tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43296586437604621272024-03-13T14:43:14.364-07:00Cycling for Leader DogsCycling for Leader Dogs is a 3,500 mile trans-America solo bicycle tour from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine. The goal of this effort is to increase awareness and raise money in support of Leader Dogs for the Blind.
All Leader Dog services are provided free of charge. Cycling for Leader Dogs is an effort to help support the great work of Leader Dogs raising more than $38,000; the cost of providing one service dog to a person in need.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger8125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-27422873012443863902012-08-12T21:28:00.016-07:002012-08-24T21:52:35.975-07:00My Portland to Portland Ride is CompleteI arrived back home in La Center this afternoon after completing nearly 3,350 miles riding from Portland to Portland (Oregon to Maine). This coming weekend I plan on adding to this total mileage by riding from Fort Stevens State Park on the Oregon coast back to Portland, OR. This will complete a coast to coast ride this summer.<br />
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As of Friday, August 9th, the Cycling for Leader Dogs project has raised more than $82,000 for Leader Dogs for the Blind. Thank you to everyone who has sponsored this effort and/or worked to make this effort such a huge success. We started out with the goal of raising $35,000 and we blew by that goal shortly after we began the trip on June 16th. Wow! Way to go everyone!<br />
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Leader Dogs will need to close out this project at the end of August. It is not too late to join the hundreds and hundreds of sponsors who unselfishly contributed to Leader Dogs through this project. Thank you, thank you, thank you to all those generous sponsorships. If you would like to join them, please click the link on the right side of this page, mail in your donation (see instructions below the link on the right), or go to <a href="http://www.leaderdog.org" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">www.leaderdog.org</a>. All sponsorship donations (100%) go directly to Leader Dogs for the Blind.<br />
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Finally, be sure to check out our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cyclingforleaderdogs" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Facebook Fan Page</a> as well as my <a href="http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/?o=1n&doc_id=10419&v=1Rg" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">cycling journal </a>for the trip to experience the daily efforts made as part of this Lions project.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-65368399936823068442012-06-16T05:36:00.022-07:002012-08-12T21:05:34.346-07:00Let the Journey Begin...I have begun the journey across America. My online efforts to communicate will be mainly through our Facebook Fan page, Leader Dogs for the Blind website and my online journal (see links below). Feel free to communicate with me either through <a href="mailto:mansell.lacenter@gmail.com" style="color: blue;">email</a> or through the <a href="http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/guestbook/?o=1&doc_id=10419&v=2y" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"> journal guestbook</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/cycling-for-leader-dogs/325622070822348?ref=tn_tnmn" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ny2fUsMtwQM/T4JUuG0485I/AAAAAAAAAJU/wTOA7aa-gsc/s1600/facebook-button.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.leaderdog.org/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Leader Dogs for the Blind</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/?o=1&doc_id=10419&v=5i" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Cycling For Leader Dogs Trip Journal</a> <br />
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Trip Maps by Sections:<br />
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<a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/d867/2351/4f67/adac/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20120731-0646.kml" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Redfield, NY to Portland, ME</a><br />
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<a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/d867/2351/4f67/adac/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20120723-0831.kml" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Rochester Hills, MI to Redfield, NY</a><br />
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<a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/d867/2351/4f67/adac/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20120717-0723.kml" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Green Bay, WI to Rochester Hills, MI</a><br />
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<a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/d867/2351/4f67/adac/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20120711-1308.kml" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Foley, MN to Green Bay, WI</a><br />
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<a href="http://j.mp/LBXTdp" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Jamestown, ND to Foley, MN</a><br />
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<a href="http://j.mp/LXLMbi" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Forsyth, MT to Jamestown, ND</a><br />
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<a href="http://j.mp/Oehu8S" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Missoula, MT to Forsyth, MT</a><br />
