September 2016 Board Meeting Minutes
CRAMBA Board Meeting Minutes9-22-16The meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM.Board members present were:
- Roger Class
- Jeremy Verbeke
- Alice Jacobs
- Kristen Barry
- Mike Fitzpatrick
- Jeremy Kosak
Recording Secretary’s ReportMinutes of the 8-18-16 board meeting were read and approved as read.Old Business
- Massive Fallout, October 1, Update
- Kristen Barry is the event manager
- Waiver are printed and will be signed at registration
- Maps are printed and will be available at registration
- Kristen will pick up the shirts on September 30
- Kristen will bring cash for change for shirt sales
- Ride starts at 8:00 AM with a mass start at 10:00 AM
- Mike Fitzpatrick will set up a card table for new membership solicitations
- Scott Cervin and Steve Vignue will trim the Conklin Road connector
- Pete, Drew and Kristen will handle the food
- SAG is out – Kristen will remove from CRAMBA website description
- Spray paint on ground will direct riders to correct pavilion
- Addison Oaks Race Recap
- Roger Class was event manager
- Kristen reported that CRAMBA made $8000.00 – a new record
- $1200 form Big Red title sponsor
- $750.00 from food jar donations (food actually cost just under $1000.00)
- 340 participants this year up about 15 from last year
- Race had no rider injuries
- Roger volunteered to head up next year’s race on September 10, 2017
- Chapter Meeting, October 11 Update
- Roger will bring a microphone/speaker system for the speaker
- Jeremy V. will bring the grill
- Kristy, Eric and Kristen will handle the food
- Group ride to start at 5:30 PM
- Food serving to start at 6:30 PM
- Meeting to start at 7:30 PM
- Kristen suggested that the speaker/chair stand in the middle
- Jeremy Verbeke will bring plug in lights
- Jeremy Verbeke will lead the meeting using a written agenda
- Kristen will promote this meeting as an election meeting on CRAMBA’s website
- Roger to send an email to the entire CRAMBA group to promote this Chapter meeting
- Chain saw safety class is out for now. Mike Fitzpatrick said he prefers the CRAMBA keep his donation ear marked for a future chain saw certification class
New Business
- Insurance
- Kristen reported that officer insurance may be through the MMBA next year. This should offer a cost savings
- Jeremy V. and Kristen proposed that we use Google Docs for all recurring tasks such as taxes, insurance, renewals, annual races, etc. Who will implement?
- Jeremy said Nick Shue will report on CRAMBA jerseys when he returns
- Our IMBA regional director, Andy, has been promoted within IMBA. A national search for a new RD is on the way. Melissa, as our ARD, is unaffected by this change
- Kristen’s Treasurer’s report
- Current balance is $24,512.00
- We received, so far in 2016, $2800.00 in donations
- End of 2014 we had $7,000.00
- End of 2015 we had $19241.00
- Kristen suggested a round table discussion on how best to spend this money
- Current balance is $24,512.00
- Our ARD, Melissa, wanted CRAMBA presence at the Iceman booth at the expo. Mike said he would call and find out the details of time and what is involved and will help out.
Next board meeting will be on October 20 at the Fitzpatrick Pub at 7:00 PM (please note the time).Meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.
New Mailing Address
We have updated our mailing address. Our new address is as follows:Clinton River Area Mountain Bike AssociationPO Box 180190Utica, MI 48318Info also found on our About Us Page. We look forward to riding with you soon!
2016 Massive Fallout Quad-Trail Mass Group Ride
ATTENTION: Due to torrential rains and flooding in Southeast Michigan, the 2016 Massive Fallout has been moved to Saturday, October 15th, 2016. Please join us -- two weeks later than planned -- for a great ride around CRAMBA trails!
