Hey Gang, With Chris out of the country for a couple weeks I thought we would
schedule a bunch of fun stuff for this weekend.
Saturday June 7.
National Trails Day, an annual, nationwide “celebration” of trails and the
benefits they offer everyone, will take place in Houston on Saturday, June 7 (8
a.m.) at Terry Hershey Park (north entrance), 15200 Memorial Drive. All trail
users are invited to come out, enjoy the Park and trail system, and take part in
the free activities and optional trail work project.

Sunday June 8th in the morning
Come join the fun at Jack Brooks Park Sunday June 8th when the GHORBA Gang gets
together and rides the trails at Jack Brooks Park.  Coby and Edgar have led a
group that have totally refurbished the trails on the south side of town.  We
will ride and then enjoy each others company with hotdogs and sausages, chips
and drinks.
And in the afternoon.........
I would like to extend an invitation to all organizations, clubs and
publications to join the first annual Houston Bike Swap and local bike shop
garage sale. Area cyclists will be able to find great deals on new and used
bikes, parts, accessories and clothing. Local bike shops, cycling clubs and
individuals will be invited to display products, sell/buy and trade during this
one day event.
  Admission and parking to the swap meet is free of charge to the public and
cycling community.
    The 2003 Houston Bike Swap will be held on Sunday June 8, 2003 (noon to 5 pm)
at the Continental Club (3700 Main Street, Houston, Texas). For more
  information check out www.houstonbikeswap.com or contact Mickey at
director@houstonbikeswap,com or call 713-598-0553.

Do one, two or all three if you can, should be fun for more info go to
www.ghorba.org
Keith Porter Events Evangelist
keith@...


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NATIONAL TRAILS DAY - TREE PLANTING AT TERRY HERSHEY PARK, JUNE 7TH:  GHORBA and
REI will be participating in a tree planting project at Terry Hershey Park on
Saturday, June 7th.  This is a project in which the entire family can
participate. It will last from 8 to 11:00 a.m. and the Park will provide the
work tools. GHORBA participants are planning to ride prior to the work party.
Please wear your GHORBA jersey that day.  Snacks and drinks will also be
available. Advanced sign up for the project is not mandatory, but in order to
have enough trees, tools, and refreshments, the organizers would like to know
the approximate number of participants beforehand. For more information and/or
to sign up for the work project, please contact Lynn Clark at 281-493-1915
(LClarkAVA@...) or Gail Hurley Spann at 281-255-2029 (day) or at
BikinGail@....  FOR COMPLETE DETAILS AND MEETING TIME FOR THE RIDE, GO TO
THE GHORBA WEBSITE www.ghorba.org.

MONTHLY GROUP RIDE SUNDAY, JUNE 8th at JACK BROOKS:  We will have our monthly
group ride and cook-out afterwards at Jack Brooks Park on Sunday, June 8th
starting at 9:00 a.m.  Riders of all abilities welcome!  Directions to Jack
Brooks Park - Take the dog track exit and you go through the first light on the
feeder road, which is 1764. About 200 yards down, you curve to the right, which
is FM 2004. Take a right onto FM2004.Park is down on the right about 2 miles. An
Elementary school is on the left, right across the street.

CITY-WIDE SWAP MEET, SUNDAY, JUNE 8th NOON to 5:00 PM:  BUY, SELL, TRADE - this
is Houston's first annual bicycle swap meet and local bike shop garage sale,
area cyclists will be able to find great deals on new and used bikes, parts,
accessories and clothing. Rain or shine at the Continental Club. For more
information, go to www.houstonbikeswap.com

MONTHLY MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 9th:  We will have our June monthly meeting at
Otto's BBQ starting at 7:00 p.m.  Everyone is welcome to join us!  Otto's is
located on Memorial Drive between Westcott and Detering streets.  Why not ride
the trails then head to Otto's afterwards for some good BBQ or a burger?

DASH 4 CASH, SATURYDAY, JUNE 21ST:  Feel like doing a little racing here in
town?  Know the westside fairly well?  Wanna make a little dough?  GHORBA is
hosting a Dash 4 Cash race...object is to get to the next location to receive a
clue to the next location.  There are five checkpoints that all must be visited
to finally reach the finish.  Payouts will be 8% of the proceeds to the first
male and female riders to finish.  Second place finishers get 5%; and third gets
2X entry fee.  There will be random prizes and schwag for other fun competitions
along the way.  The route is about 20 miles long and can be done on a
combination of paved and dirt surfaces.  Entry is $10/person.  You must wear a
helmet, ride a mountain bike (no road or cyclocross bikes), and sign the
liability waiver. Checkout the GHORBA website for more information and start
location and time.

RIDING CLINIC, SATURDAY, JUNE 28TH AT JACK BROOKS:  GHORBA will be hosting a
riding skills clinic for beginner to very experienced riders.  The clinic will
last from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with instructors for riders of all abilities. 
The cost is $20, which helps pay for food, drinks, permit, and insurance costs. 
We will also have the GHORBA kids bikes available for children to ride and learn
for free (with a paid adult admission).  More details to come soon!!!

DONATION!  Lastly, GHORBA would like to thank the Adventure racing folks for
their incredibly generous donation towards the trails at Jack Brooks and
Memorial Park!!!  Look for the press release on the GHORBA website soon!!!







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A Plea for Support: Please come…

There has been some discussion this past year about the current climate
surrounding mountain bike racing in Texas—the level of participation, the
inflation in fees, the disposition of volunteers, and the general condition and
management of facilities. Riders have voiced their concerns and have even gone
so far as to organize a “rider’s meeting” to formally address the TMBRA Board.
Texas racers want action and desire change but are they themselves willing to
step up and help support the sport will all love so much?

This year for the first time in many years the TMBRA Subaru Championship Series
is introducing a new venue: The Broken Oak Ranch in Valley Mills, TX. The Waco
Bicycle Club and the land owner, Aubrey Stringer, have absolutely killed
themselves this past year to ensure this new championship series race is a
success. Every rider that has visited the ranch has been blown away with both
the aesthetics of the property, as well as the variety and condition of the
trails. For the race the WBC has stretched itself beyond its own resources to
ensure the venue is a success. Vendors such as Blue Bell Creameries and New
Belgium Ale have donated large quantities of product. Other vendors such as
Portable Rental Solutions have donated equipment to provide air conditioning to
ensure heat related illnesses can be avoided. The WBC has contracted with
several medical personnel to ensure that rider safety and security is not
sacrificed. The land owner has gone so far to contract with a local restaurant
owner to offer a wide variety of food: steak, chicken, pasta, etc. From the
merchandise give-away to the custom, hand-crafted awards, no expense has been
spared and no detail has been too small!

