Bicyclist

MICHIGAN

Summer 2016 PROMOTING BICYCLING AND THE SAFETY OF

BICYCLISTS ON MICHIGAN ROADWAYS

In this issue:
Michigan CAN and MUST do better
Finishing the Ride in Kalamazoo
Advocacy Day Recap
Laws Pertaining to Bicyclists
What We Are Doing Now Just Advocacy in Action Safe Routes, Bright Futures
And More! Isnt Working Page 5 Page 7
Page 3
 Small Revolutions Create Change
Steve Roach - LMB Board Chair
The League of Michigan Bicyclists, or LMB, is
a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization devoted This article is my last as the are too many who believe it appropriate to
exclusively to the advancement of bicycling. Chair of the LMB Board. get tanked up and get behind the wheel of
Our mission is to promote bicycling and increase
the safety of bicyclists on Michigan roadways. It has been an honor and a two ton vehicle. There are too many who
privilege to serve on the simply refuse to acknowledge that we are
Michigan Bic yclist Magazine is a LMB
Board for the last nine not all the same, but have different pursuits,
member benefit. It is published as part of our
ongoing educational efforts. It helps inform years, and as the Chair for different passions, and different beliefs.
Michigan cyclists, law enforcement, policy the last four. I am proud of
makers, the engineering and planning Please email and call your State Representative
communities and others on issues affecting
what LMB has accomplished to make bicycling
and your State Senator and ask them to pass
bicycling in Michigan. better in Michigan. My fellow Directors are
important bicycle safety legislation (See our
passionate and committed to LMB.
Michigan Bicyclist Copyright 2016 Action Alert on page 2). Encourage your family
On the Cover: Bicyclists finish the ride for The recent tragedies in Kalamazoo, Eaton and friends to do the same. We owe it to our
victims of the Kalamazoo cycling tragedy on
County, Detroit, and on Mackinac Island weigh state, we owe it to our community, we owe
June 14, 2016.
heavily on my mind. How many more cyclists it to our friends and family, and we owe it to
Photo courtesy: David Jones
must die before our state legislature will pass ourselves. We also owe it to Susan Cummings,
Editor, Art & Design: ANETA KIERSNOWSKI statutes that mandate a safe passing distance Debra Bradley, Melissa Fevig-Hughes, Fred
Letters/Comments/Advertisements may be of five feet, provide vulnerable roadway user Anton Tony Nelson, Lorenz Larry Paulik,
directed to: aneta@LMB.org protections, and truly address distracted and Suzanne Sippel and too many others
driving? I think far too many have already died. whom motorists have murdered in our state.
LMB Directors:
If you agree, please join me, the LMB staff, and
MEREDITH BEGIN How many more must die before we do
the LMB Board in calling for change.
DAVE BOURGEAULT something? Please join me in making
JIM CARPENTER We need clear delineation on how bicycles and Michigan bicycling better. Together we can
LINDSEY DESARMO, Secretary motor vehicles interact. The current legislation make this happen!
NORMAN COX of a safe distance is insufficient as it fails to
DAVID JONES, Treasurer provide a metric for enforcement. Five feet is I am extraordinarily proud of the vibrancy of
MICHEAEL REUTER definite. It is impossible to argue that the side the LMB Board. You are represented by fine
STEVEN ROACH, Chair view mirror love tap is five feet. The five foot Board members who are devoted to making
YVONNE RUCKER rule eliminates the common assertion that the Michigan bicycling better.
Printed with
MICHAEL SHEEAN recycled content motorist was passing at a safe distance but
BRYAN WALDMAN When I first joined the Board, Rich Moeller
the bicyclist swerved into their lane. Five feet
BRYAN WILKINSON was our Executive Director. Rich guided
provides adequate space for a cyclist to avoid
us through difficult times, financially and
Staff potholes, broken glass, and other dangerous
operationally, and addressed the Boards
road debris.
JOHN LINDENMAYER prior dysfunctional governance. Rich fixed
Executive Director The vulnerable roadway user expansion some broken parts, replaced others, and
john@LMB.org is designed to provide an additional level gave LMB a much needed tune-up. One of his
of protection to bicyclists, pedestrian, and most significant contributions was grooming
ANETA KIERSNOWSKI
wheelchair users. Codifying this into law is John Lindenmayer who now serves as LMBs
Development & Communications
Coordinator long overdue. Executive Director. We are in excellent hands.
aneta@LMB.org
Distracted driving is illegal and irrespon- LMB accomplished a number of significant
sible. It creates a huge risk to other improvements for bicycling in Michigan
BEN SAINT-ONGE
users of the roads. However, the penalties over the last nine years, including the
Administrative Assistant
do not reflect the huge risks involved adoption of Complete Streets, mandatory
ben@LMB.org
in doing so. We need real enforcement. bicycle education for drivers-ed, and a right
League of Michigan Bicyclists Although we all should treat each other turn hand signal revision. We have raised
with dignity and respect and should value awareness of cycling in Michigan. We have
416 S. Cedar St. Suite A, Lansing, MI 48912 each others lives, too many do not. There demonstrated that we belong when we are
(517) 334-9100 are too many who text while driving. There on bicycles and that we provide a huge
www.LMB.org
Small Revolutions continued on page 14

1 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016

Directors Hub
John Lindenmayer LMB Executive Director
There simply are no words.
Nine cyclists mowed down,
five killed, four seriously
injured. The headlines of
the Kalamazoo tragedy
on June 7th, 2016, were
unfathomable. They shook
the cycling community in Michigan and beyond.
Like everyone cyclists and non-cyclists alike
LMB was shocked by this senseless tragedy. On
behalf of the board, staff, and membership, LMB
extends our deepest condolences to the family
and friends of those impacted. We also send
heartfelt well wishes to the recovering victims.
Two weeks to the day following the tragedy, I
visited the roadside memorial to honor Debra
Bradley, Melissa Fevig-Hughes, Fred Anton
Tony Nelson, Lorenz Larry Paulik, and
Suzanne Sippel, the five killed cyclists.
It was an emotional and powerful experience
to see the flowers, photos, and bicycle-related
trinkets left on the five white ghost bikes. As
I stood at the crash site, I couldnt help but ask
myself what if? What if the cyclists left Markin
Glen Park five minutes earlier? Five minutes later?
What if local lawenforcement apprehended the
driver beforehand as a result of the numerous
911 calls reporting anerratic driver? What if the
driver simply had put a higher value on life
both his and others and decided not to drive
while under the influence?
www.kalamazoostrongorganization.org.
But as a cycling community, we also need
to coalesce around change. Granted, no
amount of drivers education, infrastructure,
or policy initiatives could have changed the
outcome that fateful evening. You simply
cannot legislate against willful and wanton
disregard for human life.
This case is so horrific and high profile it
is doubtful that the prosecutor will seek
anything but the harshest of penalties.
Already, thedriver has been charged charged
with five counts of second-degree murder
and four counts of reckless driving causing
serious impairment. Sadly though, that is not
always the case. Far too often, drivers who
injure or kill cyclists receive lenient slap-on-
the-wrist sentences. Far to often, blame is
shifted to the victims with statements about
how they shouldnt have been riding in the
road in the first place. Far to often, media
reports lack substance, offering little more than
whether the cyclist was wearing a helmet, as if
that is even relevant information about what
caused the crash.
These same media reports often even fail to
call these tragedies by their proper name.
They are crashes. Bicycle fatalities are not
accidents. The word accident downplays the
significance of these life-changing incidents.
Accidents imply that nothing could have
been done to prevent it. Rarely is that actually
the case. The word accident, in essence, lets
the driver off the hook in the same way we do
a toddler who knocks over a drinkits just
an accidentno big deal.
Serious injuries and loss of life is a big deal. Most
cyclists deaths are completely preventable.
We must demand a change in the way that
we talk about and report bicycle crashes. That
includes law enforcement and the media, but
Directors Hub continued on page 14