Massive Fallout is a large-scale group ride organized by the volunteers of the Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association (CRAMBA-IMBA).The ride features four prominent trails in Macomb and Oakland Counties: Stony Creek, Bald Mountain, Addison Oaks, and Bloomer. These trails are all connected via a series of roads, paths, and rail trails creating a fun, flexible ride. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, the ride can be configured to your experience level and desired length. The total estimated mileage is roughly 50-60 miles including Bloomer.All trails and routes will be marked clearly. Maps will be handed out during starting hours. Join us for the mass start to be part of one of the largest mountain bike group rides in Southeast Michigan.This ride is a CRAMBA event and will be insured under the CRAMBA group event policy. An aid station will be available during the ride. T-Shirts will be available for sale the day of the ride at Stony Creek in the morning and at the Addison Oaks aid station. All proceeds from T-Shirt sales will go to CRAMBA.When: October 1st, 2016 October 15th, 2016 (Postponed due to weather!)Starting Hours: 8:00am – 10:00am, with a 10:00am mass start!Start Location: Stony Creek Metro Park – West Branch Picnic Area CRide Cost: Free! (purchase of Stony Creek Metropark day pass may be required)GPS route:https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13334279Turn-by-turn directions:Stony, Bald Mountain, and Addison: http://utabintarbo.com/files/MFORidingDirections2015.pdfBloomer "add-on": http://utabintarbo.com/…/MFORidingDirections2015-Bloomer.pdfFacebook Event Page:https://www.facebook.com/events/1067555313306613/Map(Classic): Massive Fallout Classic MapEmergency Contact: Please call 248-894-4209
2016 Addison Oaks Fall Classic Chapter Benefit Race
What: Addison Oaks Fall Classic Chapter Benefit RaceWho: Presented by CRAMBA-IMBAWhere: Addison Oaks County Park, Leonard, MIWhen: Sunday, September 11th, 2016 (Always on the 2nd Sunday in September)The CourseThe course consists of fast and flowing sections with some tight and twisty sections to challenge your skills. The course is approximately 7 miles long and is ~70% single track. Course map.ParkingRacers who do not already have a valid Oakland County Parks motor vehicle permit will be required to pay a $5 parking fee the day of the race. This fee can be applied to the purchase of a 2016 vehicle permit.Racers arriving by bus will be charged per-bus, at a rate of $1 per occupant.Results2015 race results are available from Newton Timing & Race Services: Elite/Expert, Sport/SS/FB/Tandem, Beginner.Facebook Event Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/events/214178275602363/Sign up NOW!
Registration day of the event will be available for an additional $5. Registration opens at 8:30 am, and closes 30 minutes prior to each race.Elite/Expert (Men and Women) and Single Speed (Expert/Elite):Registration closes: 9:30 amRaces start: 10:00 amLaps: Elite 5, Expert/SS 4Sport (Men and Women) and Single Speed (Sport/Beginner)Registration closes: NoonRaces start: 12:30 pmLaps: Sport 3Beginner and First TimersRegistration closes: 1:30 pmRaces start: 2:00 pmLaps: Beginner 2, First Timer 1Special Kids’s RaceWhat: Kids race will consist of a special short loop around the spectator area.When: 11:00 amRegistration: Cost is free, but you must sign a waiver at the registration desk. Each racer will get a number plate and a medal.SponsorsWe would like to thank our current 2016 Race Sponsors:
Would you or someone you know like to support CRAMBA-IMBA by being a sponsor of the 2016 Addison Oaks Fall Classic? Please contact us @ race@cramba.org.T-Shirts
To guarantee size, pre-order your shirt by September 6th. No guarantee on sizing for day-of purchase. Shirts are $20 with online registration. The day-of price is $20. CRAMBA-IMBA water bottles will also be available for $5/each.FoodFree (for racers) brats, hot dogs, burgers, or veggie burgers. Non-racers are welcome to enjoy the food, but we do ask that you consider donating to CRAMBA-IMBA to help offset our food costs. The grills will be lit and food available after 12:30 pm.Prize MoneyCash prize for top 3 Elite Men and Top 3 Elite WomenElite Men Overall:1st Place: $1002nd Place: $603rd Place: $40Elite/Expert Women Overall:1st Place: $1002nd Place: $603rd Place: $40Expert Men Overall:1st Place: $752nd Place: $503rd Place: $35AwardsMedals will be awarded to the first 3 finishers of each category.
August 18, 2016 Board Meeting Minutes
CRAMBA Board Meeting Minutes8-18-16The meeting was called to order at 7:10PM.Board members present were:
- Roger Class
- Jeremy Verbeke
- Drew Williams
- Alice Jacobs
- Kristen Barry
- Mike Fitzpatrick
Non-Board attendees
- Nick Shue
- Marty Shue
Recording Secretary’s ReportMinutes of the 6-23-16 board meeting were read and approved with a spelling correction – Pete Kresmery.Old Business
- Massive Fallout Update
- Jeremy Verbeke suggested that this event, since it isn’t a full blown fund raiser, should be promoted as a simpler event – maybe just a group ride event
- Kristen Barry will be taking this over as the event manager
- Addison Oaks Race on 9-11-16
- No title sponsor yet
- Guinness Bikers will support this event with their membership
- Kristen will check if the CRAMBA website has changed the description of the trails at Stony Creek from beginner to intermediate.
- CRAMBA is not doing the fall, October 1st “Take a Kid Mountain Biking”
- The CRAMBA trailer is still at the Shelby Township site
- Kristen to check into the cost of a PO box at Utica – might be cheaper
- Jeremy Verbeke said the mechanized trail building at River Bends went well. The new trail could not have been duplicated by hand. It was 300.00 well spent.
New Business
- Bike Patrol
- Jeremy Verbeke reported that we have 5 new bike patrollers. They have been trained but still need CPR training and certifications.
- CPR training cost $40.00 per individual – training instructor/student ration ideally is 7:1
- CRAMBA now has 54 Bike Patrollers
- CRAMBA Jerseys
- CRAMBA jerseys are a chapter fund raiser
- Nick will finish the set up on the on-line store
- Cost of jersey has yet to be determined
- Need a “media-blast” posting on the front page of the CRAMBA website
- Chain Saw Safety Class
- Motor City bowed out
- Cramba and Poto are still in
- Consists of 2 one day classes
- Costs is $84.00 per – $50.00 from the chapter and $34.00 from the individual
- Mike Fitzpatrick pledged a $500.00 donation, ear-marked for this training, to CRAMBA to help defray costs
- Next Chapter Meeting
- October 11 at River Bends
- This is an election meeting that needs promotion as such
- Food should be ready to eat early enough to minimize interfering with the meeting
- The following suggestions to improve this meeting
- Have a written agenda
- Group ride starts at 5:30 PM
- Have a fixed starting time – decided on 7:30 PM (sunset at 6:56 PM)
- Jeremy Verbeke will provide lighting for the meeting
- Roger said he will bring a microphone/speaker/amplifier system to aid the chair’s communication
- GOT Clinic on July 24th
- Marty Shue reported that, despite the rain, almost everyone who signed up showed up – about 27 women
- Most riders were better prepared and had better equipment than in the past
- Most riders basic skill set was higher than in the past
- Marty concluded the GOT clinic is reaching its target audience
- The August 27th clinic has about 20 women already signed up
- Nick Shue Report
- Discussion took place about the future of the MMBA. Questions asked: Is the MMBA forum dead? Is the Website active?
- Our new Assistant Regional Director, Melisa is the executive director of the MMBA
- The Michigan Trails Advisory Council is meeting this Sunday in Bellaire Michigan and Nick is CRAMBA’ representative.
- Mountain Biking needs a slot on this advisory board
- Treasurer’s report
- Kristen Barry reported that we have $12,893.00 balance
Next board meeting will be on September 15 at the Firehouse at 7:00 PM (please note the new time).Meeting adjourned about 9:02 PM.Mike Fitzpatrickmike.Fitzpatrick@fitzpatrickmfgco.com
CRAMBA Board Meeting Minutes 6-23-16
CRAMBA Board Meeting Minutes6-23-16 (added/corrected 6-29-16 by Mike Fitzpatrick)The meeting was called to order at 7:35PM.Board members present were:
- Rodney Gullet - president
- Roger Class
- Jeremy Verbeke
- Drew Williams
- Alice Jacobs
- Kristen Barry
- Mike Fitzpatrick
Non-Board attendees
- Ben Lindstrom
- Zandra
- Ernie
Recording Secretary’s ReportMinutes of the 5-19-16 board meeting were read and approved without additions or corrections.Old Business
- Massive Fallout Update
- Kristen Barry and Roger Class will help mark the trails
- Robin and Shari Scurr and Pete Kresarey will help with food
- Rodney will be the Massive Fallout event manager
- Rodney will procure T-shirts for the event
- Scott Cerdin will help with grooming the Conklin Road connector
- Addison Oaks Race on 9-11-16
- Bill Sloney from KLM is the race coordinator
- Roger Class said that his chiropractor might be interested in being the corporate sponsor for both the $1000.00 and number plate $500.00
New Business
- Oak Wilt Disease
We received an email from a rider named Liz that noticed Oak branches being trimmed at River Bends. She sent us and email alerted CRAMBA to the Oak Wilt disease exacerbated by cutting and trimming oaks. The following statement was read. “"The best way to deal with oak wilt is prevention. Avoid wounding oaks from April to August. Don’t prune during that time. Be careful with the lawnmower and weed-whacker. If possible, put off construction activities around oaks until the late summer.If an oak wound does occur in the spring, this would be one of the few reasons to apply a wound sealant. In most other cases, wound sealants are not recommended. However, when the sap-feeding beetles are active, immediate application of a sealant will prevent them from reaching freshly exposed tissues"
- Jeremy Verbeke forwarded Liz’s email to the River Bends Land Managers
- CRAMBA will educate our trail maintenance volunteers to avoid trimming oaks to avoid this Oak Wilt disease
- Survey of New Members Results
- 93 new members, 16 responded or 17%
- New members come from 47% social groups, 53% individual although social groups are probably more because of MDMB and the Guinness groups
- Reasons for joining are many and varied
- Conclusions – maybe just keep doing what we are doing.
- New Rider Robert’s Complaint Email
- Robert sent CRAMBA an email complaining the way new riders are treated on the no-drop Wednesday rides at Stony Creek. His email in part reads “…I could not wait for the event to end or the first opportunity to leave the group and head back to the Stoney Creek High School Parking lot event meet point. What was that made me feel this way was a bunch of arrogant egotistical spandex clad clowns who became impatient toward less experience Mountain Bikers…”
- Chris Westerlund, a CRAMBA board member who was on this ride replied to Robert with a conciliatory email which reads in part “…I really am sorry to hear you felt this ride was awful. CRAMBA is a large organization of 300 members. Our group rides are a mix of members and non-members, as well has old friends and people meeting for the first time. Sometimes people that show up are not pleasant, some people say things others find offensive, often not towards each other, but just in general. It is a social gathering with random strangers. Everyone is always afraid to ask questions their first time…”
- Some further discussion and possible action and remedies for future rides of this type
- Educate our CRAMBA board members to adopt a leadership role in the presence of new riders
- Start out the ride with a reminder of the etiquette of a no-drop ride
- Maybe, with a large group, split into three skill groups led by experienced riders
- Why the Stony Creek High School start – implies we are skirting the park fees and are riding as bandits?
- Remind all CRAMBA members through our social media that these rides are mainly a recruiting tool – e.g. be nice!
- Jeremy Verbeke suggested that Stony Creek be categorized as an intermediate trail and River Bends as a beginner trai
- Genesee County Park Possible Trail System
- Ben Lindstrom, blackbeardben@gmail.com, who lives in Davison, attended our board meeting to promote the idea of a new mountain bike trail at Richfield Park, in Genesee County, maybe 5 miles.
- Questions came up as to how to gage the depth of local support for this new trail.
- A suggestion to Ben was to drop off a petition at each of the 3 local bike shops to get names and email address of riders that are interested.
- Ben said that he is relatively sure he has 12 local riders, including BMX riders, that will support building the trail
- He also has the support of Al, the owner of Al's Quick Release Bicycle Sales and Service in Davison. This is the closest shop to the trail.
- Jeremy Verbeke commented that this is a long process even with support from local riders. Ben will have to have the support of the local park authorities, local political officials, DNR, etc. – Ben has to be in it for the long haul.
- Jeremy Verbeke assured Ben that if he has local support, CRAMBA will support his efforts
- Take a Kid Mountain Biker Feedback
- We had 52 kids and 42 parents – a great turnout (6 kids last year)
- Mike F. said the race number plates were a hit with the kids
- Having spare helmets is a good idea
- Board Meeting Dates and Times
- Mike Fitzpatrick suggested that our meetings be held at 7:00 PM instead of 7:30 PM. All were in informal agreement.
- The tentative forward meeting schedule is as follows
- Stony Creek Need for Volunteers
- Jeremy Verbeke passed on a memo from Katie Kowalski, volunteer services coordinator for Huron Clinton Metroparks, asking for volunteers to help with park visitor counting. This is more an FYI for the board and will not be posted on our social media
Treasurer’s Report
- Kristen reported that we have about $10,000 in the bank.
- She suggested that we have our official address a post office box in lieu of Nick and Marty’s house. It was motioned, seconded, and passed unanimously. Kristen will set this up.
- Jeremy Verbeke said that the chapter trailer can be stored outside at Universal Storage for $380.00 per year. It was motioned, seconded, and passed unanimously to do this.
- Jeremy Verbeke asked for up to $400.00 to rent a mini-excavator to cut a new .3 mile trail at River Bends. It was motioned, seconded, and passed unanimously. He will do this work on July 8 & 9. Rodney cautioned that using this equipment requires skill-experience so don’t expect to master the machine quickly.
Next board meeting will be on July 21 at the Firehouse at 7:00 PM (please note the new time).Meeting adjourned about 9:28 PM.
Pontiac Lake Trail Trimming day June 26th 9am
https://www.facebook.com/events/983134718428856/Join in this amazing opportunity to help improve one of SE Michigan's most prestigious Mountain Biking Trails.Meet at the new sign for The Mountain Bike Trail Head at 9:00am. We will work until noon and then share lunch.What to expect: Good times while helping improve the trail conditions.Trail trimming main goal.What to bring: work gloves and something to drink. Safety glasses if you'd like. Biking gear for after working. Swim gear to take a dip. Hiking stuff if you'd prefer to stay on foot. Bug spray is a good idea. And so is bringing a friend.Dress: recommended pants and a long sleeve shirt.
May 2016 Board meeting minutes
CRAMBA Board Meeting Minutes
5-19-16
The meeting was called to order at 7:40 PM. Present were:
- Rodney Gullet - president
- Roger Class
- Jeremy Kozak
- Drew Williams
- Alice Jacobs
- Kristen Barry
- Mike Fitzpatrick
- Jeremy Verbeke
Recording Secretary’s ReportNo minutes were read.President’s Report
- Tony McGee has resigned as recording secretary. This position needs to be filled to comply with non-profit status. Mike Fitzpatrick volunteered to be recording secretary
- The IMBA and the STC (Sustainable Trails Coalition) issued a joint statement declaring their cooperation to work together more productively than in the past. The intention is to encourage supporters of both organizations to pull together when opportunities arise.
- Jeff Buerman resigned as president of the MMBA. Steve Schnell is the new president. Tony McGee has resigned as VP. Nick Shue is CRAMBA’s new representative for MMBA
- Upcoming chapter events
- Stony Creek Master Planning Meeting is at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 21. Please support
- Take a Kid MTB day. Saturday, June 11 at 10:00 AM River Bends
- Next Chapter meeting at River Bends on Tuesday, July 12 at 5:30 PM (rain-out day July 13). Jeremy Verbeke to reserve pavilion. Food?
- Trail Building 101. River Bends. Conducted by Nick Shue. Sunday, May 22, 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Massive Fallout. Rodney is calling all parks, will reserve shelters at Addison and Stony. He is working on marking, signage, and advertising. He has secured a use permit for Bald Mountain
- Pontiac Lake Recreation trail coordinator – maybe Zendra?
- Propaganda
- Kristi poster “CRAMBA built and maintains…” on hold
- New bottles ordered. Alice suggested that the bottle say “Proud Supporter of CRAMBA” instead of just CRAMBA. This will be considered on the next order
- T-shirts for trail day volunteers. $500.00 was voted on and approved for 50 T-shirts of a bright color that include the CRAMBA letters
- Addison Oaks Race. First planning meeting on May 24th at the Shelby Firehouse. Planning is open to all. We are seeking a title corporate sponsor for $1000.00 and # plate sponsor for $500.00. Race is scheduled for September 11
- Membership. Current membership stands at 319 current and 33 recently lapsed. We signed up 7 new members at the Island Lake event. Andy from IMBA gave us Kudos! Mike Fitzpatrick suggested that we set up the CRAMBA tent at the trail head at Stony and solicit members. Jeremy Verbeke said we really don’t need permission from the park to do this.
Treasurer’s Report
- Kristen reported that we have $14,000 in the bank. Our 10 x 15 storage renewal is coming up at $550.00 per year – apparently a really good rate – so we’ll renew.
Next board meeting will be on June 23 instead of June 16 to avoid a conflict with Waterloo’s Grand Opening. It will be at the Fitzpatrick Pub.Meeting adjourned about 8:30 PM.
MMBA Meeting May 2016
Notes from the May MMBA board meeting,MMBA Meeting
Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day June 11th 2016
For the most current information please check our Facebook Event at https://www.facebook.com/events/1586737541644809/Join Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association (CRAMBA) at River Bends Parks on Saturday, June 11th from 10 to 2 to celebrate Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day!CRAMBA, local bike shops and other trail enthusiasts will be on hand to help conduct skills development, perform bike/gear checks (safety checks), bike and helmet fittings as well as introduce Leave No Trace principles. A couple of course offerings will be marked on the single track trail, which will provide youngsters with appropriate skills challenges and distances for a variety of abilities and ages.Our National Mountain Bike Patrol will be onsite, and the word on the street is they will be grilling up some lunch for everyone (that is until they run out of food). Riding with your child will help promote both the great sport of mountain biking and an appreciation for out great outdoors. Come join us for a great day out on one of our local trails!Please feel free to follow us on our Facebook page, where we will continue to have updates of trail conditions and chapter events, including Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.Although we do not see anything that would force us to cancel this event, our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/
April Chapter meeting Minutes
CRAMBA CHAPTER MEETING4-13-167:15pm call to orderStony Creek Open House- Was a great success there was huge voter turn out for the new trail. Thank you to all the members that showed up. Steve and Pete are putting together a plan together for the trail. This trail will be part of a 5 year master plane with the park.The new winter groomed trails page is up on the web site. Thank You Nick for putting together.Melissa Werkman is has been hired as the IMBA ARD for Michigan.Membership- We are at 339 that is 73% increase. Means we now split 50/50 with IMBA.Treasure- Kristen has report. With donation of $100 from Macomb bike and $50 from sales force. $350 from Back to the Beach half marathon for bike patrol training.Nick to handle CRAMBA jersey. Cost will be somewhere around $75 design is being finalized.Board is looking into key chains and water bottles.Trails:
- Addison- Is doing a control burn in the next couple days.
- Stony- Trail Day 23rd will work on rock garden, boardwalk. Joe is donating wood for Boardwalk.
- Bald Mtn- Trail day soon.
- River bends- Jeremy and Steve have been in talks with Shelby tsp. They have agreed to pay for the signage for the trail.