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<a href="http://j.mp/Nifdcg" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Vancouver, WA to Missoula, MT</a><br />
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Therefore, if you want the most accurate information about the trip, please checkout one of these sites to keep track of where I am at, and what I am doing:<br />
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A huge thank you for all the support. Let's keep this energy going!<br />
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Happy Cycling,<br />
Lion MarkUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-14699434644959816002012-05-24T21:24:00.001-07:002012-05-24T21:27:13.703-07:00The three weeks to go report...Many months ago when the idea of riding across America officially was launched, I thought it would take forever for the actual departure date to arrive. Well here we are, only three weeks and one day before I will be settling into the routine of "ride, eat, sleep, repeat" for seven straight weeks. I think mentally and physically I am more than ready for the challenge.<br />
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With that said, there is so much left to do before the June 16th deadline, despite all the work that has been done to date. The following is a brief update on some of the events over the past few weeks since my last blog post.<br />
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<b>Visiting Lions Clubs Throughout Our Region</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f7zts8_8_-A/T7758Yf4D8I/AAAAAAAAAK8/jNx5kWAsTUs/s1600/DSCN0752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f7zts8_8_-A/T7758Yf4D8I/AAAAAAAAAK8/jNx5kWAsTUs/s200/DSCN0752.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>We have had the chance to speak at many Lions clubs and other meetings across multiple district 19-G. There are so many Lions who have reached out to us and have helped get us on the agendas to talk about Leader Dogs and the Cycling For Leader Dogs project. The Longview Pioneer Lions, Ridgefield Lions, Salmon Creek Lions, Kalama Lions, Kelso Lions as well as zone leaders for 19-G1 and G2. We also were very fortunate to have the support of our District Governor Crawford Spence to get us on the agenda at our MD 19-G conference. Thank you Lions of MD 19G for your tremendous support! Also, I owe my fellow club members of the La Center Lions a huge thank you for all they have done as part of this project. Steve Fuller, Ken and Judy Hickman and our club treasurer Dana Hantho. You guys are superstars in my book! Thank you, thank you, thank you!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYCNe8JTxto/T77-a3PKnBI/AAAAAAAAALI/r_uYfUQ07yk/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYCNe8JTxto/T77-a3PKnBI/AAAAAAAAALI/r_uYfUQ07yk/s200/photo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Sharing About Leader Dogs for the Blind with Students</b><br />
Thanks to Deb Marinos and her Leader Dog "Kibble" as well as Regional Trainer Stephanie Sherwood, more than 1,000 students at La Center elementary and La Center middle school had the chance to hear about Leader Dogs for the Blind, what it is like to have the freedom to travel through the use of a Leader Dog and what it is like to bring a client and newly trained dog together. I also shared with my students about Cycling for Leader Dogs. I am very proud of our students and have heard lots of positives from students and staff about the assemblies that Deb, Kibble and Stephanie provided. Each student also received a Leader Dog book mark for their summer reading. Thank you Deb, Kibble and Stephanie for taking time out of your busy day to share your experiences and knowledge with La Center students.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><b>Training, training and still more training...</b><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EOBkwCA7ptU/T78BXuY08cI/AAAAAAAAALY/FYhvUNW1W7I/s1600/DSCN0643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EOBkwCA7ptU/T78BXuY08cI/AAAAAAAAALY/FYhvUNW1W7I/s200/DSCN0643.JPG" width="200" /></a>I am continuing my training rides to prepare for the many days of riding that Cycling for Leader Dogs will require. No matter how much I train, getting out on the road and the day in, day out work over the first week or two will take me from where I am at now to the level of fitness I will need to make it all the way across the country. One of the nice parts of training thus far has been getting to go on many long rides with Debbie and our two children Brent and Jessie. I am very thankful that they have been so supportive of this effort. There is no way it would have been possible without their love and support.<b> </b>The Mansell family team has been awesome and so very supportive of this project.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LHhHatyroag/T78Dz1utHvI/AAAAAAAAALo/hdnhmwj4Bxs/s1600/DSCN0722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LHhHatyroag/T78Dz1utHvI/AAAAAAAAALo/hdnhmwj4Bxs/s200/DSCN0722.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Special Thanks to the Love of My Life</b><br />
I am married to my best friend Debbie. Her energy, willingness to dive in and get to work on whatever crazy idea I get started as well as her unending Love and support is without question the key to any success we achieve with this project. Anyone who has ever met Debbie knows what I am talking about. She is a very special person. Thank you sweetheart for everything you have done as part of the this Cycling for Leader Dogs project. Also, thank you for putting up with me for nearly 35 years (married for 33 years this summer).<br />