Sadly, what ifs dont change anything. What

ifs cant bring back the cyclists. What ifs cant
heal the physical and emotionaltrauma of Paul
Gobble, Sheila Jeske, Jennifer Johnson, and Paul
Runnels, the foursurviving cyclists. What ifs offer
little reconciliation to the families and friends of
the victims. And what ifs cant heal the larger
cycling community and general public who are
still vacillating between emotions of despair,
heartache, bewilderment, and anger.

So what can we do in the wake of this horrific

event? Obviously, continued thoughts and
prayers for the victims are in order, as is
continued financial support. Please consider
making a donation to help the victims families
via the Kalamazoo Strong Foundation at

2
 What We Are Doing Now Just Isnt Working
Norman Cox - LMB Board Member
Tuesday, June 7th, 2016 in Kalamazoo was
a proverbial plane crash in the world of
bicycling. The tragic loss of numerous lives
in the blink of an eye shook the country and
made people question their own safety when
riding a bike. But soon our collective attention
will switch to a new headline and I fear that
nothing will change to avoid the next bicyclist
fatality. The people who died were avid cyclists,
and for those of us who can easily picture our
own faces up at the top of the news article
next to theirs, it is our duty to do what
we can to make our roads safer for all
bicyclists so this does not happen again.
Two days after the crash, I was in
Kalamazoo to facilitate a meeting devoted
to improving pedestrian and bicycle safety
in the region. It is a standing meeting
convened by the Michigan Department of
Transportation (MDOT) to open lines
of communication between those
who build and manage our road-
ways with advocates and community
stakeholders. One of the meetings regu-
lars knew someone who lost her life
in that crash. We of course spent time
discussing the crash, but that was not
the only bad news discussed that day.
At the end of the meeting we looked at
the recently released crash data from 2015 for
MDOTs Southwest Region. The picture that
data showed was troubling. We went from
one fatal bicycle crash in 2014 to five fatal
bicycle crashes in 2015.
The crash that happened in Kalamazoo has
been described as an anomaly. We simply
do not see crashes like this where so many
people lose their lives at once. But it was not an
anomaly in that the person driving the motor
3 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016
vehicle killed the person riding the bike. That is
always the case, but when it happens one life at
a time, it does not make it past the local news.
I reviewed Michigan data over the past twelve
years and have yet to find a case where a person
walking or riding a bicycle caused the death of
a person driving a motor vehicle. The mobility
of people who drive comes at the expense of
the lives of bicyclists and pedestrians. Many
of the people who walk and bike do so out of
necessity due to their age, financial circumstance,
physical or cognitive abilities, etc. And that, I think
we can all agree, is simply not acceptable. No one
should die simply because they dont drive a car.
So what do we do? First, we ALL make a
commitment to see everyone else on the road
as people, regardless of how they get around.
We work to understand each other and share
our roads safely. We can do that today.
Second, as a society, we must prioritize the
safety of the most vulnerable users in the
design, funding, and enforcement of our
roadways. Currently, pedestrians and bicyclists
are given the scraps of road rights-of-way
and funding. We have made great strides in
automobile safety. It is now time to focus our
attention to the other users of the roadway.
Third, and I am convinced that this is key, we
should embrace self-driving cars and smart car
technology. Though this field is still
developing, it has the potential to help
make roads safer. We humans have not
proven ourselves worthy to operate
motor vehicles safely. Think Im wrong?
Tell that to the family and friends of the
38,000 people each year that die on
our nations roads, 15% of which are
pedestrians and bicyclists. In Michigan,
17% of the fatal and incapacitating
injuries are people who were walking
or riding a bike. In some Michigan
cities, people on foot and bike account
for 30 to 40% of the total number of
traffic fatalities. And remember this,
a smart car would not let an impaired
driver get behind the wheel and plow
through a pack of bicyclists killing five
of them.
We can make it safe for all people to use our
roadways, but nothing will change unless we
decide it is finally time to make the necessary
commitments. History has taught us that great
tragedy can be a catalyst for positive change.
And change is necessary, for what we are doing
now just isnt working.
Adapted from The Greenway Collaborative, Inc.s
blog at greenwaycollab.com/discussion
Finishing the Ride for the Chain Gang
David Jones - LMB Board and Kalamazoo Bicycle Club Member
The Chain Gang is a group of non-competitive
cyclists that ride together on Tuesday
evenings in the Kalamazoo area. Mark Rose
and Brit Gustafson founded the group
in 1999. In the early 2000s, the Chain
Gang organized the local Ride of Silence
in Kalamazoo. Around 2011, Steve and
Jennifer Johnson took over the leadership
and promotion of the group rides while
continuing the rides causal nature.
On Tuesday, June 7th, nine members of the
Chain Gang headed out on their usual 28
mile ride from Gull Road up to Plainwell and
back. At about 6:40 p.m., tragedy struck
on North Westnedge, just north of Markin
Glenn Park. The nine cyclists were struck by a
motorist who had been reported to local law
enforcement for driving erratically three
times in the 30 minutes prior to the crash.
Tony Nelson, Debbie Bradley, Melissa
Fevig-Houghes, Suzanne Sipple ,and Larry
Paulik were all killed. Sheila Jeske, Paul
Runnels, Paul Gobble, and Jennifer Johnson
were all injured and hospitalized.
The Kalamazoo cycling communities, as well
as cyclists across the country, were shocked by
this horrendous act and have come together
in various ways to grieve in unity.
The day after the tragedy, a somber
Wednesday evening, a very loosely organized
tribute ride set out with more than 500
participants. Thursday evening, a prayer
service was held at Saint Thomas More
Catholic Student Parish, where both
Tony Nelson and Larry Paulik were
parishioners. On the evening of Sunday,
June 12th, the River Church held a
Peace-Pray-Pedal Ride for Kalamazoo. Both
Governor Snyder and State Senator Margaret
OBrien attended this ride. In the days and
weeks since the crash, various Rides of Silence
and other tribute rides were held across the
state and beyond.
By far, however, the tribute that received
the most attention was the Finish the Ride
event attended by Lance Armstrong. On
Tuesday, June 14th, over 700 cyclists came
together to complete the ride that was
cut short by tragedy one week before.
This is part of the healing process for all
of us, Kalamazoo Mayor Bobby Hopewell
stated as he addressed the group before the
ride. We cant allow the evil and stupidity
and ignorance of those that decide to harm
folks through their actions to stop us from
living our lives.
Mark Rose also addressed the riders saying,
I know this ride is for our lost friends. I want
the ride to be a memorial to them but to
also continue to raise awareness of not only
the cycling community, but the running and
walking communities.
In less than a week, the Chain Gang,
Kalamazoo Bicycle Club, Team Clark Logic,
Kalamazoo Strong Organization, Tri-Kats,
LifeEMS, and law enforcement from five
jurisdictions came together to plan and
implement the ride.
Armstrong spoke of when he heard
of the crash. It was a moment that
you cant ever imagine happening...
Over the years there are tragedies and
incidents but nothing on this level. Lance
went on to say Lets go do it again. Well
finish the ride for those fallen and well
finish the ride for those still in the hospital
who cant be here. A moment of silence
followed a prayer and the group began
the ride, as members of Chain Gang and
Armstrong led the way.
The streets along the way were lined with
local residents. Many held signs or cheered
on the riders, shouting we love you
and Kalamazoo Strong. As the group Top: Before the ride, Lance Armstrong speaks with Steve Johnson,
approached the site of the crash, where member of the Chain Gang and husband Jennifer Johnson, who
five ghost bikes now mark the spot, the survived the crash.
riders slowed. Many put their hands over Middle: A pair of broken glasses from one of the nine victims was
placed among flowers and other tokens on one of the ghost bikes.
their hearts. Though it was an emotional
Bottom: About 700 bicyclists finished the ride for the killed and
moment, the riders continued on to finish injured members of the Chain Gang on June 14th, 2016.
the ride for the nine members of the Chain
Gang who couldnt. Photos by David Jones and John Lindenmayer.
4
Advocacy In Action
Advocates of all ages sit down with lawmakers to discuss positive changes for MI Bicycling.
On May 25, 2016, bicyclists from across the
state, flanked by members of the Lansing
and East Lansing Police Departments, made
a grand entrance onto the State Capitol Lawn.
The bicyclists descended on the Capitol for
the 2016 Lucinda Means Bicycle Advocacy
Day. During this annual event, hosted by LMB,
People to Educate all Bicyclists, Michigan
Trails and Greenways Alliance, and the Michigan
Mountain Biking Association, nearly 100
bicyclists met face-to-face with Michigan
lawmakers to discuss important policy issues.
This year, participants advanced four
major initiatives:
5-foot Safe Passage Law
Michigan is one of 11 states that has not
codified a safe distance for motorists to pass
bicyclists. In 2015, 55% of bicycle crashes
were reported to have occurred when the
bicyclist was going straight ahead. A five foot
safe passing law would help to significantly
decrease crashes from behind.
Vulnerable Roadway User Protections
This legislation creates more severe
penalties for drivers who injure or kill
5 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016
vulnerable roadway users including
bicyclists, pedestrians, and wheelchair
users. Drivers would face enhanced fines