Tragically, as of today only 42 people have registered!! I’m not quite sure what
to do. Financially, this will devastate both the Waco Bicycle Club and the land
owner. Both have made concessions and sacrifices for the race. We desperately
need your help. I realize many places have been determined but don’t let that
prevent you from coming out.

I just don’t know what else to do other than ask for your support and plea for
help. If at all possible please come out.

Sincerely,
Rob Leffel
President, Waco Bicycle Club


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This work party will clear brush and create a new segment of trail to
re-route traffic around an erosion area at the exit of the inner
(race) loop. Total distance of the new segment of trail will be
around 100 yards and should only take about 3 to 4 hours with around
six people. Less time with more participation. This work area will be
within the first 200 yards of the interpretive (nature) center.
Depending on workers, addtional brush will be cleared from an
established trail  (Rocky Raccoon Trail or outer loop) to allow for
better access for novice riders. Richard should have his four wheeler
and trailer to transport water and heavier tools as needed. Bring
your cycles to be able to ride to remote locations as needed and ride
afterwards.

This is a great opportunity for those that attended the IMBA clincs
or those wanting to gain trail implemntation knowledege to install a
new trail in a well planned area. Skills used/learned will be trail
grade versus landscape grade.  Addtionally creating turns and other
excercises in creating obstacles to keep riders on the newly
installed trail rather than creating spider trails

MONDAY NIGHT RIDE AT MEMORIAL:  We will have our weekly ride this evening at
Memorial Park.  We will leave from the parking lot near the soccer field on the
south side of the park at 6:15.  Everyone is welcome to join us!!

FREE BIKE MAINTENANCE CLINIC:  On Tuesday, May 20, Urban Bicycle Gallery (Tom) -
1212 Durham (just south of I-10 - Heights), from 7-9 PM (713) 863-0991
http://www.urbanbicyclegallery.com/pages/1/index.htm

MEETING WITH METRO:  On Tuesday, May 20th Houston's cyclists are being offered a
rare opportunity to have the ear of METRO planners. The Houston Pedestrian and
Bicycle Advisory Committee will meet on Tuesday, May 20 at the downtown library.
We will have a presentation from METRO executives and members of the Board of
Directors. We have been asked for our input on biking and how we fit into
METRO's transportation plan. Also in attendance will be a representative from
the Harris County Toll Road Authority.  The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. 
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to provide input.

RIDE TO THE ASTROS GAME:  We will be doing our second annual Ride to the Astros
Game on Sunday, May 25th leaving from Memorial Park at 11:30-45 a.m.  The game
against the Chicago Cubs starts at 1:05 p.m.  Astros management is providing
bike parking for us with continuous security.  Please email Dan at
Dan.Raine@... to RSVP so we can give the Astros and Houston Police bike
detail a head count.

NATIONAL TRAILS DAY - TREE PLANTING AT TERRY HERSHEY PARK:  GHORBA and REI will
be participating in a tree planting project at Terry Hershey Park on Saturday,
June 7th.  This is a project in which the entire family can participate. It will
last from 8 to 11:00 a.m. and the Park will provide the work tools. Snacks and
drinks will also be available. Advance sign up for the project is not mandatory
but in order to have enough trees, tools, and refreshments, we will try to know
the approximate number of participants beforehand. If you can sign up in advance
(by May 24), we would appreciate it.  For more information and/or to sign up for
the work project, please contact Lynn Clark at 281-493-1915 (LClarkAVA@...)
or Gail Hurley Spann at 281-255-2029 (day) or at BikinGail@....

MONTHLY GROUP RIDE SUNDAY, JUNE 8th at JACK BROOKS:  We will have our monthly
group ride at Jack Brooks Park on Sunday, June 8th starting at 9:00 a.m. 
Directions to Jack Brooks Park - Take the dog track exit and you go through the
first light on the feeder road, which is 1764. About 200 yards down, you curve
to the right, which is FM 2004. Take a right onto FM2004.Park is down on the
right about 2 miles. An Elementary school is on the left, right across the
street.

CITY-WIDE SWAP MEET, SUNDAY, JUNE 8th NOON to 5:00 PM:  BUY, SELL, TRADE - this
is Houston's first annual bicycle swap meet and local bike shop garage sale,
area cyclists will be able to find great deals on new and used bikes, parts,
accessories and clothing. Rain or shine at the Continental Club. For more
information, go to www.houstonbikeswap.com

MONTHLY MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 9th:  We will have our June monthly meeting at
Otto's BBQ starting at 7:00 p.m.  Everyone is welcome to join us!  Otto's is
located on Memorial Drive between Westcott and Detering streets.  Why not ride
the trails then head to Otto's afterwards for some good BBQ or a burger?











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May 13, 2003



  BikeHouston announces the second annual "Bike Bash," a social gathering

for all Houston-area cyclists The party is from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May
13
at the Twelve Spot, 218 Travis. May is national bike month.

"We've had a couple of weeks to recover from this year's terrific MS150,

so we thought that cyclists would want to celebrate," said Regina
Garcia, a
BikeHouston board member and event organizer. "Bike Bash is a great
opportunity for cyclists to have a conversation beyond saying, "on your
left."

Representatives from local bike clubs and stores will attend to promote
their programs and upcoming rides. Party-goers can enter a door prize
contest for the chance to win great bike supplies.

Catering will be donated by El Meson; beverages will be available by
cash.

