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#829 From: "Kevin Highfield" <khighfield@...>
Date: Fri May 26, 2006 2:34 am
Subject: NEW TRAIL - CARL BARTON JR. PARK, CONROE kchighfield
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GHORBA is pleased to announce the establishment of a new trail system at Carl Barton Jr. Park in Conroe, following signing of an agreement with the City of Conroe. Construction of the first three (3) mile section is planned for Summer 2006. The trails will be laid out in over 200 acres of pine forest surrounding the developed areas of the park. There is scope for construction of up to 10 miles of trail when completed. Unlike many Houston area trails, the land has contour. Professional trail builders Ryan Spates and Susan Stormer, a.k.a. the �Texas Trail Docs�, will design the first three (3) mile section. The trails will be designated as �multi-use�, but they will be built to IMBA standards from a clean slate, and we expect that Ryan and Susan will deliver some sweet single-track.

The establishment of the agreement between GHORBA and the City of Conroe is a text-book example of how new trails can be built in the Greater Houston area. The project started in November 2005 when Gary Rogers, a wrench at Bike Barn (Champions) said to regular customer, and VP-Trails of GHORBA, Kevin Highfield, �Hey Kev, I know a place where we could build some great trails�. �Tell me more�, says Kevin. Gary explained about the extensive area of woodland surrounding Carl Barton Jr. park. Gary had �inside� knowledge, since he used to work for Conroe Parks department, and knew the park managers. So, Kevin supplied sample agreements and told Gary to chat with his former employers about what we could do. Gary did and quickly reported back that the park managers were interested. So, Kevin arranged a meeting with the park manager Mike Riggens and his colleagues, the Texas Trail Docs, GHORBA President Mike Lutomski and Gary. Together, they walked the property and left the meeting with a clear objective to develop a trail construction and maintenance agreement.

Kevin drafted an agreement, which was a simplified version of earlier drafts prepared for Memorial Park and other venues. The City reviewed and responded with suggested changes. A couple more drafts, and both sides were happy with an agreement which is both simple and effective.

In order to construct the first section of trail, GHORBA are arranging for the Trail Docs to hold a trail building clinic at the park. As the practical part of the course, volunteers will construct the first section of trail. GHORBA will invite a diverse group of people to the trail building clinic � local park employees, members of other interest groups (hikers, runners, adventure racers, environmental groups and local citizens).

Gary first came to us with his idea in November 2005. The agreement was approved by Conroe City Council today, May 25^th; Ryan and Susan will mark the first section June 5 � 7, construction will begin as soon as we arrange the trail building clinic. Construction of the second phase, beyond the first three miles, will be subject to the success of the first section - we'll be working to get that done just as soon as we can.

Thanks are due to Gary for the idea in the first place and Bike Barn for giving him time off to attend meetings. We hope there are more park managers around like Mike Riggens, who quickly and enthusiastically supported the project.

Watch for news of progress on this, and other projects we have in the works.

Happy Trails!

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#828 From: clayfenton@...
Date: Tue May 23, 2006 12:13 am
Subject: GHORBA Mountain Bike Skills Clinic on Sunday, June 4 clayfentondawg
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Event: GHORBA Mountain Biking Skills Clinic sponsored by Bicycle World and Fitness

Date: Sunday, June 4th (9 AM - Noon)

Location: Terry Hershey Park Spillway (at Hwy 6) south side of Buffalo Bayou Click for Map

Parking: Please park at Terry Hershey Park on Memorial, west of Eldridge or at the parking lot West of Hwy 6 at Briar Forest and ride to the clinic.

Cost: Free to members of Bayou City Outdoors, NWCC, or GHORBA

Bring: (1) Trail-ready bike

(2) Bike helmet

(3) Proof of membership to Bayou City Outdoors, NWCC, or GHORBA

Liability Release Forms: All attendees must sign a liability release form

Not a Member: Not a problem. GHORBA will be signing up new members at the clinic. New memberships are $25 for a single membership and $35 for a family membership. Checks or cash will be accepted on the day of the clinic. You may pay online with a credit card (http://GHORBA.org/membership) no later than the day before the clinic.

GHORBA Provides: (1) Water and Gatorade

(2) Snacks

(3) Lunch

How Do You Reserve Your Spot At The Clinic?: RSVP to clinic@... with the names of the attendees and skill level by May 31th.
Limited first come, first served spots are available for Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced riders.

Rainout Contingency: See the GHORBA calendar for updates regarding event cancellation due to rain.

