bello velo

Another Incident

2009-07-15T16:38:00.002-05:00

Dear Bill Kling,

We have met on a number of occasions including the shooting of the share the road PSA's. I'm not sure if this has already been brought to your attention, but here is a very disturbing account of a recent bike/car incident involving a child in Huntsville: http://blog.al.com/times-views/2009/07/letters_to_the_editor_saturday_3.html

I have been harassed numerous times riding my bike as a commuter in Huntsville, most recently, I was riding North on Meridian to work yesterday and a car yelled at me to get on the sidewalk as they turned into a parking lot. I swung back and talked to the woman (nicely) and she had no idea 1. that I'm supposed to be on the road 2. that there were share the road signs put up by the city on the very road we were on. She said she was yelling at me because she was worried I would get hit....My experiences during my daily commute and errands by bike, illustrate that City efforts for education and outreach are not effectively targeting drivers and that signage (where it is present) is not sufficiently visible to drivers. The city has yet to install all the signage promised in the wake of Sarah Chapman's death and the signs that do exist are often too small or poorly placed to be noticed on Huntsville's larger and busier roads such as Meridian St. and Whitesburg Dr. I am aware of the numerous budget issues and beaurocracy involved in merely placing signs and painting Share-rows on road surfaces; however, I am also frustrated that it just hasn't happened and that for drivers - the roads don't look any different than they did a year ago and bikes still don't 'belong' on the road.

Leela Pahl

South Huntsville Needs Motorist Education and Manners

2009-07-15T15:47:00.005-05:00

From Scott:

Yesterday afternoon I finally got the license plate number of the redneck that buzzes me and lays on his horn every time he passes me on Hobbs Island Road. He’s done this at least 3 times in the past 2 to 3 weeks, making it a point to not give way at all and sit on his horn as he passes. Each time he’s done this there have been no cars coming in the other direction to keep him from moving over, it has always been on a stretch with plenty of “line of sight” down the road, and once he was in a line of three or four vehicles all of which gave me ample room when passing and he still did this crap. The good thing is that not only did I get the license number and a good description of the vehicle but I also saw exactly where he lives. After yesterday’s incident I continued riding east on Hobbs Island and noticed the car at a house on the right side of the road about 1 ½ miles past the railroad crossing. I rode an out and back and the car was there on my way back too. If you ride this road often and are familiar with it, it is the first house in a row of about 3 houses with a chain link fence in the front yard(s) that is/are always open. There are usually about 2 or 3 dogs in the yards and driveways and they will try and chase cyclist if they notice you in time. This is just before you pass the Ebenezer (something or other) Church. Like I said if you are familiar with this road you likely know where this is. The car is a junkie looking dark green Ford Taurus (I believe it’s a Taurus) 4 door. I noticed yesterday that part of his front bumper is torn off/missing. The license plate number is 47T812N in case someone has a run-in with him and recognizes the car from my description.

Has anyone else had problems with the vehicle I described? Also, does anyone have contact info so I can report this? I’m still debating as to whether or not I should report it because I don’t know what if anything the police will do. They did little to nothing when I was hit by a hit and run driver so I don’t see them really doing anything to this guy other than asking him if he did it, telling him to stop (yea that’s going to work), and then the guy in return might do something malicious to cyclists in the future. I’ve thought of all types of ways to vandalize his vehicle which I know isn’t the thing to do but I was/am pretty angry about the whole thing.

Scott is currently calling the cops to report this and we will let you know what happens.

Pedestrian hit crossing University Drive

2009-07-15T10:29:00.005-05:00

While our city talks of all their exciting plans for those of you who can afford them, loft living, bad broadway plays at merrimack and prosperity to all who support the arsenal,brac and nasa another person is hit by a car. If you think this has no affect on you as a cyclist you must be an idiot. Do you really think we are safe when HPD rides around all day talking and texting? How can we expect drivers to pay attention when the police are so distracted. Tommy should have run on the platform "more of the same" or "more of the insane" depending on your trust fund status.

HUNTSVILLE, AL - A pedestrian was struck by a car on University Drive in Huntsville and badly injured. The accident happened just before 10:30am Tuesday at the intersection of University and Henderson.

Several witnesses at the scene say the young woman appeared to be trying to run across University and beat the traffic when she was struck by a driver in the westbound lane.