May 7, 2003, 8:58PM
Groups team up to maintain trails in HuntsvilleBy STEVE SIEVERT
Special to the Chronicle
Northwest Cycling Club and the Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association are
joining with Texas Parks and Wildlife to further develop and maintain the
multi-use trail system at Huntsville State Park.
NWCC donated $1,500 to GHORBA last month to assist in the effort.
GHORBA will use the funds to purchase materials to construct bridges for the
trail system. The two groups plan to combine their volunteer forces and donate
the necessary labor for the project by holding "work parties" to complete
construction in the months ahead.
Due to wetlands in the park, many boardwalk-style bridges are required to allow
visitors to traverse all areas of the park. GHORBA volunteers regularly perform
maintenance on the trail system and provide materials for construction and
preservation of the bridges.
"Our club's partnership with GHORBA will help support off-road cycling in the
Houston area," said Lori Walker, NWCC president. "We are particularly eager to
support Huntsville State Park as a local venue for the fall series of the Texas
Mountain Bike Racing Association."
GHORBA has been a long-time supporter of Huntsville State Park, which is about a
one-hour drive north of Houston and offers more than 20 miles of trails for
cycling, running and hiking.
"It's thanks in large part to groups like GHORBA and NWCC that we're able to
continue to improve the trail system in the park," said Huntsville State Park
manager Oscar Carmona.
GHORBA and NWCC, both nonprofit organizations, are among the most active cycling
groups in the Houston area. GHORBA, in particular, has been the catalyst for
raising the profile of off-road cycling in the area and has been instrumental in
educating local leaders about issues important to its members.
Bike by the beach-- The Houston Bicycle Club has several rides scheduled in May,
including a scenic trek along the seawall in Galveston this weekend.
The ride departs at 9 a.m. Sunday from the Family Store shopping center on the
Gulf Freeway and takes riders to Moody Gardens, along the seawall, over to
Bolivar Peninsula via ferry and back to Galveston for a lunch break.
The main route is 54 miles, with a 20-mile route option. The ride, which is free
and doesn't require pre-registration, is one of more than 10 on the club's May
calendar.
"I've been doing this ride for over 10 years," said Houston cyclist Joe Flores.
"On previous rides, when we've taken the ferry, we've seen dolphins and have
really enjoyed the Gulf breeze."
Additional details are available on the club Web site www.hbc.stevens.com.
National Bike Month-- For the 47th consecutive year, the League of American
Bicyclists has designated May as National Bike Month.
Designed to promote cycling as a means of exercise and transportation, National
Bike Month features both Bike-to-Work Week, May 12-16, and Bike-to-Work Day,
Friday May 16. The theme for this year's National Bike Month is wellness.
The LAB is sponsoring educational programs, commuting events, trail workdays,
helmet promotions and film festivals across the country to draw attention to
bicycling.
Several Bike Month events are planned in Houston, including BikeHouston's
second-annual Bike Bash. This social gathering for Houston-area cyclists is from
6-9 p.m. Tuesday at the Twelve Spot, 218 Travis.
"We've had a couple of weeks to recover from this year's terrific MS 150, so we
thought that cyclists would want to celebrate," said Regina Garcia, a
BikeHouston board member and event organizer. "Bike Bash is a great opportunity
for cyclists to have a conversation beyond saying, `on your left.' "
Representatives from local bike clubs and stores will attend to promote their
programs and upcoming rides. Attendees also can enter a door prize contest for
the chance to win bike supplies.

---------------------------------
Steve Sievert covers cycling for the Chronicle. His notebook appears Thursdays.
Call him at 832-978-4359 or send e-mails to cycling@....

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MessageAs part of May being "Bike Month", some of the local bike shops are
putting on FREE bike repair clinics. The repair clinics are a great way to learn
about repairs and maintenance for your bike. For the beginner rider its your
chance to ask those questions that you have been wondering about. When do I
replace the cables, brakes, chain and on and on.  This is also a chance to get
to know the mechanics at the bike shop in your area. Last but definitely not
least, this is a great opportunity to pick out that HELMET that you have been
meaning to buy. Check out the calendar to see when and where the repair clinics
are held.






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GHORBA Meeting May 5, 2003

Financial report was given by Mike Lutomski.  We are in good shape
financially with approximately $7,600 in the bank.  Mike asked that we
use the Kroger share cards – GHORBA receives 1% of purchases made with
the share card. If you need a share card let one of the Directors know.
Also, Randall’s has a share program; however, you need to reference the
GHORBA ID number 10247.

Membership  Kirsty Bremmer – she reported that if you need to renew your
membership, please send a check.  Also GHORBA will have a table at the
REI Adventure Fair on May 18 to try to sign up new members.  If you
could help at this event let Christina Case know.

Fundraising: Ant Hills guys are going to do a Dash 4 Cash Race on
Saturday, June 21st on the west side of town.  Estimating 40 riders
(slightly less than we had last time) minus insurance and payout for
winners, we should net $250 for this race.  Hoping to use this for
future trail work and improvements at AH.
Jack Brooks’s guys have gone crazy and are planning their fundraiser to
be The Inaugural Jack Brooks Poker Ride for July 20th starting and
ending at Kemah boardwalk.  Want to charge $20/person and 5 bike shops
have already offered to sponsor 5 locations where cards are handed out.
They want to do t-shirts that are not necessarily tied specifically to
the event with GHORBA logo on front pocket and JB new spider logo on the
back.
Prizes will be limited to what each shop wants to donate.

Memorial Park Master Plan report was given by Jeff Neilson – GHORBA
hopes to bring IMBA and the National Park service in to help with
planning.  GHORBA will also have a member on the planning committee.
Ask Jeff for more details.

Trails Reports were given by Kelly Strader for the Anthills.  There were
12-13 people who helped with the Bayou Clean-Up.  These clean-up events
help our relationship with the county.
Jimm Shroeder gave a report on Huntsville.  There was a good turnout for
the monthly ride at Huntsville.  There are a few closed trails in the
park, please observe the signs and don’t ride on the closed trails.
There will be reroutes and a new bridge built in the coming months.

May is Bike Month – May 16 is Bike to Work Day.  May 25 Ride to the
Astros Game.

National Trails Day -June 7.  There will be a group at Terry Hershey
Park at 8:00 am to plant trees.

GHORBA Monthly Ride will be June 8 at 9:00 am at Jack Brooks Park – ride
leader to be determined.
The Next Meeting will be June 9th at 7:00 pm at Otto’s BBQ – meet at MP
to ride before the meeting!

As always see the GHORBA website for more information
http://www.ghorba.org/

Just a quick reminder that GHORBA's  May meeting is tonight at Otto's
BBQ in the back room at 7 pm.  Several people will meet at 6 pm at
Memorial Park to ride before and to the the meeting.  Otto's is at 5502
Memorial Drive.

