Ring and Post April 2009

Happy Spring!

Table Of Contents

What's happening in our wards
Toronto Cyclists Union provides a voice for change
Message from the Board
Two weekends with the Alliance for Biking and Walking a great success!
Springtime is … dandyhorse time!
Calling all volunteers - the bike union wants YOU!
Make cycling promotion your job
Action Alerts
Upcoming Events

Credit: Cycle26

What's happening in our wards

Brian Betsworth, Louis Fliss, Ian Hallet, and Geoff Kettel are the Ward Captains for Ward 26 (Don Valley West). Together, they have formed Cycle 26. Here is their update on the cycling conditions in their ward:

A group of cyclists is working to promote cycling and improve infrastructure in Ward 26 - Don Valley West, and it all started at a bike union advocacy workshop in April of 2008. Sensing a common ground and a passion for cycling, Cycle 26 began work in the fall of 2008 on a review of the Bike Plan, culminating with their report: Rolling ForWard 26. They found that there had been little progress (0.5 km of bike lanes and 1.5 km of signed routes completed to date) in this mid-town ward, but that there were some good plans in place and room for improvement.

The report was well received by Toronto’s Manager of Pedestrian and Cycling Infrastructure and the local councillor. Of particular interest were: a proposal to complete the long-discussed Redway Road extension as an off-road bike trail, “The Redway Bikeway”, to facilitate access to downtown; better access to the Don Valley trail system from Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park; and improved cyclist safety at the CP Rail underpass on Millwood Road.

The group met with representatives from adjacent wards this winter and pledged to share information and manpower for cycling events. On March 23^rd, 2009, the report was presented to the Toronto Cycling Advisory Committee, which adopted a resolution to have staff report back on the feasibility of implementing the recommendations at their next meeting. In addition, Cycle 26 was recognized as a model for community-based cycling initiatives. Plans are underway to keep things rolling forward with a variety of community events in Ward 26 and beyond.

Cycle 26 is committed to working with Toronto residents, community leaders, and city staff; with the goal of sharing ideas, information and input with the community in a spirit of cooperation and goodwill; to advance, enhance, and improve cycling in Ward 26. For more information and a copy of the Rolling ForWard 26 report visit www.cycle26.org

Credit: Simon Farla

Toronto Cyclists Union provides a voice for change

Executive Director Yvonne Bambrick explains why it's a fine time to join the Toronto Cyclists Union:

It seems that every year there are more cyclists on the streets of Toronto. Bike lanes are getting crowded, it's getting harder to find a place to park in many areas, and it’s a fact that it's now hot to be seen on two wheels! Despite improvements, the City has yet to fully realize what a renaissance cycling is enjoying, and just how many of us are out there on the road across the city.

What do I get as a member, you ask? Staff working for you; monthly news on cycling events, issues, action alerts & progress; continued pressure to improve cycling conditions city-wide; ensuring a positive presence for cycling in mainstream media; discounts at participating bike shops; discount on a subscription to Momentum magazine (national cycling mag); complimentary subscription for members (at or >$60 after spring issue) to dandyhorse magazine; free lock removal service; advocacy tools, training and workshops; social rides and events; the opportunity to be part of a growing international movement and our local cycling community; and more...

Some things we at your union are working on: creating additional bike parking capacity on-street through the re-purposing of spots currently designated for cars (in partnership with TCAT); lobbying for a safe way for cyclists to cross the 401; ensuring that cyclists' needs are considered as part of all current and upcoming Transit City Environmental Assessments; helping inform additions to the city's proposed bikeway network by engaging cyclists across the city to provide feedback for improvements in their neighbourhoods; ensuring that the needs of cyclists are considered in city-building & redesign projects, and more ...

However, we can't work towards the much needed culture shift and cycling infrastructure upgrades without the financial backing of fellow cyclists like you. We had over 550 members join in our first year, which has allowed us to hire our first paid staffer - a major step for any new organisation. The fact that we are member-funded means that we enjoy a greater freedom to speak up - we are not restricted by ties to government funding sources or granting agencies. This year we plan to further strengthen & grow the organization by more than doubling the membership base and by expanding your member benefits.

Becoming a member of the bike union gives you the satisfaction of knowing that you are an active part of these improvements and that you have a voice in cycling issues and concerns in your city. We're smart, respected, connected, and ready to work hard for our collective benefit. Join the Toronto Cyclists Union today and add your voice - there's strength in numbers.