- There also was a recent trail day where a 10th of a mile new trail was cut. There is about another 150 yards of new trail still to be cut in. This will make the blue loop one way trail.
- We are going to try and hold a trail building 101 & 102 classes with Nick and some other TC’s at River Bends.
- Clinton River Park Trails (Sterling Heights)- is under water from all the rain.
- Holly- Trail day the 23rd
- Bloomer- Eric had a meeting with Alan. They discussed some different project. Eric will write proposals and present for approval. Also thinking about starting a Thursday night group ride. Along with maybe by weekly trail days on Mondays.
- Josh from Holly High School spoke about his plan to build a trail behind the high school. And what he has already done and what his plans are to finish. And if CRAMBA would like to help.
- Orion oaks manger also spoke about the trail system they are trying to promote.
Bike Patrol- New member orientation on April 30th. Will have 6 new members when done with orientation. Should increase number of patrollers to 48!Events:
- Group rides- River Bends on Tuesday. Stony Creek on Wednesday see web site or Facebook for details.
- 2016 Tri-Chapter Ultimate Trail Challenge- 33 trails check CRAMBA.org
- Island Lake Spring Bike Demo Day May 7th.
- Saturday June 11th Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day. More info to come
- Girls on Trails Clinic- 2 days this year. July 24th and August 27th
Dismissed at 9:30pm
CRAMBA Mountain Bike Patrol orientation April 30th
Our next scheduled New Patroller Orientation is scheduled for April 30th 2pm at Shelby Twp Fire Station #1. Located at 6345 23 Mile Rd, Shelby Twp, MI 48316Enter the West entrance.
Training will last 2 hours. At 4pm there will be a group ride at River Bends Park.Please bring your bike, helmet and any medical training you have to the training. You must have CPR/First Aid certification. If you do not hold this, there is training starting at 10am. Please contact us for more information.Please RSVP by email bikepatrol@cramba.org or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/214814528899191/If you have any questions please ask, otherwise we will see you Saturday April 30th. Please share this email with anyone else you think might be interested.View our brochure
March 2016 Board Meeting
CRAMBA BOARD MEETING3-24-16Attendance:Kristin Barry, Steve Vigneau, Mike Fitzpatrick, Jeremy Kozak, Jim Owens, Chris Westerlund, Roger Class, Drew Williams, Rodney Gullett, Nick Shue, Marty Shue, Tony McGeeExcused:Jeremy Verbeke, Alice JacobsCall to Order @ 7:40CRAMBA-
- Discussed and reviewed the CRAMBA elevator speech. Rodney passed out copies to the board.
- Rodney also brought fliers for members to pass out to the local bike shops. Kristin was stopping by Main Street 26-mile rd. Nick offered to stop by RBS. Jeremy K to stop by Main Street LO.
- Web Site is being updated nicely. According to Rodney.
- It looks like most of the CRAMBA Board will be in attendance at the Stoney Creek Planning Meeting on April 2nd.
- Jeremy V to post a list of trail days for Trail Coordinators.
- Waiting on an estimate for bridge repair for pines.
- Take a Kid MTB will be on June 11th. ACF and Main Street have offered to help. (More info to follow.)
- Nick has offered to head up CRAMBA Jersey sales. Just need finished product from Kristi.
- CRAMBA Chapter Meeting will be April 13th @ 7pm. (Rochester Mills)
IMBA-
- ARD has been found and hired.
- CRAMBA re-incorporation paperwork has been started. The president, treasure, & secretary are ones signing.
- Kristen has started a document for recurring items.
- World Summit expenses based on # attending. Will look at past summits for information on how reimbursement was done.
Trail Coordinators-
- PLRA prospect MR. Smallwood has been put in contact with Dave to discuss trail.
- Rodney has Kristi to work on CRAMBA takes of this trail with examples for trail kiosks.
- Jeremy V has a potential contact/meeting with the City of Utica pertaining to Riverbend’s trail addition.
- Jeremy & Steve have been working on color coded signage for Riverbend’s. The cost is to be split between Shelby Twps. and CRAMBA. (Cost should be roughly $2000.00) Steve motioned for a vote. Roger 2nd. A vote was taken 9-0 to approve a $1000.00 to go towards signage.
Bike Patrol-
- Orientation April 30th
- CPR new/renewals to paid for by BACK to the Beach
- We have 41 patrollers at this time.
- Jeremy would like to discuss Bike Patrols own yearly budget. For income and expenses. Bike shops already donate supplies for patrol.
Races and Rides/Events-Addison Oaks- Roger to head up committee with Steve, Kristen, Jeremy & Nick. With Bill Solan as project manager.Massive Fall Out- Steve has offered to help Drew with getting the permits for the ride.Girls on Trails-
- 11 signed up for July
- 2 signed up for August
- Marty, Jeremy & Jeremy helping plan.
