We really do have a cool club. True, who am I to judge since I’m a nerd that rides with a mirror and a big green, goober fanny pack. BUT, we do have a lot of great events coming up so judge for yourself. Let’s start with September. The big news in a couple weeks is the Reading 120 Pro Bike Race that will be taking place on Saturday, Sept 12th. They do need volunteers so if you are interested, go here: http://reading120.com/volunteers/. On their website, they have many positions listed that need to be filled so send an email to get on the volunteer list. Plus the BCBC logo will be used by the race for being part of the event. The last week of September is our own Shoo Fly Classic Ride taking place on Saturday the 26th. This is the club’s one fundraiser for the year so if you’d like to help make the event a success, contact Tom Reppert to volunteer. Send him an email at treppert10@comcast.net. I believe Tom still needs people for parking and the finish area. Check out the Shoo Fly section in newsletter for more details. But if you would rather ride, that’s great too, the entry form is in the newsletter and on the website. Now, how many times have you heard someone say, “gravel”? Well it’s for good reason as it recently claimed one of our members. He’s okay and is back on the bike but it makes for a good reason to remind everyone that when you see gravel, call it out and just ride straight through it. If it’s on a turn or intersection, you need to ride “straight” through it and then turn the wheel after you are past it. Turning your wheel while in gravel will likely put you on the ground before you even have a chance to say, “Oh Fudge”. Or some other variation of the word. Changing lanes. Doesn’t it drive you crazy when you’re out on the highway and some maniac decides to just change into your lane without looking and almost causes you to crash? Those are the times I wish my car had the Bazooka option. Well, it’s the same thing and even worse on a bike when riding in a group. Not only can you cause a crash, but we don’t have a car’s solid frame wrapped around us for protection. So look before changing lanes and even point if trying to squeeze in somewhere. I had an interesting warm down in the Oley lot the other night with a new member. He said it would be great to have some tips written in the website for newbies to tell us what to do in certain situations like; all of a sudden having a mechanical, dropping a water bottle or how to get better at holding a line and riding in groups. I thought that sounded like a great idea so if anyone has any suggestions on any of these or other types of things that occur on rides, email them to me with how to handle the situation. I will compile everything that is sent so we can add a “Riding safely” tips page on the website.

Continued on Page 3

The President’s Spin

Berks County Bicycle Club FOUNDED 1973

SEPTEMBER 2015 Volume 42 Issue 9 www.berksbicycle.com

MEMBER OF

BAC, LAB, SRGA, RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY

Wallyball/ Social night Friday Nov. 20

See page 10

Page 2

BCBC CLUB OFFICERS 2014-2016 President: Butch Ulrich bulrich1@aol.com

Vice President: Phyl Geist BCBCVP@gmail.com

Secretary: Jackie Schultz-Shirey jschultzshirey@gmail.com

Treasurer: Scott Franzen jsfranzen@comcast.net

Ride Coordinator: Alan Fineman afin6266@ptd.net

Membership: Kate Kennedy-Hug kkhug@aol.com

Newsletter Editor: Wendy Davis cyclerad@ptd.net

Advocacy & Trail Liaison: Walt Hug rebelhug@yahoo.com

Shoo Fly Coordinator: Tom Reppert treppert10@comcast.net

Social Stay Together Ride Coordinators: Marge Ehst mjm2744@verizon.net Karen Moyer karemoyer@yahoo.com

Marce Sheidy mjsheidy@hotmail.com Ky (Kyleen) Stoebenar Mileage Master: Scott Franzen jsfranzen@comcast.net

Webmaster: Butch Ulrich bulrich1@aol.com

Racing Division President: Gary Rollman gerollman@pplweb.com Racing Division VP—OPEN Racing Division Secretary/Team Captain— OPEN Racing Treasurer: Scott Franzen jsfranzen@comcast.net

For privacy reasons, the BCBC officer list will not appear with phone numbers in the web-based issues. Please do NOT forward this version to non-club member! Feel free to point others to the website version. Officer email contact information will still be of-fered on our website.

BCBC BIKE SHOP DISCOUNTS

The following bike shops offer BCBC members discounts. Members are required to show their current mem-bership ID card in order to qualify for bike shop discounts! The following bike shops will give 10% off regularly priced accessories and 5% off regu-larly priced bikes and unless stated otherwise.

BICYCLE BARN 839 Reading Blvd. (Rt.625) East Earl (717)445-8508 JB MOUNTAIN BIKES 207 W. Lancaster Ave, Shillington (610)777-5253 SHIRK’S Ligalaw Rd. East Earl (717)445-5731 SLEEPING DOG PRO CYCLES 330 W. Weis St. Topton 19562 (610)682-1000 SPOKES BIKE SHOP Rt. 61 Hamburg (610)562-8900 THE CRANK 203 W. Penn Ave, Wernersville (610)898-1500 www.thecrankpa.com VILLAGE BIKE SHOP 7 S. Village Circle, Reinholds (610)742-4786 WEAVER’S BIKE SHOP 729 Park Rd, Fleetwood (610)944-9565 WOLVERTON’S BIKE SHOP 2904 Kutztown Rd Hyde Park (610)929-8205

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

Cranksgiving Sat. October

31st See article on Page 10

Registration form page 11

2016 Saturday September 26th

Shoo Fly Classic

(Flyer on Page 13-14)