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<b>Three Weeks and Counting...</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s0PZvyJ_BlY/T78FKct6GAI/AAAAAAAAALw/kFy6LdrIO2A/s1600/Cycling+for+Leader+Dogs+Trip+Route.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s0PZvyJ_BlY/T78FKct6GAI/AAAAAAAAALw/kFy6LdrIO2A/s320/Cycling+for+Leader+Dogs+Trip+Route.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>With only three weeks before the departure date, there is still so much to get done. As a school superintendent the last few weeks of school are absolutely critical to the success of closing the current school year well and "laying the tracks in front of the train" for the next school year. There is a tremendous about of work that must be done and very little time to get it done. A huge thank you needs to go out to my staff and administrators at school for helping me get everything done before the June 16th departure. I also want to thank once again my school board for giving the time off to do take on this once in a lifetime endeavor to ride across the country for Leader Dogs.<br />
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Thank you to everyone for the tremendous teamwork that has gone into this project! From the folks at Leader Dogs, all the sponsors, my hosts, Lions club leaders and members, by school board, staff, administrators and students at school and of course my family. Thank you so much for helping make this project a reality. Your support, energy and encouragement is what has made this little idea a reality and I thank you for it!<br />
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Happy Cycling,<br />
Lion MarkUnknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-29600108078374156112012-04-30T21:02:00.002-07:002012-05-01T09:54:35.927-07:00As April comes to a close, the six weeks to go mark nears...It is hard to believe, but we are closing in on six weeks from our departure date of June 16th. As we get closer to this important day, the time to prepare obviously becomes shorter, but my enthusiasm for getting underway is becoming harder to keep in check.<br />
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The following is an update on various activities that are in process to prepare for <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i> ride across America. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read up on all the exciting news with this project. Also thank you to so many people who are pouring energy into this project!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8Ib5Xfl89M/T59CitlW9uI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/kiteyzphRpw/s1600/St.Johns_Bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8Ib5Xfl89M/T59CitlW9uI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/kiteyzphRpw/s200/St.Johns_Bridge.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>The Training and Testing Continues</b><br />
Even though there are lots of preparations and logistics to accomplish over the next six weeks, my training efforts are taking a huge chunk of my preparation time. My training buddy and "coach" (my wife Debbie) and I try to ride outside two or three days a week. We also ride indoors on trainers three mornings a week. Debbie and I also try to run at least a 5K or more three or four days a week. The picture to the left is a shot of Debbie and I riding in Portland, Oregon on one of our extended rides. This outside riding is way more fun than being indoors, but more importantly it allows me to practice pulling "Norman" (my trailer) with simulated weight. I wish I had a dollar for every time I heard... "Hey are you haul'n beer in the trailer?" from passing cyclists. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDZGw94NA-Y/T59HZMY_lVI/AAAAAAAAAKI/E2C2m8053AA/s1600/Cyclemeter.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDZGw94NA-Y/T59HZMY_lVI/AAAAAAAAAKI/E2C2m8053AA/s200/Cyclemeter.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Another time commitment is the continued testing of equipment as well as various strategies for being away from home for an extended period of time solo. One new tool I have been testing is an App for my iPhone called Cyclemeter. It allows my phone to be used as a GPS tracker, data collection device and map generator. I plan on using this App as a way to help keep people informed as to my whereabouts and to allow interested followers of <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i> to have detailed information regarding the journey. This information will be updated nightly when I am traveling so everyone is kept in the loop as to my progress. The picture to the right is a sample map of a recent ride we went on showing mileage in five mile increments. This information will be shared through our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cycling-for-Leader-Dogs/325622070822348?ref=tn_tnmn" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page each evening while on the trip. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXHhmLRdalM/T59KvyWKF_I/AAAAAAAAAKU/WmbOKFmPgU0/s1600/Facebook+Screen+Shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXHhmLRdalM/T59KvyWKF_I/AAAAAAAAAKU/WmbOKFmPgU0/s320/Facebook+Screen+Shot.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><b>Getting the word out... Using both Traditional Media and Social Media</b><br />
We have been working very hard to get the <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cycling-for-Leader-Dogs/325622070822348?ref=tn_tnmn" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page up and running. The response in just the first 22 days of its activation has been amazing as a mechanism to get the word out. This is my first attempt at learning to use social media and so far I have been very impressed by it. I imagine that it will become the most powerful tool in our communication toolkit throughout the trip. Thanks Jennifer and Brad for the help!<br />