Trash Pick-up at Terry Hershey Park Tomorrow - We will be picking up trash along
the bayou tomorrow morning from 9:00 a.m. to noon.  We will meet in the AT&T
parking lot on Dairy Ashford.  Please be sure to bring gloves, bug spray, and
water and wear long pants (the poison ivy is quite healthy this spring).  For
more info, go to www.ghorba.org.    Huntsville State Park Group Ride - We will
be riding at Huntsville State Park on Sunday starting at 9:00 a.m.  There will
be groups of all ability levels, and everyone is welcome to come.  We typically
ride until noonish then grab lunch.  We will be supplying hot dogs, chips and
cokes this time, so come join us.  Huntsville is located approximately 46 miles
north of Houston on I-45.  We will meet at the Interpretive Center just west of
the ranger station. May Meeting - The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. this Monday,
the 5th and should only last about an hour.  Consider riding at MP beforehand
then come join us.  All are welcome.  DON'T FORGET:  WE WILL BE MEETING AT
OTTO'S BBQ from now through the end of the year....we've outgrown JAX Grill.  We
will discuss Dash 4 Cash races on the west and south sides of town, Kids'
Clinic, adult riding clinic, June monthly ride, etc. MAY IS BIKE MONTH!!!! 
Check out the calendar to see the dates for FREE Bike maintenance clinics,
BIKEBASH PARTY AT THE TWELVE SPOT, Bike to Work Day, Shiner Ride, Memorial Day
Rememberence Ride, etc.  There will also be another ride to the Astros Game on
Saturday, May 24th leaving from Memorial Park (more details forthcoming).

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Memorial Park plan aims to protect foliage, sportsBy MIKE SNYDER
Copyright 2003 Houston Chronicle
RESOURCES• Graphic: Map of park plan
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window.open(url,"win",'toolbar=0,location=0,directories=0,status=yes,menubar=0,s\
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Memorial Park, central Houston's largest oasis of green, has fallen victim to
its increasing popularity, with millions of visitors each year eroding its
grounds and threading unplanned bike trails through its woods.
Several groups of supporters hope to reclaim the park by gradually replacing its
organized sports facilities with a more open, natural landscape as envisioned by
its founders.
A proposal unveiled this week seeks to balance the desires of the park's
recreational users with the need to protect its foliage and wildlife --
enhancing what the plan calls a "green haven in the midst of the city."
Memorial Park was established in 1924 to honor the World War I doughboys who
trained amid its pines and oaks at Camp Logan before shipping off to European
battlefields. Today, in a city starved for parklands, it is feeling the stress
of its success.
Runners, walkers, equestrians, bicyclists, golfers, tennis players, softball
teams and soccer enthusiasts -- an estimated 4 million of them a year -- flock
to the park's trails, fields, courts and fairways. Park advocates say the heavy
use is taking its toll in the form of erosion, especially along trails favored
by off-road bicyclists on the park's south side.
The health of Memorial's cherished forests, meanwhile, has suffered from
invasive species that have inhibited the growth of new trees.
"We'd like to take the park back to a more natural state over the next 20 to 30
years," said Claire Caudill, the executive director of the Memorial Park
Conservancy, a nonprofit park protection group.
It was that vision of a large natural park that prompted philanthropist Ima Hogg
and her brothers to sell the park's original 1,500 acres to the city in 1924 for
about $650,000 -- their cost plus taxes, according to Memorial Park: A Priceless
Legacy, by Sarah H. Emmott.
The book quotes a newspaper article of the time, which reported that the new
park was "to be kept in the wild state, almost entirely, and made a sanctuary
for birds, small game, wild flowers, holly and whatever else needs protection
against man."
To help restore these conditions, the new proposal -- the Memorial Park
Conservation Master Plan -- calls for the city to acquire other land near the
park to move the tennis center, six baseball/softball fields and two soccer
fields. The golf course would remain in the park.
At a public meeting Monday night, city officials and consultants who developed
the plan sought to assure users of the sports facilities that none would be
moved any time soon. The move, they said, is contingent on the city's finding
money and land within a reasonable distance to develop new, improved facilities.
"Some of these changes should take time," said Glenda Barrett, the executive
director of the Park People, a nonprofit park advocacy group.
The only moves funded so far are those of the police equestrian-canine training
center -- now in a strip of the park west of Loop 610 -- and the maintenance
facility in the park's southeast corner near Buffalo Bayou. The former will be
moved by 2005 and the latter by 2007, city officials said.
Barrett acknowledged that in a time of tight municipal budgets and difficult
fund raising, prospects for raising the needed money might appear bleak. But she
and others said the existence of a master plan will encourage donors.
The plan was developed over the past 2 1/2 years by a Philadelphia landscape
architectural firm, Wallace Roberts and Todd, in consultation with the city, the
conservancy and the Houston Parks Board. It will undergo further review and
public comment before being submitted to City Council this summer.
Emblematic of the plan is its proposal for the creation of a "picnic meadow," a
broad swath of green space south of Memorial Drive on a site now occupied by
sports fields. Caudill said the meadow could be comparable to the Great Lawn in
New York's Central Park -- an undeveloped space for picnicking, kite-flying and
pickup ball games.
In addition to a general effort to naturalize the park, the plan calls for
improving pedestrian access from Memorial Drive, building a canoe launch site
off Woodway west of Loop 610, and establishing a tree nursery to help reforest
the park. The proposal also would create new trails for bicyclists, pedestrians
and equestrians on the park's north side while closing some of those on the more
environmentally sensitive south side.
The off-road bike issue has been particularly contentious. Since the early
1980s, when enthusiasts of the sport began hacking out trails through the woods
on the park's south side, bicyclists have clashed with city officials and
conservationists over park access.
Caudill, the Memorial Park Conservancy official, pointed out sites on the south
side where former biking trails have become deep ravines as the earth gradually
gave way.
"The ground here is real soft," she said. "You sweep the leaf litter off and it
just disappears."
Jeff Nielsen, president of the Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association, said
development of the master plan had provided a forum for bicyclists and park
groups to work out their differences.
"We've pretty much worked out an agreement where both sides have kind of gotten
what they want," he said.
Caudill's group has taken on the responsibility of protecting Memorial Park, a
burden borne by Ima Hogg until her death in 1975. Hogg fended off numerous
attempted encroachments on the park, including a proposal in the late 1950s to
build the Astrodome within its boundaries.
Advocates say Hogg's spirit should guide city officials and others as they
finish the master plan and work to realize its vision.
"It's very unusual to have such a large green space in the heart of a city,"
said Barrett of the Park People. "It's such a treasure."
The plan is available online at www.hpbinc.org.