Emergency personnel responded to the scene and the victim was transported to Huntsville Hospital.

Right now, we have no word on her condition, but a nurse at the scene said it appeared to be serious.

here are some emails

contact@hsvcity.com

Bike Ped Coordinator - jo.sommers@hsvcity.com

District 1 City Councilman Richard Showers, Sr - richard.showers@hsvcity.com

District 2 City Councilman Mark Russell - Mark.Russell@hsvcity.com

District 3 City Councilman - Sandra.Moon@hsvcity.com

District 4 City Councilman - Bill Kling bill.kling@hsvcity.com

District 5 City Councilman - Will Culver will.culver@hsvcity.com

Last in the US and Proud!!!!!

2009-07-14T08:23:00.006-05:00

Can't Blame Mississippi for this. Keep in mind why we are at the bottom. The good news is more Brac more wack drivers!!!!Maybe a new motto "Pro Life as long as you can afford a Truck or SUV" Almost a year has passed and the Share the Road Sign are still not finished!!!!
From HSV Times

Thoughtless driver

My son was riding his bike on South Bailey Cove/Green Cove around 3:30 p.m. on July 6 and was struck by a red SUV (maybe a Jeep) while crossing the street. The car was traveling north and struck the front tire of the bicycle on the passenger side front bumper of the vehicle.

The person driving did not stop and I have to wonder what were you thinking? Did you wonder if he was hurt? Did you even think about what just happened? Have you thought about it since?

I really find it unconscionable that someone could strike a child on a bike and just keep going as if nothing happened. Really, what were you thinking?

Kelly M. Evans,
Huntsville, 35803

'Green' brothel offers discounts to customers who arrive by bike

2009-07-14T08:17:00.002-05:00

From NY Daily News

The prostitution business in Germany has been hit hard by the worldwide economic downturn, so one brothel has come up with a novel promotion that's also good for the environment.
Maison d'envie in Berlin is offering a $7 discount off its usual $100 fee to customers who arrive on bicycle.
"Obviously we hope that the discount will attract more people," said brothel owner Thomas Goetz. "It’s good for business, it’s good for the environment — and it’s good for the girls."
"We have around 3-5 new customers coming in daily to take advantage of the discount."

Prostitution is legal in Germany and 400,000 prostitutes have formally registered since 2002.

New York City finishes 200 miles of bike lanes at Grand Concourse cermony

2009-07-09T12:30:00.004-05:00

From the greatest city in the world!!!!!!! Wow a city that considers all modes of transportation not just getting brac people new lanes for their monster trucks and ass's.

With one last dash of paint, New York became the self-proclaimed "bike capital of the nation" Wednesday.
City leaders gathered on the Grand Concourse in the Bronx to paint the final stretch of a 200-mile, three-year bike lane expansion that nearly doubled the number of bike-lane miles across the car-packed five boroughs.
The project's completion brings the city's total street bike lanes to 420 miles and its total bike lanes, including park space, to 620 miles.
City Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan compared the project's size to a one-way road between New York and Boston, with New York now having double the number of bike-lane miles as Chicago. Bike commuting has increased by 45% since the project began, she said.
Wednesday's celebration emphasized the all-around benefits of biking, with Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe lauding how new bike paths attract people to city parks, and Dr. Thomas Farley, city health commissioner, applauding the benefits of physical activity and bike lane safety. read more here

Life Cycles @ Lincoln Mill

2009-07-05T16:13:00.003-05:00

The new location of life cycles at Lincoln Mill. Jim has a great space and he has done a lot of hard work to really make the space look great.

more pictures here

keep on keepin' on

2009-07-02T05:30:00.001-05:00

THE REVIVAL/KEEP ON KEEPIN' ON from morehartfilms on Vimeo.

New Website Bikerules.org

2009-07-01T15:20:00.002-05:00

bikerules.org

Biking Rules is a new 'Street Code' for NYC cyclists, following the simple principle that our responsibility to others on the street increases in relation to our potential to cause harm.

With Biking Rules, NYC cyclists are taking the lead to create safer, saner streets. We need your help in making this Street Code catch on. Click here to find out more.