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We have also seen an increase in traditional media interest with <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i> over the past few weeks. There are a couple of articles out or in process. One of our local papers known as The Reflector recently published a story about the trip (<a href="http://www.thereflector.com/news/article_39b7e632-7d04-11e1-a844-001a4bcf887a.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">La Center </a><a href="http://www.thereflector.com/news/article_39b7e632-7d04-11e1-a844-001a4bcf887a.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">superintendent to bike </a> <br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLJA0uViVWU/T59Al86cflI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/CZH8fr72ZzY/s1600/md1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLJA0uViVWU/T59Al86cflI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/CZH8fr72ZzY/s200/md1.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.thereflector.com/news/article_39b7e632-7d04-11e1-a844-001a4bcf887a.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.thereflector.com/news/article_39b7e632-7d04-11e1-a844-001a4bcf887a.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">across the</a><a href="http://www.thereflector.com/news/article_39b7e632-7d04-11e1-a844-001a4bcf887a.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"> country</a>). There has also been interest in the trip from a local radio station that has a regular reach of more than 60,000 listeners. The program for this show will air at the end of May and I will include it in a later blog post. Finally, Leader Dogs is working to put together video footage of the project to have ready for television stations in markets across the country in advance of the date I will ride through each area. Put simply, there is a lot of effort to get the word out about <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i> using both traditional and new media and I anticipate this momentum will continue to build both before and during the trip.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--gzXo1uO4FE/T59PQykK-tI/AAAAAAAAAKg/sd_bSGLW-ng/s1600/DSCN0695%281%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="129" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--gzXo1uO4FE/T59PQykK-tI/AAAAAAAAAKg/sd_bSGLW-ng/s320/DSCN0695%281%29.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Sharing information about Cycling for Leader Dogs with Lions and other LDB supporters</b><br />
There is a lot of effort to attend Lions Club meetings and district conferences in order to share about this project by many people. Lions Mike Dengate and Kathleen Breen are spreading the word throughout the Michigan area at the many events and conferences they attend on behalf of Leader Dogs for the Blind. There is also a great number of LDB supporters passing along <br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vQoGmBGocP8/T59RKzNKCqI/AAAAAAAAAKo/RaTtL0ux7Kw/s1600/DSCN0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vQoGmBGocP8/T59RKzNKCqI/AAAAAAAAAKo/RaTtL0ux7Kw/s200/DSCN0698.JPG" width="200" /></a>word of the trip to their connections. Two of the strongest communicating groups generating enthusiasm are the puppy raiser and puppy breeder groups. Their energy for this project is truly inspiring, but then again these folks are obviously so committed to Leader Dogs for the Blind talking about this project is clearly an extension of the selflessness energy they exhibit on a regular basis. I have been so impressed and humbled by their support. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cawujykwp-c/T59TRIzvtgI/AAAAAAAAAKw/JZJoL3EiYHI/s1600/Mark_and_Debbie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cawujykwp-c/T59TRIzvtgI/AAAAAAAAAKw/JZJoL3EiYHI/s200/Mark_and_Debbie2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>A simple idea continues to grow bigger every day</b><br />
Only a few short months ago, what started as "simple" idea to ride a bicycle across the country continues to amaze and astound Debbie and me. I guess when you mix dogs, bicycles and Lions together you get the trifecta of high interest. At least that is how I can try and explain the strong interest and energy that continues to build around this project. I would like to be able to share more exciting news with everyone, but I have been sworn to keeping it a secret for now. Stay tuned for other exciting news about <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i> in future blog posts and of course... on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cycling-for-Leader-Dogs/325622070822348?ref=tn_tnmn" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-23565669465769230702012-04-08T17:22:00.010-07:002012-04-08T17:42:03.204-07:00Learning about Leader Dogs for the Blind<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrS8LHoSe1k/T4IZy-1cWxI/AAAAAAAAAIM/OSqJELQ61lA/s1600/BP4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrS8LHoSe1k/T4IZy-1cWxI/AAAAAAAAAIM/OSqJELQ61lA/s200/BP4.JPG" width="200" /></a>It is hard to believe it, but April has arrived. With less than ten weeks until the departure date, it is sometimes hard to imagine how everything is going to get done. All of the preparations have been enjoyable, but one so far has risen above all the rest... Our visit last week to Leader Dog headquarters in Michigan.