Today's Transport -
Walk: 1.6
Bike: 10.1
--
Dear The Mom,
I just want to let you know I'm going to stop posting everyday. I'm going to switch to two or three times a week. I've done quantity. I want to see if I can achieve quality. Aw, who'm I kidding - I just want less quantity.
I just want to let you know because I don't want you to think I've been run over - or worse.
Thanks,
The MinusCar Project
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
090928 – I Cheat
Today’s Transport –
Walk: 1.1
Bike: 5.9
Multi-occupant: 0.5
Single-occupant: 4.3
This morning was the coldest day yet and the wind was blowing a ridiculous amount. I knew two things.
1. The wind would be at my back in the morning.
2. The MinusCar had been sitting in my employers lot since Friday and it was high time to bring it home, AGAINST THE WIND, at the end of the day.
I did.
--
I forgot the transportation donut yesterday: 9/21 to 9/27
Walk: 1.1
Bike: 5.9
Multi-occupant: 0.5
Single-occupant: 4.3
This morning was the coldest day yet and the wind was blowing a ridiculous amount. I knew two things.
1. The wind would be at my back in the morning.
2. The MinusCar had been sitting in my employers lot since Friday and it was high time to bring it home, AGAINST THE WIND, at the end of the day.
I did.
--
I forgot the transportation donut yesterday: 9/21 to 9/27
Sunday, September 27, 2009
090927 - Meeting? Really?
Today's Transport
Walk: 4.0
Multi-occupant: 84.8
Travelled to the lake today to assist with dock removal. Remarkably no waves overtopped the waders. Yes!
--
State Rep Jerstad has reported she's coming to town tomorrow to address the city council. She's invited other cyclists to sit in.
There is no regularly scheduled city council meeting tomorrow. Hmmm...
The Local Daily reports State Rep Jerstad will submit legislation of a 3ft passing law for cyclists this January. They report she's meeting with the Sioux Falls Metro bike committee tomorrow to discuss. I haven't heard of this committee but I'm pretty sure I'm on it.
There is no regularly scheduled committee meeting tomorrow.
I wonder who will meet and where. I'll be sorry to miss.
--
Update: Rep Jerstad indicates she'll attend the Oct 12 council meeting.
Walk: 4.0
Multi-occupant: 84.8
Travelled to the lake today to assist with dock removal. Remarkably no waves overtopped the waders. Yes!
--
State Rep Jerstad has reported she's coming to town tomorrow to address the city council. She's invited other cyclists to sit in.
There is no regularly scheduled city council meeting tomorrow. Hmmm...
The Local Daily reports State Rep Jerstad will submit legislation of a 3ft passing law for cyclists this January. They report she's meeting with the Sioux Falls Metro bike committee tomorrow to discuss. I haven't heard of this committee but I'm pretty sure I'm on it.
There is no regularly scheduled committee meeting tomorrow.
I wonder who will meet and where. I'll be sorry to miss.
--
Update: Rep Jerstad indicates she'll attend the Oct 12 council meeting.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
090926 - Auction, Or Not
Today's Transport -
Walk: 2.9
Bike: 15.6
Multi-occupant: 12.2
The MinusCar is still littering The Cityscape. Hope it's doing ok.
--
Woke up this morning with designs to meek CycleSD at the police confiscated materials auction. Figuring there'd be plenty of bikes we hoped to get our hands on a few of the best in the pile. From there we'd hope to distribute them to places or people in need of bikes.
But there were no bikes.
I'm guessing they'd already distributed them to places or people in need of bikes.
So I joined the FAB Coffee/Donut ride - already in progress. B & G @ Michelle's and another cup 'o joe at Black Sheep: The Coffee Shop-n-the-Hood.
It was a good morning.
--
2.9 miles of walking or as I prefer to call it - getting to know The Wife.
Walk: 2.9
Bike: 15.6
Multi-occupant: 12.2
The MinusCar is still littering The Cityscape. Hope it's doing ok.
--
Woke up this morning with designs to meek CycleSD at the police confiscated materials auction. Figuring there'd be plenty of bikes we hoped to get our hands on a few of the best in the pile. From there we'd hope to distribute them to places or people in need of bikes.
But there were no bikes.
I'm guessing they'd already distributed them to places or people in need of bikes.
So I joined the FAB Coffee/Donut ride - already in progress. B & G @ Michelle's and another cup 'o joe at Black Sheep: The Coffee Shop-n-the-Hood.
It was a good morning.
--
2.9 miles of walking or as I prefer to call it - getting to know The Wife.
090925 – Rain; Date Night
Today’s Transport –
Walk: .8
Multi-occupant: 37.7
Single-occupant: 7.7
--
A rainy morning and additional rain related parental duties pushed me into The MinusCar today. Oops. I just realized it remains parked in my employer’s parking lot. In a way, it's litter.
--
The Wife and I headed to Worthing, SD and full-on enjoyed the Olde Towne Dinner Theatre’s production of The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged). When John Boe wasn’t reminding me of Jack Black I couldn’t help but think of Monty Python’s Flying Circus.
Amazing.
--
Techincally this next item belongs on tomororw's post but hey, it's not tomorrow until I've experienced significant sleep. And I haven't.
The Local Daily had published an article "South Dakotans cut back on sharing the ride to work." Apparently census data has revealed that the number of South Dakotans driving alone to work has defied a national trend; it has increased.
This part of the article is my favorite:
"If Sioux Falls workers began car pools, it would be a positive development, Michael Christensen said. He prefers biking to driving and operates the MinusCar Project blog at minuscar.com.
'Car-pooling is great because it gets you around other people," he said. "That's a good community-building thing.'"
Walk: .8
Multi-occupant: 37.7
Single-occupant: 7.7
--
A rainy morning and additional rain related parental duties pushed me into The MinusCar today. Oops. I just realized it remains parked in my employer’s parking lot. In a way, it's litter.
--
The Wife and I headed to Worthing, SD and full-on enjoyed the Olde Towne Dinner Theatre’s production of The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged). When John Boe wasn’t reminding me of Jack Black I couldn’t help but think of Monty Python’s Flying Circus.
Amazing.
--
Techincally this next item belongs on tomororw's post but hey, it's not tomorrow until I've experienced significant sleep. And I haven't.