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#827 From: <veljko@...>
Date: Thu May 18, 2006 4:48 am
Subject: More May Mountain Biking -- Bike to Work Day; Monterrey MX Trip veljkoj
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Bike to Work Day & Lunch Rally @ City Hall This Friday, May 19

2 Spots Left for a Mountain Bike Adventure in Monterrey, Mexico

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#826 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Thu May 18, 2006 3:48 am
Subject: GHORBA in the News: New Trail for Conroe veljkoj
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HoustonChronicle.com -- http://www.HoustonChronicle.com | Section: Conroe News

May 16, 2006, 1:45PM

Off-road bicyclists support trails coming to Conroe

By BOB HOWIE
Chronicle Correspondent

A new series of natural-surface, multiuse trails — eventually as many as 10 miles of trails — is planned for Carl Barton Jr. Park, an addition being supported by off-road bicyclists.

"There's a lot of good stuff here," said Kevin Highfield, vice president of the Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association. "With Conroe and Montgomery County growing like they are and with the large population of bicyclists in that area, these trails will fill a niche between Memorial Park in Houston and Huntsville State Park."

The best news is that creation of the trails isn't coming at taxpayers' expense.

"The city already owns all the land on which the trails will be located," said Mike Riggens, Conroe Parks & Recreation director.

"We will be providing some in-kind help as the trails are developed, but the bulk of the work is being done by GHORBA and Texas Trail Doctors, part of the Texas Department of Parks & Wildlife," Riggens said.

Mapping the course

Highfield said his organization and Texas Trail Doctors will meet with the city in coming weeks to map out the trail's course and to begin finalizing construction details pending City Council approval, hopefully at the May 25 council meeting so work can begin this summer.

"The bicyclists are taking the lead here on getting the trails built, but everyone needs to know that the trails are multiuse, so anybody can use them," Highfield said.

Highfield said the topography of the trails will incorporate existing terrain while utilizing materials within the area to create a challenging route.

"We are going to build three miles of trails to start with, but, if the city likes what we do, there's enough room to expand the trails to as much as 10 miles," he said.

"Volunteers will do all the work, and we will use materials we find along the route to develop the course," Highfield said. "It's going to provide a very intimate, natural setting that anyone who goes along the trail will enjoy."

Attracting park visitors

Riggens said the city is enthusiastic about creation of the trails because it widens the offerings and provides another attraction for residents and visitors alike.

"We've had a concrete trail at the park since the park was built, but this is something that's going to be quite different and offer a different park experience," Riggens said. "There is a large population of bicyclists in this area, so when GHORBA came to us proposing the off-road trails in Carl Barton Park, we were very interested in what those kinds of trails could offer everyone who uses city parks and not just the bicyclists.

"But, to have an organization with experience in this kind of trail development and to be partnering with the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife while not costing taxpayers any additional money is always something the city is interested in," Riggens said. "The trails will offer a very different and unique experience and we're excited to see what GHORBA is planning as development continues."

Given good weather, construction of the trails could be completed before fall, but Highfield preferred conservatism as to when the trails would be opened to the public.

This article is: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/nb/conroe/news/3866782.html

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#825 From: Veljko Roskar <veljko@...>
Date: Fri May 12, 2006 4:59 pm
Subject: Kid's Kup Volunteers Needed Sunday 10 AM - 1PM! veljkoj
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We need you to help out at the Kid's Kup @ the first ever Houston Grand Criterium this Sunday!

Here’s your chance to volunteer and/or have your child 10 and under participate in the Kid’s Kup bike race @ the Houston Grand Crit!

We STILL need 4-5 volunteers to help out with the Kids' Kup event at the Houston Grand Criterium. We only need you from 10 am – 1 pm. You’ll have plenty of time to get home and spend some quality time with mom on her day. It is a short event and will be a lot of fun for the kids.

If you have never volunteered, and want a fun and easy event to start with, this is it. You’ll get as much out of it as the kids do.

If you can make it, please come to Eleanor Tinsley park at 10 am and also contact Mike (GHORBA President) at mikelutomski@... so he knows you’ll be there.

Visit http://GHORBA.org for more info.

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#824 From: <veljko@...>
Date: Wed May 10, 2006 6:03 am
Subject: May Mountain Biking Events -- Kid's Kup Volunteers NEEDED!; REI Ant Hills Trash Clean Up veljkoj
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Thanks to all who came out to the Big Ring Challenge this past weekend.* We achieved a TMBRA record for first-time racer participation! GHORBA is proud of the success and grateful to the sponsors.

Proceeds from the event will be used to open or maintain even more mountain bike trails in the greater Houston area, but we still need your brains and brawn to help out with the work!

Kid's Kup @ the Houston Grand Criterium this Sunday!

Here’s your chance to volunteer or have your child participate in the Kid’s Kup mountain bike skills introduction @ the Houston Grand Crit!

We are looking for 4-5 volunteers to help out with the first ever Kids' Kup event at the Houston Grand Criterium (ok, so it's a road race but the 10 and unders will be instructed on dirt or grass).