Saturday October 10th Sunset @ the Pagoda

(see article on page 4)

Page 3

Okay, back to the good stuff. BCBC cycling jerseys are available so if you’d like one, let me know asap so you can still use them while it’s still warm outside. They are $55. I also have long and short sleeve club tech shirts so again, let me know if you want something. I usually have them at the club rides or you can email me at bulrich1@aol.com. Coming up in October, we have our “Sunset at the Pagoda” for our members. The Sunset Party will be taking place high atop Mt Penn on Saturday, Oct 10th from 7-10pm. Again, check the newsletter for full details but we will have wine, beer, light food and desserts. Only $5 for members and $15 for a guest. So join us for an evening on top of the mountain. Plus, in time for Halloween but for Thanksgiving, it’s BCBC’s second annual Cranksgiving Ride to raise food for the Berks County Food Bank. The date is set for October 31st so mark your calendars and look for details. This year, you can ride in costume while helping the needy and just maybe, if yours is the best costume, you might will an award. However, I wouldn’t suggest a toga or wedding dress because I’d hate to see you getting wrapped up in your spokes. The cool club stuff just keeps coming. In November, we will be having a wallyball/ social night at Colonial Hills Fitness in Sinking Spring on Friday, Nov 20th from 7-10pm. So again, mark your calendar and even if you don’t want to play, just come to eat and drink some good beverages. Best of all, it’s only $5 a person for club members. Our next club meeting will be Monday, Sept 14th at the Red Covered Bridge Park down the road from Grings Mill. But just in case the pavilion is being used, bring a lawn chair. The meeting starts at 7 and goes about an hour. All are welcome. If you have ideas or thoughts, please come share them so we can keep striving to make BCBC a better club. Summer is winding down but there’s lots of riding to be done before the cold days of winter get here so what are you doing reading this rambling article, get out there and ride. Butch Ulrich

BCBC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES

Held at the Gibraltar Ballpark on Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Officers, Coordinators, and Members in Attendance: Butch U, Phyl G, Jackie S, Marge E, Tom R, Michelle U, Bill S, Kate H, Walt H, Kevin K, Thurm K, Wendy D, Greg K, Marcy S, Karen M, Jim B, and Bill S. Reading 120: Volunteers need to go to web site for event and register at www.reading120.com

Schuylkill River Trail: New Trail Maps are available at www.schuylkillrivertrail.com Zip lining: August 29, 2015 at Sky Top resort in the Pocono’s. There are still spots available. Contact Butch U. ASAP.

BCBC Velodrome Primes: Phyl G. has not received an answer from the Velo about sponsoring a Prime and there are only a few races left for the season, so we will pursue this for the summer of 2016.

Walleyball: Colonial Hills Fitness Center on Friday, November 20, 2015 from 7:00 to 10:00. Details in Newsletter.

On-Line Membership: Many members have experienced problems using PayPal to join the BCBC. It was voted on by the officers, to move on-line membership to Pretzel city Sports.

Shoofly Classic: Approval for the Shoofly was granted by Oley Township. Email have gone out to previous riders of the ride. Parking Volunteers and Food Servers at the Fairgrounds are needed. Please contact Tom R. to volunteer. The members in attendance at the meeting voted on Orange Tech Shirts for this year’s shirt. There will be additional shirts available for sale the day of the event. Wrist bands will be given to all paying riders as a way to recognize participants and as a food ticket at the rest stops and at the finish.

Next Meeting: Monday September 14, 2015 at the Red Bridge at Grings Mill at 7:00PM Respectfully submitted, Jackie Schultz-Shirey, Secretary

Page 4

BCBC MEETING Monday Sept. 14th @ 7:00PM

At the Red Bridge Recreation Area Bring your own food and beverages. There is bike trail access for those that would like a ride before the meeting. Bring a lawn chair . Red Bridge Recreation Area is located on Tulpehocken Rd., Spring Twp. From Rte. 222 & Broadcasting Rd., turn towards Penn State-Berks Campus. At Tulpehocken Rd. stop sign, turn left. Park entrance approx. 1/2 mile on right. The club meetings are open to ALL members.

Please come to meeting and share your ideas for the club.

Welcome New Members! Andrew Keen Michael Campanelli

Thomas Moslak Donald Keenan

Saturday October 10 7-10pm

Wine,

Cheese, & Beer

$5 per BCBC member $15 per guest. Only one guest per member.

Contact Butch bulrich1@aol.com or Michele Ulrich mmulrich1@gmail.com if you are coming or would like to help.

Join us for an exciting journey of wellness education, nutritional awareness, health consciousness, and family fun

Saturday September 20, 2015 11AM to 3PM Rain date Sunday September 20th First Energy Stadium, Reading

FREE Admission! Many things to see!!

www.mygutinstinct.org

SAVE THE DATE! BCBC Annual Banquet

@ Oley Fairgrounds Saturday, March 26th, 2016

Page 5

Seasoned Spokes outings are group rides of roughly 20 miles and take about 2 hours to complete. Some of the rides have a pre-post ride option that adds an extra 10 to 20 miles. These pre-post ride options are announced by email each week. Rides are rated 1, 2 or 3 with 3 being the hilliest and most difficult. Lunches are scheduled after some of the rides during the warmer months. Many of the riders are over 55, however anyone is welcome to participate. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the start time with a bicycle in good condition, a bicycle helmet and anything you need to repair a flat tire.