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HGWNX3xf6VY/T4IbS0BaMBI/AAAAAAAAAIU/rF634WLut6Y/s1600/FW2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HGWNX3xf6VY/T4IbS0BaMBI/AAAAAAAAAIU/rF634WLut6Y/s200/FW2.JPG" width="200" /></a>In order to be better Ambassadors for LDB, we were asked to fly out to their headquarters in Rochester Hills, Michigan for an up close and personal tour. Quite simply it was a life changing experience for both Debbie (my wife) and me. The complexity of the combined effort of all the clients, their families, staff and volunteers to support and train the team (the client and the Leader Dog) is both comprehensive and extensive. Some people might think that you simply teach a dog some basic habits, give the blind or visually impaired person a few pointers, connect the two with a harness and call it good. This couldn't be further from the truth.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzM6LjP-8s8/T4Idg7u6_fI/AAAAAAAAAIc/MWlJu0pYVBU/s1600/TD1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzM6LjP-8s8/T4Idg7u6_fI/AAAAAAAAAIc/MWlJu0pYVBU/s200/TD1.jpg" width="200" /></a>The effort to breed, whelp, raise and train a healthy and skilled dog is just one half of a complex process, but complicated none-the-less. Teams of dog breeders work with LDB staff to bring the puppies into the world. Once born and ready to leave their mother, the puppies get a full wellness check so they can move on to the next phase of their training. Teams of volunteer puppy raisers spend about a year raising these future Leader Dogs and work tirelessly to prepare them for their formal training back at Leader Dog headquarters. Twenty percent of all puppies are actually raised by convicts as part of a rehabilitation process. No convict involved in this program has ever been sent back to prison for committing a crime upon release. This says a lot to me about the power of this work and the impact it can have on people. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OGTOgraoIsk/T4IdtlbyTQI/AAAAAAAAAIk/0vonYy2__H8/s1600/TD4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OGTOgraoIsk/T4IdtlbyTQI/AAAAAAAAAIk/0vonYy2__H8/s200/TD4.jpg" width="145" /></a></div>The next stage in the process is where teams of professional trainers on the Leader Dog staff now take the young dogs (around 14 months of age) and begin an intense five month training regimen to teach each future Leader Dog the skills necessary to complete the rigors of being a working dog. This is a challenging process where about half of the dogs show to be incapable of meeting the standards LDB has for a Leader Dog. The dogs judged to not meet expectations often times go back to the volunteer(s) who raised them or given to a good home from a long waiting list. Those dogs who make it through each round of review receives more and more specific training relative to the person they will eventually team up with. The expertise of the instructor and extensive application materials (i.e. written descriptions, video documentation and client specific information) are critical to the Leader Dogs ultimate success in their service. The years of dedicated service and experience by the staff is incredible and we were extremely impressed by their knowledge and passion for their work.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5yOYm-HRchE/T4IfmGbD1lI/AAAAAAAAAIs/D02OBDZsES8/s1600/ID4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5yOYm-HRchE/T4IfmGbD1lI/AAAAAAAAAIs/D02OBDZsES8/s200/ID4.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>All the while the Leader Dog is going through its process, the client is preparing for their role as a member of the pending team (the Leader Dog and the client). Each person has different needs and unique conditions (i.e. locale, work and travel requirements, etc.) that are all considered in the matching process. This work requires the client to make some adjustments and to learn to take care of the Leader Dog that will work for and with them for many years. As anyone who has raised a dog knows, each dog is different and no matter how well they are trained by the professionals, the knowledge and skill of the human are key to working successfully together. This preparation, whether it is the client's first or one of many Leader Dogs takes a lot of work.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y9Vp9l5VYdw/T4IhMpKSeSI/AAAAAAAAAI0/tPT5iIZ2BsM/s1600/FW4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y9Vp9l5VYdw/T4IhMpKSeSI/AAAAAAAAAI0/tPT5iIZ2BsM/s200/FW4.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Once the team (client and Leader Dog) come together on what is known as "Issue Day", it takes weeks of hard work and training to help the team grow stronger. It all starts with what is known as a "first walk" where the Leader Dog and client (with the support of their instructor) begins the team building process. These walks become increasingly more challenging and include trips away from campus to expose the team to as many different situations as possible. This effort not only allows the team to learn how to work together, but it is part of the process to build trust between the two.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jyvKFDzB7mA/T4IiYJehwKI/AAAAAAAAAI8/S0N0AjrPWIs/s1600/BP5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jyvKFDzB7mA/T4IiYJehwKI/AAAAAAAAAI8/S0N0AjrPWIs/s200/BP5.jpg" width="173" /></a></div>Once the team leaves campus, the Leader Dogs team continues to provide all the necessary problem solving support necessary and on-going training through instructors who are out in the field working with clients. What results are strong team of Leader Dogs and Clients who are able to travel freely and safely through their K-9, human partnership. We had the chance to experience many aspects of this process first hand over a three day tour and were deeply moved by what we learned. Both Debbie and I believe more than ever that this life-changing experience has allowed us to see Leader Dogs through an entirely new lens. Cycling for Leader Dogs has become much more to us than a one-time effort in support this incredibly important work, but rather it is the first of many efforts we plan on working on to support Leader Dogs for the Blind and all those this wonderful organization serves.