See you on the streets!

P.S. If you have changed your mailing address since becoming a member, please email info@bikeunion.to with your new address so that we can send you our special Spring Member Bonus!

Credit: Yvonne Bambrick

Message from the Board

Board Chair Karey Iron provides an update on board activities:

The members of the Board of Directors have been working over the past few months to enhance governance based on the bike union Strategic Plan of November 2008. We currently are seeking volunteers who are interested in being involved in the governance of the bike union at the Board level and/or in the development and implementation of bike union team initiatives. At the Board level, we are looking for seasoned collaborative team leaders with expertise in the areas of fundraising, outreach event organization, membership development, and some experience in organizational development. At the team level, we are seeking positive individuals who are self-starters, have great ideas, and who enjoy working collaboratively with others. If you are interested in participating on volunteer teams in the above areas or are interested in leading a team and/or participating on the Board, please send a note indicating how you would like to participate, your interests, a synopsis of relevant experience, and your time commitment to yvonne@bikeunion.to. We look forward to hearing from you!

Finally, on June 18, we invite all of our members to attend our first annual Business/Bash event:

The Business: For bike union members, this first Annual General Meeting (AGM) will briefly review our successes to date, our plans for the upcoming year, and our membership and financial status, based on our upcoming annual report. We will vote on the expansion of the Board and vote in new Board members. Bike union members are encouraged to attend so that the governance reflects the collective voice of the membership.

Doors at 6:30pm, meeting at 7pm in Suite 120 of the Centre for Social Innovation at 215 Spadina Ave.

The Bash: Open to members, their guests, and those who are interested in the bike union. We will meet, mingle, and celebrate our first year!

8pm in Suite 400 reception area, also at the Centre for Social Innovation.

Cheers and happy spring.

Workshop attendees on the green roof of 215 Spadina Ave.
Credit: Yvonne Bambrick

Two weekends with the Alliance for Biking and Walking a great success!

Nancy Smith Lea reports on two weekends of intense advocacy training:

Over the past two weekends TCAT and the Toronto Cyclists Union hosted intensive training and strategic development for advocates.

A group of nineteen dedicated advocates spent the entire weekend of March 27-29 together with sleeves rolled up, developing campaigns to improve cycling and walking in Toronto and across the province.

Facilitated by a talented team of three, Chanda Causer and Jeremy Grandstaff from the Alliance for Biking and Walking (formerly known as Thunderhead Alliance) and Ron Milam, the group worked together to develop effective strategies and to learn how winning campaigns have been implemented elsewhere. Yvonne Bambrick, the Executive Director of the Toronto Cyclists Union, captured how fun and productive the training was for everyone involved with these photos.

Then on April 4th, Jeremy Grandstaff from the Alliance for Biking and Walking returned to Toronto with Randy Neufeld, Chief Strategic Officer of the Active Transportation Alliance to lead key members of TCAT and the Toronto Cyclists Union through a strategic development session. Randy has decades of leadership experience, in particular with the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation (now Active Transportation Alliance), which he grew from a small group of volunteers to the large, successful organization it is today. The strategy session was a valuable experience and we have every confidence that it has set both TCAT and the Toronto Cyclists Union on course to continue to grow and thrive.

Special thanks for generous sponsorship of these valuable events goes to Alliance for Biking and Walking, Mountain Equipment Co-Op, and Planet Bike.

Issue #1 of dandyhorse - summer '08
Credit: Yvonne Bambrick

Springtime is … dandyhorse time!

dandyhorse Editor-in-chief Tammy Thorne gives a glimpse of the magazine's spring issue:

Launched last year, dandyhorse magazine is a full colour 48-page celebration of bicycling in Toronto. The much anticipated spring issue will be out at the end of April and will feature handmade bicycle pioneer Mike Barry. We also will take a critical look at “dooring” in Toronto; discuss the ethics of scavenging abandoned bikes; meet a plastic-free year-round cyclist, and revisit the Cycle Messenger World Championships of ’95, along with other stories about commuting, fashion, art, local history, advocacy, BMXers, new products, and much more.

Through dandyhorse, I hope to inspire new riders while providing practical, street-level information for those of us who already ride everyday.

Member Bonus: Toronto Cyclists Union members will receive a complimentary copy of the spring issue of dandyhorse in the mail. It will also be available in better bike, book, and boutique shops across the city. To buy the spring issue online or subscribe, please visit dandyhorse.com.