The Local Daily had published an article "South Dakotans cut back on sharing the ride to work." Apparently census data has revealed that the number of South Dakotans driving alone to work has defied a national trend; it has increased.
This part of the article is my favorite:
"If Sioux Falls workers began car pools, it would be a positive development, Michael Christensen said. He prefers biking to driving and operates the MinusCar Project blog at minuscar.com.
'Car-pooling is great because it gets you around other people," he said. "That's a good community-building thing.'"
Thursday, September 24, 2009
090924 – I Get Wet
Today’s Transport –
Walk: 1.6
Bike: 17.0
It was sprinkling when I left today. It was raining by the time I arrived at work. As is customary, I got wet. Remarkably, later, I dried. Cool!
--
I had a conversation with a guy today. He was curious about my perspective on census data that indicates a general drop in folks driving to work alone but a slight rise in South Dakota. I asked about North Dakota, Montana and Idaho apparently showing a decrease, although not as sharp as the general trend.
I offered some theories but quickly turned the conversation to bicycles. I mentioned the three people I know that parked their cars and began riding to work. I mentioned the 50-ish folks that have been participating in Snakebite’s Bike To Work Challenge since mid-May.
Then I mentioned the social aspects of carpooling. That surprised him. It sounded like it was a new concept for him. I love it when that happens. I should have talked of the beauty of those few perfect moments alone with The Wife as I car pool with her. Maybe even the social reinforcements of a car full of sweaty middle aged men talking about what Glenn Beck did on their TV the previous night.
Hmmm…
I can call them sweaty middle aged men, I am one.
Anyway, we’ll see how the conversation plays when it’s in the paper.
Walk: 1.6
Bike: 17.0
It was sprinkling when I left today. It was raining by the time I arrived at work. As is customary, I got wet. Remarkably, later, I dried. Cool!
--
I had a conversation with a guy today. He was curious about my perspective on census data that indicates a general drop in folks driving to work alone but a slight rise in South Dakota. I asked about North Dakota, Montana and Idaho apparently showing a decrease, although not as sharp as the general trend.
I offered some theories but quickly turned the conversation to bicycles. I mentioned the three people I know that parked their cars and began riding to work. I mentioned the 50-ish folks that have been participating in Snakebite’s Bike To Work Challenge since mid-May.
Then I mentioned the social aspects of carpooling. That surprised him. It sounded like it was a new concept for him. I love it when that happens. I should have talked of the beauty of those few perfect moments alone with The Wife as I car pool with her. Maybe even the social reinforcements of a car full of sweaty middle aged men talking about what Glenn Beck did on their TV the previous night.
Hmmm…
I can call them sweaty middle aged men, I am one.
Anyway, we’ll see how the conversation plays when it’s in the paper.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
090923 – Bike Trail (And Another) Counts
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 16.6
The rain tried to scare me today. I said no. On my way to the MPO-CAC it spit on me. I said no. I won.
--
The Boy 11 had an in class assignment today. Something about pretending to be an insurance investigator identifying fault in a car/bike collision. I pressed him for details.
The details of the collision include the old standby explanation from the auto driver saying “He came out of nowhere.” Just once I’d like to hear of a driver that says, “He came out over there.”
I encouraged The Boy to look at the details again to be sure he’s not siding with the cyclists simply because many of his favorite people are one. Then we drew pictures of intersections and talked about lane positioning. Then I drew pictures of a recent close encounter with a truck.
--
The City has reported their occasional counts of bike trail usage. The report indicates a sharp increase in usage. In 2009, for the first time, weekday usage was more frequent than weekend usage. I rose up from my creamed chicken and shouted, “THAT’S BIKE COMMUTERS.”
Well, it might not be. A better breakdown of data is necessary. But it IS more butts on bikes on weekdays.
Rollerblade usage sees a sharp decline. :-)
Helmet usage percentage increases every year they report it:
1998: 25%
1999: 26%
2000: 31%
2005: 33%
2009: 40%
--
Speaking of numbers: 2,861 people have run the red light at the camera controlled intersection in 2009, that’s 357 a month, 11 a day. In August, the highest month so far in 2009, 16 ran it each day.
Then there’s this nugget from The City’s website: “During a recent observational study of a high-traffic intersection in Sioux Falls at peak traffic hours, 17 drivers ran red lights in a 1-hour period. That is 1 driver every 4 minutes violating traffic laws and endangering occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians.”
Bike: 16.6
The rain tried to scare me today. I said no. On my way to the MPO-CAC it spit on me. I said no. I won.
--
The Boy 11 had an in class assignment today. Something about pretending to be an insurance investigator identifying fault in a car/bike collision. I pressed him for details.
The details of the collision include the old standby explanation from the auto driver saying “He came out of nowhere.” Just once I’d like to hear of a driver that says, “He came out over there.”
I encouraged The Boy to look at the details again to be sure he’s not siding with the cyclists simply because many of his favorite people are one. Then we drew pictures of intersections and talked about lane positioning. Then I drew pictures of a recent close encounter with a truck.
--
The City has reported their occasional counts of bike trail usage. The report indicates a sharp increase in usage. In 2009, for the first time, weekday usage was more frequent than weekend usage. I rose up from my creamed chicken and shouted, “THAT’S BIKE COMMUTERS.”
Well, it might not be. A better breakdown of data is necessary. But it IS more butts on bikes on weekdays.
Rollerblade usage sees a sharp decline. :-)
Helmet usage percentage increases every year they report it:
1998: 25%
1999: 26%
2000: 31%
2005: 33%
2009: 40%
--
Speaking of numbers: 2,861 people have run the red light at the camera controlled intersection in 2009, that’s 357 a month, 11 a day. In August, the highest month so far in 2009, 16 ran it each day.
Then there’s this nugget from The City’s website: “During a recent observational study of a high-traffic intersection in Sioux Falls at peak traffic hours, 17 drivers ran red lights in a 1-hour period. That is 1 driver every 4 minutes violating traffic laws and endangering occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians.”