and jail time if they committed a criminal
moving violation that resulted in the
injury or death of a non-motorized user
as long as that non-motorized user was
following Michigan traffic laws.
Prevent Needless Traffic Stops for Bike Racks
Rep. Gay-Dagnogo with LMBs John Lindenmayer, presenting
Cosponsors were sought for Representative House Resolution 296 declaring May Bike Month.
Geiss bill (HB 5715) to clarify the definition
of an obstructed license plate to ensure a
As the days meetings unfolded, participants
bicycle rack or hitch mounted device is not
reported great conversations and feedback
grounds for a traffic stop. (See page 9 for
from legislators regarding these issues.
more details on this legislation.)
A highlight of the event was the
Create E-Bike Definition and Regulations
presentation of House Resolution 296,
E-bikes, or electric assisted bicycles, have
which declared the month of May as Bike
recently become increasingly popular in
Month. This Resolution was supported by
Michigan. Laws to define and regulate them
lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and
in our state, however, have not kept pace
enthusiastically presented to Advocacy
with this new technology. National standards
Day participants by Representative Sherry
that enumerate a tiered classification system
Gay-Dagnogo of Detroit. The support
that allows e-bikes to be ridden on roads
of the legislators, and the embrace of the
similar to traditional bicycles have been
bicycling community by Rep. Gay-Dagnogo, left
adapted elsewhere and should be included
participants hopeful of progress on the issues
in the Michigan Vehicle Code as well.
discussed during their legislative meetings .
Bicyclists on the State Capitol steps before their meetings with lawmakers during Bicycle Advocacy Day on May 25th, 2016.
Congratulations to LMB Award Winners
This year at Lucinda Means Bicycle
Advocacy Day, LMB recognized
the following individuals and
organizations for their work
to promote bicycling and
bicycle safety in Michigan.
Congratulations to our 2016
awardees!
Left to Right: Yvonne Rucker, Michael Reuter, Ed St. Peter, John
Lindenmayer, Rick Oberle, Rick Plite, and Heather Nugen (Back
Alley Bikes). Not Pictured: Luanne St. Peter and Suzy McCain.
Rick Oberle
Jim Dougherty Distinguished Service Award
Rick first become involved with LMB shortly
after meeting Lucinda Means and becom-
ing indoctrinated with her leadership by
example ethos. Upon Lucindas untimely
passing in 2005, Rick put his finger in the
dam and stepped in as the Interim Executive
Director of LMB. He was instrumental in
keeping operations moving during that
difficult time, while still introducing new
ideas and approaches to the organization.
Since then, Rick has continued to contribute
to LMBs office by maintaining administration
of our electronic databases.
Michael Reuter
Bicycle Advocate Award
Michael is the CEO of American Cycle
and Fitness (ACF), Michigans largest
independent bicycle retailer. Michael is a
dedicated regular participant in LMBs Bicycle
Advocacy Day as well as the National Bike
Summit in Washington DC where he seeks to
encourage legislators to support more bicycle
friendly policies. ACF has helped to promote
cycling throughout the state with its support
for local events and through the service and
knowledge they share with every customer.
Back Alley Bikes
Community Support for Bicycling Award
Back Alley Bikes is a non-profit community
bike shop that has been serving the Detroit
area for 15 years and is largely funded by The
Hub of Detroit. With a focus on youth develop-
ment, sustainable practices, and community Luanne St. Peter, Ed St. Peter,
access, the mission of Back Alley Bikes is to Suzy McCain
provide cycling education and services. Back Volunteers of the Year
Alley Bikes works to invigorate and uplift its LMB is extremely grateful for all the
community with a thriving bike culture. wonderful volunteers who give their time
to our bicycle events and tours. Last year,
Yvonne Rucker when major storms rendered the planned
Bicycle Educator Award
route for Shoreline West impassable and
Yvonne is the Executive Director and Founder
dangerous, Ed, Luanne, and Suzy helped to
of BikeVON, a non-profit organization created
safely re-route the riders, clearing the road
to promote bike awareness, affordability,
and accessibility for the youth of color in the of debris and marking the route for the next
Metro Detroit area. BikeVON teaches the laws day. Luanne first became involved with LMB
and rules of smart cycling while showing in 2008 as a volunteer route marker, with
communities how to support bicyclists. Ed joining Luanne as a way of being able to
Through her work with BikeVON, Yvonne spend quality time with her. Suzy McCain
empowers youth of color in Detroit in the began her volunteer work as a way to stay
movement to create safer roads, stronger involved in the world of cycling after a serious
communities, and a bicycle-friendly Detroit. bicycling crash in 1998.
Rick Plite
Ralph Finneren Encouragement Award
Rick works to promote the world of bicycle
racing. His business, KissCross Events, puts on
the Barry Roubaix, Lumberjack, and a number
of other cyclocross races. These great events
make bicycle races a lot of fun for the partici-
pants and for spectators. Rick also worked with
the City of Hastings, the Hastings Downtown
Development Authority, and the Barry County
Road Commission to have permanent route
marking signs installed for the Barry-Roubaix
courses. Thanks to his encouragement and
promotion, many new people have come
around to the bicycling community.
6
 Safe Routes, Bright Futures
Thomas Bauman
The East Lansing School District is moving
along with its first district-wide Safe
Routes to School (SRTS) Mini-Grant for the
2016/2017 school year. The grant will pay for a
part-time SRTS Coordinator and cover
expenses to educate and encourage students
to walk or bike to school.
The seeds for this were sown a long time ago.
In the fall of 2008, a group of boy scouts, the
Marble Weblos, asked the East Lansing School
Board why they couldnt ride their bikes to
school. At the time the East Lansing School
District did not allow elementary school
children to ride bikes to and from school.
Under the leadership of Erich Ditschman,
the Weblos pack rode their bikes to a school
board meeting where they presented
research and pointed out the many benefits
of biking to school, like keeping physically
fit and reducing car congestion at schools.
This event sparked interest among other
parents and resulted in a committee to start
a SRTS program at Marble and Glencairn
Elementary Schools.
Meg Thomas Ackerman, Director of SRTS -
Michigan Fitness Foundation (MFF), explains
that SRTS started in Michigan in 2003 as
a pilot project. This actually predated its
inception at the national level in 2005. MFF is
7 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016
Thomas Baumann leads the way as about 230 students from MacDonald Middle School
ride their bikes to Project ACES on MSUs Campus.
an organization that aims to inspire active
lifestyles and healthy food choices. In Michigan,
MFF administers the SRTS program throughout
the state by providing technical assistance,
education and training, grant application
support, and grant review for SRTS projects.
The SRTS program at Glencairn and Marble
Elementary Schools focused on walking
to school, but also developed an action
plan that included bike safety education.
Walk to School Days were first held in 2009.
The program continued for a couple of
years, but was hampered by the fact that
it was only implemented at two of the six
elementary schools in the district. Many of the
engaged parents also became less involved as
their kids graduated to other buildings.
In late 2015, another parent group
formed with the goal to write an
application for an Active Transportation
Mini-Grant. In contrast to past SRTS efforts,
this program was more equitable as it would
apply to all K8 schools in the district. An
East Lansing SRTS Coordinator would be
established to help organize activities at
each building. The school district, the City
of East Lansing, and the East Lansing Police
Department collaborated to submit the
application early this year. It was approved,
allowing us to start with SRTS activities in the
coming school year!
According to Ackerman, there are two
SRTS grants currently available to schools
and school districts in Michigan. The first
type is a Mini-Grant, such as the Active
Transportation Mini-Grant, that can be used
for non-infrastructure purposes. Eligible
activities include encouragement, education,
and enforcement projects. The awards range
up to $5,000 per school for individual schools,
and up to $25,000 for districts or multiple
schools within a district.
The second type of funding, the main SRTS
grant, includes both infrastructure and
non-infrastructure related projects. These
grants are a much larger undertaking that
involve assessing the area around schools for
safety, surveying parents and students, and
creating an action plan for improvements.
Examples of infrastructure improvements
include installation or replacement of sidewalks,
crosswalk improvements, pedestrian refuge
islands, pedestrian crossing mechanisms, and
non-motorized pathways, among others.
The average infrastructure grant is $200,000
per school plus an additional $8,000
in required non-infrastructure funding.
East Lansing hopes to apply for an SRTS
infrastructure grant in the near future. The
current Mini-Grant will help create awareness
of existing issues and plan for infrastructure
improvements. The Mini-Grant also enables us to
engage students by offering activities designed
to encourage active transportation like East
Lansing Walk and Roll Safety Day, that is planned
for August 27. Other events will be Walk to
group ride to the football stadium was a perfect
opportunity to mix exercise and socializing.
Weeks after the event, Cregg said the kids were
still talking about it. They said the bike ride to
campus was so much fun and asked if they can
do it every day. Some kids even made plans
to bike together over the summer break. The LMBs John Lindenmayer aboard Amtraks converted
event really got the kids to look forward to the control unit outfitted with mounted bicycle parking.