Happy cycling!

Volunteers try on their new t-shirts at the inaugural Toronto Bike Awards
Credit: Yvonne Bambrick

Calling all volunteers - the bike union wants YOU!

Executive Director Yvonne Bambrick points out areas where the bike union needs your help:

The Toronto Cyclists Union runs on volunteer power - we simply would not be able to do all this good stuff without the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of many committed cyclists like you! If you've ever considered spending a couple of hours a month getting more involved in the cycling community, now is a great time to get in touch with us.

Along with Heather McDonald, bike union volunteer extraordinaire, our new Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Leehe Lev has just announced two upcoming training sessions in preparation for what is sure to be one of the most exciting cycling seasons to date in Toronto. It would be great to have you as part of our team!

Volunteer training sessions will take place on April 28th and May 7th. Please email Leehe Lev to register for either session and send a little description of your interests.

Things we need help with...
-Street Teams (including bike mechanics) for our Spring member 'drive' ;)
-Tabling at fun community events over the summer
-Community Environment Days in wards across the city
-Assisting with advocacy campaigns
-Bike parking
-Newsletter coordination
-Surveying
-Toronto Bike Awards
-Our biggest event of the year - the First Annual 'Tour de Toronto'
-and more...

What: Toronto Cyclists Union volunteer training sessions
When: Tuesday, April 28th & Thursday, May 7th
Hours: 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Where: Centre for Social Innovation, 215 Spadina Ave., Suite 400 in the "Think Tank."

Make cycling promotion your job

CultureLink, a settlement organization committed to equity, anti-oppression, and sustainable living habits, is seeking a Cycling Outreach Worker for its Cycling Promotion Campaign. The Cycling from back home to our new home campaign is a joint venture between CultureLink and the Toronto Cyclists Union to promote cycling amongst newcomers across the City of Toronto.

For more information about this job opportunity, click here.

ACTION ALERTS - two 5 minute actions:

This is not a bicycle! Act now to tell the Ontario Government that strict regulations are needed.
Credit: Yvonne Bambrick

1. Take action on 'E-Bikes'

Bill 126 of the Road Safety Act, which includes the redefinition of bicycle to include 'power-assisted bicycle', is about to be scheduled for third and final reading at the Ontario Legislature. While we have been unsuccessful in having the far too broad and easily abused definition of 'power-assisted bicycle' changed to exclude 'e-bikes' such as the one pictured, we have managed to make some of the safety and local bylaw issues clear to our decision makers.

Now is the time to let your provincial representative know that these motorized scooters are not bicycles and that clear and strict regulations are required to govern this new breed of electric vehicle. It's also an excellent opportunity to let politicians know that cycling infrastructure is important to you. Ask that they support the meaningful inclusion of the needs of cyclists in all future transportation policy and infrastructure projects.

Please click here for our position statement and recommendations.

To voice your concern and support for the creation of strict regulations for 'power-assisted bicycles' as per the definition currently being proposed in Bill 126, please email your local MPP and your city councillor by Monday, April 20^th, 2009. Please cc "MPP Linda Jeffrey" at ljeffrey.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org, "Jefferson-Kotack, Linda (MTO)" at linda.jefferson-kotack@ontario.ca, "Toronto Cyclists Union" at info@bikeunion.to.

2. Queen's Quay - Waterfront Trail

Plans for a continuous Waterfront Trail along Queen's Quay could fall short - your feedback is needed.

Long-time cycling advocate Martin Koob provides an excellent explanation and review of the design proposals on biketoronto.ca - it seems that dangerous conditions for cyclists and pedestrians exist in the current 'preferred option' #4, and he therefore recommends option #5.

Public comment is being collected until Friday, April 17th, 2009. Please email your thoughts and preferences to central@waterfronttoronto.ca. The comment form, which includes contact information, can be found here.

Upcoming Events

OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge: Announcement of Winners (Apr 17)

"Urban Relic" submission by Adam Kereliuk
Credit: OCAD

Celebrate design with The OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge! Join Toronto Mayor David Miller and OCAD President Sara Diamond for the announcement of winners in 'The OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge -- Stand in the place where you live'.

$13 000 in prizes ● 35 entries ● 5 winning designs ● at least 2 distinct neighbourhoods

Click here to view the finalists’ submissions.