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CeImYTh6lVA/T4IlCyU-56I/AAAAAAAAAJE/vPMBMCxBdNs/s1600/6035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CeImYTh6lVA/T4IlCyU-56I/AAAAAAAAAJE/vPMBMCxBdNs/s200/6035.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Each Leader Dog gets a unique tag back at the beginning of its formal training at around the age of fourteen months. The tag is worn until it dies, whereby it is returned to Leader Dogs for the Blind. This tag was worn by a Leader Dog named Lacey (a yellow lab) who served her owner nine days short of twelve years (average working life of a Leader Dog is seven to ten years). Lacey lived with her owner for another six months after retirement before her health sharply declined. She lived a productive and dedicated life as a working dog. Leader Dogs for the Blind has asked that I carry Lacey's tag with me while I prepare for and during this trip and I accepted this request with great honor. I feel that even though Lacey is no longer with us, she will be with me in spirit and serving as my Leader Dog. I hope that I get to meet all those who read this blog post at some point in this trip so I can share with you my Leader Dog named Lacey. Please don't be shy to ask me about her.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-83676157756697296702012-03-18T17:20:00.010-07:002012-03-30T19:33:56.444-07:00Mid-March Update - March 18th, 2012<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NzlfAvWt1NE/T2Z62iUxJII/AAAAAAAAAHs/N32BETE11W4/s1600/calendar_June_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NzlfAvWt1NE/T2Z62iUxJII/AAAAAAAAAHs/N32BETE11W4/s1600/calendar_June_16.jpg" /></a>Eighty-nine days sounds like a long time. A bit under fourteen weeks sounds a bit shorter. Less than three months sounds even shorter. These are all different ways to express the time between now and my departure on the trans-America trip. It seems like ages ago when I sat my wife Debbie down last November and told her that I wanted to make this trip a reality, but it actually wasn't that long ago.<br />
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My point to all this rambling is that June 16th will be here very quickly. The part of me that loves to just get on my bike and ride is saying, "Bring it on! I can't wait to get the trip underway." The other part of me that is highly motivated to accomplish the main focus of the trip to increase awareness and raise funds for Leader Dogs is saying, "There is so much to do in order to do this well and so little time to get everything done." Hurry up, slow down, hurry up,... and so on it goes.<br />
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<b>ORGANIZATIONAL EFFORTS</b><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r1xEaswlh9o/T2ZvcNPU7qI/AAAAAAAAAHM/Pjs5yX4Lufw/s1600/Club_Photo_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r1xEaswlh9o/T2ZvcNPU7qI/AAAAAAAAAHM/Pjs5yX4Lufw/s200/Club_Photo_small.jpg" width="200" /></a>My fellow Lions Club members have been super supportive with our planning. In fact, I think many of them are more excited than I am which I really appreciate. They keep me going and focused. I know we wouldn't be as far along in our work without their support, advice and encouragement. The great folks at Leader Dogs for the Blind (LDB) have also been amazing. Our semi-weekly phone conference calls have been extremely helpful and supportive. Each and every passing day I am more impressed with the work of this great team at LDB. Additionally, both Debbie and I will be traveling back to Leader Dog headquarters in a few weeks to visit and see first hand the campus and meet both clients and the LDB team in person. Getting to make this visit is almost like a dream come true for us. Both Debbie and I feel as though this experience will help us become more aware of all the services LDB provides and thereby helping us to become better ambassadors.<br />
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<b>FUNDRAISING EFFORTS</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qyq7e7XzWn8/T2Zyb1qfeKI/AAAAAAAAAHU/1WqEH2N8kqY/s1600/Lion+Trip+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qyq7e7XzWn8/T2Zyb1qfeKI/AAAAAAAAAHU/1WqEH2N8kqY/s200/Lion+Trip+Pin.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>We have begun to raise funds towards our $35,000 goal. The first batch of sponsorship pins have arrived and we are beginning to move towards our goal of at least 1,000 sponsors, one sponsor at a time. To get the ball rolling, LDB has now created a special link (see "DONATE" button at the top right of this site) just for those who want to donate online as part of the Cycling for Leader Dogs project. This site will accept credit card donations and Leader Dogs will then send out both a sponsorship pin and a thank you letter documenting the tax deductible donation. All donations will go to LDB for their causes as the costs of the trip itself is being provided in other ways. <br />