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
090922 - The MinusCar Still Runs
Today's Transport -
Single-occupant: 28
I drove today. I attended the Corridors & Facilities chapters of the Shape Sioux Falls 2035 Comprehensive Plan. The meeting occurred at University Center. I'm pretty sure that's just a bit shy of the North Dakota border. Almost as far north as Sioux Printing.
I drove today.
The Corridors chapter calls for "complete streets." It's not clear from the document what that means. My written comments will point out, "Complete Streets" has meaning.
Wouldn't it be cool if some (all?) of the facilities the city builds in the next 25 years are LEED certified? Sustainability IS one of the 3 main goals of this document.
I learned new State buildings already require certification. I learned separately that's problematic for The State. I'm happy to agree this stuff isn't easy, after all...
I drove today.
Mr. Bite however did not drive. Alas, he doesn't own a car.
--
I did not attend the free showing of Food, Inc downtown tonight. Judging from hits to the blog from The Googler there was some interest. That's good. I like the idea of films like this being available in the city.
Maybe they'll give me a cut of the gate for being their web presence.
Whoever THEY are.
Single-occupant: 28
I drove today. I attended the Corridors & Facilities chapters of the Shape Sioux Falls 2035 Comprehensive Plan. The meeting occurred at University Center. I'm pretty sure that's just a bit shy of the North Dakota border. Almost as far north as Sioux Printing.
I drove today.
The Corridors chapter calls for "complete streets." It's not clear from the document what that means. My written comments will point out, "Complete Streets" has meaning.
Wouldn't it be cool if some (all?) of the facilities the city builds in the next 25 years are LEED certified? Sustainability IS one of the 3 main goals of this document.
I learned new State buildings already require certification. I learned separately that's problematic for The State. I'm happy to agree this stuff isn't easy, after all...
I drove today.
Mr. Bite however did not drive. Alas, he doesn't own a car.
--
I did not attend the free showing of Food, Inc downtown tonight. Judging from hits to the blog from The Googler there was some interest. That's good. I like the idea of films like this being available in the city.
Maybe they'll give me a cut of the gate for being their web presence.
Whoever THEY are.
Monday, September 21, 2009
090921 - Brrr...
Today's Transport -
Bike: 16.25
At lunchtime I started out walking but turned back because it was cold, windy and rainy. I was underdressed.
Today was one of those rare days when the temperature drops as the day goes on. That can really catch out an outdoor transportation person. In January if the temp did that it could be plain dangerous.
Today it was just a tad uncomfortably cold as I headed into the wind most of the way home. If this was March I'd have worn tights and a jacket instead of shorts and a t-shirt.
Now is the time to begin to check expected temp at 5pm as I prepare the day's clothing. Can't get away with dressing for 8am assuming it's enough.
I'll probably take a spare jacket back to work this week too.
Bike: 16.25
At lunchtime I started out walking but turned back because it was cold, windy and rainy. I was underdressed.
Today was one of those rare days when the temperature drops as the day goes on. That can really catch out an outdoor transportation person. In January if the temp did that it could be plain dangerous.
Today it was just a tad uncomfortably cold as I headed into the wind most of the way home. If this was March I'd have worn tights and a jacket instead of shorts and a t-shirt.
Now is the time to begin to check expected temp at 5pm as I prepare the day's clothing. Can't get away with dressing for 8am assuming it's enough.
I'll probably take a spare jacket back to work this week too.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
090920 - Upcomings
Today's Transport -
Walk: 3
This week. Big week.
1. Tuesday Shape Sioux Falls chapter on Corridors. Current language in the document says new roads shall support multiple modes of travel. Existing roads should be retrofitted. Complete Streets is in the document but curiously not capitalized. I think it should be. I’d better go to the meeting.
2. Wednesday the Citizen’s Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve (or not) the first ever Metropolitan Planning Organization Bicycle Plan.
3. Thursday the Technical Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve (or not) the first ever Metropolitan Planning Organization Bicycle Plan.
4. Thursday the Urbanized Development Commission of the Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve (or not) the first ever Metropolitan Planning Organization Bicycle Plan. This is the one that turns the plan into policy.
Planning doesn’t make things happen, but when there’s a plan, things happen.
--
The Transportation Donut 9/14 to 9/20:
Today's Transport -
Walk: 3
This week. Big week.
1. Tuesday Shape Sioux Falls chapter on Corridors. Current language in the document says new roads shall support multiple modes of travel. Existing roads should be retrofitted. Complete Streets is in the document but curiously not capitalized. I think it should be. I’d better go to the meeting.
2. Wednesday the Citizen’s Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve (or not) the first ever Metropolitan Planning Organization Bicycle Plan.
3. Thursday the Technical Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve (or not) the first ever Metropolitan Planning Organization Bicycle Plan.
4. Thursday the Urbanized Development Commission of the Metropolitan Planning Organization will approve (or not) the first ever Metropolitan Planning Organization Bicycle Plan. This is the one that turns the plan into policy.
Planning doesn’t make things happen, but when there’s a plan, things happen.
--
The Transportation Donut 9/14 to 9/20:
090920 – Feeling Lucky? 13 Things.
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 41.7
Multi-occupant: 6.9
--
I’m going to try to make this short and quick.
1. Arrive late at Falls Park to help Spoke-n-Sport setup bike valet service at the Green-ival.
2. Breakfast with The Owner – which partially, coincidentally, coincided with breakfast with Snakebite and the Missus. Perfect time to get caught up on the chapter meetings for the Shape Sioux Falls 2035 Comprehensive Plan.
3. Return to Green-ival to volunteer as water boy. Spent precious little energy delivering water and cookies mainly to volunteer parking attendants. They were grateful, which was everything this volunteer needed. I did hear the words “You’re the one on the cute little bike!” Ummmm...if you’re the one with the cute little compost pile.
4. I observed a lengthy cell phone conversation between two people unknowingly standing less than 20 feet apart. Funny. Everytime a train went by they couldn’t hear each other.
5. The Family showed up. They Boys wore their MinusCar t-shirts. Sometimes I think I might be living a dream.
6. I rode the long way home. Discovered some cars parked partially on the bike trail watching soccer. Half of them drove away after they realized I was taking pictures.
7. Home...it’s where the heart is…and dinner too.
8. Off to a meeting. Crash! Most bicycle crashes are preventable. This one was too. I had decided I’d put my lights on at the bridge. Fell of approaching the bridge because I didn’t have my lights on.