School days throughout the school year and the beginning of the SRTS program in the fall!
coordination of walking school buses.
Bikes on Trains : Victory!
Walking or biking to school gives students an In May, LMB was invited to an
While the Active Transportation Mini-Grant is set opportunity to begin their day with a clear event commemorating the
to begin at the start of the new school year, this focus that stimulates their brain for a day of start of Amtraks new checked
past spring Ackerman approached MacDonald learning. It is also a fun way to socialize with bicycle service aboard its Pere
Middle School in East Lansing with an idea to their friends in a positive way. Cregg, and the Marquette line. We were able
get the kids riding sooner. MFF coordinates an parents who support SRTS, are hopeful that to experience first-hand what
annual day of exercise programs that happen promoting active ways of getting to school will will be a valuable service to
also develop positive habits for their future. The bicyclists in Michigan and beyond.
simultaneously accross the sate, called Project
ACES (All Children Exercise Simultaneously). This hope is that the kids will carry these healthy
For a number of years, LMB has
year, Project ACES coincided with International habits through adulthood and one day even advocated for bicycles on trains,
Bike to School Day. Organizers at the school walk or bike to work. asking the Michigan Department
arranged a bike ride from the school to the MSU of Transportation (MDOT) and
Football Stadium. Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Amtrak to allow bicycles on-board
is an international movement, and Michigans three Amtrak routes.
Organizers were pleasantly surprised that 260 kids now a federal program, to make it safe,
convenient, and fun for children to bicycle In 2013, LMB delivered a petition
signed up to join the bike ride! While most of the with over 3,500 signatures from
middle-schoolers initially might have signed up and walk to school. When routes are safe,
Michigan bicyclists calling for bikes
to get out of school for a few hours, almost all of walking or biking to and from school is
on trains. Soon after, Amtrak and
them participated the day of the event despite a an easy way to get the regular physical
MDOT modified cafe cars on the
chilly and rainy forecast. Terri Cregg, a PE teacher activity children need for good health. Blue Water line to create an area to
at the middle school, believed the children were SRTS initiatives also help ease traffic jams secure up to four bicycles per train.
so enthusiastic because the ride offered some- and air pollution, unite neighborhoods,
and contribute to students readiness to This year, Amtrak took another step
thing different and exciting. At this age group,
learn in school. by incorporating checked bicycle
the kids enjoy freedom to explore and move
saferoutesmichigan.org services on the Pere Marquette Line.
around their environment. The kids also love to
be social and do things with their friends. The We have mounted 15 bike racks
in the control unit on each of the
230 bikes parked in front of the Spartan Stadium at Michigan State University after a ride for MFFs Project ACES, May 8, 2016. Pere Marquette trains in Michigan,
said Jim Brzezinski, Amtrak Senior
Regional Director, State Corridors.
This makes bringing your bike
along on these trips easy and gets
you on your wheels and pedaling
away immediately after arrival.