Critical Mass Art Extravaganza Pics

2009-07-01T14:54:00.002-05:00

Mississippi's still fattest but Alabama closing in

2009-07-01T09:37:00.001-05:00

WASHINGTON – Mississippi's still king of cellulite, but an ominous tide is rolling toward the Medicare doctors in neighboring Alabama: obese baby boomers.
It's time for the nation's annual obesity rankings and, outside of fairly lean Colorado, there's little good news. Obesity rates among adults rose in 23 states over the past year and didn't decline anywhere, says a new report from the Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
And while the nation has long been bracing for a surge in Medicare as the boomers start turning 65, the new report makes clear that fat, not just age, will fuel much of those bills. In every state, the rate of obesity is higher among 55- to 64-year-olds — the oldest boomers — than among today's 65-and-beyond.
That translates into a coming jump of obese Medicare patients that ranges from 5.2 percent in New York to a high of 16.3 percent in Alabama, the report concluded. In Alabama, nearly 39 percent of the oldest boomers are obese.read more here

Video From Last night

2009-06-27T08:52:00.001-05:00

Big thanks to Derek for the filming and speedy video editing.

Critical Mass June 2009 from Derek Johnson on Vimeo.

Last Nights Photos

2009-06-27T07:31:00.001-05:00

more here

Video from Tuesday Night Ride

2009-06-24T09:48:00.000-05:00

Tuesday Night Ride from Derek Johnson on Vimeo.

Huntsville Bicycle Weekend More Info

2009-06-23T12:45:00.003-05:00

Thanks Two Five Fix for the Graphic, Time etc :)

There is still time to start your Bicycle Art Projects and here is some more info:

T- Shirt Printing @ the Bicycle Art Show
Bring a blank T - Shirt Friday to the show if you would like to have it printed on. It's Free!!!!!!!!!

Bicycle Art Show Drop Off:
Thursday 25th from 12 -4 and Friday the 26th 12 - 4 you can drop off your Art work downstairs at Lowe Mill. If you want to help out and decorate the room please stop by.

Potluck Drop off and Info:
Friday 26th Downstairs @ Lowe Mill from 12 - 4 or bring it with you on the ride. If you want to use the BBQ it will be fired up and ready for use that night. Please try and bring real plates if you can and take them with you when it is over. Keep in mind we are trying to create less trash and food taste like crap on styrofoam and paper plates. There is also the Bike Blender so you can pedal your way to margaritas or smoothies bring your own fruit or mixes.

Friday's Critical Mass and Bicycle Art Show Party June 26
SE Corner of Courthouse Downtown Meet @ 6:30 pm and ride starts @ 7pm. Bring lights, noisemakers, signs and your voice for the biggest party on two wheels. Keep in mind this is to encourage people to ride a bicycle instead of drive, so be nice to motorists and encourage them with waves, smiles and joy!!!!! Remember this is fun!!!! There is still time to add your music to the DJ Bike Playlist here the DJ Bike is Solar Powered and loud so get ready to dance !!!!!!!!!!! Bicycle Art Show starts at 8pm At Lowe Mill

Saturday's The Hot Mess Alley Cat June 27
8:30 PM behind Bicycles Etc. Two person teams bring a cell phone with a camera or a camera and meet at the Lumberyard directly behind Bicycles Etc. you will need lights on your bike and helmets are encouraged. Plus you can go faster:) more info at Two Five Fix here

Sunday's Vintage Ride June 28
2 PM Meet at Huntsville Middle School @ 817 Adams

Sunday Bicycle Polo June 28
4pm Optimist Park Come out and play or watch and cheer your favorites on!!!
--
More Events @ http://www.bellovelo.com

Critical Mass Art Extravaganza Playlist

2009-06-18T09:00:00.003-05:00

The DJ Tyler is now compiling your playlists for the DJ Bike so put your song suggestions in the comments.

Come on...........!!!!! is this not the best!!!!!!

2009-06-17T22:10:00.002-05:00

from woostercollective via autoblog

Alley Cat

2009-06-17T05:58:00.003-05:00

From twofivefix

Bicycle harassment ordinance passes unanimously

2009-06-16T09:40:00.002-05:00

From the Missourian

COLUMBIA — A bicyclist harassment ordinance passed unanimously at the City Council meeting Monday after nearly an hour and a half of debate.

The ordinance makes harassment of bicyclists — including throwing objects, verbal assault and other offenses — a misdemeanor offense punishable by a $1,000 fine or one year of jail time, the council said.