9. Meeting #1 of the newly freshly inspired Sioux Falls Bicycle Collective. I was a bit of a party crasher. I probably talked too much. I probably sound like I know a lot about what’s going on. Darn. I’ll try to do better next time. I like being around people inspired to encourage cycling.
10. Off to Monks to add some more miles and to see who’s there. That Bald and Surly fellow was holding up the rail. He let me help.
11. Rode part way home with that same Bald and Surly fellow. Saw a mink. Parted ways. Saw a skunk. Night rides are thrilling.
12. "Honey, pick up ½ gallon of soymilk on your way home." "You mean ride my bike more? Ok."
13.Home...it’s where the heart is...and the bed too.
Bike: 41.7
Multi-occupant: 6.9
--
I’m going to try to make this short and quick.
1. Arrive late at Falls Park to help Spoke-n-Sport setup bike valet service at the Green-ival.
2. Breakfast with The Owner – which partially, coincidentally, coincided with breakfast with Snakebite and the Missus. Perfect time to get caught up on the chapter meetings for the Shape Sioux Falls 2035 Comprehensive Plan.
3. Return to Green-ival to volunteer as water boy. Spent precious little energy delivering water and cookies mainly to volunteer parking attendants. They were grateful, which was everything this volunteer needed. I did hear the words “You’re the one on the cute little bike!” Ummmm...if you’re the one with the cute little compost pile.
4. I observed a lengthy cell phone conversation between two people unknowingly standing less than 20 feet apart. Funny. Everytime a train went by they couldn’t hear each other.
5. The Family showed up. They Boys wore their MinusCar t-shirts. Sometimes I think I might be living a dream.
6. I rode the long way home. Discovered some cars parked partially on the bike trail watching soccer. Half of them drove away after they realized I was taking pictures.
7. Home...it’s where the heart is…and dinner too.
8. Off to a meeting. Crash! Most bicycle crashes are preventable. This one was too. I had decided I’d put my lights on at the bridge. Fell of approaching the bridge because I didn’t have my lights on.
9. Meeting #1 of the newly freshly inspired Sioux Falls Bicycle Collective. I was a bit of a party crasher. I probably talked too much. I probably sound like I know a lot about what’s going on. Darn. I’ll try to do better next time. I like being around people inspired to encourage cycling.
10. Off to Monks to add some more miles and to see who’s there. That Bald and Surly fellow was holding up the rail. He let me help.
11. Rode part way home with that same Bald and Surly fellow. Saw a mink. Parted ways. Saw a skunk. Night rides are thrilling.
12. "Honey, pick up ½ gallon of soymilk on your way home." "You mean ride my bike more? Ok."
13.Home...it’s where the heart is...and the bed too.
Friday, September 18, 2009
090918 - Posting Conservatively
Today's Transport -
Bike: 11.4
Have a good weekend! Ride your bike somewhere.
Ride for breasts,
ride for the environment,
ride to walk for autism,
ride and camp too, but I can't find that site.
...or just ride.
Bike: 11.4
Have a good weekend! Ride your bike somewhere.
Ride for breasts,
ride for the environment,
ride to walk for autism,
ride and camp too, but I can't find that site.
...or just ride.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
090917 – A Guy Named Thune
Today’s Transport –
Walk: 1.5
Bike: 11.5
---
Yesterday the United States Senate dealt with two transportation related amendments of interest to bicyclists.
The two amendments were introduced by Oklahoma Senator Coburn; both were attempts to severely cripple the existence of the Transportation Enhancements portion of the Transportation Bill. Transportation Enhancements are the 10% portion of the Transportation Bill that help support and fund public transport, bicycle and walking related improvements. Senator Coburn figures that the 10% needs to go to road projects.
Coburn withdrew one amendment. The second went to vote and was rejected 59 to 39.
The photos in this post are of my neighbor and South Dakota Senator John Thune. He was in town in April 2008 to celebrate the groundbreaking of a small section of paved multi-use trail in The City that he helped fund. He’s clearly enjoying the accolades being heaped upon him for helping extend our beautiful MUP.
Yesterday Senator John Thune voted for the failed Coburn amendment.
Thanks John.
Walk: 1.5
Bike: 11.5
---
Yesterday the United States Senate dealt with two transportation related amendments of interest to bicyclists.
The two amendments were introduced by Oklahoma Senator Coburn; both were attempts to severely cripple the existence of the Transportation Enhancements portion of the Transportation Bill. Transportation Enhancements are the 10% portion of the Transportation Bill that help support and fund public transport, bicycle and walking related improvements. Senator Coburn figures that the 10% needs to go to road projects.
Coburn withdrew one amendment. The second went to vote and was rejected 59 to 39.
The photos in this post are of my neighbor and South Dakota Senator John Thune. He was in town in April 2008 to celebrate the groundbreaking of a small section of paved multi-use trail in The City that he helped fund. He’s clearly enjoying the accolades being heaped upon him for helping extend our beautiful MUP.
Yesterday Senator John Thune voted for the failed Coburn amendment.
Thanks John.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
090916 - Food, Inc.
Today's Transport -
Walk: 1.1
Bike: 14.8
---
It was another pulling the trailer type of day. I'm not sure it was completely necessary for the box of cereal I picked up at the natural food grocery store. But for what it’s worth the box came home in pristine shape. Not damaged from needing to get along with work & workout clothes in the messenger bag.
I mention the natural foods grocery store because it was there I learned that the documentary Food, Inc. will be showing in Sioux Falls. FREE!
September 22,
7pm
Downtown Holiday Inn.
This movie holds a completely uncoveted MinusCar stamp of approval.
I might even go.
Walk: 1.1
Bike: 14.8
---
It was another pulling the trailer type of day. I'm not sure it was completely necessary for the box of cereal I picked up at the natural food grocery store. But for what it’s worth the box came home in pristine shape. Not damaged from needing to get along with work & workout clothes in the messenger bag.
I mention the natural foods grocery store because it was there I learned that the documentary Food, Inc. will be showing in Sioux Falls. FREE!
September 22,
7pm
Downtown Holiday Inn.