For additional Seasoned Spokes information contact David Cruzan, 610-376-5048; pjcruzan@comcast.net

Date and Time Starting Location Miles Rating Host

3-Sep 9AM Chapel Gate Park, Parkview Dr, Reinholds 20 3 Scott F

10-Sep 10AM Schuylkill Trail, Port Providence Traihead, Longford Rd, Mont Clare group lunch after this ride

38 1 Scott G

17-Sep 9AM Strausstown Ball Field parking lot, Oak St, Strausstown 20 2 Richard D

24-Sep 9AM Topton Playground, Callowhill St, Topton 22 2 Jim H

1-Oct 9AM Ephrata Township Community Park, E Fulton St, Ephrata 21 2 Don P

8-Oct 9AM Country Fare Restaurant, US 422, Myerstown group lunch after this ride 23 1 Lynn S

15-Oct 9AM Red Bridge, Tulpehocken Rd, Spring Township 22 3 Jim H

22-Oct 9AM Amity Community Park, Weavertown Rd, Amityville 21 2 Kathleen C

29-Oct 9AM Community Memorial Park, E Jackson St, New Holland 2 Scott G

5-Nov 9AM Leesport Farmers Market group lunch after this ride

22 3 Jim H

12-Nov 9AM N Reading Plaza, Leesport Ave & Allentown Pike, Temple 21 3 Richard D

19-Nov 9AM Boehringer's Drive-in, Rt 272, Adamstown group lunch after this ride

22 2 Don P

26-Nov 9AM Thanksgiving no ride schedule

Links to route maps are on the Seasoned Spokes tab of the BCBC website

www.berksbicycle.com

Page 6

BERKS COUNTY BICYCLE RIDE SCHEDULE By Alan Fineman Ride Coordinator

First Number: Terrain Rating Terrain rating 1-5 rates the total hilliness of the ride.

1 = FLAT – easiest 2= GENTLY ROLLING HILLS–moderate terrain with easiest of hills (Almost anyone can handle). 3= SOME HILLS–Moderate hills with some steeper grades (Moderately Challenging–but within the ability of most riders). 4= HILLY – The number and difficulty of hills is quite substantial (Very Challenging).

5= EXTREMELY HILLY Extreme Challenge- steep and long hills most of the ride–Requires a very high fitness level).

Second Number: Total Mileage for ride Please note the Club policy on protective headgear: ALL Riders must wear Snell/ANSI rated helmets. Ride Host/Hostess will NOT give cue sheets to riders without helmets and that rider will not be considered an official participant of the Club ride. Please have your bike in proper working order BEFORE the start of ride. Arrive 10-15 minutes before start time so that all rides leave on time. Make sure you have a spare tube or patch kit and at least one water bottle. If weather conditions are questionable, the ride host may notify club members by posting a message on Facebook prior to the ride or make a decision at the starting location based on road conditions and weather forecasted at the time of the ride. SPECIAL RIDE DETAILS Special rides during the months will be highlighted in color. If you are hosting a special ride, please contact Newsletter Editor Wendy Davis or Ride Coordinator Alan Fineman before the 18th of each month to tell other club members about it. Did you have a great experience on a ride? Let us know and we’ll add pictures and stories about your ride!

Date Time Ride Name/Description Rating/ Mileage Location Host

Tue Sep 1 6:00 PM Tuesday Nite Pedal and Pig Out 20-25 Oley Valley High School Jefferson St. in Oley Deb M

Wed Sep 2 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Ride 20-25 North Reading Plaza

(Walmart) Rt. 222 in Temple (Behind McDonalds)

Tom R.

Thu Sep 3 6:00 PM A Thursday Night Ride (Variety of rides & pace) 23-30

Gouglersville - UCC ChurchVermont Rd,

Gouglersville - exit Rt 222 South at Gouglersville, turn

left

Todd P.

Sat Sep 5 9:30 AM NT35 Blue Marsh Lake Loop NT26 Shoemakersville Loop IV

4-40 3-24

North Reading Plaza (Walmart) Rt. 222 in Temple

(Behind McDonalds) Tom R.

Sun Sep 6 9:30 AM FL29 Mertztown - Topton Coffee Shop Ride 2-36 Fleetwood Middle School

Richmond St. in Fleetwood Alan F

Sun Sep 6 8:00 AM Rambling Ride 50-60 Fleetwood Middle School Richmond St. in Fleetwood Wendy D.

Mon Sep 7 9:00 AM LABOR DAY RIDE CW01 Dierwechter Loop 2-30

Conrad Weiser East Elementary School on

Lincoln Rd. in Wernersville Wendy

Tue Sep 8 6:00 PM Tuesday Nite Pedal and Pig Out 20-25 Oley Valley High School Jefferson St. in Oley Deb M.

Wed Sep 9 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Trail/Mtn BikeRide 20-25 Blue Marsh Lake Stilling Basin Upper Pking lot Phyl G.

Thu Sep 10 6:00 PM Gary's Thursday Night Ride (Variety of rides & pace) 23-30 Fleetwood Middle School

Richmond St. in Fleetwood Gary R.