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This Saturday and Sunday will be very busy for the GHORBA Gang.  Saturday is the
semi annual Bayou Cleanup at Terry Hershey Park. June and Mike Frye are hosting
this event and will supply the trash bags, drinks and snacks.  Bring bug spray,
sturdy shoes and gloves and enjoy a walk along the bayou picking up the trash
that the floodway brings to our area.
On Sunday, Gary Strouz will host a group ride at Huntsville State Park.  Come
out and enjoy the company of your fellow members and ride in the State Park. 
The ride will be broken up into different groups by ability.  The trails were in
great shape this past weekend so come out and enjoy.  For more info about these
events go to www.ghorba.org
Keith Porter Events Director



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St. Theresa's Church 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. As many of you know, Memorial Park
has been under going a lengthy process to study the park and users' needs and to
balance these needs with the focus on conservation of the park's natural
resources.  This process has gone on for almost a year now with much of the
focus centering on the wooded areas of the park.  There is a meeting tonight at
St. Theresa's Church across from the golf pro shop at MP starting at 6:30 p.m.
and going until 9:00 p.m.  This is the final presentation for the Master Plan at
Memorial Park and the final opportunity for users to review the plan before it
is submitted to the Houston Parks Board, Houston Parks and Recreation, and
finally City Council for approval and funding. GHORBA was invited to review the
plan from a user's perspective about 3 weeks ago.  The plan currently allows the
existing trails to remain in their current configuration with a caveat of future
reviews of any erosion-troubled areas (per our agreement during the IMBA visit
in January).  The proposed master plan also includes future construction of
trails in the northwest area of the park.  These trails will be multi-use,
including horse traffic.  A new multi-use path circling the park is planned, but
it's exact materials of construction (i.e., chipped wood, decomposed granite)
remains in the planning stages.  The rest of the plan includes possibly
relocating the softball, baseball and soccer fields once another property is
acquired and removal of picnic facilities from the "Picnic Loop" and relocating
these to a proposed picnic meadow where the softball fields are located on the
south side of the park.  Lastly, the running facilities will be expanded to
other areas of the park, and the tennis facilities possibly relocated once
another property is acquired. It is highly encouraged for everyone to attend
this meeting and submit comments on the plan.  The consultants do take these
comments into consideration.  Again, this is our last opportunity to make our
opinions known on this matter before it goes to vote and becomes an official
city document and plan.

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For those who have completed trail work over the last year and are needing their
Pay Dirt forms, I will be at the Flat Creek race this weekend and will have the
forms with me.  Please come find me:  I drive a light brown/champagne Explorer
with GHORBA and NORBA stickers on the bumper.  I also race for West End and will
have my jersey on and will be near the WE tent much of the day. Christina


---------------------------------
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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Great piece, and I am glad to see that you have already forwarded it to
IMBA.

Jeff Nielsen
Houston Contractors Association
-----Original Message-----
From: Keith Porter [mailto:porterka@...]
Sent: Thursday, April 24, 2003 8:26 AM
To: Ghorba@yahoogroups.com
Cc: Chris Leon; brandon@...; Duane
Subject: [ghorba] Kids clinic in Chronicle


Thanks to Mason Lerner and Steve Sievert of the Chronicle we got some
positive press in the South/Almeda/Hobby area of the Cronicles This Week
Section.  Read it here
http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/story.hts/thisweek/zone08/news/1877634
  or below,
  April 23, 2003, 12:14AM

Urban youth hit the trail
Clinic teaches finer points of mountain biking
By MASON LERNER
Copyright 2003 Chronicle correspondent
Last year when the International Olympic Committee closed the door to
Houston's Olympic dreams, many people lamented the time and money put
into the failed effort to attract the most prodigious event in the world
of sports. Yet, as the saying goes, every time one door is closed, many
more open.

Recently, 55 inner-city children slalomed through one of the doors that
was unknowingly opened by Houston's missed opportunity on mountain bikes
provided to them by The Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association. The
children gathered at Sunnyside Park for the first ever Houston Sprockids
Clinic.

The group partnered with Houston Parks and Recreation Department and the
National Park Service to provide a mountain-biking experience to area
kids at the site of the future Hill at Sims Bayou Park. This part of the
park is what would have been the Olympic mountain bike venue had
Houston's bid been successful.

The half-day course began with a bike safety class led by Greater
Houston Off-Road Biking Association volunteer Dan Raine. Once the kids
were brought up to speed on the essentials necessary to experience their
first adventure in cycling, they were led in groups of five to seven
through an outdoor course that allowed them to use their freshly learned
skills.

Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association events coordinator Keith
Porter said that it was a true concerted community effort that made the
clinic a reality.

The 12 volunteers who led the clinic took the time to fit each child
with a safety helmet donated by British Petroleum. The kids each rode
bikes the group purchased with contributions from various corporate
sponsors, and Westside Bicycles allowed them to buy the bikes at cost.

Sprockids is a youth mountain biking program sponsored by the
International Mountain Biking Association that traces its roots to
Canadian British Columbia, according to its Web site, www.imba.com.
After more than 10 years of spreading the rewards of mountain biking to
the youth of North America, Sprockids finally made its way to Houston
thanks to the efforts of volunteers like Porter.

If Porter has his way, Sprockids will soon become a mainstay in Houston,
and many more inner-city kids will be exposed to mountain biking.

"We are working with Houston Parks to develop a continuing program,"
Porter said. "Our plans right now are to do another clinic in June."

Porter also stressed that the clinics are for children of all skill
levels and mountain biking experience. He added that the enjoyment and
exercise that the kids get at the clinics is all of the compensation
that the volunteers need in return for working the clinics.

"There's nothing better than getting on the bike and riding on the
trails. Just being outside in the fresh air and the woods, it doesn't
get any better than that," Porter said. "The joy for all of us (the
volunteers) was the smiles on the kids who participated.

"We had a few kids who had never ridden a bike before. We took special
time and effort to teach them the finer points of riding. We have
volunteers to lead and teach the most inexperienced beginners. Nobody
should be afraid to give it a try."

For more information on The Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association
and future Sprockids Clinics in Houston, log on to www.GHORBA.org.