After the lengthy testimony from citizens and discussion by the council, the ordinance passed with plans to amend it at the July 20 City Council meeting. At that time, the ordinance will be expanded to include other types of pedestrian traffic.

The delay in a decision was due to debate over who should be covered under the harassment ordinance. Some council members felt the ordinance should be more broad and encompass other types of pedestrian traffic, while others thought protecting bicyclists was important now and the rest could be added later.

Many in the bicycling community showed up to voice their feelings about the ordinance. Twenty individuals, some with children in tow, lined up to wait for their turn at the microphone. All 20 supported the ordinance.

Bike Pool

2009-06-15T08:08:00.000-05:00

From Streetfilms

On the second Friday of the month, the Transportation Alternatives Queens Committee leads a bike pool along Queens Boulevard. This street is a critical yet dangerous part of many Queens bike commutes. By riding in a group each month, pool members aim to educate drivers that bikes are on the street, make a statement about the need for a bike lane, and give the borough's bike commuters a safe ride home.

I joined up with the ride last month. The next bike pool is tomorrow -- Friday, June 12.

New Urbanism: Built to Last

2009-06-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

No really check this out!!

Scholarship established in memory of former AHS student

2009-06-14T08:21:00.000-05:00

The Sarah Chapman “Ray of Sunshine” Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established by her parents, Charles and Gloria Chapman, at The University of Alabama in Huntsville.

Additionally, her friends, family and fellow students contributed funds to the endowment. They established the scholarship to honor Chapman, a third year marketing major and communications art minor student at UAH, who was killed in a bicycle accident late last summer near the university’s campus.

“Two days before her death, Sarah told members of her sorority that she wanted to be remembered as a ray of sunlight that brightened everyone’s day. With this scholarship, she will forever brighten the lives of UAH students who receive the scholarship,” her parents said. “At the time of her death, she was receiving three scholarships. Establishing this scholarship is a way to give back to the university. She loved her college experience at UAH and she was very involved with campus activities. She had wonderful friends and teachers who loved her. This is our way of saying thanks to UAH.

“We would also like to thank our friends who helped build the scholarship fund; parents and teachers of Heritage and Columbia Elementary Schools in Madison, friends and colleagues at Athens State University and Sarah’s UAH friends and faculty members. Their outpouring of love and support helped us get through the past nine months.”

The scholarship will be presented annually beginning in 2010 to outstanding female students enrolled in the College of Business Administration with first preference going to sophomore students who demonstrate leadership potential and who are actively involved in campus activities.

Chapman began attending UAH three years ago. She served in the Student Government Association and was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. She also served as a Lancer, the official student ambassadors for the university. Friends and faculty at UAH remember Chapman as an intelligent and hard working young woman, who possessed a natural curiosity and an abundance of confidence.

She graduated from Athens High School in 2006 where she was the yearbook editor and was active in many clubs and organizations such as the Sub Deb Service Society.

Accident/theft/hazard reporting

2009-06-11T10:47:00.002-05:00

Bikewise is a website that some of us have started using for reporting past accidents and thefts. We also report current hazards that cyclists should be prepared for and some that the city should address. Add yours and help keep each other safe. The website should autodetect your location but some firewalls may not allow it.

A Herd of Lawn Chairs for Weary Tourists

2009-06-11T08:33:00.001-05:00

From NYTimes

Forget the surreal prospect of a trafficless Times Square. Never mind the progressive transportation agenda.
The scene-stealing star of the city’s newly opened, $1.5 million pedestrian plaza project may be its fleet of folding lawn chairs, humble refugees from the Ace Hardware catalog that have colonized the Broadway pavement.

In candy-stripe shades of pink, blue and green, the 376 rubber folding chairs and loungers are an unlikely import from the sphere of suburban swimming pools and budget trips to the beach. Average purchase price: about $15 apiece, or 0.001 percent of the project’s total budget.

Since their Memorial Day debut, the chairs have quickly entered the zeitgeist, earning criticism from the mayor and wonderment from pedestrians, who have pronounced them both tacky and endearing. The obligatory merchandise tie-in has already appeared: a pair of local designers produced a T-shirt that replaces the heart in “I ♥ New York” with a lounge chair. A few dozen have already sold.
read more here

Ben Sollee Xtracycle Tour

2009-06-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

From Fuckgas

Pedaling Against Poverty Day 1 - Lexington to Frankfort, KY from marty benson on Vimeo.