Date Time Ride Name/Description Rating/ Mileage Location Host

Page 7

Sat Sep 12 9:30 AM OL08 Oley - Boyertown Challenge OL24b Oley Loop # Who Knows

4-38 2-26

Oley Valley High School Jefferson St. in Oley Deb M.

Sun Sep 13 9:30 AM CW12 Another Trip To Kleinfeltersville 3-35 Conrad Weiser East

Elementary School on Lincoln Rd. in Wernersville

Matt F.

Tue Sep 15 6:00 PM Tuesday Nite Pedal and Pig Out 20-25 Oley Valley High School Jefferson St. in Oley Deb M.

Wed Sep 16 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Ride 20-25 Fleetwood Middle School Richmond St. in Fleetwood Alan F

Thu Sep 17 6:00 PM Gary's Thursday Night Ride (Variety of rides & pace) 23-30

Schuylkill Valley Elem. School

Ashley Drive, Leesport Gary R.

Sat Sep 19 8:00 AM Matt's Adventure Ride Hershey Park 5-100 Wilson High School off of

Dwight St. in West Lawn Matt F.

Sat Sep 19 9:30 AM WI18 South Mountain Loop WI03 Showers Rd Loop

4-38 3-22

Wilson High School off of Dwight St. in West Lawn Bill R.

Sun Sep 20 9:30 AM DB28 Oley Loop 3-37 Daniel Boone Middle School Weavertown Rd. in Amityville Walt H.

Tue Sep 22 6:00 PM

LAST WEEK FOR

WEEKNIGHT RIDES ;-{ Tuesday Nite Pedal and Pig Out

20-25 Oley Valley High School Jefferson St. in Oley Deb M.

Wed Sep 23 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Ride 20-25 Conrad Weiser East

Elementary School on Lincoln Rd. in Wernersville

Dominique

Thu Sep 24 6:00 PM Ride Night Thursday (Variety of rides & pace) 23-30 Stoudt's Black Angus

Rt 272 Adamstown Todd P.

Sat Sep 26 9:30 AM BCBC Shoo Fly Classic See Page 12 of newsletter Oley Valley Fairgrounds

Sun Sep 27 9:30 AM SL36 Oley Legion Breakfast Ride 3-34 L.M. Lausch Elementary School 2 Blks off of Rt 562 Brad S.

Sun Sep 20 ***CANCELLED*** Social Stay Together

Page 8

Date Time Ride Name/Description Rating/ Mileage Location Host

Sat Oct 3 9:30 AM FL10 Some Fleetwood Hills 4-35 Fleetwood Middle School Richmond St. in Fleetwood Alan F.

Sun Oct 4 9:30 AM CW32 Myerstown Ride 2-38 Conrad Weiser East

Elementary School on Lincoln Rd. in Wernersville

Wendy

Sun Oct 4 8:00 AM Rambling Ride 50-60 miles

Conrad Weiser East Elementary School on Lincoln

Rd. in Wernersville Rick D

Sat Oct 10 9:30 AM WI13 Wernersville - Reinholds Loop WI08 Robesonia Pizza Special

4-33 3-21

Wilson High School off of Dwight St. in West Lawn Bill R.

Sat Oct 10 8:00 AM Rambling Ride 50-60 miles

Wilson High School off of Dwight St. in West Lawn Jane B

Sun Oct 11 9:30 AM NT07 Ontelaunee - Kutztown Loop 2-40 North Reading Plaza

(Walmart) Rt. 222 in Temple (Behind McDonalds)

Tom R.

Sat Oct 17 9:30 AM BR11 Adamstown - Bowmansville - Maple Grove 4-32

Brecknock Elementary School Rt. 568, just off Rt. 625 in

Knauers Kent S.

Sun Oct 18 9:30 AM OL34 (Name that Ride) 2-37 Oley Valley High School Jefferson St. in Oley Deb M.

Sat Oct 24 9:30 AM SL15 Pine Forge Loop 3-33 L.M. Lausch Elementary School 2 Blks off of Rt 562 Brad S.

Sun Oct 25 8:00 AM Matt's Adventure Ride Western Berks Ramble 4-69

Conrad Weiser East Elementary School on Lincoln

Rd. in Wernersville Matt F.

Sun Oct 25 9:30 AM WY16 South Mountain Circle 3-38 Wyomissing H.S. off Clayton Ave. in Wyomissing Diane R

Sat Oct 31 10:00 AM 10:30 AM

Cranksgiving Ride, Trail Ride or Club ride Starting at Trooper Thorn's and the

Brentwood Trail Head parking lot

Trail 35 mile

Club ride 30-35 miles

Cranksgiving will start at Trooper Thorn's at 10. Trail

ride and club ride will start at 10:30 from the Brentwood Trail parking lot. Need ride host for Brentwood parking

lot.