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<a name='more'></a><b>TRAINING</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ER5_riMDH7w/T2ZrS-a5QVI/AAAAAAAAAG8/EgUSl-8fYrc/s1600/Training_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ER5_riMDH7w/T2ZrS-a5QVI/AAAAAAAAAG8/EgUSl-8fYrc/s200/Training_small.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>We continue to ride whenever possible. Most of the time it is indoors on the trainers, but we also get outside (rain or shine) two or three days a week. I also am training by pulling my trailer (a.k.a. "Norman") adding weight to simulate what I will be carrying on the trip this summer. Obviously this is not possible indoors so these outside training rides are extremely important. And as you can see, my trusty training coach (Debbie) is at my side giving me pointers and advice along the way;-)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBVIhGOchJ8/T2Zs7vW_gcI/AAAAAAAAAHE/QkFd4xk42qQ/s1600/Shamrock1_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBVIhGOchJ8/T2Zs7vW_gcI/AAAAAAAAAHE/QkFd4xk42qQ/s200/Shamrock1_small.jpg" width="133" /></a>We also enjoy long distance running and have several races planned between now and departure time to prepare for the trip. The picture to the left was taken this morning at the Portland Shamrock run. Running will help me be more prepared for the trip as it will prepare for the physical stress of the 3,500 miles. However, running won't ready the "ole sit bone", which takes lots of time in the saddle.<br />
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<b>NEW EQUIPMENT TO TEST</b><br />
I have recently made some upgrades to my bike by adding a new drive system known as a Rohloff Speedhub. Sounds fast, but it is really about durability instead of speed. It exchanges all the external gears and derailers for a compact and sealed internal drive system that has a significant record of service. I am<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xzljPisjoU/T2Z6DKJFSyI/AAAAAAAAAHk/ZXIS7qLV8Eg/s1600/Rohloff_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xzljPisjoU/T2Z6DKJFSyI/AAAAAAAAAHk/ZXIS7qLV8Eg/s200/Rohloff_small.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>very excited about this setup because as a big person I really put lots of stress on equipment. Many long distance bicycle tourers use the Rohloff and swear by its durability. Hopefully I will get the same result. I have also switched over to a new dynamo in the front wheel that not only will be powerful enough to run my main lights, but will also allow me to charge my iPhone or Garmin GPS unit while traveling down the road. Always on the lookout for power plugins to charge electronics has been a real time drain of time on past tours, so this is a welcome addition to the technological tool kit. <br />
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<b>TRIP PLANNING</b><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_9zDKkEo8Gw/T2Z1DlR5rUI/AAAAAAAAAHc/Y_LZQ4xZ3zI/s1600/Cycling+for+Leader+Dogs+Trip+Route.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_9zDKkEo8Gw/T2Z1DlR5rUI/AAAAAAAAAHc/Y_LZQ4xZ3zI/s200/Cycling+for+Leader+Dogs+Trip+Route.jpg" width="200" /></a>Finally, we continue to work on planning for the trip in terms of daily distances, finding host Lions along the route and arranging meetings with interested Lions Clubs to talk with about Leader Dogs. The basic <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNje0rQsGF8/T17JUKe067I/AAAAAAAAAFo/ahQxoYTjnKs/s1600/Cycling+for+Leader+Dogs+Trip+Route.jpg" style="color: blue; target="_blank">trip route</a> is set, but we are just beginning to reach out to those interested in helping. LDB recently sent out through their e-Blast system (email listserve) a description of the trip and almost immediately we received about a half-dozen offers to host. This is really exciting and much appreciated. With sixty-three days of travel, there is a lot of work left to do in this area. Anyone having an interest in helping out or want to learn more about Leader Dogs for the Blind along the trip route, feel free to shoot me an <a href="mailto:mansell.lacenter@gmail.com" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">email</a>. <br />
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I guess that is all for now. Thanks again to all those who are sending positive thoughts, providing ideas and offering support (including "Penny per mile" sponsorships).<br />
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Happy cycling,<br />
Lion MarkUnknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-64729542314939626992012-03-01T22:02:00.006-08:002012-03-13T17:43:23.246-07:00Press Release: Cycling for Leader Dogs<span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b>Cycling for Leader Dogs</b></span> <br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Most of us probably had a “back to school” assignment as children where we were asked to write about, “What I did over my summer vacation?” This fall, La Center, Washington school superintendent Mark Mansell will have plenty to talk about if he was asked to complete the same assignment. </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">He is planning on riding his bicycle from Portland, Oregon across the country all the way to Portland, Maine or approximately 3,500 miles. “I enjoy challenges and I love to learn”, Mansell said. “Given the chance to attempt something like this is a very special opportunity that is extremely exciting.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="file:///Users/mark/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtf8AvsKgiE/T1_oN1u6swI/AAAAAAAAAF4/IEVAqVU7N2s/s1600/DSCN0091-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtf8AvsKgiE/T1_oN1u6swI/AAAAAAAAAF4/IEVAqVU7N2s/s200/DSCN0091-small.jpg" width="200" /></a>Putting in the miles is just part of the challenge Mansell is putting before himself. He is also a member of the La Center Lions Club and has decided to raise money for Leader Dogs for the Blind. “Given the time commitments of my job, I have not really been able to participate in many Lion’s functions beyond our local community. When my school board gave me a two month sabbatical, I jumped at the idea of working to support Leader Dogs”, Mansell said.