We commend Amtrak and MDOT on

taking this important step.

We also thank all of our members

and friends who supported
this action through the years.
Your efforts have resulted in
Photos by Chris Nowak this great victory!
For more information visit amtrak.com 8
 Roll the Videotape
BIKE RACKS THAT OBSTRUCT YOUR LICENSE PLATE: When a Michigan bicyclist
GROUNDS FOR A TRAFFIC STOP? got a ticket in 2015 for
Todd Briggs and Sarah Colegrove impeding traffic, he could
Summertime is here and cycling season is in Dunbars attorney argued that the officer have simply paid a $200
full swing. With so many great places to ride lacked a lawful basis to stop Dunbar since fine. But he believed the
in Michigan, many of us drive to our favorite
biking destination with our bike mounted
ordinary equipment, such as a tow ball,
could not be interpreted as obstructing
trooper who pulled him
on a bike rack on the rear of our vehicle. the license plate when the plate itself was over was wrong about the
clean and free of any debris as required law and hostile towards
Did you know that if your bike or bike rack
obstructs your license plate, you could be
by the statute. This interpretation of MCL bicyclists rights to use
subject to a traffic stop, cited for a civil
257.225(2) was ultimately rejected.
roads. So, he decided to fight.
infraction, and fined? A recent Michigan The Court ruled that license plates must be
Supreme Court decision made it clear clearly visible and any obstruction within From: Biker Obstructing Traffic? Nope
that the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code the control of the driver could be the basis Roll the Videotape! Mike Dayton - Bike Law
prohibits obstruction of a registration for a traffic stop. In other words, if your
It took two trips to the courthouse, but the
plate by an object attached to a vehicle. bike rack, trailer hitch, or bike obstructs
bicyclist prevailed, with help from Michigan
In other words, you could be breaking the your license plate, you can be lawfully
attorney Bryan Waldman, a member of the
law if your bike or bike rack blocks your stopped or cited for violating this statute.
Bike Law network [and a recent addition to
license plate. The fine for violating this The Supreme Court noted that nothing in
LMBs Board of Directors]. The troopers own
statute can be up to $155.00. the statute imposes liability on a person for
dash cam video proved crucial to the cyclists
conduct or circumstances outside of the
The Michigan Motor Vehicle Code states defense.
individuals control such as obstructions by
that your plate shall be maintained another vehicle, person, or environmental On Sunday, June 7, 2015, Tim Panagis decided
free from foreign materials that obscure condition (e.g. fog or snow). he would do the same thing he had done
or partially obscure the registration
Many bicyclists are justifiably unhappy almost every Sunday for the last several
information and in a clearly legible
with the ruling. In response, Michigan years: ride his bike on the rural roads of
condition MCL 257.225(2). While this
Rep. Erika Geiss introduced HB 5715, Washtenaw and Livingston Counties near his
law has been on the books for a long
LMBs bill seeking to amend the statute to home in Ann Arbor. Tim was joined by his
time, due to the wording of the statute,
state that foreign materials that obscure girlfriend (now fianc) Kathleen Ropella, Danny
there has been room to argue that use of
or partially obscure the registration Soltan and Tessa Perez. All were competitive
a bike rack does not violate the statute.
information does not include a tow ball, cyclists with years of experience.
Recently, however, any ambiguity was bicycle rack, removable hitch, or any
Like most bicyclists, the group had the
resolved when the Michigan Supreme other device designed to carry an object
occasional run-in with angry motorists. This
Court interpreted MCL 257.225(2) in the on the rear of your vehicle. However,
day, they would have yet another encounter
matter of People v. Dunbar. In that case, until the law is changed, if your bike, bike
with an angry motorist, but this one would
law enforcement pulled over Dunbar for rack, or trailer hitch obscures your license
be different. This angry driver was a Michigan
obstructing his license plate with a trailer plate, you can be stopped or issued a
State Trooper.
tow ball attached to his rear bumper. That citation. If you want to express your
stop led the police to discover drugs and dissatisfaction with the current law, The trooper was a 22-year road patrol
weapons in Dunbars car. contact your lawmakers. veteran for the State of Michigan. By all
accounts, he was respected by judges and
2016 Sarah W. Colegrove and Todd E. Briggs. Todd and prosecutors. On this day, just before noon,
Sarah are lawyers in private practice. In addition to helping
athletes injured in bicycle and sports-related accidents, they the trooper was traveling westbound on 8
concentrate in the areas of civil litigation, probate, trust and Mile Road in Green Oak Township when he
estate administration. Todd and Sarah are competitive
cyclists, swimmers and triathletes. Each has competed spotted the four cyclists traveling ahead of
in many state and national running, biking and triathlon him, going in the same direction.
competitions, including the Ironman. You can contact
them at the following address or telephone number:
Briggs Colegrove, P.C. As he approached the bikers, the trooper
660 Woodward Ave., Suite 1523 (313) 964-2077 noticed they were riding two abreast. He
Detroit, Michigan 48226 attorneys@briggscolegrove.com

9 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016

grabbed the microphone to the patrol car
PA system and instructed the cyclists to ride
single file. The riders complied, all riding either
on or just right of the fog line.
Tim was in the third position of the
single file pace line. He looked back
and saw the patrol car right on the
groups tail. Using his left hand,
Tim waved the officer through. In
Tims mind, he was simply doing
something cyclists do all the time:
communicating through the use of
hand signals.
But the trooper wasnt a cyclist.
He was a motorist, and motorists
no longer use hand signals to
communicate with each other.
More commonly they use hand
gestures to express negative
opinions. As a result, the trooper
was of the opinion that Tims
waving hand was anything but
a friendly gesture to assist the
trooper in making a safe pass.
The trooper pulled along
beside the cyclists and ordered
Tim to pull over. Tims riding
partners began to coast, but
Tim continued to pedal to
get to the front of the group
and distance himself from
the other cyclists. Once
out of his vehicle, trooper
approached Tim. The
trooper said:
It was not intended for
anybody to take any
kind of offense to it. I
was merely pointing out
what the law is so that
you would know what
it is. And all you did was pass somebody
right after I told you single file and then you
waved me on. Now, that to me gives me the
impression that you want to be a smart aleck!
Tim tried to explain that the trooper had
completely misread his intentions. However,
the trooper was clearly upset and would not
hear what Tim had to say. The trooper contin-
ued:
Do you know what the law says? (that
cyclists must ride) to the right edge of the
roadway,
not the white line, the right edge of the
roadway.
Tim asked if he would be receiving a ticket and
the trooper responded maybe. For what?
judge ruled against Tim, finding him guilty for
Tim asked. The trooper responded, For
interfering with traffic. Its called impeding.
You were in the roadway. You were to the left
of the white line.
Tim was issued a citation for a violation of
Michigan Compiled Law 257.676b Impeding
Traffic. The ticket
amount was $200. The
officers notations on the
statute read:
BICYCLIST RIDING IN
ROADWAY
WARNED TO RIDE SINGLE FILE
PASSED OTHER LEFT OF THE
FOG LINE.
Tim could have simply
paid the ticket rather than
fight it. However, he and
Bryan decided it was worth
standing up to a clear
misapplication of Michigans
biking laws. Tim had one just
one condition: if there was
any risk that his friends would
be charged, he would drop his
defense and pay the fine.
Bryan, Tim, John Waterman (a
League Cycling Instructor), and
Danny Soltan attended the District
Court hearing. As the group sat in
the courtroom, just minutes before
the hearing, the prosecutor made it
clear others could be charged.
The prosecutor stated: If any of you
testify, you will also be charged with a
civil infraction and we will be seeking
additional charges based on what we
saw in the video.
It was agreed not to ask Danny to
testify and to move forward without
his testimony about the incident.
The judge conducted a long and
thorough hearing, taking testimony from
Tim, the officer, and John Waterman. At the
conclusion of that testimony, the District Court
Bike Law continued on page 13
10
New Leaders Join LMB Board of Directors
LMB members recently had the opportunity
to vote to fill four seats on LMBs Board of
Directors. The candidates came from a diverse
background of professions, with one major
commonality: their passion and dedication
to bicycling in Michigan. LMB is pleased to
welcome Bryan Waldman, Michael Reuter,
Bryan Wilkinson, and Yvonne Rucker to
the Board of Directors! Their leadership in
the bicycling communities and knowledge
from their varied professional expertise will
be an asset to LMB as we continue to grow
as an organization.
Yvonne Rucker
Yvonne is the Executive Director and
Founder of BikeVON, a non-profit
organization that promotes bike
awareness, affordability, and acces-
sibility for youth of color in the
Detroit area. Along with her
involvement in numerous bicycling
groups, Yvonne also teaches a one-
hour ABC Quick check class in many community centers. Her
interactive approach holds the attention of 20 kids and sends
them home with a helmet, LMBs What Every Young Michigan
Bicyclist Must Know booklet, and a BikeVON bracelet. The
children enjoy the class and Yvonne enjoys teaching them.
Bryan Waldman
Bryan is a lawyer and a cyclist. He
has litigated cases in over 40 juris-
dictions and has been an advocate
for cyclists for over 20 years. In
2013, he received LMBs Bicycle
Advocate Award. Bryan is the
author of A Legal Handbook for
Michigan Cyclists. His law firm
has also co-sponsored bike helmet events since 2003, which
have resulted in over 5,500 Michigan children being fitted and
given helmets. Bryan is also a licensed and competitive bicycle
racer and participates in road races, criteriums, and cyclocross
races. However, he enjoys the use of his bicycle in every form
including social rides, commuting to work, and trips to the
grocery store.
11 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016
Bryan Wilkinson
Bryan has enjoyed Northern Michi-
gans scenic riding from a very young
age. Bryan was paralyzed riding a
dirt bike in 2000. A few years later,
he found a company that made
adapted bikes called handcycles.
He participated in his first handcyle
race in 2008 and was hooked. In
2009, Bryan formed a team of handcyclists in the Grand Rapids
area. He also coordinates handcycle rides in the Hartland area for
people who are learning or need an outlet to ride. Bryan strongly
believes that hancycling improves the lives of people who
have no outlet for cycling and when it seems like their lives are at
the lowest of lows and devotes his time to promote it.
Michael Reuter
Michael is the President and CEO of
American Fitness and Cycle (ACF),
the largest independent bicycle
retailer in Michigan. Michael has
advocated for bicycle friendly poli-
cies for a number of years through
his day-to-day interactions with
his customers. He also regularly
participates in LMBs Bicycle Advocacy Day. Michael is proud
that ACF has recently expanded its services to include a bicycle
outlet store that focuses on used bicycle trade-ins. As part of
this program, ACF donates bicycles that are not sold to The
Hub of Detroit, a non-profit bicycle reuse and repair shop.
A special thank you to our outgoing Board Members Sarah
Colegrove and Amy Duggan. Their service as part of the Board
was greatly appreciated. On behalf of the our Board, staff, and
members, thank you for your dedication and commitment. We
would also like to recognize Erica Briggs, who also stepped off
the Board earlier this year.
Bicycle Friendly America Conference:
Communities, Business, & Universities
Tim Potter and Gus Gustafson
Michigan State University hosted
the first Bicycle Friendly
America Conference held
outside of the National
Bike Summit this past May.
Speakers from the League of
American Bicyclists and the
University of Minnesota joined
others from universities,
communities, and businesses
around the Midwest to
explain the whys and hows to
becoming more bicycle friendly.
The purpose of the conference
is to help local communities,
businesses, and other universities
to learn about the benefits
of becoming bicycle friendly
or more bicycle friendly
said Gus Gosselin, chair
of the MSU Bike Advisory
Committee and Mechanical
Engineer for MSUs Infrastruc-
ture Planning and Facilities.
We were told by the League
of American Bicyclists that
this is the first conference to
specifically address this topic
not only in this region but
on a national basis added
Tim Potter, Sustainable
Transportation Manager at
MSU, who also worked on
organizing the conference.
The conference started with
a welcome address from East
New Faces Join the LMB Team
Scott Elliot
Lansing Mayor Mark Meadows
Tour Director
who pledged that the city
Scott Elliot brings experience, skill,
will set a goal to become the
and a personality that will ensure
first gold-level Bike Friendly
a terrific tour adventure for every
Community in Michigan. In a
rider. He has been a LMB member
recorded welcome address,
since 2008 and a frequent participant
MSU President Lou Anna Simon
on our MUP Tour. Hes also ridden
explained that she sees the
DALMAC, PALM and ODRAM numer-
bicycle as part of the solution
ous times. When he isnt touring, he
to help the campus towards
participates in long-distance randonneuring events with
its sustainable goals, relieve
the Detroit Randonneurs and pedals around southeast
parking congestion, and help
Michigan with his local club, the Adrian Maple Wheelers. Scott
MSU become healthier.
teaches at Adrian College. He and his wife Meredith have two young
daughters, Evelyn and Lydia, both of whom youre sure to see on at
Steve Clark, Bicycle Friendly
least one of this years LMB tours.
Community Program Special-
ist - League of American
Bicyclists, led a general session
Ben Saint-Onge
Administrative Assistant
with an overview of the Bicycle
Ben Saint-Onge grew up in
Friendly America programs.
Hamburg, Michigan and recently
The conference then broke
graduated from Michigan State
up into three tracks: Bicycle
University, where he studied
Friendly Business, Bicycle
secondary education and history. After
Friendly Community, and
graduation, Ben spent six months
Bicycle Friendly University.
in Southeast Asia and Jordan, an
experience which put
At the close of the confer-
him in contact with people from all over the world and
ence, about 20 of the
opened his eyes to the good which can be done by
attendees joined Potter for a
non-profits. As a lifelong cyclist, I know firsthand the obstacles and
bicycle tour of campus with
dangers which we all face on the roads of this great state. I am looking
Clark to review and highlight
forward to helping LMB achieve its goals.
the bicycle friendliness of
Michigan State University. Aneta Kiersnowski
Development & Communications
The conference generated a
Director
lot of excitement about bicycle
Aneta held positions in both the legal
friendliness among all of those
and non-profit fields in Illinois and
who attended.
relocated to Michigan in 2014. Ultimately,
her strong support of responsible
public policy led her to join LMB to
help further its mission of promoting
bicycling and the safety of bicyclists on
the roadways of Michigan. Since moving to this state, I have come to
admire the outdoor-adventurer spirit of the people who live here and
am inspired to get outside and on my bike as often as possible. I look
forward to working with LMB to continue to improve the conditions for
bicycling in Michigan. In addition to exploring her new home state on a
bicycle, Aneta enjoys camping, taking her dog, Zuko, on walks
through trails, and running.
12
Bike Law continued from page 10
obstructing traffic.
The judge said Tim obstructed the police
vehicle by moving left of the white line when
passing the other cyclists. The judge stated:
I dont deny that the defendant respondent is
a very good bicyclist, you can tell that he was a
good bicyclist just by watching the videotape,
and I dont deny that his expert knows what
hes talking about too, but going to waving
him on and then going into the left , that
was not a safe way and that did impede the
officers lane of travel.
Heres what Bryan has to say about that ruling:
In my opinion, this should have been a clear
winner for Tim. The video showed him riding
properly in textbook fashion. There were
no cars in the video in front of or behind
the patrol car, so there were no cars being
obstructed. Respectfully, we had an officer
who we believed didnt understand the law.
Hearing the judge and prosecutor refer
to the roadway as the officers lane also
made it clear they didnt get it. Its not the
officers lane, its a lane for bikes, cars, trucks,
all traffic and that is why we all need to follow
the laws.
At this point, let me explain the Michigan
laws that are at issue, and why its clear the
court should have ruled in Tims favor. Under
Michigan law, cyclists are legally allowed to
ride two abreast. The Michigan Supreme
Court has defined the roadway as the
improved portion of the highway designed
for vehicular travel. In a 2006 opinion,
Grimes v. Michigan Department of Transpor-
tation, the court specifically excluded the
shoulder from the definition of roadway.
Following the unfavorable ruling from the
District Court, Bryan teamed up with his firms
appellate attorney, Joel Finnell, to take the
case to the next level. In Michigan, that is the
Circuit Court.
In preparing the appeal, Joel looked at a
Michigan Department of Transportation
video on how to ride a bike and safely pass a
13 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | Summer 2016
bike while driving a car. He was convinced that
Tim had done everything right. Joel was also
convinced that officer drove too closely to the
cyclists from behind, and he didnt move far
enough to the left. In Joels opinion, if Tim
was too close to the car, the fault rested with
the trooper, not Tim.
As Tims attorneys moved forward with
the appeal, they broke the video down
into still frames. That shifted the focus
away from Tim moving to left (even if
it was only 6 to 12 inches) to the officer
creating the situation that he labeled
as impeding traffic. Here are three of
those images. The frames shows the
cyclists riding two abreast before the
officer orders them to ride single file, Tim
motioning to the trooper for a safe pass, and
Tim passing one of the riding group who
appears to be slowing.
The Circuit Court hearing was held before
Judge David J. Reader. Judge Reader began
the hearing by asking, Who appeals a civil
infraction? He commented that the brief
written by Joel was a $10,000 brief for a
$200 citation.
After a lengthy and thought provoking
hearing, Judge Reader first ruled that Tim
and the other cyclists had complied with the
law by riding as far to the right edge of the
roadway as was practicable. He noted the
cyclists were single file and that Tim had the
right to pass the other cyclists. Further, he
noted that cyclists are allowed to ride two
abreast and that they dont need to be at
the right edge of the roadway when passing
another cyclist.
Judge Reader also noted that under Grimes,
the 2006 Supreme Court opinion, the roadway
is defined as the lane of travel intended for
vehicular travel, which does not include the
shoulder. As a result, the law did not require
Tim to be to the right of the fog (white) line.
The judge then turned his focus to the patrol
car, noting that the trooper had a duty to pass
at a safe distance, but failed to do so, and never
moved left or made any effort to increase the
distance between the car and the bicycle.
Ultimately, Judge Reader overruled the District
Court. He ordered that the case be remanded
to the District Court with instructions that the
case be dismissed, with prejudice.
Under Michigan law, the prevailing party
is entitled to tax (be reimbursed) certain
costs. That means the County will likely be
obligated to pay or reimburse expenses of
approximately $500.
Congratulations Tim, Joel, and Bryan. And,
thank you Tim for having the courage and
wherewithal to stand up for the rights of all
Michigan bicyclists.
At the conclusion of the case, Livingston
County reimbursed The Sinas Dramis Law
Firm, (Waldmans firm) for the expenses they
advanced to defend the charges. The
Sinas Dramis Law Firm and Tim Panagis
decided to contribute the additional funds
to the League of Michigan Bicyclists, with
the hope the money could be used to
advance the safety and interests of all
Michigan cyclists.
When asked recently about the Circuit
Courts decision, Waldman stated:
Judge Reader needs to be commended for
taking the time to analyze the law, apply it
to the facts of this case, and reach the correct
decision. Some think his comments about
a Who appeals a civil infraction? was a
criticism of our firm. Taken in context, I
think it was a compliment. After making
this comment, Judge Reader went on
to explain how, when he was a lawyer,
he defended someone he felt was
wrongfully charged with a minor
offense and, similar to our firm, was
willing to appeal the case until he ulti-
mately prevailed in the Court of Appeals.
Reader is a judge who clearly understands the
importance of a case is not judged by the fact
it is only a civil infraction or carries a relatively
small fine. As a result, he spent a considerable
amount of time on the case and took the case
very seriously. You couldnt ask for more
from a judge.
Directors Hub continued from page 1
it starts with us, the cycling community.
How we talk about these tragedies
is important, but clearly we need to
change more than just language. We
must also change behavior. We must
demand that ANY bicyclist death is
one too many. To do that, we need
to work together to implement a
host of education, enforcement, and
engineering improvements.
Michigan lags behind other states in
protecting bicyclists. We are one of just
eleven states without a law specifically
requiring motorists to pass bicyclists
safely. Likewise, Michigan does not recognize
bicyclists, pedestrians, and wheelchair
users as vulnerable roadway users.
In the wake of the horrific events in
Kalamazoo, and on behalf of all the bicyclists
who have lost their lives needlessly,
Michigan CAN and MUST do better.
You can make a difference today! Urge your
legislators to fast track a 5-foot passing
law as well as legislation that provide
enhanced legal protection for vulnerable
road users. We have a narrow window of
opportunity this September to advance
these bills. To do that, it is essential that we
all work together to rally support.
In tragedy emerges opportunity. This
is our opportunity to create significant
progress for bicycling in Michigan. These
bills are an important first step, however,
they need your support to make an impact.
Small Revolutions continued from page 1
economic boost to our communities and state.
We did not do it on our own. John
Lindenmayer worked with numerous groups
and organizations to accomplish our goals,
and in the process built many beneficial
relationships. Equally important, you gave
us much assistance and financial support to
accomplish LMBs objectives. Thank you for
your support. Please remain active with LMB.
Small revolutions do create change. When I
started bike commuting from Grosse Pointe
Park to downtown Detroit 11 years ago, I rarely
Membership/Donations
TAKE ACTION Annual Memberships q New qRenewal
SIGN, SHARE, SUPPORT!
qIndividual/Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30
1) Sign qOrganization/Club/Shop/Industry . . . . . . . . . $60
Please go to www.LMB.org/takeaction qLifetime-Individual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $450
(3-Pay Plan - $170/yr)
TODAY to write your lawmakers in
qLifetime-Organization/
support of a 5-foot passing law and Club/Shop/Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1000
vulnerable roadway user protections (3-Pay Plan - $350/yr)
that create stiffer penalties for drivers
Donations (tax deductible)
who injure or kill cyclists. LMB is pleased
q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500
to partner with the League of American
Bicyclists on this important action alert. q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250
q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125
2) Share q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $75
It will take all cyclists, from casual qOther . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $_______
socialriders tocompetitive cyclists alike,
speaking with one voice to demand
Name
action. We must also solicit support
from non-cyclists. In person and across Contact (for Shop/Club/Org//Ind)
social media, please engage your
families and friends. If they care about Address
you and your safety on the roads, they
can play a significant role in advancing City State Zip
these bills.
Phone
3) Support
Lastly, please support LMB by joining
E-mail
or renewing your membership today.
Our strength is truly in our numbers. Website
Every supporter strengthens our
voice and builds our political clout.
Join, renew, or donate by check or credit card today!
As we meet with lawmakers and testify
before committees, a strong, vocal, qVisa
and well-organized base ensures qMasterCard Please make checks
payable to:
our message is taken seriously. qDiscover
League of Michigan Bicyclists
Join, renew, or donate today at q American Express
www.LMB.org/join.
Name on Card
Thank you for your support!
Card #
saw others doing the same. Today, I see many.
11 years ago, my office building did not have Card Address (q Same as Above)
a bike rack. Today, it has three bike racks.
11 years ago, the only bike lanes in the City Expiration Date (mm/yy)
of Detroit were on Belle Isle. Today there are
over 180 miles. 11 years ago, the Dequindre Signature
Cut was an impenetrable abandoned rail
line. Today, it is an amazing linear park and a q Im interested in volunteering with LMB
key part of Detroits inner loop. We can and
do create change. Please participate with Membership Total
your own small revolutions.
Additional Donation Total
Thank you again for allowing me to serve as
the Chair of LMB. Grand Total $
14
 MICHIGAN NON-PROFIT ORG

BICYCLIST
US POSTAGE PAID
LANSING MI
PERMIT #979
416 S. Cedar St. Suite A, Lansing, MI 48912
LeagueOfMichiganBicyclists
@MIBicyclists

Dated Material: July 2016

Make 2016 even better

Help us reach our $32,000
LMB.org/donate
Annual Campaign goal.

15