Sun Oct 18 8:30 AM

Rail Trail Ride Lehigh Gorge

(Jim Thorpe to White Haven) See page 9 for details

46 North Reading Plaza

(Walmart) Rt. 222 in Temple (Behind McDonalds)

Laurie & Rusty

Page 9

Wednesday, Sept 9th we will be starting at the Blue Marsh Stilling Basin lot on Palisades Rd. We will be parking in the upper lot closest to the road. You will have a choice of either riding the trail through the Gring's Mill area or mountain biking towards the Boat Launch on State Hill Rd. A mountain

bike is required for the mountain bike ride and you can use either a mountain bike or a trail bike for the trail ride. The sun will be setting at 7:25PM so you will have plenty of time to trail ride to Stone Cliff or to mountain bike to the boat launch area. If you plan to go farther than the State Hill boat launch, please bring a light. If you have never ridden at Blue Marsh in the dark with a light, you are in for a fun filled adventure!!

MATT’S ADVENTURE RIDES Sept 19

Hershey Park Start at Wilson High School 100 miles 5100 ft of climbing

The Sept Matt’s adventure ride will be the annual trip to Hershey & Chocolate World. The ride starts at Wilson High school & travels thru Charming Forge and the north side of Lebanon County on roads north of Rt 422. This out bound leg is mostly rolling hills. There is a stop at mile 25. A longer lunch stop will be at Chocolate World coming at mile 52.From Hershey the ride heads back on the flatter roads on the south side of Route 422. A final stop is at mile 75 in Richland. Generally a tailwind prevails along the return leg. This is a great choice for club members looking to do their first century ride.

http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6053537

No weekend trail ride for September

Oct 25 Northwest Berks Ramble 8 AM Conrad Weiser East Elementary 69 miles 3400 ft climbing The last adventure ride of the season will take us from Wernersville to the base of the Blue Mountains on rolling terrain. The ride goes thru Bethel then will head east using quiet roads at the base of the hills. The mid ride stop, at mile 34 will be in Shartlesville. Then the ride heads towards Centerport and towards the hill at Blue Marsh Lake. Save something for the climb up Reber’s Bridge Rd as we head back to the start at Conrad Weiser. http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6814833

Club ride from Brecknock Saturday July 25th Some of the riders who did the long ride came across a road where the bridge was out. Literally the bridge was out! So they walked across the dam breast. Everyone made it safely across.

Sunday, October 18th Lehigh Gorge Rail-Trail

46 miles 8:30 am Meet at North Reading Plaza, Rt. 222 Temple (behind McDonalds) Join us on this beautiful ride from Jim Thorpe to White Haven and back. Trail length is 23 miles one way, with a crushed gravel surface. We will eat lunch in White Haven. Ride hosts are Laurie & Rusty

So, why did the chicken cross the road? On the Wednesday August 19th Thun Trail ride as they were heading back Ann Rollman, Kurt Bauder and Wendy Davis came across this chicken on Old River Bridge Road. Wendy stopped to take its picture. It wasn’t afraid of her. She even gave it a little push in the right direction to get it off the road.

Page 10

Wallyball/Social Night Friday November 20th from 7-10pm

Colonial Hills Fitness Center 172 Shillington Rd, Sinking Spring

More Details in October newsletter!

On a recent Tuesday night ride our group headed down Oley Line Rd. Many of us went into the turn at the bottom, across the cut out section of macadam. At the Oley Line Ditch the stones had been depleted with time. I approached hearing a hissing as someone's tire hit the section. Yes a flat ... next my front tire hits the edge and there was an ever so slight thumping coming from the front wheel as I proceeded past now with extra caution. At that moment, I wasn't sure if the tire was okay or not. Many thanks to Erik Leeds and Dave Richards who waited as we checked things out and decided it was okay to ride. Additional thanks to Butch Ulrich who went back and picked up my water bottle that had somehow managed its way out of its cage. Dave, Eric and I finished the ride together and picked up some others along the way. My Knights On Wheels for that Tuesday night ride. It was very much appreciated ... true gentlemen, thank you! - Michelle Ulrich

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Contact Tom Reppert

treppert10@comcast.net Need help with:

♦ Parking

♦ Food Servers at the finish

♦ And More

BERKS COUNTY BIKE CLUB 2nd Annual

Cranksgiving Food Drive Ride Reading PA

Saturday, October 31st, 2015 (This is a Rain or Shine Event)

Something new for this year’s ride! Since it is Halloween awards will be given out for best costumes.

SAFETY FIRST!! NO masks! When picking your costume make sure you can safely ride and handle your bike with it on!!

We don’t want anyone getting hurt.

If you want to volunteer to help please contact Jim Borden jbordenjr@msn.com or call 484-769-3821

BERKS COUNTY BIKE CLUB 2nd Annual

Cranksgiving Food Drive Ride Reading PA

Saturday, October 31st, 2015 (This is a Rain or Shine Event)

What is Cranksgiving?? It’s a food drive done completely by bicycle! Show up at Trooper Thorns Restaurant on Rte. 10 in Reading Pa November 1st and we will give you a list of grocery stores to hit and items options to be purchased. You will head out on your bicycle when we say “go”! Collect as many items as you possibly can/ want and get back before time runs out! There will be some basic awards given out in different categories like: Most items, biggest items, most stores visited and more! Trooper Thorns Irish Beef House, 451 Morgantown Rd/ Rte 10 Reading Pa will be our host for this charity ride. Registration: - There is not a pre-registration requirement for this event and zero cost to participate. You will, however purchase the items you collect along the way with your own money. After-all it is a food drive! That’s not to say you can’t get friends and family to kick in a few dollars to help you buy the groceries.

