Who wants to join our track team?

I valeted bikes at the 2009 Enviro Expo, all weekend, which gave me plenty of time to proselytize about bicycles to curious passersby, talk shop with several cyclists new to the city, and swipe handfuls of Lara Bar and Cascadian granola samples when their keepers’ backs were turned.

I also had opportunity to speak with fellow Atlanta Bicycle Coalition member John Tackett; this is when I learned he is made of iron and baffling science. John ran the Chickamauga Battlefield Marathon Nov. 14 in 3:13:00, which, if you’re familiar with running and marathon times, you know is jaw-droppingly fast.

So, as usual, we talked about bikes, then we spoke at length about marathons and running.

"Governor Certifies $66 million in transportation projects;" bicycle and pedestrian Transportation projects miss the boat

"Today Governor Sonny Perdue announced that he has certified $65.8 million in transportation projects under the “1511 Certification” that will be funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). These projects will bring safety improvements and needed maintenance and support to roads, intersections and bridges around Georgia ,” said Governor Perdue . “The federal funds will make our roads safe and strengthen our transportation network.”

Bicyclist killed in Woodstock

ABC is saddened to share news of the death of a bicyclist in Woodstock yesterday. Initial reports were light on details, but it now appears the man was riding on the sidewalk against traffic and did not see the van emerging from a parking lot. Woodstrock police have stated it is unlikely the driver will face charges. ABC is in contact with the AJC reporter on this story (read more for details) to request additional information and to point out discrepancies in how the story was reported. We have also contacted the Woodstock police to ensure that the driver faces appropriate consequences if warranted. Now that we know the bicyclist was riding on the sidewalk, probably because he felt unsafe biking in the street, we should all ask our elected officials when they will think it's worthwhile to invest in safe and livable streets for all users. Link to the story.

Whoops! Technical Difficulties

We caused a couple bugs while switching over to the new site, but most things seem to be working fine. If there are any issues you'd like us to know about, please let me know.

Website update coming soon

Ah, technology.  It can make life so much easier, but first you have to bend it to your will.  Over the past few months we've been working on updating our website to a newer version of Drupal (a free, open source content management system - it's like our online back office).  In so doing we will be able to link registered website users with ABC members.  We think this will reduce the paper, postage, and time spent on membership renewals and create a simpler, more fully automated process.

London mayor rides bike, saves girl

Attention Atlanta mayoral candidates: here's how you can fight crime while protecting the environment: "London Mayor Boris Johnson rescued a woman attacked by a group of girls wielding a metal bar after answering her plea for help during an evening bicycle ride, a spokeswoman for his office said Wednesday." Full story here.

Monthly Member Spotlight

We're kicking off a new feature each month - a chance for you to meet some of the great members in our ranks as well as learn more about the different types of bicycle users among us.
November Member Spotlight - Kyle Torok


Zipcar deals for ABC members

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We think Zipcar is a nifty alternative for folks who occasionally need to borrow a car without a lot of hassle. It's also a great option if you are thinking about ditching your personal car but want the security of a set of wheels for longer distances or emergencies.

Now thanks to our local Zipcar affiliate - ABC Members can take advantage of this great service for a fraction of the regular cost of joining.

2009 Blinkie Award nominations now open

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Every year, ABC recognizes the people, places, and businesses doing the most to make Atlanta bicycle-friendly. You can help us out by submitting your nominations below!  Blinkie awards are handmade from recycled bicycle parts and wood by volunteer Jeff McMichael.  These conversation pieces are awarded at the annual Members' Night (date tentatively scheduled for January 23, 2010).  

Atlanta Bike Geeks: now accepting "applications"

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Geek - it's a term of endearment.  Founded in Chicago, bikegeeks provide technical assistance to organizations working to Break the Gridlock through saner transportation policies advanced by grassroots advocacy efforts. Atlanta Bike Geeks got its start when I realized that many of the most intelligent, creative bike advocates (yes, I am buttering them up) in our city were working on mapping projects that benefit cyclists and encourage more people to ride bikes.  Connecting the bytes seemed like the next logical step, so a Google group was born.  Next up: get together on Saturday, November 15 to share current projects and ideas.