If you are eager to volunteer and help introduce a youngster to mountain biking,
please contact Mike (GHORBA President)

REI Trash Clean Up @ the Ant Hills May 20th

*If you took some interesting photos @ the BRC and would like to have them appear on our website, please contact Veljko directly.

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#823 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Fri May 5, 2006 6:03 pm
Subject: bhp Billiton Big Ring Challenge Race UPDATE veljkoj
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GHORBA Logo

Race Weekend & Events are Still On!

Our trail steward reports that the sun is out and the birds are chirping!

Unlike Houston gumbo, the dirt at Double Lake drains and dries fast, so even if we get some rain tonight or tomorrow morning, the conditions will be fine more quickly than here.

Make sure you participate in the raffles - we're giving two bikes away this year!

More info on our race pages!

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#822 From: "Kevin Highfield" <khighfield@...>
Date: Thu May 4, 2006 1:28 am
Subject: BHP-BILLITON BIG RING CHALLENGE MTB RACE - MAY 6 & 7 kchighfield
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Dear Greater Houston Cyclists, Only a few days to go for our big event..... the trails are in great shape, everything's been prepared and the weather's looking great - now all we need is for you guys to drive an hour NNE and join for us for a terrific weekend of bicycling fun. The experienced racers are in their final tapering mode and getting everything ready for a great race. But if you are a beginner, you are just as welcome to come and join the fun. The beginner classes are a great way to enjoy a race in a lower key environment and try your hand at racing. Not in your best shape? - well don't worry, lots of beginners are the same; the great thing about mountain bike racing is that even if you tank, you can still enjoy the ride through the woods and who knows? You may surprise yourself! Come up on Saturday and make sure you attend the FREE beginner racer's clinic at 1pm, given by Pedalmasher.com - they will teach you the rules and protocols, then take you for a pre-ride around the course. First time beginners will enjoy a reduced entry fee. Lots of other fun events on Saturday as well. Looking forward to seeing you there. bhp billiton Big Ring Challenge Weekend Race Festival If you're a beginner mountain biker, you'll love the course at Double Lake -- it's pure singletrack that meanders through the Sam Houston National Forest. You can also do a pre-race race clinic! If you're a parent, bring your younglings to participate in the Kid's Kup! They'll love it! If you're an experienced rider, you'll get to break in that seldom-used 44 tooth chainring! For details and last minute info, www.ghorba.org

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#820 From: "Kevin Highfield" <khighfield@...>
Date: Sat Apr 29, 2006 11:15 pm
Subject: DOUBLE LAKE WORK PARTY - SUNDAY 10AM kchighfield
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Robert Patrick is taking a walk through to pickup after this morning's storms. Last chance for paydirt - meet Robert at the lodge 10am Sunday morning, 30 April 2006. Bring your paydirt forms if you are a desperate procrastinator.

Kevin Highfield

VP-Trails, GHORBA.

www.ghorba.org

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#819 From: "Kevin Highfield" <veljko@...>
Date: Sat Apr 29, 2006 1:27 pm
Subject: DOUBLE LAKE - WORK PARTY CANCELLED veljkoj
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Heavy rain right now (7am), tornado watch. Yuk! Today's work party is cancelled. However, watch for news, as trail steward Robert Patrick may take a walk through tomorrow (Sunday) to pickup debris, at which time you can join him for your last minute paydirt points.

The whole area is suffering the same deluge, so lets all use the trail update on the ghorba website to keep all informed about how your local trail dries out over the next few days.

Happy trails,

Kevin Highfield

VP-trails, GHORBA

www.ghorba.org

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#818 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Mon Apr 24, 2006 6:09 pm
Subject: Santa Cruz Demo & Urban Ride w/ Kurt Voreis this Wed., April 26 veljkoj
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West U Cycles Presents the Santa Cruz Bike Demo & Ride

with Factory Rider Kurt Voreis

Kurt Voreis and his wife are headed to Houston as a stop on their Santa Cruz Allride Tour.

They will demo the Santa Cruz fleet (20 bikes), sign autographs, ride with us downtown, and give out SWAG!!!

We can't pass up this opportunity, so GHORBA's "Over the Hump" ride is cancelled this Wednesday only.

Schedule for WEDNESDAY April 26:

4 to 6 PM @ Memorial Park - test out the Santa Cruz line with Kurt Voreis

7 to ~8 @ West U Cycles - Meet and greet (Check out DVD's). 2519 Rice Blvd, Houston

7:45 Urban Ride - depart shop for some urban action downtown

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#817 From: <veljko@...>
Date: Wed Apr 19, 2006 4:47 am
Subject: Mountain Bike Events in May - Humongous Race Weekend + Pre-Race Course Trailwork veljkoj
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Dear Greater Houston Off-Road Cyclists,

This time we're sending out our update for May events a little early.