**** If you know that you will be participating, it would be great if you’d just mail in a waiver or email your name and information for pre-planning purposes.

Event Shirt: If you’d like a Cranksgiving long sleeve tech shirt, please mail in an entry with a check for $8. Check In: 9am to 9:45am. Pre-Ride meeting at 9:50am Ride Start: 10am / You “MUST” be finished riding by 12:30 Type of Bike: Anything with two wheels and pedals…Road Bike, Cross or Mt Bike, as long as you’re riding! Which Grocery Stores: You will need to show up to find that out. A list of stores and items designated by the food bank will be given to you at the time of check in that morning. Then you can choose where to go and what you want to buy. Ride Distance: It is completely up to you. There will be stores on the list that are very close and some…not so close. For those no sense of direction but wish to ride, we will have a short ride, roughly 15-20 miles, pre-mapped out for you. What do you need: Well for one, your bike, and money to purchase donations, some type of sturdy backpack so you can SAFELY carry these donations on your bike. You may also want to carry some type of lock to secure your bike while you are shopping. Also, a Helmet is100% required!! And last but not least, a good attitude! Donations Benefit: The food will be donated to the Berks County Food Bank to assist with Thanksgiving dinners for families in need. What if I can’t ride: If you can’t ride for some reason that day, feel free to just come hang out with us bring any donations you may want to contribute. After all, the main goal is to collect as much food as possible! Prizes will be awarded. Since it is Halloween there will be a best costume award. No masks! Wear clothing that will not interfere with riding your bike. Safety first!!

We hope to see you all on Saturday October 31st for this great event for an even better cause. For questions or to be added to the “Cranksgiving” email update list, contact Jim Borden at jbordenjr@msn.com or

484-769-3821. Additional info can be found at www.berksbicycle.com

Cranksgiving Charity Bike Ride Saturday, October 31st, 2015

WAIVER / HOLD HARMLESS CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT: By signing this contractual agreement I acknowledge the fact that participating in the Cranksgiving Bike Ride is a potentially hazardous activity and I am participating with full knowledge of all potential risks and injuries. I will not enter and ride unless I am medically able and properly conditioned and trained for the level of competition that I aspire to. I also know that, although, some safety protection via course officials will be provided; there can be many hazards on the course route. I also assume any and all other risks associated with this event including but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, the affects of weather, including high heat and or humidity, the condition of the roads and all risks being known and appreciated by me. Knowing these facts, and in consideration of your accepting my entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, or anyone else who might claim on my behalf, convenient not to sue, and waive, release and discharge Berks County Bike Club, officials of the event and any other sponsors or associated organizations, volunteers, or any of the employees, agents, assignees or anyone acting on or for their behalf, from any and all claims or liability for death, personal injury or property damage of any kind or nature whatsoever arising out of, or the course of, my participation in this event known as the Cranksgiving Bike Ride. All costs incurred for medical assistance, be it ambulance, hospital, etc., is my sole responsibility and my financial liability. This release and waiver extends to all claims of every kind or nature whatsoever, foreseen or unforeseen, known or unknown. Applicants understanding and agreeing to this Waiver / Hold Harmless Contractual Agreement as specified herein and the rules of the event should sign the entry form on the space provided below.

Signature of Participant: X __________________________ Date: _________ Signature of consenting adult if under 18 years of age: ____________________________________________

IF YOU’D LIKE A LONG SLEEVE “CRANKGIVING” TECH SHIRT PLEASE PRE-REGISTER FOR THE $8 SHIRT COST.

Participant Information – Please Print LEGIBLY Last Name: __________________________________ First Name: _________________________________MI______ Address:_________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________________________ State: ____________ZIP: ____________________

Phone #: _______________________ Email: ___________________________________ Emergency contact: _________________________________________ Emergency number:___________________

If pre-registered: PLEASE CIRCLE DESIRED SHIRT SIZE: XS S M L XL XXL

Checks: $8 for long sleeve tech shirt by October 25th, 2015

Make check payable to: Berks County Bike Club

Mail entries to: Jim Borden at 2711 Filbert Ave Reading, PA 19606

Question: Email us at: jbordenjr@msn.com or call 484-769-3821. Cranksgiving details on our website:

www.berksbicycle.com

Ride Options: 20, 40 and 60 miles or combine two for more options. Tour the beautiful Oley Valley and enjoy one of the premier riding locations in the area. Long winding down hills, gently rolling farmland, a covered bridge and historic landmarks, Oley Valley has got it all.

Pre-Registration: Deadline is 9/19/15 online and/ or postmarked by 9/16/15. Entry Fee: $30 pre-registered/ includes a tech shirt. After pre-reg date and event day, $35 no shirt. Event Day Registration: 7:30-10am. Ride starts After you have checked in for your ride sheet. Requirements: You MUST wear a helmet. NO headphones. Ride/ Course Sheets: You will receive the ride sheet for your ride at registration. Each course is also clearly marked with specific colors for each ride. Check Points: There will be snacks and drinks at set check points on the course. Ride Finish: All riders must be finished riding by 3pm. Please plan your ride distance accordingly based on your normal ride pace. Ride Support: Support vehicles will patrol all routes offering assistance to riders if needed. Post Ride Food: Relax and feast on a wide selection of goodies, meat lasagna and veggie lasagna and Shoo Fly pie. There will also be a vendor area or for those interested, display spaces are available for a minimal fee. Location: The Oley Fairgrounds at 26 Jefferson St, Oley, PA. 19547

Two blocks from Junction of Rtes 662 and 73.

Ride is RAIN or SHINE

If you have any questions, please call Tom Reppert at 610-927-1529 or email - bcbcshoofly@gmail.com

WAIVER / HOLD HARMLESS CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT: By signing this contractual agreement I acknowledge the fact that participating in the Shoo Fly Classic Bike Ride is a potentially hazardous activity and I am participating with full knowledge of all potential risks and injuries. I will not enter and ride unless I am medically able and properly conditioned and trained for the level of competition that I aspire to. I also know that, although, some safety protection via course officials will be provided; there can be many hazards on the course route. I also assume any and all other risks associated with this event including but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, the affects of weather, including high heat and or humidity, the condition of the roads and all risks being known and appreciated by me. Knowing these facts, and in consideration of your accepting my entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, or anyone else who might claim on my behalf, convenient not to sue, and waive, release and discharge Berks County Bike Club, officials of the event and any other sponsors or associated organizations, ride officials, volunteers, or any of the employees, agents, assignees or anyone acting on or for their behalf, from any and all claims or liability for death, personal injury or property damage of any kind or nature whatsoever arising out of, or the course of, my participation in this event known as the Shoo Fly Classic Bike Ride. All costs incurred for medical assistance, be it ambulance, hospital, etc., is my sole responsibility and my financial liability. This release and waiver extends to all claims of every kind or nature whatsoever, foreseen or unforeseen, known or unknown. Applicants understanding and agreeing to this Waiver / Hold Harmless Contractual Agreement as specified herein and the rules of the event should sign the entry form on the space provided below.

Signature of Participant: X __________________________ Date: _________

Signature of consenting adult if under 18 years of age: ____________________________________________

Participant Information – Please Print LEGIBLY

Last Name: __________________________________ First Name: _________________________________MI______

Address:_________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________________________ State: ________________ ZIP: _____________

Phone #: _________________ Email: ____________________________

Emergency contact: _________________________________________ Emergency number:___________________

If pre-registered: PLEASE CIRCLE DESIRED SHIRT SIZE: XS S M L XL XXL

Checks: $30 pre-registered by 9/19/15 includes tech shirt. After pre-reg date and day of, $35 no shirt.

Make check payable to: Berks County Bike Club

Mail entries to: BCBC c/o Tom Reppert

1203 Peachwood Drive,

Sinking Spring, PA 19608

Question: Email us at: - bcbcshoofly@gmail.com, or access our web site at: www.berksbicycle.com

www.berksbicycle.com

Shoo Fly Classic Bike Ride Saturday, September 26th, 2015

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The following is a new section of the newsletter. We are calling it “Know What Puts My Wheel Out of True”. This is the place to mention any pet peeves you have about bike riding. NO names will be mentioned. We will have a few each month. Email your peeve to Wendy Davis or Butch Ulrich. Deadline is the 20th of the month for the next newsletter.

Rambling Rides

1. These group rides are for riders looking for longer distance riding. 2. Rides start around 40-50 miles in spring, and ramp up to 60+ miles during

the summer and fall. 3. Rides are currently scheduled for 1 ride per weekend and are posted in the BCBC newsletter with the other rides. 4. Although no one will be left behind on these rides, it is important that riders have the ability to do longer rides (no sag wagon support). 5. Please bring enough food, water, and money (rest stops are usually every 20-30 miles).

♦ Your group is riding single file on the far right side of the road when a car passes you and the driver feels like they have to lay on their horn the whole time they are passing everyone in the group! What is up with that??? (yes I waved with all 5 fingers, but I really didn’t want to!)

2105 Lehigh Wheelmen Donut Derby The Lehigh Wheelmen invite you to participate in the 2015 Donut Derby on Labor Day, September 7th. The DD is a fun 36 mile race with a twist: Get a 3 minute time credit for each donut eaten at stops positioned at mile markers 12 and 24. Donut-adjusted time determines the winner in several age categories. The race starts at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, Trexlertown at 9:00am. Lunch and an award ceremony follow the ride. Register at www.bikereg.com/lwa-donut-derby. Cost of the ride is $25 and the registration deadline is August 31st or when event fills. No registrations on day of event.

2015 Lehigh Wheelmen Gap Gallop The Lehigh Wheelmen invite you to participate in the 2015 Gap Gallop on September 20th. The Gap Gallop century route takes you from DeSales University on scenic low traffic roads along the Delaware River to Portland, PA and back with an optional climb of the notorious Fiddler’s Elbow. There are multiple routes (33, 50, 70, 83, and 103 miles) for all. A delicious post-ride meal will be offered at the DeSales finish. Preregistrations only at www.bikereg.com/lwa-gap-gallop. 7:00 am start $35-$40 $10 for post-ride meal

Great rest stop! Saturday August 22 some of us did a renegade ride from Fleetwood. While doing this new ride which we will be doing on September 6th for the Rambling Ride, our group stopped at the Shell mini mart on the corner of Main and E. Penn Ave in Alburtis. They have great home made Tandy Takes, banana cake and other goodies that they sell at the register. Bill didn’t have his money on him so Wendy gave him some for the banana cake. The gal gave Wendy a free Tandy Take. Wendy and Bill both shared some of their food with Ann, Dan and Cheryl. It was very good. So if you ever go by there stop in. They have bathrooms, other food and drinks.

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RIDE SHEET WAIVERS

Starting in 2015 Scott Franzen will be keeping track of the club miles. If you are ride host please give the sheets to

Scott. If the ride is canceled please let Scott know so he’s not

looking for rides sheets for that day. Email him at jsfranzen@comcast.net

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Classified Ads If you have something that you want to give away or sell you can

place an ad in this newsletter. The ad will run for at least 3 months. Send all ads to Wendy Davis at cyclerad@ptd.net

FOR SALE

For sale: Women's Selle Italia Diva Gel Saddle , Black, practically new. I rode on the saddle for two short rides and just prefer another saddle. Reg. 169.99 new and will sell for $ 90.00. Any questions call Doreen at 484-824-8602

Central Bucks Bicycle Club’s Annual Covered Bridges Ride Sunday, October 18, 2015 (rain or shine)

Tinicum Park, 974 River Rd, Erwinna, PA 18920 Choose from five gorgeous rides: flat, family-friendly 20 and 30 mile rides (suitable for wider-tire bikes) and challenging, hilly 33, 50 or 63 mile rides (road bikes recommended). Enjoy the gorgeous fall colors, scenic roads and historic bridges of Upper Bucks

County. Rides are marked and fully supported. Well-stocked rest stops offer snacks, baked goods, and fresh fruit. Enjoy our hearty Grand Finale lunch at the end. More details and registration information at www.cbbikeclub.org.

The Harrisburg Bicycle Club is pleased to present our 2015 annual "century" bicycle ride, the Three Creek Century on

Sunday, September 20, 2015. This is not a race but rather a leisurely ride through the scenic Cumberland Valley of central Pennsylvania. Ride on lightly traveled roads along and over the Conodoguinet, Yellow Breeches and Big Spring creeks which feed the

Susquehanna river. Cue sheets, sag wagons and rest stops are provided for all routes as well as markings on the road to guide the riders on the routes. This event is well known for its homemade cookies, soup and other great food.

Most of the routes offer gentle terrain, although one of the 25 mile routes contains some challenging hills. Routes of 100, 75,50, and 25-mile lengths are available.

The 2015 Three Creek Century will be held at the Penn Township Fire Department complex at 1730 Pine Road in Newville. This new location offers better restrooms, parking and picnic facilities, and great access to the quiet rural roads that wind through beautiful western Cumberland County. The revised routes retain the favorite parts of the courses from previous Three Creek Centuries while adding new scenery that showcases some of the best riding to be found in the region.

NEW! Cumberland Valley Rail Trail Route: A ride along the beautiful Cumberland Valley Rail Trail is being offered as an option for riders looking for a quiet no-traffic ride. The trail is a crushed limestone surface suitable for most types of bikes. Ride from Newville to Shippensburg Township Park and back for a total of 18 miles. Start at the Newville trailhead at 23 McFarland Street.

THE BERKS COUNTY BICYCLE CLUB, INC. 2015 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION/RENEWAL FORM

Name _________________________________________________________

Street___________________________________________________________

City _______________________ State_______ Zip Code______________

E-mail Address____________________________________________ Phone_____________ Please Check one: ( ) New Applicant, or ( ) Renewing Member

THE BCBC CyclingTimes newsletter is published monthly via email to members and on our website www.berksbicycle.com ,

May we publish your name, address, and telephone number in a club directory?( ) Yes ( ) No

Please indicate your interests by checking as many items as may apply:

( ) Ride Host/Hostess ( ) Updating Ride sheets ( ) Road Rides ( ) Trail Riding

( ) Social Events (Helping with picnic and/or annual banquet) ( ) Helping with our Shoo-Fly Classic Bike Ride

Signature _____________________________________________________________________________

(If applicant is under 18, parent or legal guardian must also sign.)

Dues: $20 per household, per year. Renewing memberships are due and payable by MARCH 31st of each year.

Dues include monthly newsletter and a membership card for discounts at bike shop listed in newsletter.

Make all checks Payable to and send to: The Berks County Bicycle Club, Inc., 728 Schuylkill Rd., Birdsboro, PA 19508

Membership Coordinator Kate Kennedy Hug 728 Schuylkill Road Birdsboro, PA 19508

ATTENTION: Please make certain that you are mailing your membership forms for

2015 to: Kate Kennedy-Hug 728 Schuylkill Rd.

Birdsboro, PA 19508 NOT to Jackie Schultz-Shirey

or they will get returned to you via the mailman.

MESSAGE FROM MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

All members will receive the newsletter via email from berkscountybicycleclub@gmail.com. The emailed newsletter is usually sent by the 25rd of each month. If they DO NOT receive it, they should check spam, then confirm their email address by emailing me at kkhug@aol.com. Likewise, if someone thinks they paid dues, they should confirm with me. New ride waivers come out the first of each month. If a ride host does not have a name listed on the waiver, check the top date to see if they used the most current listing. Kate Kennedy-Hug, Membership Coordinator