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">The goal is to raise at least $35,000 in order to help someone in need to receive a service dog. To achieve this goal, Mansell (with the support of his home club and interested clubs along the trip route) will work to secure nearly 1,000 sponsors as part of a “penny per mile” for Leader Dogs effort. All donations of $35 or more will receive a <i>Cycling for Leader Dogs</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> vest pin commemorating this solo cross-country bicycle trip.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUJl4f4gYm8/T1_omULR21I/AAAAAAAAAGA/PaAltd_m6VI/s1600/Lion+Trip+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUJl4f4gYm8/T1_omULR21I/AAAAAAAAAGA/PaAltd_m6VI/s200/Lion+Trip+Pin.jpg" width="200" /></a>Beyond the adventure and the opportunity to raise much-needed funds, Mansell sees in the trans-America journey something even more. “More than half of my nine years as a Lion I had no idea about Leader Dogs for the Blind.” Leader Dogs have served the blind and visually impaired for nearly 75 years providing more than 14,000 service dogs free of charge to those in need. “When I complete this journey, if you don’t know about Leader Dogs and the great work they do I will feel as though I have failed”, Mansell added.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mark will leave his home in La Center, which is just north of Portland, Oregon on June 16<sup>th</sup> and he expects to be in Portland, Maine no later than August 17<sup>th</sup>. More information on the trip can be found on his website at “www.cyclingforleaderdogs.org”. He also plans on completing a blog chronicling his journey so those interested can follow along with Lion Mark. Donations can also be made through his website directly to Leader Dogs for the Blind.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4329658643760462127.post-5426516492256697002012-02-26T13:43:00.009-08:002012-04-30T20:03:56.757-07:00Planning, planning and more planning.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H-1QkyY2ouA/T0qjyiRKdqI/AAAAAAAAAEU/Je81gYk24R0/s1600/DSCN0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H-1QkyY2ouA/T0qjyiRKdqI/AAAAAAAAAEU/Je81gYk24R0/s200/DSCN0453.JPG" width="200" /></a>With the trip less than four months away (departure date is June 16th), there is a lot of planning to get accomplished. Trip route planning, club contacts, written communications, fundraising strategies, equipment preparations and of course lots of training to get done.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OJJFk7TIe5g/T1_p1Mo2cRI/AAAAAAAAAGI/3pzOTCfsNqI/s1600/Lion+Trip+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OJJFk7TIe5g/T1_p1Mo2cRI/AAAAAAAAAGI/3pzOTCfsNqI/s200/Lion+Trip+Pin.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Here is an update on some of the progress being made. One of the first tasks to work on was coming up with a trip logo and ordering sponsorship pins. My daughter Jessie (a designer by training) helped produce the sponsorship pin. With the help of <a href="http://pinpros.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">pinpros.com</a>, we were able to get the initial order of these pins underway. The pins should arrive in the next few weeks. With a 3,500 mile trip, anyone who provides a one cent per mile sponsorship (or at least $35 donation) will receive a pin. To meet our goal, we will need to secure 1,086 individual "one penny per mile" sponsors to surpass our $38,000 target.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_i4OukHTdSU/T2P_Hlg5NvI/AAAAAAAAAG0/Idd9Nd2Kufs/s1600/TripCard_Picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_i4OukHTdSU/T2P_Hlg5NvI/AAAAAAAAAG0/Idd9Nd2Kufs/s200/TripCard_Picture.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The next task in the communications department was to design a card (baseball cards size) to hand out to people to explain the trip and what we are raising money for <span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">(</span></span><a href="http://www.leaderdog.org/" style="background-color: white; color: blue;" target="_blank">Leader Dogs for the Blind</a><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">).</span> </span>Additionally, these cards can be handed out along the journey to quickly communicate to people what we are working to accomplish.<br />
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We have also been working on getting this blog up and running so those interested will be able to follow our progress. The web address for this site was also secured (<a href="http://www.cyclingforleaderdogs.org/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">www.CyclingForLeaderDogs.org</a>) so people can easily find the site and join the cause. My wife Debbie will also be working on creating a Cycling for Leader Dogs Facebook page as well, so stay tuned for this addition. She will also be the keeper of the blogs once I am on the road as well as taking care of all the long distance trip logistics.<br />
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Within our club, we are busy organizing ourselves into roles and responsibilities. Lion Steve and Lions Ken and Judy are leading the way with this work. Lion Steve will be serving as the liaison to all the clubs that will be joining the effort. This could include trip support, individual or club sponsorship or even "ride alongs" to support Leader Dogs. He is also working to arrange local club visits for me and scheduling a presentation on the trip at our upcoming district convention. Lions Ken and Judy will be leading the way by being our press contacts for the local media. All three of these fellow Lions are real connectors, so I am sure they will be keeping me very busy!<br />
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We are also in continual contact with Leader Dogs and the great folks in their philanthropy department. Mike Dengate as well as Kathleen Breen, