk, and many times they follow the officer's assessment (who, remember, didn't write a ticket.) Bicyclists are currently treated somewhere close to the dead animal you see squashed on the road.

Folks, a group of people interested in advocacy are meeting on August 8 to form a "forming committee" to start up a state-wide bicycle advocacy organization to address this and other statewide bicycling issues. If you're interested in helping with the state-wide organization, stay tuned for ways you can help. A simple letter, phone call, bumper sticker, or a financial contribution to the organization and its efforts will go a long way.

. . . Pat Clements

Survey & Jerseys

We have had several requests for FOGBEE jerseys. We'll put an order together for those who want one, two, etc. PLEASE POST quantity and male/female dimensions. We have a minimum qty that we must meet. Here is what is on order.

While you're at it, fill out a survey so we can provide the type of activities everyone wants.

In order to keep FOGBEE adventures fresh and interesting, Bob, Bryan, Bruce, Doug, and I have prepared a short survey to seek your ideas. Please click here.

We ask that ALL FOGBEES complete it as soon as possible so we can be working on what you want to do.

Not a member? Yet! We are interested in your ideas also. Please help.

RESULTS 7/14/09 - Click Here - Want to change, add, modify? Make copy of spreadsheet with your changes and send to fogbees@gmail.com. Only 30 contributions thus far.

Sumner County Planning - June 2009

This information was prepared to keep you informed of the comprehensive planning process and activities of the Sumner County Planning & Zoning Department.

In this issue:

* 2035 Comprehensive Plan update
* Local transportation projects receive stimulus funds
* County applies for EPA technical assistance
* Flood Insurance Rate Maps updated
* Tweet! Stay informed through new Twitter site
* Upcoming meetings
* Did you know?

The GREAT Greenway Tour - July 11'th.

Click here plan & pictures.

Tour de Hilton Head

Greetings from Hilton Head Island, the Cannonball is recuperating gradually as he looks out upon the undulating, sea oat enshrouded dunes facing the Atlantic Ocean. With frozen daiquiri in one hand and stogie in the other, he contemplates his biking future while relishing thoughts of returning to the FOGBEES fold.

I've been using the pool for real therapy and can now climb steps with greater ease. According to Dr. Elrod, my orthopedist, I'm still a few weeks away from cycling on the open road. I'll test out the spin bikes at the Y before venturing out on the peninsula back in Hendersonville.

On the upside I've had the leisurely capacity to watch the live telecast of each stage of the Tour de France while sequestered in my vacation condo at Palmetto Dunes. How 'bout that Lance !?! He's my inspiration ( on a more sublime level ) as he just missed getting the yellow jersey by 0.22 seconds yesterday. Watching the breakaways and echelons in the crosswind driven early stages has been exciting. Kind of reminds me of coming back from Thomas Drugs earlier this year with Doug, Jennifer, and I drafting one another to survive the wind swept Highland Rim along Cross Plains Road.

Keep the roads warm 'til I can once again enjoy your camaraderie.

BBQ Ride

Thanks to all the Fogbees that came out in the heat to ride today (17 of you I believe). It was a pleasure to share some of my favorite roads with my favorite riders. Hope to see you all again soon.

-Christy

MPO - Bik/Ped Counts (Sumner/Davidson)

Good Afternoon -

As part of the MPO Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Study, we will be conducting bicycle and pedestrian counts on September 8th (rain date Sept. 10th). These dates correspond with a national bicycle and pedestrian count effort being coordinated by the Bicycle and Pedestrian Council of ITE (Institute of Transportation Engineers). This effort has been ongoing since 2004 and data has been collected by over 90 communities across the U.S.

In order to prepare for the event, we would like to get input from you on 3 locations in each county (10 for Davidson) to conduct counts. We would like to focus mainly on easy wins - areas where we know we will see bicyclists and pedestrians. However, we would also like to make sure that we include at least one area in each County where the infrastructure and/or bicyclists/pedestrians aren't there yet, but may be in the future. For example, the Madison area may see an increase of bikes/peds in the future in response to redevelopment tied to the new Madison SP plan. Also, there are areas like Nolensville Road where the infrastructure is absent, but there are many bicyclists and pedestrians regardless.

We are in the process of identifying locations for each county, but we wanted to give you a chance to provide your input on where the counts should take place.

Finally, we may need your help recruiting volunteers for this effort. Each count will take 2 volunteers per location (1 for the 7am-9am shift and 1 for the 4pm-6pm shift). So for 3 locations, you will need 6 people.

Our hope is that we will be able to conduct these counts at the same locations on an annual basis so that we can collect trend data. Please respond by Friday, June 26th with your ideas for possible locations and any volunteers you would like us to contact.

Thank you,
Leslie A. Meehan, MPA; Nashville Area MPO, 615-862-7211, www.nashvillempo.org

PLEASE COMMENT ON LOCATIONS & VOLUNTEERS

Phil's Surgery

Today is Phil's surgery on his knee. To wish him well, Gary has prepared a JibJag Best Wishes, which he has asked us to post. You can view it by clicking on the following link.

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/apllwom38FMCGraZ8yCT

JUST SOME THOUGHTS

I wanted to congratulate all the Fogbee riders (my count was 17 riders) who participated in Bruce's Castalian Springs ride yesterday. It was the hottest day I can ever remember riding on and it was pure torture/pleasure. There were mostly lite/medium riders and I was very impressed on how well the group rode. You all did great. Having everyone at Big Looy"s water hole at the end of the ride showed the camaraderie that the Fogbees are well known for. Good job everyone and Happy Fathers day.

Do You See the "Butt-erfly" ?

Thank you for the many heartfelt inquiries about my health and well being. Being the Cannonball, a fall here and there is of little consequence. Unfortunately, the knee I've been nursing and complaining about for the past 6-8 weeks has proven my undoing. I'm scheduled for arthroscopic surgery next Wed. at 3:30 p.m. with Dr. Burton Elrod ( Titans team doc...jealous Doug ? ) at Baptist Hospital.

Three to four weeks post op I should be able to spin once again if all goes well. Wish me luck and keep the beer cold !

Happy Father's Day from GARY

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Thanks to GARY For Party

Gary threw another great party providing great entertainment and BBQ from Shane's. Most of the 24 cyclists that rode with us to Thomas Drug store made an appearance along with Phil and KJ who crashed earlier that day. The lumps on Phil's head, neck, and hip didn't hinder his dancing, whereas the other FOGBEES, except for Gary & his limitless energy, seemed dazed and not much in the dancing mood. My excuse? As Bryan asked me earlier in the day "What was it like talking with Mozart and Bach?" Gary's choice of music wasn't from my century.

All that dancing did in ole Phil (aka Busted Spoke) - his knee has swollen so bad he is now having an MRI on it at Baptist Sports Medicine.

UPDATE (6/17/09): Phil has torn his knee up bad enough to require surgery in the next week (appox). He won't be peddaling for the rest of the summer.

Biker Humor

I don't think this guy has what it takes to be a Fogbee

FOGBEE Party Time - June 13'th

Reminder

One of the strengths that make the FOGBEES different from any Cycling Club is the comradery built in the social gatherings after the ride. As you plan your rides please don't forget to include that major part. FOGBEES also have a club house. Doug & Gary and talked with Valery at BL to open early for our "Club Meetings." Who knows. This part has led to weddings.

Wedding Photos

On last week’s ride we were reminded we never posted any wedding pictures. Here are a few of the better ones. Thank you all for keeping us in your thoughts and for your well wishes.

FOGBEE Tandems

New FOGBEE Chapter?

Ed, need help? Give me a shout. Drums, PA

Anyone for the Silver Comet and the Chief Ladiga July 17, 18, 19

All, This is a ride we have discussed for several years. I have personally ridden the Silver Comet and it is a great trail ride complete with a through the mountain tunnel at mile 31 (right in the middle.) We would drive to Anniston AL on Friday and ride on Saturday. What I want to propose is a touring ride of various distance. The full ride would consist of the Chief Ladiga trail of 33 miles that meets the Silver Comet for another 63 miles, or a ride of 96 miles. The Comet has some off rail trail near the Alabama border with some hills, which would be early in the ride, After that the Comet is fairly flat with minor grades. With this mileage and the potential heat of July, we would start early, take our time and enjoy the trail. For riders not wanting the full Monte, we could have drop off rides like the full Comet (there is a drop off a mile up from the border for 62 miles. For an even lighter ride there are several towns the trail passes through or near for additional drop offs. The ride would terminate in Smyrna GA at mile 0. We would have to have drivers from Anniston to Smryna. We would try to arrange some fun for the drivers while we are riding, and I would arrange a Saturday night outing in the Atlanta area and try to get a group rate at a decent area hotel. Marsha and I would probably bow out after dinner and go to Canton GA to visit our daughter and new grandbaby. Here are the web links, and I would like some feedback on interest. The Comet is a great trail experience!

http://www.silvercometga.com/

http://www.chiefladiga.com/