- Kristi to help instruct
- Jeremy V to ask Bike Patrol for help that day.
Triple Trail Challenge- Is underway at this time.Island Lake- MCMBA is putting on the DEMO May 7th. MCMBA would like us to invite local bike shops. If they need info contact Loren at MCMBA.Membership-
- 30 new members
- Sitting at 310 members
- Mike has recruited Dean Fitzpatrick, Victor Hicks, & Jean Dylong to help with membership.
- Chris has built a spreadsheet to help with tracking clubs & teams. So that we can invite them to meetings. Or to speak at their function.
Treasures Report-
- $13,886 in bank.
- Macomb Bike Donated $100 from lady’s night.
- $1800 from IMBA
- Made $35 form Wool Jersey sale.
- Paid $3500 for Chapter Insurance.
Adjourned at 9:30pm
More MTB Trails at Stony Creek!
This is it, everyone: your chance to support more mountain bike trails at Stony Creek Metropark!On Saturday, April 2nd, from 1:30pm - 3:30pm, Huron-Clinton Metroparks are hosting a Master Plan Open House at the Stony Creek Metropark Nature Center. We need as many people as possible to show up and tell the Metroparks planners that you want more single track mountain bike trails at Stony Creek. Bring your friends, CRAMBA members or not, and show the park planners how many of us mountain bikers use the park and want more places to ride.Before the meeting please fill out this survey about trail use at Stony Creek: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/stonycreekmpCurrently Stony Creek only has four miles of single track trail that is designated for mountain biking. By getting more mountain bike trails listed as a goal on the master plan they will become part of the park's development. In order to make trails happen the park planners need to hear from us!See this event on the Metroparks Events Calendar for more information: http://www.metroparks.com/Stony-Creek-Metropark-Master-Plan-Open-House/Events#8006When talking to planners at the meeting and completing the survey here's some points to keep in mind:
- The mountain bike trails at Stony Creek are one of the most popular trail systems in the area. (Note: Frequently-full parking lots and those who ride to the trails by bike.)
- More single track mountain bike trails will decrease pressure (usage density) on existing trails by further spreading out users.
- Continued development of the mountain bike Skills Area will enable skills development and provides healthy outdoor activities for riders young and old.
- CRAMBA has 300+ paid members in the greater Stony Creek area and the expertise and volunteers to work with land managers to design and build successful trail networks.
- There is enough unused terrain in the existing mountain bike trail area to build more trail of all kinds and difficulties. (Still more is unused throughout the whole of the park.)
- Trail design has come a long way since the Stony Creek's MTB trails were first built, allowing for more exciting, sustainable, low-maintenance routes.
- Winter fat biking on snow is growing in popularity. In winter, fat bikes should not be prevented from riding the mountain bike trails.
2016 Spring Membership Drive - Become a Member
Think spring! Think warmer weather! Think mountain biking! Think CRAMBA!With the cold weather, snow and gray skies almost behind us it's time to put that fatbike away and dust off your 29er, 650b or that rockin' 26er! Of course, some of you ride fat year round, so tune that fatty up and keep her rollin’ this summer (and join us on one of our group rides).So you’re ready to head to your local trail… thankfully it's ready to ride thanks to your CRAMBA-IMBA chapter! Or maybe you're ready to head to a brand new trail. Thankfully, it exists due to the efforts of your CRAMBA-IMBA chapter!How does this all happen? It's simple: members like you drive the mountain biking experience in concert with CRAMBA-IMBA!By becoming a CRAMBA-IMBA member you support building and improving your local trails. And more members means more weight for getting what we want, which means better trails and more trails.Still not sure why you would want to be a member?Our members dictate what we want and do.
- Member counts bring us clout with our local parks, government, and land managers which gets us what we want: new and improved trails.
- Membership pays chapter expenses: supplies for building and maintaing trail, insurance for the work we do, events we put on.
Direct membership benefits:
- Knowing you supported your local trails
- Socks at the $50 level
- Subaru VIP access—save up to $3,300 on a new or leased vehicle
- com year-long membership offering pro-deals bike gear
- Year-long subscription to your choice of mountain bike publication—choose from Bicycling, Dirt Rag Digital, Peloton Digital or Velo Digital
- Membership kit with stickers, propaganda and membership card
- Discounts on bike and outdoor gear
- 10% off all IMBA gear and event registrations
There are no additional obligations when becoming a CRAMBA-IMBA member.If that's not enough for you, CRAMBA-IMBA is launching a Spring Membership Drive running March 2016 until May 2016 to encourage you to join your CRAMBA-IMBA chapter!Running March through May, the drive will include special prize opportunities donated by a variety of corporate sponsors and limited edition IMBA gear for all individual and family members who join or renew their membership or register with CRAMBA-IMBA.Look for an upcoming announcement about the 2016 benefits for new and renewing members. Join here: I want to join CRAMBA-IMBA! Or here: IMBA.Visit our Facebook page; we look forward to seeing you on the trails and at one of our upcoming events. Ride on!
Stony Creek Spring Trail Day 2016
Join us for our spring trail day at Stony Creek Saturday April 23rd. We will meet at West Branch Lot B at 9 am.The main focus will be repairing the supports under the main boardwalks in the Pines. Secondary projects such as the rock garden lengthening and basic ground repairs will be tackled depending on volunteer turnout.Are you curious about what we do and who we are? This is a great opportunity to find out and get involved; everyone is welcome.
No experience is necessary to participate in a Trail Day, just a desire to make our trails better. Wear clothes for working outdoors (long sleeves, pants, gloves, boots, eye protection) and bring something to drink. We'll provide the tools, but you are more than welcome to bring your own. We look forward to seeing you there!Also, see our event page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1682184792049170/
2016 Tri-Chapter Ultimate Trail Challenge
Did you know there are 33 different mountain bike trails in the metro Detroit area?The Clinton River Area Mountain Biking Association (CRAMBA), Motor City Mountain Biking Association (MCMBA), and the Potawatomi Mountain Biking Association (Poto MBA) are teaming up this year to present the 2016 Tri-Chapter Ultimate Trail Challenge. The challenge involves riding all 33 of three local IMBA chapter trails at least once during 
the 2016 season. The challenge officially begins on February 1, 2016. Rides will be loosely coordinated on the Facebook event, chapter Facebook groups, or other various locations. Join a ride that has been posted, or exercise your self-reliance and organize your own trail outing and invite others to join. Get creative and combine multiple trails for some excellent endurance training rides. Submit your challenge summary by November 13th (send your summary by email to: jenny_schultz@hotmail.com)
American Cycle & Fitness Ladies Night
Feburary 6th 2016, 5pm-8pmAmerican Cycle & Fitness Royal Oak: 29428 Woodward Ave, Royal Oak, Michigan 48073A fun evening for just ladies. Come see different ways to stay active, maybe win a prize in one of the raffles. Have snacks and get to know some great people. The event is free.
January 2016 Chapter Meeting
Chapter Meeting
January 12th 2016
Call to order 7:05pm
- Rodney welcomed everyone
- New Board went around and introduced themselves.
- Michigan ARD
- Will work with Lansing
- Help get grant money
- Work with DNR on a regular basis.
- Snow Stuff
- Thank You Mike Fitzpatrick for Groomer donation.
- Thank You Mark Senyk for finding and repairing snowmobile
- Thank You Dean Fitzpatrick for trailer donation.
- With all the donations total out of pocket cost is $1000 for registration and insurance for equipment.
- River Bends is the only trail at this time being groomed.
- Stoney is interested in looking at us grooming for them. The only place to MTB at this time is the trolley trails. Jeremy is meeting with them.
- Addison grooms themselves.
- AY!CRAMBA
- January 31st
- 10 shops already signed up.
- 2 different ride groups.
- BYOB, 3 fire pits, pot luck
- Treasurer
- Financial report $16,791.00
- Insurance is coming up. $2,000/$4,000
- New Trailer wrap $1500/$1800 (Thank You Kristi for mock up.)
- Membership
- Current members 287.
- New price is $35
- We now have auto renewal.
- More members mean we go from 60/40 split to a 50/50 split from IMBA.
- Bike Patrol
- 37 active patrollers.
- 2,950 hours patrolled.
- IMBA has a patrol video out.
- Will have a training session in April.
- Trails
- Stoney- Rebuild board walk, rock garden. There is new bike repair stand.
- Holly- Stay away HUNTERS! Looking at trail day in June.
- Addison- BOB is in CHARGE!!!
- Bald Mtn- Stay off cross country ski areas that are groomed by DNR.
- CRPT- New bridges, working on signs for two traffic for RB/CRPT trail. Will work on soft area along M53. Got a nice donation for trail.
- River Bends- 2.5 miles scouted for new trail. Park and Rec. has eagle scouts that want to do projects.
- Bloomer- There is a whole new bridge in the tech loop. Working on future projects. Looking at doing a Thursday ride next year.
- Events up coming
- Feb 6th American Cycle and Fitness Ladies Night
- Macomb Bike Ladies Night Feb 25th
- June 1st MTB 101 Shelby Twsp.
- Got MTB 101 Girls 18 & older July 24th & August 27th
- Addison Race Sept 11th
- Massive Fallout Oct 1st
- CRAMBA Jersey- Nick is looking at on-line ordering
AS ALWAYS CHECK OUT CRAMBA.ORG, AND FACEBOOK Dismissed at 9:30pm