This movie holds a completely uncoveted MinusCar stamp of approval.
I might even go.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
090915 – One Less Gator
Today’s Transport –
Walk: 1.5
Bike: 15.4
--
I’m at a city-wide festival. I’m walking around enjoying vendor booths and fried food. There it is, poking its way through the crowd a motor vehicle threatening my shins and toes. No doubt it’s on an important mission to deliver duct tape or pencils to a vendor somewhere with the 100 yard radius.
This coming weekend The City is hosting its first ever Green-ival. It’s a festival with vendors who ostensibly care about sustainability and related issues. They say the vendor response is much greater than expected. That’s exciting.
The MinusCar Project has volunteered its gator. I think I’ve got the colors close to right. I'll be the motor.
Walk: 1.5
Bike: 15.4
--
I’m at a city-wide festival. I’m walking around enjoying vendor booths and fried food. There it is, poking its way through the crowd a motor vehicle threatening my shins and toes. No doubt it’s on an important mission to deliver duct tape or pencils to a vendor somewhere with the 100 yard radius.
This coming weekend The City is hosting its first ever Green-ival. It’s a festival with vendors who ostensibly care about sustainability and related issues. They say the vendor response is much greater than expected. That’s exciting.
The MinusCar Project has volunteered its gator. I think I’ve got the colors close to right. I'll be the motor.
Monday, September 14, 2009
090914 – Potluck
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 15.2
--
There was a potluck in the I.T. room today. I volunteered to bring spaghetti and meatballs. It put me in new territory for having too much going on to bike to work. But I figured it out.
I loaded up the warm crock-pot with the goods...
Put the goods in a tub surrounded by towels...
And put the tub on the BOB...
Today for the first time ever I saw a raccoon on my way to work. I don’t THINK it was because I was carrying food.
Bike: 15.2
--
There was a potluck in the I.T. room today. I volunteered to bring spaghetti and meatballs. It put me in new territory for having too much going on to bike to work. But I figured it out.
I loaded up the warm crock-pot with the goods...
Put the goods in a tub surrounded by towels...
And put the tub on the BOB...
Today for the first time ever I saw a raccoon on my way to work. I don’t THINK it was because I was carrying food.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
090913 - Seriously. Nothing.
I didn't transport today.
I did listen again to Ron Heifetz speaking at Duke on "Leadership, Adaptability, Thriving" from iTunesU. Seriously. Excellent.
--
The Transport Donut for 9/7 to 9/13
I did listen again to Ron Heifetz speaking at Duke on "Leadership, Adaptability, Thriving" from iTunesU. Seriously. Excellent.
--
The Transport Donut for 9/7 to 9/13
090912 – Coffee & Donuts & Bikes, Oh My
As I rolled out this morning I began thinking we might rename today’s FAB Coffee & Donut ride the Pea Soup Ride.
Arrived at the rendezvous site and found a couple of the usual suspects and one Russell The Muscle ready for his first Coffee/Donut venture.
As ride leader I was prepared to explore the northwest roundabout but that was trumped by the words “I know where there’s a bike trail through a bean field.” Off we went in search of the mythical bean field.
As a 30 year resident good CD rides are marked by the number of neighborhoods we ride through that I’ve never seen before. We picked our way through the area east of Cherry Rock Park and found ourselves eventually at the brand new Rosa Parks Elementary. The pedestrian underpass there is beautiful and a pleasing statement for consideration of alternative transportation.
The trail in the bean field is too.
The Wild Woopie Bakery was the ultimate destination and on the way there I got pinched by a garbage truck. Lesson…don’t get pinched. Had I been controlling my lane instead of cowering on the right both I and the driver would have been more comfortable.
“Don’t compromise your safety for the convenience of another.”
--
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 28.3
Multi-occupant: 7.6
Arrived at the rendezvous site and found a couple of the usual suspects and one Russell The Muscle ready for his first Coffee/Donut venture.
As ride leader I was prepared to explore the northwest roundabout but that was trumped by the words “I know where there’s a bike trail through a bean field.” Off we went in search of the mythical bean field.
As a 30 year resident good CD rides are marked by the number of neighborhoods we ride through that I’ve never seen before. We picked our way through the area east of Cherry Rock Park and found ourselves eventually at the brand new Rosa Parks Elementary. The pedestrian underpass there is beautiful and a pleasing statement for consideration of alternative transportation.
The trail in the bean field is too.
The Wild Woopie Bakery was the ultimate destination and on the way there I got pinched by a garbage truck. Lesson…don’t get pinched. Had I been controlling my lane instead of cowering on the right both I and the driver would have been more comfortable.
“Don’t compromise your safety for the convenience of another.”
--
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 28.3
Multi-occupant: 7.6
Friday, September 11, 2009
090911 – Fix It
Today’s Transport –
Single-occupant: 14.7
For some reason it seemed as if the weather guessers were going to be correct today. I drove and I don’t regret it.
--
A couple days ago I heard crying in my front yard. I was pretty sure I knew who it was. I was equally sure she’d go two doors down to her home for the necessary attention. She’d likely fallen off her bike.
A few minutes later I heard crying again. There she was in our driveway. I remained confused, why hadn’t she gone home. I began quizzing her…
The chain on her bike had fallen off.
She didn’t know if she was hurt - maybe a little on her leg.
When her chain fell off, she fell off.
She didn’t know if she was bleeding - maybe a little on her leg.
I was just about exasperated when it occurred to me…
She’s here crying so that I’ll come out and fix her bike.
So I fixed her bike.
She stopped crying.
Priorities.
Single-occupant: 14.7
For some reason it seemed as if the weather guessers were going to be correct today. I drove and I don’t regret it.
--
A couple days ago I heard crying in my front yard. I was pretty sure I knew who it was. I was equally sure she’d go two doors down to her home for the necessary attention. She’d likely fallen off her bike.
A few minutes later I heard crying again. There she was in our driveway. I remained confused, why hadn’t she gone home. I began quizzing her…
The chain on her bike had fallen off.
She didn’t know if she was hurt - maybe a little on her leg.
When her chain fell off, she fell off.
She didn’t know if she was bleeding - maybe a little on her leg.
I was just about exasperated when it occurred to me…
She’s here crying so that I’ll come out and fix her bike.