Why?

Because it's time for you to drive up or camp out with us at the...

bhp billiton Big Ring Challenge

Weekend Race Festival -- just over 2 weeks (and 1 hour) away!

If you're a beginner mountain biker, you'll love the course at Double Lake -- it's pure singletrack that meanders through the Sam Houston National Forest. You can also do a pre-race race clinic!
If you're a parent, bring your younglings to participate in the Kid's Kup! They'll love it!
If you're an experienced rider, you'll get to break in that seldom-used 44 tooth chainring!

Pre-Race Work Party @ Double Lake -- Saturday April 29

For the work party, we'll be working on the race course. Your trail work experience level does not matter--we will teach you what you need to know. You are encouraged to bring gloves, safety glasses, a full Camelback, trimming or clipping tools, sunglasses or safety glasses, and mosquito repellent.
GHORBA will provide drinks and snacks. Lunch will be provided for the volunteers at the conclusion of the work
This work party is your last chance for for Paydirt 2006 Spring Series points. Paydirt is open to all volunteers and enters you into yearly drawings worth thousands of dollars. Visit tmbra.org for more Paydirt info.

For details and last minute info, visit http://ghorba.org

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#816 From: "veljkoj" <veljko@...>
Date: Tue Apr 11, 2006 4:12 am
Subject: New GHORBA website is up! veljkoj
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Hello Members & Friends -- please check out and comment on our new
website @ http://GHORBA.org

This is a special, one time notice.

Veljko
Secretary,
GHORBA.org

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#815 From: <veljko@...>
Date: Tue Apr 4, 2006 11:20 pm
Subject: Do you want to be more than just a weekend warrior? veljkoj
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...then step it up a notch and come ride with us after work @ Memorial Park!

GHORBA's "Over the Hump" ride!

Starting tomorrow at 6 and 6:30 PM, and repeating every Wednesday through June, GHORBA will lead a mountain bike ride on Memorial Park's multi-use trails.

Click here for meeting spot and directions

We will start rolling at 6 PM, then circle back to pick up latecomers at 6:30 PM.

Depending on how many people show up, we will have a fast group and a slow group

Don't even think about showing up without a helmet!

For other rides and events, visit
http://ghorba.org/calendar

If you don't see [GHORBA] in the subject line, this is the last email you will receive unless you sign up for our mailing list:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ghorba

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#814 From: "Secretary" <veljko@...>
Date: Mon Apr 3, 2006 3:23 am
Subject: Houston MTB Events for April - Group Ride & Trailwork April 8, Trails Info April 10 veljkoj
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Greater Houston Off-Road Bikers -- here's a list of current MTB events that you may find of interest:

Work Party & Group Ride @ Double Lake Recreational Area -- this Saturday April 8

If you recently participated in our skills clinic, this is a perfect opportunity to try out your newly learned skills! Double Lake is a non-technical venue that is fun for beginners and allows advanced riders to sustain high speeds.
Directions on GOOGLE Maps - only ~1 hour from Houston.
Participate in the work party from 9 - 2 PM, or just join us for the group ride @ 2:30 PM
Double Lake Rec. Area in the Sam Houston National Forest is also the venue for GHORBA's premier race -- the bhp billiton Big Ring Challenge coming up in May (a great opportunity for first-time racers!)
For the work party, we'll be working on the race course. Your trail work experience level does not matter--we will teach you what you need to know. You are encouraged to bring gloves, safety glasses, a full Camelback, trimming or clipping tools, sunglasses or safety glasses, and mosquito repellent.
GHORBA will provide drinks and snacks. Lunch will be provided for the volunteers at 2 PM.
This work party qualifies for Paydirt 2006 Spring Series points. Paydirt is open to all volunteers and enters you into yearly drawings worth thousands of dollars. Visit tmbra.org for more Paydirt info.

GHORBA Members & Friends Meeting @ Planetary Cycles, Monday, April 10, 7 PM

Our well-spoken Vice President of Trails, Kevin Highfield, will present on the state of mountain bike trails in Houston and answer your questions.
Phil Niccum will present on his project of developing brand new trails just 10 miles from downtown Houston.
Refreshments will be provided, but please bring your own camp chair to be comfy.
Click here for directions. GHORBA thanks Adam Potter for letting us host this meeting in his bike shop, which features GIANT & Raleigh mountain bicycles.

GHORBA Skills Clinic Photos

Much thanks to a new friend of GHORBA, Steve Upperman, for shooting pro grade photos at GHORBA's last skills clinic in Jack Brooks Park. If you were one of the beginner, intermediate or advanced students, check out your form and style in this flickr slideshow !

For details and last minute info, join our low-volume, announcements only mailing list
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GHORBA
and visit http://ghorba.org/calendar

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#812 From: Veljko Roskar <veljko@...>
Date: Fri Mar 24, 2006 2:38 am
Subject: Help build new trails @ Cypresswood - April Fool's Day veljkoj
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We're not kidding -- if you want to help build trail additions at Cypresswood, then come to a work party led by local riders!

Saturday, April 1, 9:00 AM.

Meet at the trailhead (TC Jester/Cypresswood) to begin cutting a new section of trails. If you lack the experience, don't worry. We'll teach you what you need to know.

You are encouraged to bring gloves, a full camelback, trimming tools, sunglasses or safety glasses, shovels, rakes, and mosquito repellent.

This work party qualifies for Paydirt points.�

If the work�party is in jeopardy of being canceled due to wet conditions, please give Brandon a call at 281-795-1813.

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#811 From: "Mike" <mikelutomski@...>
Date: Wed Mar 22, 2006 11:59 pm
Subject: Annoucement: Two Fun Family Events Tomorrow - Camping Program and Bus Visit mglutomski
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Two Annoucements:  GHORBA wanted to pass on two fun family events
tomorrow at the REI Westheimer location.  As off-road bikers we all
end up camping and doing a lot of driving as part of enjoying our
sport.

1. FAMILY CAMPING PROGRAM
3/23/2006 7:00 PM
REI Westheimer

The Houston Area Urban Outdoors Specialist from the Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department will be here to teach families the basics of
camping.  Learn how to enjoy the outdoors and explore new boundaries
with your family. There will also be some basic information on site
selection, items to bring, and state park camping opportunities in
the Houston area, along with many useful hints for the outdoors.

http://www.rei.com/stores/store_event_detail.jsp?
pid=6ADAA845DED6EA676297F98FE447D081&template_id=14&template_family=w
ebDetail&ignore_cache=1


2. The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) Recycled Vegetable
Oil (RVO) Bus Visits Houston

Thursday, March 23, 2006
4:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Feature Presentation at 6 p.m.
REI Westheimer

The non-profit NOLS has found a better way to get around. The school
has a 36-foot bus fueled by French fries and other ingredients
traveling the country, providing an active, environmentally
conscious way to learn about the outdoors.  Powered by recycled
vegetable oil (RVO) and solar power,  this educational program on
wheels provides an active, environmentally conscious way to learn
about the outdoors and celebrate leadership in your community.

http://www.nols.edu/bus/

For more information on these events see the above links or contact:
Phillip Wood, REI Outreach Specialist, at (713) 353-2582.

Mike

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#810 From: Veljko Roskar <veljko@...>
Date: Tue Mar 21, 2006 3:06 am
Subject: Last chance for Armadillo Rides @ MP, March 22 and March 29 veljkoj
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More info:

http://ghorba.org/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=1

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#809 From: "Mike" <mikelutomski@...>
Date: Sat Mar 11, 2006 3:19 pm
Subject: Two Volunteer Opportunities - Bluebonnet Express & The Tour de Houston mglutomski
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Here are two wonderful Volunteer Opportunities that raise funds for cycling and recreation in Houston that GHORBA is proud to be supporting. Please consider volunteering for these events and let them know you hear about it from GHORBA.

1. The Bluebonnet Express (http://www.northwestcyclingclub.com/) – Sunday, March 12, 2006 (== Tomorrow! ==)

Northwest Cycling Club are holding their annual pre-MS150 ride, the "Bluebonnet Express" TOMORROW (Sunday March 12th). The organizer, Lori Walker, still needs some more volunteers to assist with rest stops, corner marshals, sag drivers.

NWCC is a partner club to GHORBA and continues to make substantial donation to GHORBA to support our trail building and trail advocacy activities in the Houston area. Donations by NWCC are made possible by the funds generated by the Bluebonnet Express.

If anyone is able and willing to help out, please drop a line to Lori today at: lwalkercycling@.... You do not have to be an experienced "roadie" to volunteer - Lori will match your task to your experience!

2. The Guaranty Bank Tour de Houston (http://www.houstontx.gov/specialevents/tourdehouston/index.html) Saturday, March 18, 2006

Yes, Houston is doing it too! Thanks to the Mayor and many others, Houston now has its own “tour” as well. Proceeds from The Tour de Houston benefit Houston Parks and Recreation Department, through Houston Parks Board.

Volunteers are needed for a number of tasks including staffing the City’s Bikeway Program table during the event, course marshalling, and more. Please contact Lilibeth Andre, the Bicycle - Pedestrian Coordinator for the City of Houston Bikeway Program at (713) 837-0003 or lilibeth.andre@.... The Mayor would like to make the tour an annual tradition for our city.

Thanks,

Mike Lutomski

GHORBA President

www.ghorba.org

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#808 From: "Secretary" <veljko@...>
Date: Fri Mar 10, 2006 4:37 am
Subject: March Houston MTB Events - Work Party, Group Ride, MTB Skills Clinic! veljkoj
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Greater Houston Off-Road Bikers -- here's a list of current MTB events that you may find of interest:

Memorial Park Work Party this Saturday March 11, 9 AM - 2 PM. Meet @ the Rugby Field Parking Lot.
- Come help us maintain the trails you ride!
- Your trail work experience level does not matter for this work party; we will teach you what you need to know.
- You are encouraged to bring gloves, safety glasses, a full camelback, trimming tools, sunglasses or safety glasses, shovels, rakes, and mosquito repellent.
- GHORBA will provide drinks and snacks. Lunch will be provided for the volunteers at the conclusion of the work party.
- This work party qualifies for Paydirt points. Paydirt is open to all volunteers and enters you into yearly drawings worth thousands of dollars.
- If the work party is in jeopardy of being canceled due to wet conditions, please call Brian at 713-569-2994, but not before 8 AM that morning!
GHORBA group ride this Sunday, March 12. West side of town. FREE for GHORBA members!
- This is an intermediate to advanced ride at some of the best-flowing and challenging trails in Houston
- Please sign up via an email to rides@... for meeting spot and exact start time
GHORBA Skills Clinic Sunday March 26, 9 AM - 12 PM @ Jack Brooks Park. FREE for GHORBA members!
- Limited first come, first served spots are available for Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced riders.
- Sign up by March 19th via email to clinic@... . Include your MTB experience or skill level!

For details and last minute info, join our main, low-volume announcements list
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GHORBA or visit http://ghorba.org/calendar

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#807 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Wed Mar 1, 2006 3:25 pm
Subject: GREEN'S BAYOU trail forum veljkoj
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Wow, Phillip Niccum's call for volunteers to scope out a new trail @ Green's Bayou, northeast of downtown, has generated a torrent of responses and offers to help.

If you're interested in helping establish a new trail in Houston, please visit the new sub-forum "Green's Bayou", here:

http://ghorba.org/phpBB2/index.php

Please post in the forum instead of replying -- the email list is growing too fast!!! Of course you are welcome to just lurk there as well.

/Veljko
Secretary,
GHORBA.org

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#805 From: "Mike" <mikelutomski@...>
Date: Tue Feb 28, 2006 3:53 am
Subject: RE: [jack_brooks_trails] Boone Cycles Rumors mglutomski
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I would agree that Boone is alive and well.

In fact Joy has just agreed to help GHORBA this year with our biggest annual fundraiser, the Big Ring Challenge. The 7th TMBRA race May 6 & 7, 2006 at the Double Lake Recreation Area.

We are still pursuing sponsors, so if you know a bike shop that wants to help maintain access to, maintain, and build the trails in the Houston Area (Jack Brooks, Memorial, hills on the west side, etc...) please let one of us know. We also spend the money on education, and Sprockids, a program where we take underpriviledged kids riding.

BTW, this IS an advertisement, but since we are a non-profit promoting a healthy sport, I thought it would be OK.

Mike

GHORBA President

www.ghorba.org

Cell - 713-443-4380

P.S. If someone wants to pass this along to the other groups, that would be great. I only belong to the Jack Brooks group.

From: jack_brooks_trails@yahoogroups.com [mailto:jack_brooks_trails@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Donny Sanders
Sent: Monday, February 27, 2006 8:54 PM
To: houstonroadbicycleclub; PearlandCC@yahoogroups.com; boonemtb@yahoogroups.com; ghorba@yahoogroups.com; jack_brooks_trails@yahoogroups.com; texasmountainbikersusa@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [jack_brooks_trails] Boone Cycles Rumors

I work for Daniel Boone Cycles which a great deal of you know is the longest running single owner bike shop in the Houston area. I have never hid the fact that I work for the shop but also I have never turned any of the Cycling Forums into our own little commercial, I try to keep my opinions stated as just that and never try to push someone away from other shops to ours for any reason. When I started at the shop I wanted to balance what I do as my career and as my hobby so as not to appear to be posting just to get publicity out.

Right now I need to just use a little time to address some concerns that I have heard from some people. Apparently there is a rumor going around about Joy closing the bike shop down, this could not be further from the truth. In fact, I am working on new ideas and implementing progressive changes (Our official MTB team the Boone Trailblazers for example) while at the same time leaving the shop just the way everyone expects it to appear. If there was any chance that Joy was ready to give up the shop, then I would be taking over ownership, which is how dedicated I am to this shop. It would be hard to turn way from a 37 year history in the business at this point and is not happening with Joy.

This is not the first time that this rumor has been heard. Over the last several years it has seemed to some that our way of doing business was out dated and ready to die, but even with an old cash register, unusual location and a home/retail appearance, we are still around. I know of how one rumor was started several years ago by someone that works for a competitor and it spread like wildfire, till Joy heard it and put a stop to it. If Boones were to close it would be a sad day in our community but never doubt that there are people out there that wish we would go away.

That is all that I have to say on the subject and I promise to remain mostly quiet about my career and the shop. I appreciate your time while you are reading this and if you want more information about anything that I have said just email me or stop by the shop and ask for me, I am almost always there.

Donny

dbshouston@...

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#804 From: "Kevin Highfield" <veljko@...>
Date: Mon Feb 27, 2006 4:24 am
Subject: Help needed to establish a new trail in Houston (Green's Bayou) veljkoj
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From: Kevin Highfield, Vice President of Trails, GHORBA

To: Houston Area Mountain Bikers

Phil Niccum came to me a few months ago requesting help with a tract of land on Green's Bayou, about 10 mile northeast of downtown Houston. The land lies on either side of the bayou, between Lake Houston Parkway and Tidwell Road (see attached and picture below). The area was looked at about three years ago by GHORBA and the Texas Trail Docs, working in conjunction with the Harris County Flood Control District, with a view to creating trails there. Unfortunately the effort to establish an "official" trail was unsuccessful at the time.

But this effort did confirm that there is some prime real estate here for MTB trails covering an area about 2.5 miles in length by 1.5 miles width, with further appendages along the bayou. This side of town probably does not figure in many of your minds, since perhaps the majority of mtb'ers live in the other three quadrants of town. But the demographics are changing, with a lot of new developments around Lake Houston, and of course Kingwood - Atascocita residents should be especially interested.

We currently enjoy good relations with Harris County Flood Control District, and they have provided us with a large scale map of this area, confirming that HCFCD own all this land. The area lies in Harris County Precinct 1 (un-incorporated), though I understand that the City of Houston may have some designs on it. We are working to learn the status of any plans. Ideally, we would like the area to become an established park, with a trail maintenance agreement in place through GHORBA. If we start using the land, we will demonstrate the potential of the land to the county / city.

In the meantime, Phil needs your help in scouting the area to cut more trails.

When I say "You", we are looking for two (2) types of people:

A few experienced hands with trail building experience to assist Phil with planning new trails.
Anyone with a warm body who is willing to help.

That means you all qualify on some level. What is needed is a critical mass of riders to start using this land. Some trails exist, but with a little work, a lot more could be established. Currently, HCFCD seem to have adopted a "don't ask, don't tell" mode regarding access by non-motorized vehicles (bikes) and hikers on their land along the bayous, which very much works in our favor.

So, if you would like to assist, drop us a line with "Green's Bayou" in the subject and send it to trails@...

Happy Trails,

Kevin

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#803 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Sat Feb 25, 2006 11:15 pm
Subject: Sunday Houston ride CANCELLED; JB work Party; Warda Ride veljkoj
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Due to sloppy conditions on all H-town area trails, tomorrow's planned GHORBA group ride is CANCELLED. We'll try again next week.

For updates, please see our calendar:

http://ghorba.org/calendar

A Sunday work party is still on the schedule for Jack Brooks. For updates, visit:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jack_brooks_trails

ASFAIK, the NWCC ride @ Bluff Creek Ranch has not been cancelled. For updates, visit:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nwcycling

/Veljko Roskar
Secretary,
GHORBA.org

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#802 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Mon Feb 13, 2006 3:51 am
Subject: Reminder: Monthly meeting tomorrow night (Mon. Feb 13th, 7 PM) veljkoj
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ATTENTION : The Memorial Park Trails will have limited access via the picnic loop February 18 and February 23-26 due to the Houston Rodeo and other events.

MEMBERS & FRIENDS MEETING:

On the tails of our well-attended skills clinic, bike demos and social event, GHORBA's monthly meeting will take place this Monday, February 13th, 7 PM in the Houston Heights.

Brothers David and Fred Zapalac are the owners of Blue Line Bike Lab and the hosts of our meeting. Their shop specializes in Urban Assault / Hucking / Dirt Jumping bikes.

Jeff Shoemake, owner of My Bike Shop located nearby, will give a bike maintenance lesson at the meeting.

We will also screen a cool mountain biking movie of recent vintage, and discuss trail and event activities.

Join us for this interesting evening -- and please BYO camp or picnic chair to sit on.

Refreshments will be provided!