What: OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge winners announced
When: Friday, April 17, 2009
Hours: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: OCAD Auditorium, McCaul St. south of Dundas
Bike Union's Monthly Cinq à Sept (Apr 30)

The 5 à 7 site, the Victory Cafe.

Want to hear what the bike union is up to? Do you have ideas for current projects or future campaigns? Want to share stories of the road or current events that are of interest to your community? Then come on out to the Victory Cafe and raise a glass with your union!

Our monthly cinq à septs are intended to provide a space where bike union board, executive, management team, ward captains, volunteers, and members can come together and converse over a refreshing beverage. A cinq à sept is an informal gathering to bring us together for casual conversation, outside of a meeting context. It's a space where the union can meet, just for the sake of getting to know each other.

Join us for the next cinq à sept - all are welcome!

What: Monthly Bike Union Cinq à Sept
When: Thursday, April 30, 2009 (and the last Thursday of every month)
Hours: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Where: The Victory Cafe at 581 Markham St.
Save the date:

Toronto Cyclists Union Cruiser Ride & Island Picnic (May 30)

Join the bike union for a family friendly ride to Leslie Spit and an island picnic. We'll begin with a quick tour of the new Bike Station at Union Station, then head off as a group for a leisurely ride to Leslie Spit, ending up at the ferry docks for a quick skip over to the islands. We'll then join the Bikes Without Borders picnic and concert event at Hanlan's Point. BYOPicnic & blanket!

What: Toronto Cyclists Union Cruiser Ride & Island Picnic
When: Saturday, May 30, 2009
Hours: 1:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Meet at the City's new Bike Station @ Union - NW corner of Bremner & York St.

Toronto Cyclists Union AGM & Anniversary Party (June 18)
The Toronto Cyclists Union will be holding our first Annual General Meeting (AGM), followed by a party in celebration of our one-year anniversary. The AGM is intended for our members, but anyone interested in becoming a supporter of the bike union is welcome. Party is open to all - rsvp to info@bikeunion.to.

What: Toronto Cyclists Union AGM & Anniversary Party
When: Thursday, June 18, 2009
AGM: doors at 6:30pm, meeting at 7:00pm - Suite 120
Anniversary Party: 8:00pm - Suite 400
Where: Centre for Social Innovation, 215 Spadina Ave. (N of Queen)

	Happy Spring!
	Table Of Contents What's happening in our wards Toronto Cyclists Union provides a voice for change Message from the Board Two weekends with the Alliance for Biking and Walking a great success! Springtime is … dandyhorse time! Calling all volunteers - the bike union wants YOU! Make cycling promotion your job Action Alerts Upcoming Events
	Credit: Cycle26 What's happening in our wards Brian Betsworth, Louis Fliss, Ian Hallet, and Geoff Kettel are the Ward Captains for Ward 26 (Don Valley West). Together, they have formed Cycle 26. Here is their update on the cycling conditions in their ward: A group of cyclists is working to promote cycling and improve infrastructure in Ward 26 - Don Valley West, and it all started at a bike union advocacy workshop in April of 2008. Sensing a common ground and a passion for cycling, Cycle 26 began work in the fall of 2008 on a review of the Bike Plan, culminating with their report: Rolling ForWard 26. They found that there had been little progress (0.5 km of bike lanes and 1.5 km of signed routes completed to date) in this mid-town ward, but that there were some good plans in place and room for improvement. The report was well received by Toronto’s Manager of Pedestrian and Cycling Infrastructure and the local councillor. Of particular interest were: a proposal to complete the long-discussed Redway Road extension as an off-road bike trail, “The Redway Bikeway”, to facilitate access to downtown; better access to the Don Valley trail system from Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park; and improved cyclist safety at the CP Rail underpass on Millwood Road. The group met with representatives from adjacent wards this winter and pledged to share information and manpower for cycling events. On March 23^rd, 2009, the report was presented to the Toronto Cycling Advisory Committee, which adopted a resolution to have staff report back on the feasibility of implementing the recommendations at their next meeting. In addition, Cycle 26 was recognized as a model for community-based cycling initiatives. Plans are underway to keep things rolling forward with a variety of community events in Ward 26 and beyond. Cycle 26 is committed to working with Toronto residents, community leaders, and city staff; with the goal of sharing ideas, information and input with the community in a spirit of cooperation and goodwill; to advance, enhance, and improve cycling in Ward 26. For more information and a copy of the Rolling ForWard 26 report visit www.cycle26.org