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]


==================================================
If you have recieved this by mistake or no longer
  wish to recieve this, please send an e-mail to
<a
herf=mailto:ghorba-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com>ghorba-unsubscribe@yahoog
roups.com</a>

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http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

Great job, Keith!!!
Cynthia

Keith Porter wrote:

>
>
   [Yahoo! Groups]      My Groups | ghorba Main Page

>
> Thanks to Mason Lerner and Steve Sievert of the Chronicle we got some
> positive press in the South/Almeda/Hobby area of the Cronicles This
> Week Section.  Read it here
> http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/story.hts/thisweek/zone08/news/1877634
> or below,
> April 23, 2003, 12:14AM
>
> Urban youth hit the trail
> Clinic teaches finer points of mountain biking
> By MASON LERNER
> Copyright 2003 Chronicle correspondent
> Last year when the International Olympic Committee closed the door to
> Houston's Olympic dreams, many people lamented the time and money put
> into the failed effort to attract the most prodigious event in the
> world of sports. Yet, as the saying goes, every time one door is
> closed, many more open.
>
> Recently, 55 inner-city children slalomed through one of the doors
> that was unknowingly opened by Houston's missed opportunity on
> mountain bikes provided to them by The Greater Houston Off-Road Biking
> Association. The children gathered at Sunnyside Park for the first
> ever Houston Sprockids Clinic.
>
> The group partnered with Houston Parks and Recreation Department and
> the National Park Service to provide a mountain-biking experience to
> area kids at the site of the future Hill at Sims Bayou Park. This part
> of the park is what would have been the Olympic mountain bike venue
> had Houston's bid been successful.
>
> The half-day course began with a bike safety class led by Greater
> Houston Off-Road Biking Association volunteer Dan Raine. Once the kids
> were brought up to speed on the essentials necessary to experience
> their first adventure in cycling, they were led in groups of five to
> seven through an outdoor course that allowed them to use their freshly
> learned skills.
>
> Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association events coordinator Keith
> Porter said that it was a true concerted community effort that made
> the clinic a reality.
>
> The 12 volunteers who led the clinic took the time to fit each child
> with a safety helmet donated by British Petroleum. The kids each rode
> bikes the group purchased with contributions from various corporate
> sponsors, and Westside Bicycles allowed them to buy the bikes at cost.
>
> Sprockids is a youth mountain biking program sponsored by the
> International Mountain Biking Association that traces its roots to
> Canadian British Columbia, according to its Web site, www.imba.com.
> After more than 10 years of spreading the rewards of mountain biking
> to the youth of North America, Sprockids finally made its way to
> Houston thanks to the efforts of volunteers like Porter.
>
> If Porter has his way, Sprockids will soon become a mainstay in
> Houston, and many more inner-city kids will be exposed to mountain
> biking.
>
> "We are working with Houston Parks to develop a continuing program,"
> Porter said. "Our plans right now are to do another clinic in June."
>
> Porter also stressed that the clinics are for children of all skill
> levels and mountain biking experience. He added that the enjoyment and
> exercise that the kids get at the clinics is all of the compensation
> that the volunteers need in return for working the clinics.
>
> "There's nothing better than getting on the bike and riding on the
> trails. Just being outside in the fresh air and the woods, it doesn't
> get any better than that," Porter said. "The joy for all of us (the
> volunteers) was the smiles on the kids who participated.
>
> "We had a few kids who had never ridden a bike before. We took special
> time and effort to teach them the finer points of riding. We have
> volunteers to lead and teach the most inexperienced beginners. Nobody
> should be afraid to give it a try."
>
> For more information on The Greater Houston Off-Road Biking
> Association and future Sprockids Clinics in Houston, log on to
> www.GHORBA.org.
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
> ==================================================
> If you have recieved this by mistake or no longer
> wish to recieve this, please send an e-mail to
> <a
>
herf=mailto:ghorba-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com>ghorba-unsubscribe@...\
m</a>
>
> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thanks to Mason Lerner and Steve Sievert of the Chronicle we got some positive
press in the South/Almeda/Hobby area of the Cronicles This Week Section.  Read
it here http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/story.hts/thisweek/zone08/news/1877634
  or below,
  April 23, 2003, 12:14AM

Urban youth hit the trail
Clinic teaches finer points of mountain biking
By MASON LERNER
Copyright 2003 Chronicle correspondent
Last year when the International Olympic Committee closed the door to Houston's
Olympic dreams, many people lamented the time and money put into the failed
effort to attract the most prodigious event in the world of sports. Yet, as the
saying goes, every time one door is closed, many more open.

Recently, 55 inner-city children slalomed through one of the doors that was
unknowingly opened by Houston's missed opportunity on mountain bikes provided to
them by The Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association. The children gathered
at Sunnyside Park for the first ever Houston Sprockids Clinic.

The group partnered with Houston Parks and Recreation Department and the
National Park Service to provide a mountain-biking experience to area kids at
the site of the future Hill at Sims Bayou Park. This part of the park is what
would have been the Olympic mountain bike venue had Houston's bid been
successful.

The half-day course began with a bike safety class led by Greater Houston
Off-Road Biking Association volunteer Dan Raine. Once the kids were brought up
to speed on the essentials necessary to experience their first adventure in
cycling, they were led in groups of five to seven through an outdoor course that
allowed them to use their freshly learned skills.

Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association events coordinator Keith Porter said
that it was a true concerted community effort that made the clinic a reality.

The 12 volunteers who led the clinic took the time to fit each child with a
safety helmet donated by British Petroleum. The kids each rode bikes the group
purchased with contributions from various corporate sponsors, and Westside
Bicycles allowed them to buy the bikes at cost.

Sprockids is a youth mountain biking program sponsored by the International
Mountain Biking Association that traces its roots to Canadian British Columbia,
according to its Web site, www.imba.com. After more than 10 years of spreading
the rewards of mountain biking to the youth of North America, Sprockids finally
made its way to Houston thanks to the efforts of volunteers like Porter.

If Porter has his way, Sprockids will soon become a mainstay in Houston, and
many more inner-city kids will be exposed to mountain biking.

"We are working with Houston Parks to develop a continuing program," Porter
said. "Our plans right now are to do another clinic in June."

Porter also stressed that the clinics are for children of all skill levels and
mountain biking experience. He added that the enjoyment and exercise that the
kids get at the clinics is all of the compensation that the volunteers need in
return for working the clinics.

"There's nothing better than getting on the bike and riding on the trails. Just
being outside in the fresh air and the woods, it doesn't get any better than
that," Porter said. "The joy for all of us (the volunteers) was the smiles on
the kids who participated.

"We had a few kids who had never ridden a bike before. We took special time and
effort to teach them the finer points of riding. We have volunteers to lead and
teach the most inexperienced beginners. Nobody should be afraid to give it a
try."

For more information on The Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association and
future Sprockids Clinics in Houston, log on to www.GHORBA.org.




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

MAY MEETING:  The May meeting will be held at OTTO'S BBQ on Memorial Drive
between Westcott and Detering Streets (east of Memorial Park).  The meeting will
be on May 5th starting at 7:00 p.m.  We have reserved the back room, which will
seat approximately 100 people (we were outgrowing the JAX location), and will
continue to meet there through the end of the year.  Never been to a meeting? 
Consider riding at the park beforehand and then joining us for dinner and the
meeting afterwards.  FYI: Otto's also offers hamburgers in another area of the
restaurant if you're not a BBQ fan. MEMORIAL PARK MASTER PLAN:  The final public
meeting on the Memorial Park Master Plan is on Monday, April 28th starting at
6:30 until 9:00 p.m.  The meeting is located at the Catholic church across from
the golf pro shop at Memorial Park.  GHORBA's preliminary review of the proposal
looks favorable with the existing trails remaining basically unchanged and
future trails planned for the area called The Triangle, which is west of the
railroad tracks and north of Woodway.  Please make plans to attend this meeting
and share your thoughts with the consultants.  This is our last opportunity to
provide input into the plan before it is presented to the Houston Park Board and
City Council for final approval. JACK BROOKS TRAIL WORK PARTY:  There will be
another work party this coming Sunday, the 27th at Jack Brooks Park.  The work
party starts at 11:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m.  Conversations with Park
officials have been very favorable with additional materials being given to us
for further improvement of the trails.  Signage to help limit horse and ATV
access to the MTB-only trails have also been approved.  More info: 
focuz@....  MAY MONTHLY RIDE AT HUNTSVILLE:  We will have the May monthly
ride at Huntsville State Park on Sunday, May 4th starting at 9:00 a.m.  We
typically ride until around noonish, then grab a bite to eat on the way back to
Houston.  Please arrive a little early so we can start on time.  Everyone is
welcome, and there will be groups of riders for every riding ability. MAY IS
BIKE MONTH!!!!  Check out the GHORBA calendar to see all of the events going on
around town, as well as the typical weekly rides.  There are free bike
maintenance clinics happening during the month, as well as another Bike to the
Astros Day (game day to be determined).   Tuesday, May 13th is Bike Bash, a
celebration of everything bicycle, with awards given out to public officials who
have contributed to making biking more friendly in Houston.  The Party is open
to everyone and will be held at The Twelve Spot on Travis (bike parking will be
available).  We had almost 200 people come to the party last year....come check
it out!!   Friday, May 16th is Bike to Work Day with festivities occuring at
City Hall during noon time.  Go to www.bikehouston.org for more information.


---------------------------------
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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

For those that have nothing better to do than work in Jack Brooks Park and ride
afterwards, there is a trail maintenance crew meeting at 10:30am until about
3:00pm and riding afterwards.

If you are interested, you know the drill, show up and bring a shovel.  That is
the only tool you will need this time.  Drinks will be furnished.  (Sorry, no
food this time guys.)

If you need pay dirt for the time you put in, e-mail me prior to the work date
with the following information:

Name, Address, Home and Work Phone, NORBA #, Racing Class.

Thanks and see you in the park Sunday,

Coby
cjames8@...


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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Contact Coby at cjames8@... for more information on the Jack Brooks
work party this weekend.

Note: forwarded message attached.


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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I have completed Pay Dirt forms for about 60-80 of you (lost count).  Many of
you I know, others I do not; some of you I have no clue if you even want
PayDirt, but I've printed up forms for you anyway.  And still others, we have
many trail hours for, but I'm fairly sure you're not racing this season.  If I'm
incorrect, please let me know.   I will be at Memorial Park tomorrow (Wednesday)
night at the Picnic Loop until 745.  Many of you I know the shop you ride for
(i.e., Westside, Bikesport, BikeLane, Northwest, etc.) and can give them to one
of your fellow riders to take back to your shop.  Please email me at
jayhawkrider@... to coordinate getting your form.  Please bare in mind
that I'm not driving all over town every day and I'll be out of town this
weekend.  I will be at the Flat Creek race and plan on going up on Friday
afternoon should that work out best to give you your form.  Your form must be
completed with the rest of your personal information and post marked NO LATER
THAN MAY 1ST.   I have forms for the following people: Ryan SpatesDavid
BremnerKirsty BremnerRichard GabrunasSusan StormerBilly CloerFrank St. ClairDan
RaineTracy MeixenspergerGary StrouzVicki StrouzColin WinsorMelanie LacyChris
BurkeMelissa MaterNick GonzalesMike LutomskiLarry PruittJoe CraigDavid
McClintockBill DuckworthRay DavisBrian HansonLuis GonazlesJim HarloyBrian
ThigpenJorge PortillaRob BrownTim WirtsKelly StraderAnja WinsorPam AveryMike
ClarkMorris TaymoniNathan WinklemanSuzi WilliamsMonica GillKelley EspindolaAaron
JonasAustin PferdChance BromleyMichael AtkinsonGraham DavidsonTony DeoreDaniel
ThorntonSkip StallingsSteffi PencoCatherine MarchakGarth McCannRick PerezClifton
HartoonBob MacKnightCody HogeNick MillerScott SchaeferMax WirtsJoan
SnodgrassJohn Washburn


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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

For those of you who are concerned about PayDirt hours for TMBRA spring series,
I've downloaded the hours we have since last May 2002 onto the GHORBA
YAHOOGROUPS website (please go visit that at www.yahoogroups.com click on
GHORBA, then on Files to check out the spreadsheet).  We must still enter the
hours for the bridge building at Huntsville State Park and the hours for a work
party at Memorial Park back in July.  We anticipate having this complete by
Wednesday of this week.   Russell has also completed the mail merge for the
spreadsheet, which will have the TMBRA form completed with the information we
have on file for you, as well as  Russell's signature, and a second page with
the work parties you've attended and the hours you've completed.  You must still
complete the form with the rest of your personal information, including your
NORBA license, and mail it in to Jeanne Patterson ON YOUR OWN, per her
requirement. I will send an announcement out via email informing everyone where
you can pick up your forms...most likely at Memorial Park this week and again
next week.  If you have friends who need their PayDirt hours, please pick theirs
up at the same time. Thanks. Christina


---------------------------------
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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hello,

This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the ghorba
group.