So I fixed her bike.
She stopped crying.
Priorities.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
090910 – This American Life – Indeed
Today’s transport –
Bike: 9.8
I didn’t go many places today. I got to play in the street though; Frisbee with The Boy 11.
--
Did you hear the recent broadcast of This American Life - The Rest Stop episode? She said what?
When asked about entertainment on his weekly four hour drive?
Driver: “Well truthfully…I usually read the newspaper on the way up, or a book.”
Interviewer: “Are you kidding me? And you've been doing it for six or seven years and you’ve not had an accident?”
THAT WOULD NOT BE AN ACCIDENT. I'm just sayin'.
--
This image demonstrates the ground a person can cover in one mile by walking in a compact neighborhood and a suburban sprawl neighborhood. I like this because I drew almost this exact picture as a comment at the Shape Sioux Falls Open House.
I live in a sprawl type neighborhood. A few blocks away is an assisted living center. The square footage of the building requires a certain amount of parking lot – which is always dreadfully empty because the residents don’t have cars.
It also makes me sad because the residents that are able to walk can go north to the mostly featureless, treeless and entirely walkway-less park across the street or they go up and down the 45mph treeless sidewalk.
Rip out the parking lot and grow some trees!
Here’s the good news. When the baby boomers are 75 years old I expect they will shed new light on the value of walkability in neighborhoods.
The page I thefted the image from is “Quantifying the value of walking” It begins, “CEOs for Cities just released a study showing that homes located close to shops, schools, churches, offices, libraries, parks, and restaurants are worth more than similar homes in less-walkable neighborhoods.”
--
Speaking of walking there's a new blogger in town. He walks.
Bike: 9.8
I didn’t go many places today. I got to play in the street though; Frisbee with The Boy 11.
--
Did you hear the recent broadcast of This American Life - The Rest Stop episode? She said what?
When asked about entertainment on his weekly four hour drive?
Driver: “Well truthfully…I usually read the newspaper on the way up, or a book.”
Interviewer: “Are you kidding me? And you've been doing it for six or seven years and you’ve not had an accident?”
THAT WOULD NOT BE AN ACCIDENT. I'm just sayin'.
--
This image demonstrates the ground a person can cover in one mile by walking in a compact neighborhood and a suburban sprawl neighborhood. I like this because I drew almost this exact picture as a comment at the Shape Sioux Falls Open House.
I live in a sprawl type neighborhood. A few blocks away is an assisted living center. The square footage of the building requires a certain amount of parking lot – which is always dreadfully empty because the residents don’t have cars.
It also makes me sad because the residents that are able to walk can go north to the mostly featureless, treeless and entirely walkway-less park across the street or they go up and down the 45mph treeless sidewalk.
Rip out the parking lot and grow some trees!
Here’s the good news. When the baby boomers are 75 years old I expect they will shed new light on the value of walkability in neighborhoods.
The page I thefted the image from is “Quantifying the value of walking” It begins, “CEOs for Cities just released a study showing that homes located close to shops, schools, churches, offices, libraries, parks, and restaurants are worth more than similar homes in less-walkable neighborhoods.”
--
Speaking of walking there's a new blogger in town. He walks.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
090909 – Ants
We were invited to see one of the minor wonders of the world this evening. So we went…
Today’s Transport –
Walk: 1.3
Bike: 5.0
Multi-occupant: 65.9
--
I know. I know.
After a bit of a drive and a 10 minute walk thorough some beautiful Iowa/Big Sioux River country we arrived. Dozens of rather large anthills.
I took a couple others pictures too.
On the way home we observed the space shuttle and the International Space Station cross the sky.
Today’s Transport –
Walk: 1.3
Bike: 5.0
Multi-occupant: 65.9
--
I know. I know.
After a bit of a drive and a 10 minute walk thorough some beautiful Iowa/Big Sioux River country we arrived. Dozens of rather large anthills.
I took a couple others pictures too.
On the way home we observed the space shuttle and the International Space Station cross the sky.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
090908 – Recreate
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 34.4
--
Excess miles come courtesy of a cavity related trip to the dentist and my final term-limited FAB board meeting. Endings are good, they lead to beginnings.
I also recreated between the dentist and the board meeting.
--
The City’s Leading Green Committee is hosting a Green-ival – “a gathering of anything and everything “green” in Sioux Falls.” Posters indicate offerings of prizes for the first 50 people who arrive by public transport, bicycle, or foot. Nice! Let me guess, a plastic water bottle?
This is otherwise a good thing. I was mentioning in conversation recently that getting people like this together in one place is necessary so we can all look at each other.
The MinusCar Project is not a vendor.
Bike: 34.4
--
Excess miles come courtesy of a cavity related trip to the dentist and my final term-limited FAB board meeting. Endings are good, they lead to beginnings.
I also recreated between the dentist and the board meeting.
--
The City’s Leading Green Committee is hosting a Green-ival – “a gathering of anything and everything “green” in Sioux Falls.” Posters indicate offerings of prizes for the first 50 people who arrive by public transport, bicycle, or foot. Nice! Let me guess, a plastic water bottle?
This is otherwise a good thing. I was mentioning in conversation recently that getting people like this together in one place is necessary so we can all look at each other.
The MinusCar Project is not a vendor.
Monday, September 07, 2009
090907 – The Local Daily
Today’s Transport –
Multi-occupant: 76.4
Single-occupant: 1.3
It’s a holiday, a time to visit family at the lake. Road trip.
--
While there I like to read The Local Daily.
#1 – my neighbor became a cover boy. The article “Practicing exercise safety when running or biking outdoors” relied heavily on Joe’s experience colliding with an automobile a year ago.
But enough about Joe, let’s talk about me for a minute – “If you're new to cycling, consider taking an education course to learn about hazard avoidance skills, traffic type skills and lane positioning. Michael Christensen is certified by the League of American Bicyclists to teach courses, and plans on offering a few courses this spring. 'There is a safe way to ride. It may seem counterintuitive for many people, but being out there, acting like a vehicle gives you the best chance to be safe,' he says.”
I’d tweak this paragraph just a little bit. You don’t have to be new to cycling to get value from the course. I imagine the simple reminder of the peril of passing on the right might be valuable to hear to some of my favorite people. My own experience being in a school zone; a student passenger exited the vehicle as I passed on the right. Oops.
--
#2 – “Signs point new way for bikers” is an article about the newest sharrows in town and a bit of discussion about traffic engineering’s efforts to make vehicle sensors more motorcycle and bicycle friendly. Not found in the article is engineering’s strategy to purchase a different style of sensor. I hope that’s still true.
“The sharrow design features a bike with two arrows above it, signaling that the road is open to vehicle and bike traffic. ‘We really want to remind the traveling public that roads can be shared,’ Trebilcock said.” The reporter just misses the target, but just a lack of the most descriptive language. Planner Trebilcock gets it right.
All city roads are open for bicycle and vehicle traffic. The sharrows are simply a reminder of that.
--
#3 – I didn’t read this in today’s paper but rather stumbled upon it as I searched for links to the previous two articles. In “My Voice: Sioux Falls could be more livable” my friend Mr. Bite (I guess sometimes they call him Chris) offers his thoughts for what the future of Sioux Falls could look like. A participant in The Local Daily’s Sioux Falls Next effort and engaging in The City’s Shape Sioux Falls 2035 Comprehensive Plan this 570 word article is right where I hope other people end up in their thinking.
Multi-occupant: 76.4
Single-occupant: 1.3
It’s a holiday, a time to visit family at the lake. Road trip.
--
While there I like to read The Local Daily.
#1 – my neighbor became a cover boy. The article “Practicing exercise safety when running or biking outdoors” relied heavily on Joe’s experience colliding with an automobile a year ago.
But enough about Joe, let’s talk about me for a minute – “If you're new to cycling, consider taking an education course to learn about hazard avoidance skills, traffic type skills and lane positioning. Michael Christensen is certified by the League of American Bicyclists to teach courses, and plans on offering a few courses this spring. 'There is a safe way to ride. It may seem counterintuitive for many people, but being out there, acting like a vehicle gives you the best chance to be safe,' he says.”
I’d tweak this paragraph just a little bit. You don’t have to be new to cycling to get value from the course. I imagine the simple reminder of the peril of passing on the right might be valuable to hear to some of my favorite people. My own experience being in a school zone; a student passenger exited the vehicle as I passed on the right. Oops.
--
#2 – “Signs point new way for bikers” is an article about the newest sharrows in town and a bit of discussion about traffic engineering’s efforts to make vehicle sensors more motorcycle and bicycle friendly. Not found in the article is engineering’s strategy to purchase a different style of sensor. I hope that’s still true.
“The sharrow design features a bike with two arrows above it, signaling that the road is open to vehicle and bike traffic. ‘We really want to remind the traveling public that roads can be shared,’ Trebilcock said.” The reporter just misses the target, but just a lack of the most descriptive language. Planner Trebilcock gets it right.
All city roads are open for bicycle and vehicle traffic. The sharrows are simply a reminder of that.
--
#3 – I didn’t read this in today’s paper but rather stumbled upon it as I searched for links to the previous two articles. In “My Voice: Sioux Falls could be more livable” my friend Mr. Bite (I guess sometimes they call him Chris) offers his thoughts for what the future of Sioux Falls could look like. A participant in The Local Daily’s Sioux Falls Next effort and engaging in The City’s Shape Sioux Falls 2035 Comprehensive Plan this 570 word article is right where I hope other people end up in their thinking.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
090906 – Disc Golf
We met my brother-in-law and nephew for a round of disc golf today. By we I mean I and The Boy 11 – it was his first round ever. The Wife was interested in a bike ride so we attached the BOB trailer to her bike while I pulled The Boys with the trail-a-bike attached to the tandem.
After 8.4 miles out and 9.4 miles back we’d played almost two miles of disc golf and rewarded ourselves with B&G Slushies on the way home. Mmmm…
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 17.8
--
The Donut for 8/31 to 9/6
Saturday, September 05, 2009
090905 - Car Miles Come Easy
Today's Transport -
Multi-occupant Auto: 42.6
Single-occupant Auto: 13.4
I spent 110 minutes in a car today. Ugh.
Visited the new Great Outdoor Store today. Beautiful!
Multi-occupant Auto: 42.6
Single-occupant Auto: 13.4
I spent 110 minutes in a car today. Ugh.
Visited the new Great Outdoor Store today. Beautiful!
090904 - zzzzzzzzzz...
I'm really sleepy.
Today's Transport -
Bike: 16.8
Bus: 9.2
I got up slow this morning. I took too much time getting ready. Driving became necessary but I couldn't find my keys. They were waiting in the ignition - safely locked in the car.
I rode!
Today's Transport -
Bike: 16.8
Bus: 9.2
I got up slow this morning. I took too much time getting ready. Driving became necessary but I couldn't find my keys. They were waiting in the ignition - safely locked in the car.
I rode!
Friday, September 04, 2009
090903 – 1Sky
Woke up to wery wet weather this morning. I caved, gave in, failed to resist. I drove to work. Alone. That meant at the end of the day, I would be driving home. Alone. The good news here is The MinusCar Car still works.
Today's Transport -
Bike: 14.8
Single-occupant auto: 11.7
--
I’ve noticed lately that I’ve got a surprisingly long list of 70 year old men I greatly admire. I might be getting old but hopefully it can - in part - be attributed to some of the most radical thoughts I hear now come from these men.
Today it was with great pleasure that as I listened to a podcast of Quaker Teacher Parker Palmer he mentioned loving Jewish Buddhist Leonard Cohen’s music. One of the most amazing evenings I’ll remember occurred in May as I basked in Cohen’s poetry and music in the Orpheum Theater in Minneapolis. Palmer quoted Anthem:
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in.
--
I did manage to fit in a ride to downtown in this evening.
Because I author a nationally famous bicycle blog* a very important person contacted me. Zachary from 1Sky is in town. He’s here specifically to find ways to encourage people to be supportive of the climate bill currently in Congress.
I, at somewhat cross purposes, wanted to sit a guy like him down in a strange venue in an unfamiliar town which would enable me, an unfamiliar person, to pepper him with questions about what it’s like to live the sort of live he does.
So we set a meeting.
Snakebite agreed that sitting for an hour at Monk’s House of Ale Repute was worth doing most anytime for most any reason. He and his lovely wife joined the conversation.
It was a fine meeting. 1Sky imagines (correctly) the globe shares one sky. 1Sky imagines (correctly) the globe shares one future.
1Sky imagines right now, with a bill approved in the House and moving through the Senate, is this nation’s best and perhaps only chance to see federal legislation that offers true leadership to the globe for future sustainability and adjustment to current data regarding climate change.
So yeah, I added my name and signature to the list of names and signatures that 1Sky will show to Senator Johnson to indicate South Dakota citizen are supportive of the current climate bill in US Congress.
--
*I know The MinusCar Project is nationally famous bike blog because when I search Google for “bikers suck” The MinusCar Project blog is second to the "Upset Waitress" in the results list.
Today's Transport -
Bike: 14.8
Single-occupant auto: 11.7
--
I’ve noticed lately that I’ve got a surprisingly long list of 70 year old men I greatly admire. I might be getting old but hopefully it can - in part - be attributed to some of the most radical thoughts I hear now come from these men.
Today it was with great pleasure that as I listened to a podcast of Quaker Teacher Parker Palmer he mentioned loving Jewish Buddhist Leonard Cohen’s music. One of the most amazing evenings I’ll remember occurred in May as I basked in Cohen’s poetry and music in the Orpheum Theater in Minneapolis. Palmer quoted Anthem:
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in.
--
I did manage to fit in a ride to downtown in this evening.
Because I author a nationally famous bicycle blog* a very important person contacted me. Zachary from 1Sky is in town. He’s here specifically to find ways to encourage people to be supportive of the climate bill currently in Congress.
I, at somewhat cross purposes, wanted to sit a guy like him down in a strange venue in an unfamiliar town which would enable me, an unfamiliar person, to pepper him with questions about what it’s like to live the sort of live he does.
So we set a meeting.
Snakebite agreed that sitting for an hour at Monk’s House of Ale Repute was worth doing most anytime for most any reason. He and his lovely wife joined the conversation.
It was a fine meeting. 1Sky imagines (correctly) the globe shares one sky. 1Sky imagines (correctly) the globe shares one future.
1Sky imagines right now, with a bill approved in the House and moving through the Senate, is this nation’s best and perhaps only chance to see federal legislation that offers true leadership to the globe for future sustainability and adjustment to current data regarding climate change.
So yeah, I added my name and signature to the list of names and signatures that 1Sky will show to Senator Johnson to indicate South Dakota citizen are supportive of the current climate bill in US Congress.
--
*I know The MinusCar Project is nationally famous bike blog because when I search Google for “bikers suck” The MinusCar Project blog is second to the "Upset Waitress" in the results list.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
090902 – Rain:Rule #1
Rain:Rule #1 - No matter the forecast, if it’s not raining at ride time, ride. If it starts raining during the ride, get wet. I woke to the promise of rain all day and simply got spit on a bit after work.
--
I noticed this morning that the bike rack at The Boy 7’s school is insufficient for the number of bikes being ridden to school. It looked to me like they need about 50% more. I’m down with that! I’ll effort to get a photo.
--
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 10.5
Multi-occupant Auto: 7.3
After spending time setting up a small network for the impending LifeLight Festival The Pastor suggested a ride home was in order. While auto transport is very low in the MinusCar hierarhy of transportational methods additional minutes with high-quality people/groups is very high in the MinusCar hierarhy of time usage.
I accept.
--
Interesting offers of sympathy to me today from the woman working the desk after I'd completed my training session. She realized I'd be riding back to work. I think of it as extending my exercise session.
--
I noticed this morning that the bike rack at The Boy 7’s school is insufficient for the number of bikes being ridden to school. It looked to me like they need about 50% more. I’m down with that! I’ll effort to get a photo.
--
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 10.5
Multi-occupant Auto: 7.3
After spending time setting up a small network for the impending LifeLight Festival The Pastor suggested a ride home was in order. While auto transport is very low in the MinusCar hierarhy of transportational methods additional minutes with high-quality people/groups is very high in the MinusCar hierarhy of time usage.
I accept.
--
Interesting offers of sympathy to me today from the woman working the desk after I'd completed my training session. She realized I'd be riding back to work. I think of it as extending my exercise session.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
090901 – I Saw It On The Internets
Today’s Transport –
Bike: 16.5
Today’s extra miles come via a trip to the dentist and the bank.
--
I read a few interesting bits on the internets today.
First a vehicular cyclist perhaps rightly argues against more bicycle related facilities by pointing out that “if we work hard at it, we can probably increase the relative numbers of cyclists on our streets from practically none to hardly any."
--
A report titled Driving and the Built Environment: The Effects of Compact Development on Motorized Travel, Energy Use, and CO2 Emissions was released today.
Impetus for Study: "A key question of interest is to what extent developing more compactly would reduce VMT and make alternative modes of travel (e.g., transit, walking) more feasible. The study is focused on metropolitan areas and on personal travel, the primary vectors through which policy changes that encourage more compact development should have the greatest effect."
People who like reading this sort of thing will enjoy reading this sort of thing.
--
I read, enjoyed, commented and became intrigued by this post from the Twin City Sidewalks blog: Death by a Thousand Curb Cuts.
Bike: 16.5
Today’s extra miles come via a trip to the dentist and the bank.
--
I read a few interesting bits on the internets today.
First a vehicular cyclist perhaps rightly argues against more bicycle related facilities by pointing out that “if we work hard at it, we can probably increase the relative numbers of cyclists on our streets from practically none to hardly any."
--
A report titled Driving and the Built Environment: The Effects of Compact Development on Motorized Travel, Energy Use, and CO2 Emissions was released today.
Impetus for Study: "A key question of interest is to what extent developing more compactly would reduce VMT and make alternative modes of travel (e.g., transit, walking) more feasible. The study is focused on metropolitan areas and on personal travel, the primary vectors through which policy changes that encourage more compact development should have the greatest effect."
People who like reading this sort of thing will enjoy reading this sort of thing.
--
I read, enjoyed, commented and became intrigued by this post from the Twin City Sidewalks blog: Death by a Thousand Curb Cuts.
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