	Credit: Simon Farla Toronto Cyclists Union provides a voice for change Executive Director Yvonne Bambrick explains why it's a fine time to join the Toronto Cyclists Union: It seems that every year there are more cyclists on the streets of Toronto. Bike lanes are getting crowded, it's getting harder to find a place to park in many areas, and it’s a fact that it's now hot to be seen on two wheels! Despite improvements, the City has yet to fully realize what a renaissance cycling is enjoying, and just how many of us are out there on the road across the city. What do I get as a member, you ask? Staff working for you; monthly news on cycling events, issues, action alerts & progress; continued pressure to improve cycling conditions city-wide; ensuring a positive presence for cycling in mainstream media; discounts at participating bike shops; discount on a subscription to Momentum magazine (national cycling mag); complimentary subscription for members (at or >$60 after spring issue) to dandyhorse magazine; free lock removal service; advocacy tools, training and workshops; social rides and events; the opportunity to be part of a growing international movement and our local cycling community; and more... Some things we at your union are working on: creating additional bike parking capacity on-street through the re-purposing of spots currently designated for cars (in partnership with TCAT); lobbying for a safe way for cyclists to cross the 401; ensuring that cyclists' needs are considered as part of all current and upcoming Transit City Environmental Assessments; helping inform additions to the city's proposed bikeway network by engaging cyclists across the city to provide feedback for improvements in their neighbourhoods; ensuring that the needs of cyclists are considered in city-building & redesign projects, and more ... However, we can't work towards the much needed culture shift and cycling infrastructure upgrades without the financial backing of fellow cyclists like you. We had over 550 members join in our first year, which has allowed us to hire our first paid staffer - a major step for any new organisation. The fact that we are member-funded means that we enjoy a greater freedom to speak up - we are not restricted by ties to government funding sources or granting agencies. This year we plan to further strengthen & grow the organization by more than doubling the membership base and by expanding your member benefits. Becoming a member of the bike union gives you the satisfaction of knowing that you are an active part of these improvements and that you have a voice in cycling issues and concerns in your city. We're smart, respected, connected, and ready to work hard for our collective benefit. Join the Toronto Cyclists Union today and add your voice - there's strength in numbers. See you on the streets! P.S. If you have changed your mailing address since becoming a member, please email info@bikeunion.to with your new address so that we can send you our special Spring Member Bonus!
	Credit: Yvonne Bambrick Message from the Board Board Chair Karey Iron provides an update on board activities: The members of the Board of Directors have been working over the past few months to enhance governance based on the bike union Strategic Plan of November 2008. We currently are seeking volunteers who are interested in being involved in the governance of the bike union at the Board level and/or in the development and implementation of bike union team initiatives. At the Board level, we are looking for seasoned collaborative team leaders with expertise in the areas of fundraising, outreach event organization, membership development, and some experience in organizational development. At the team level, we are seeking positive individuals who are self-starters, have great ideas, and who enjoy working collaboratively with others. If you are interested in participating on volunteer teams in the above areas or are interested in leading a team and/or participating on the Board, please send a note indicating how you would like to participate, your interests, a synopsis of relevant experience, and your time commitment to yvonne@bikeunion.to. We look forward to hearing from you! Finally, on June 18, we invite all of our members to attend our first annual Business/Bash event: The Business: For bike union members, this first Annual General Meeting (AGM) will briefly review our successes to date, our plans for the upcoming year, and our membership and financial status, based on our upcoming annual report. We will vote on the expansion of the Board and vote in new Board members. Bike union members are encouraged to attend so that the governance reflects the collective voice of the membership. Doors at 6:30pm, meeting at 7pm in Suite 120 of the Centre for Social Innovation at 215 Spadina Ave. The Bash: Open to members, their guests, and those who are interested in the bike union. We will meet, mingle, and celebrate our first year! 8pm in Suite 400 reception area, also at the Centre for Social Innovation. Cheers and happy spring.
	Workshop attendees on the green roof of 215 Spadina Ave. Credit: Yvonne Bambrick Two weekends with the Alliance for Biking and Walking a great success! Nancy Smith Lea reports on two weekends of intense advocacy training: Over the past two weekends TCAT and the Toronto Cyclists Union hosted intensive training and strategic development for advocates. A group of nineteen dedicated advocates spent the entire weekend of March 27-29 together with sleeves rolled up, developing campaigns to improve cycling and walking in Toronto and across the province. Facilitated by a talented team of three, Chanda Causer and Jeremy Grandstaff from the Alliance for Biking and Walking (formerly known as Thunderhead Alliance) and Ron Milam, the group worked together to develop effective strategies and to learn how winning campaigns have been implemented elsewhere. Yvonne Bambrick, the Executive Director of the Toronto Cyclists Union, captured how fun and productive the training was for everyone involved with these photos. Then on April 4th, Jeremy Grandstaff from the Alliance for Biking and Walking returned to Toronto with Randy Neufeld, Chief Strategic Officer of the Active Transportation Alliance to lead key members of TCAT and the Toronto Cyclists Union through a strategic development session. Randy has decades of leadership experience, in particular with the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation (now Active Transportation Alliance), which he grew from a small group of volunteers to the large, successful organization it is today. The strategy session was a valuable experience and we have every confidence that it has set both TCAT and the Toronto Cyclists Union on course to continue to grow and thrive. Special thanks for generous sponsorship of these valuable events goes to Alliance for Biking and Walking, Mountain Equipment Co-Op, and Planet Bike.

	Issue #1 of dandyhorse - summer '08 Credit: Yvonne Bambrick Springtime is … dandyhorse time! dandyhorse Editor-in-chief Tammy Thorne gives a glimpse of the magazine's spring issue: Launched last year, dandyhorse magazine is a full colour 48-page celebration of bicycling in Toronto. The much anticipated spring issue will be out at the end of April and will feature handmade bicycle pioneer Mike Barry. We also will take a critical look at “dooring” in Toronto; discuss the ethics of scavenging abandoned bikes; meet a plastic-free year-round cyclist, and revisit the Cycle Messenger World Championships of ’95, along with other stories about commuting, fashion, art, local history, advocacy, BMXers, new products, and much more. Through dandyhorse, I hope to inspire new riders while providing practical, street-level information for those of us who already ride everyday. Member Bonus: Toronto Cyclists Union members will receive a complimentary copy of the spring issue of dandyhorse in the mail. It will also be available in better bike, book, and boutique shops across the city. To buy the spring issue online or subscribe, please visit dandyhorse.com. Happy cycling!
	Volunteers try on their new t-shirts at the inaugural Toronto Bike Awards Credit: Yvonne Bambrick Calling all volunteers - the bike union wants YOU! Executive Director Yvonne Bambrick points out areas where the bike union needs your help: The Toronto Cyclists Union runs on volunteer power - we simply would not be able to do all this good stuff without the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of many committed cyclists like you! If you've ever considered spending a couple of hours a month getting more involved in the cycling community, now is a great time to get in touch with us. Along with Heather McDonald, bike union volunteer extraordinaire, our new Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Leehe Lev has just announced two upcoming training sessions in preparation for what is sure to be one of the most exciting cycling seasons to date in Toronto. It would be great to have you as part of our team! Volunteer training sessions will take place on April 28th and May 7th. Please email Leehe Lev to register for either session and send a little description of your interests. Things we need help with... -Street Teams (including bike mechanics) for our Spring member 'drive' ;) -Tabling at fun community events over the summer -Community Environment Days in wards across the city -Assisting with advocacy campaigns -Bike parking -Newsletter coordination -Surveying -Toronto Bike Awards -Our biggest event of the year - the First Annual 'Tour de Toronto' -and more... What: Toronto Cyclists Union volunteer training sessions When: Tuesday, April 28th & Thursday, May 7th Hours: 6:30pm - 8:00pm Where: Centre for Social Innovation, 215 Spadina Ave., Suite 400 in the "Think Tank." Make cycling promotion your job CultureLink, a settlement organization committed to equity, anti-oppression, and sustainable living habits, is seeking a Cycling Outreach Worker for its Cycling Promotion Campaign. The Cycling from back home to our new home campaign is a joint venture between CultureLink and the Toronto Cyclists Union to promote cycling amongst newcomers across the City of Toronto. For more information about this job opportunity, click here.
	ACTION ALERTS - two 5 minute actions: This is not a bicycle! Act now to tell the Ontario Government that strict regulations are needed. Credit: Yvonne Bambrick 1. Take action on 'E-Bikes' Bill 126 of the Road Safety Act, which includes the redefinition of bicycle to include 'power-assisted bicycle', is about to be scheduled for third and final reading at the Ontario Legislature. While we have been unsuccessful in having the far too broad and easily abused definition of 'power-assisted bicycle' changed to exclude 'e-bikes' such as the one pictured, we have managed to make some of the safety and local bylaw issues clear to our decision makers. Now is the time to let your provincial representative know that these motorized scooters are not bicycles and that clear and strict regulations are required to govern this new breed of electric vehicle. It's also an excellent opportunity to let politicians know that cycling infrastructure is important to you. Ask that they support the meaningful inclusion of the needs of cyclists in all future transportation policy and infrastructure projects. Please click here for our position statement and recommendations. To voice your concern and support for the creation of strict regulations for 'power-assisted bicycles' as per the definition currently being proposed in Bill 126, please email your local MPP and your city councillor by Monday, April 20^th, 2009. Please cc "MPP Linda Jeffrey" at ljeffrey.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org, "Jefferson-Kotack, Linda (MTO)" at linda.jefferson-kotack@ontario.ca, "Toronto Cyclists Union" at info@bikeunion.to. 2. Queen's Quay - Waterfront Trail Plans for a continuous Waterfront Trail along Queen's Quay could fall short - your feedback is needed. Long-time cycling advocate Martin Koob provides an excellent explanation and review of the design proposals on biketoronto.ca - it seems that dangerous conditions for cyclists and pedestrians exist in the current 'preferred option' #4, and he therefore recommends option #5. Public comment is being collected until Friday, April 17th, 2009. Please email your thoughts and preferences to central@waterfronttoronto.ca. The comment form, which includes contact information, can be found here.
	Upcoming Events
	OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge: Announcement of Winners (Apr 17) "Urban Relic" submission by Adam Kereliuk Credit: OCAD Celebrate design with The OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge! Join Toronto Mayor David Miller and OCAD President Sara Diamond for the announcement of winners in 'The OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge -- Stand in the place where you live'. $13 000 in prizes ● 35 entries ● 5 winning designs ● at least 2 distinct neighbourhoods Click here to view the finalists’ submissions. What: OCAD Gateway Bike Stand Challenge winners announced When: Friday, April 17, 2009 Hours: 12:00pm - 1:00pm Where: OCAD Auditorium, McCaul St. south of Dundas Bike Union's Monthly Cinq à Sept (Apr 30) The 5 à 7 site, the Victory Cafe. Want to hear what the bike union is up to? Do you have ideas for current projects or future campaigns? Want to share stories of the road or current events that are of interest to your community? Then come on out to the Victory Cafe and raise a glass with your union! Our monthly cinq à septs are intended to provide a space where bike union board, executive, management team, ward captains, volunteers, and members can come together and converse over a refreshing beverage. A cinq à sept is an informal gathering to bring us together for casual conversation, outside of a meeting context. It's a space where the union can meet, just for the sake of getting to know each other. Join us for the next cinq à sept - all are welcome! What: Monthly Bike Union Cinq à Sept When: Thursday, April 30, 2009 (and the last Thursday of every month) Hours: 5:00pm - 7:00pm Where: The Victory Cafe at 581 Markham St. Save the date: Toronto Cyclists Union Cruiser Ride & Island Picnic (May 30) Join the bike union for a family friendly ride to Leslie Spit and an island picnic. We'll begin with a quick tour of the new Bike Station at Union Station, then head off as a group for a leisurely ride to Leslie Spit, ending up at the ferry docks for a quick skip over to the islands. We'll then join the Bikes Without Borders picnic and concert event at Hanlan's Point. BYOPicnic & blanket! What: Toronto Cyclists Union Cruiser Ride & Island Picnic When: Saturday, May 30, 2009 Hours: 1:00pm - 6:00pm Where: Meet at the City's new Bike Station @ Union - NW corner of Bremner & York St. Toronto Cyclists Union AGM & Anniversary Party (June 18) The Toronto Cyclists Union will be holding our first Annual General Meeting (AGM), followed by a party in celebration of our one-year anniversary. The AGM is intended for our members, but anyone interested in becoming a supporter of the bike union is welcome. Party is open to all - rsvp to info@bikeunion.to. What: Toronto Cyclists Union AGM & Anniversary Party When: Thursday, June 18, 2009 AGM: doors at 6:30pm, meeting at 7:00pm - Suite 120 Anniversary Party: 8:00pm - Suite 400 Where: Centre for Social Innovation, 215 Spadina Ave. (N of Queen)