Directions http://maps.google.com/maps?q=3302+White+Oak+77070

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#801 From: Veljko Roskar <veljko@...>
Date: Wed Feb 8, 2006 9:24 pm
Subject: Seeking additional instructors for MTB Skills Clinic Feb 12 (Houston) veljkoj
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Due to an incredible response to our clinic, GHORBA is seeking advanced to expert riders who want to move up a notch and share their expertise.

If you fit the mold, please please volunteer as an instructor in upcoming Mountain Bike Skills clinic coming up this Sunday, February 12 (12 - 3 PM).

We are also looking for members to help with setting up the course.

The skills training guide and lunch will be provided.

Please contact Clay Fenton at clinic@... if you are able to help.

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#800 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Wed Feb 8, 2006 5:49 am
Subject: February MTB Events in Houston - Skills Clinic, Bike Demos, Rides etc. veljkoj
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Greater Houston Off-Road Bikers -- here's a list of events from our February calendar that you may find of interest. All of these events are FREE!

For details, signups and last minute info, visit http://ghorba.org and http://ghorba.org/calendar

This Sunday February 12th, we have four separate events at Houston's Memorial Park:
- Try out Ellsworth, Rocky Mountain and Scott mountain bikes starting at 10 AM. Sponsored by Sun & Ski Sports
- MTB Skills Clinic Starts at 11 AM -- Limited first come, first served spots are available for Beginner and Intermediate riders. Visit ghorba.org to reserve your spot!
- REI will bring their line of bikes to try out -- starting at 12 noon.
- Around 1 PM we will have our first ever Bike Frisbee tournament! Join us to try out this great mountain bike skills building game.
Monday February 13, 7 PM -- GHORBA members and friends meeting
Blue Line Bike Lab in the Heights has graciously offered their shop for our first 2006 monthly meeting. The shop is owned by brothers David and Fred Zapalac and specializes in Urban Assault / Hucking / DJ bikes.

Jeff Shoemake, who owns My Bike Shop, will give a bike maintenance class at the meeting.

The showing of an appropriate mountain biking movie is also within the realm of possibilities for this evening.
Directions http://maps.google.com/maps?q=3302+White+Oak+77070
Sunday February 26, 9 AM -- GHORBA group ride at Jack Brooks Park
If you haven't ridden Jack Brooks yet, you should. For those of you on the North or West sides of Houston, it's worth the drive -- and what a perfect opportunity to go. This is an intermediate to advanced ride.

PS The Memorial Park trails will be closed February 18 for the Go Texan Event

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#799 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Mon Feb 6, 2006 5:56 am
Subject: Mountain Bike Demos / Bike Frisbee - Sunday February 12 @ Memorial Park, Houston veljkoj
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Mountain Bike Demos - Sunday February 12 @ Memorial Park, Houston. Also Bike Clinic make up date. See http://ghorba.org for all info.

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#797 From: "Veljko Roskar" <veljko@...>
Date: Sat Jan 28, 2006 1:33 pm
Subject: Mountain Biking Skills Clinic - Postponed to February 12 veljkoj
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Mountain Biking Skills Clinic - Moved to February 12

Due to impending heavy rain, we are postponing the mountain bike skills clinic to Sunday, February 12 from 12 - 3 PM.

Those who confirmed participation in today's clinic have spots available on the Feb. 12 date. All others will need to sign up again by emailing skill level, club affiliation and any children's ages to clinic@...

The clinic will overlap a bike demo by Sun & Ski, which starts at 10 AM. You can show up earlier to try out the newest rides from Rocky Mountain Bicycles, Scott and Ellsworth (although we doubt they let you crash them in the clinic)!

A second regularly scheduled clinic is planned for March 25. Please check our calendar for the final schedule.

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#796 From: "Mike" <mikelutomski@...>
Date: Wed Jan 25, 2006 4:36 am
Subject: Volunteers Needed for GHORBA Skills Clinic == This Saturday 1/28/06 @ Memorial Park mglutomski
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GHORBA Needs YOU!

Volunteers Needed for GHORBA's Mountain Bike Skills Clinic this Saturday at Memorial Park. We've had an overwhelming response to the clinic. There are currently over 60 people who have RSVP'ed.

We're looking for one or two more instructors, and one or two more folks to help us set-up, sell T-Shirts, direct participants, and help clean-up.

We will have several skill stations including:

- Log rollovers

- trail of 8" wide planks

- Bike limbo

- Cornering drill

- Vision drill

It bound to be a lot of fun. We'll be next to the Rugby field and will need volunteers to show up at 8:00 am. Participants will arrive at 9:00 am.

Clinic will happen as long as it is not raining hard and there is no lighting. Call Clay Fenton at 713-826-5307 with any question or information.

If you can help us out please email Clay Fenton at Clayfenton@....

Visit www.ghorba.org for more details.

Thanks,

Mike

GHORBA President

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