   File        : /PayDirt Work Hours/Trail Work Hours 2002-2003 Locked.xls
   Uploaded by : jayhawkrider <jayhawkrider@...>
   Description :

You can access this file at the URL

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ghorba/files/PayDirt%20Work%20Hours/Trail%20Work%2\
0Hours%202002-2003%20Locked.xls

To learn more about file sharing for your group, please visit

http://help.yahoo.com/help/us/groups/files

Regards,

jayhawkrider <jayhawkrider@...>

GHORBA MONTHLY MEETING APRIL 7th AT JAX GRILL - We will have our April
monthly meeting tonight at Jax Grill (Monday, April 7th) starting at 7
p.m. in the back room.

FYI: We are looking into other locations with  larger accomodations for
future meetings.

Meetings are open to everyone, so please feel free to join us!

GHORBA MONTHLY MEETING APRIL 7th AT JAX GRILL - We will have our April
monthly meeting tonight at Jax Grill (Monday, April 7th) starting at 7
p.m. in the back room.

FYI: We are looking into other locations with  larger accomodations for
future meetings.

Meetings are open to everyone, so please feel free to join us!


From ghorba@yahoogroups.com Mon Apr 14 11:34:59

MONTHLY MEETING APRIL 7th AT JAX GRILL - We will have our April
monthly meeting at Jax Grill on Monday, April 7th starting at 7 p.m.
in the back room.  FYI: We are looking into other locations with
larger accomodations for future meetings.  Meetings are open to
everyone, so please feel free to join us!

Saturday April 5th is a big day for GHORBA members.

MEMORIAL PARK WORK PARTY - We are having a work party at Memorial Park
this Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  We will be correcting some
of the mud holes problems and moving dirt, so please bring gloves and
shovels.  This counts for PayDirt points.  We will meet in the parking
lot just west of the softball fields on the south side of the park.
Be sure to sign in and out so we can track your time and indicated
whether you are interested in PayDirt or not.


KIDS PROGRAM - GHORBA is partnering with the Houston Parks and
Recreation Department and the National Park Service to put on a kids
mountain bike-riding clinic at Sunnyside Park on April 5th.  Set up is
at 8:00 a.m. with registration for the kids at 9:00 a.m. This clinic
is part of a community outreach program to the residents in the area
of the future Hill at Sims Bayou Park.  Thanks to  Westside Bicycles
and Cyclone Cycles who each donated two kids' bikes. If you are
interested in helping with this worthy cause, please contact Jamie at
jamiel_1450@...


Saturday evening is the Westside Moonlight Madness ride.  This is a
new ride that we are developing for west side riders wanting to get
some night miles in.  We will start at 8:00 pm at the Terry Hershey
parking lot south of Memorial.

SUNDAY, Sunday Sunday, Clay Fenton is leading the April Group Ride at
Terry Hershey Park (Anthills) meet at at 10:30 a.m. and be ready to
roll at 11:00 a.m.


If you haven't checked out GHORBA's new and improved website please do
so. Many thanks to Keith Porter for his efforts on upgrading and
maintaining the website.

More information on all of the events can be found at
http://www.ghorba.org/homenews.htm


Cynthia Stewart
GHORBA Secretary

Jeff Nielsen
Houston Contractors Association
-----Original Message-----
From: Deborah Rule [mailto:deborah@...]
Sent: Thursday, April 03, 2003 11:29 AM
To: deborah@...
Subject:

Memorial Park Conservation Master Plan
Public Meeting # 3


The Houston Parks Board, Inc. and the Memorial Park Conservancy invite
you to a third public meeting regarding the Memorial Park Conservation
Master Plan.

DATE:                        Monday, April 28, 2003
TIME:              6:30 - 9:00 PM
WHERE:        St. Theresa Catholic Church - School Cafeteria
                         6622 Haskell (adjacent to Memorial Park)

The consultant team led by Wallace Roberts and Todd, (WRT) will present
a first draft of planning and design recommendations for Memorial Park.
Please come to review the draft plan and make comments.

In consideration to the staff of St. Theresa's, the meeting will start
promptly at 6:30 and will conclude promptly at 9:00 PM.

For more information, call (713) 942-8500.



You are receiving this email because you have contacted The Houston
Parks Board, Inc. with comments or attended a previous meeting.  If you
would like to be removed from this mailing list please respond to this
email and indicate your wish to be removed.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

GHORBA elects new leader
by Steve Sievert
-- One of the founding members of the Greater Houston Off-Road Biking
Association (GHORBA) has been elected president of the cycling advocacy
organization.
Jeff Nielsen, who was instrumental in forming the group five years ago, takes
over for Christina Case and will serve a term of up to three years.
"We've accomplished a great deal over the past few years and have grown from 30
members when we started to more than 130 registered members today," Nielsen
said. "My focus will be on bringing more organization to the group and
developing `signature' GHORBA events."
Riding classes, trail-maintenance clinics, a GHORBA-sponsored off-road race and
the second Fat Tire Festival are among the events Nielsen is planning for 2003
and beyond.
The group's first spring event is an invitation-only children's mountain-biking
clinic Saturday at Sunnyside Park.
GHORBA is introducing 50 inner-city kids to mountain biking. Several bikes have
been donated and reconditioned for use at the clinic, with many of them to be
given away to children at future events.
"This is an important part of our community outreach program and a way to bring
mountain biking to kids who might not otherwise have an opportunity to learn
about our sport," Nielsen said.
Work also continues in earnest with Houston's parks groups regarding off-road
trail access in the city. User groups received a sneak peak at the latest
version of the Memorial Park Master Plan late last month, and Nielsen was
pleasantly surprised with what he saw.
"It was pretty agreeable," he said. "Virtually all of the trails currently being
used for mountain biking would continue to be open. Some minor re-routes would
be necessary, but these will affect less than 10 percent of the trails. The plan
also showed new access in the north side of the park."
While this bodes well for the future of off-road cycling in Memorial, Nielsen
isn't signaling victory just yet.
The plan was presented to the user groups as a "preliminary final plan," with
another round of public comment and city council review still ahead.

---------------------------------
Steve Sievert covers cycling for the Chronicle. His notebook appears Thursdays.
Call him at 832-978-4359 or send e-mails to cycling@....


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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Sorry, directions to Jack Brooks are wrong.  Take the dog track exit and you go
through the first light on the feeder road, which is 1764.  About 200 yards
down, you curve to the right, which is FM 2004.  Take a right onto FM2004.Park
is down on the right about 2 miles.Elementary school is on the left, right
across the street.If you follow the other directions, you will be on the wrong
side of the freeway.(Thanks, Russ!)


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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]