This letter is to initiate a discussion on a new form of club activism. Until now, we have had one person tasked as the Bicycle Club Advocate, as well as a few people who are members of various City and County committees.

To properly serve our many needs, it becomes clear that having a few activists is not enough - we need our approximately 500 members, our 1000 eyes and ears to be activists, to attend meetings and monitor road conditions.

City and County Governments and Planning Commissions usually ignore the input of one or two observers present. It is when you have a roomful of people asking questions that they will start to listen.

Another important advocate duty is to monitor road conditions. Everyone, on every bike ride, on every drive in our County must keep their eyes open for conditions requiring repair, dangerous obstacles and road repairs that have been done incorrectly. Of these, incorrect repair has been the most common problem. Remember, the road workers do not have a clue as to your needs or as what constitutes a danger. Helen and I have noted a number of problems this year and have been successful in correcting them.

When directing your complaints, always copy your e-mail to the County Supervisor. It seems that things happen faster when they see that someone is watching and that questions may be asked as to the progress of repairs. This method of coercion has worked well for us. Be firm - if you are too polite nothing will happen. Make sure your complaint is copied to both the Supervisors and to our Bicycle Coalition. Learn how to direct your complaints and suggestions. You might be pleasantly surprised to find out that there are people in Caltrans and the County who are willing to act on your information. Above all, stop depending on others to do the lobbying for you - strength is in numbers, all 500 of you.

Regards, Chris Fylling