Officer Nominations for 1999

“Besides. I have a thick skin.”

“I have served the Louisville Bicycle Club as President and VP Touring. In my capacity as a cyclist and local government official, I have observed some troubling trends. Large constituencies in our community don’t want cyclists on their roads. The commitment of our local and state governments to bicycle infrastructure improvements is still fragile. You should be able to get to your neighborhood services — and schools — without jumping in your car.

“Yet, there are champions of our cause out there. I believe that I can emphasize the positive aspects of enhanced bicycle and pedestrian access. Everyone wins in a more accessible community. I believe that I can establish and maintain effective relationships with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Jefferson County and the City of Louisville. Effective government relations are the focus of the VP Advocacy, and government relations are my strength. Creating a bicycle-friendly community will enhance our quality of life and economic development, and partnerships with government will grow the club. We can create a first-class alliance for accessibility and gain national recognition as a bike-friendly community.”

“The first two were accomplished. The education committee went out on a limb with the support of the executive committee and an education program radically different from the past, that helped cyclist develop skills, began.

“It is my plan to strengthen that program by developing an active mentoring program. I saw great things in the way of learning, awareness and self-esteem building when one mentor worked with one or two cyclists while they were riding together.

“It is also my plan to use the winter months to hold classes on topics on subjects of nutrition, health and safety.

“There have had other requests through out the year, some I have been able to attend to others I have not. If we want to meet the education needs in our community more people have to be involved! I plan to cultivate a cadre of individuals who can be available to make presentations, etc, as the need arises.

“In closing I need to say one last thing. What has been accomplished this year has been do to a team of individuals who worked hard and continue to. Without their efforts LBC would not have had the education program it had. Next year will be stronger because of the continuing efforts of those folks and people like them.”

“Mission Statement: That team members form a cohesive group dedicated to making the racing team the best it can be. Participation and support from all team members will make this a reality.

“I look forward to working with the racing team, helping individual racers accomplish their goals, and keeping the team in the limelight. Cheryl Brawner remains my mentor and guide.”

“Regardless of our interest, we all joined the LBC to socialize with other riders and to learn about and experience new rides. We were all new to the club once. And our rides are almost always the first experience a new rider has with the club members. Therefore, I pledge to focus more attention on our new riders and our family-oriented riders in order to ensure the continued growth and health of the club.

“Finally, we would not have a club without the efforts of all the volunteers. I would like to see more recognition of our ride captains who volunteer so much of their time. We continue to underemphasize their importance by over rewarding and over emphasizing mileage accomplishments. In addition, I want to revive the ride captain training program to ensure a consistent level of excellence from both our captains and our rides.”

“I believe, as a starting point, the Touring Program must establish a mutually beneficial interaction with all club programs. As each program grows, the opportunity arises for all programs to grow.

“Revitalization and empowerment of the Touring Committee will establish a broad base of support, broaden the overall appeal, and strengthen the touring program.

“To better serve our members the Touring Committee must communicate more effectively with the membership at large, work to increase participation in club activities, improve our volunteer base and fully utilize League of American Bicyclists programs and resources.

“The current awards structure should more effectively recognize members’ contributions to the club, and the current touring guidelines should create the most fair and equitable program possible to appeal to a greater percentage of our club members and attract as new members, the cycling public.

“I believe our future success lies in carrying forward an even balance of touring activities that include family oriented functions, varied ride starting points, searching out new routes, and meeting locations conducive to addressing challenges that may arise during the season.

“And last but certainly not least, my personal goals, if elected, will be to lead by example, add adventure to the program, build on the enthusiasm of our volunteers and most importantly, keep it fun!

“My past participation as a member includes: Club Ombudsman - Membership 1990; VP Touring 1990-1993 - Established Touring guidelines; Monday Night Bike Handling Instructor 1990–1995; Co-director of inaugural Tour de Parks in 1991, volunteer in 1992-93; Project Safe Kids Coordinator 1992-93; Old Kentucky Home Tour Volunteer 1991-1997; Co-director Old Kentucky Home Tour 1995; LAB Effective Cycling Instructor Certification 1995; Commuter Enhancement 1998; Bike Maintenance Class volunteer 1992-1998; Education Committee Member; Bike Skills Instructor 1998; Frequent contributor to the club newsletter.

“I would appreciate the opportunity to serve our Club as VP Touring.”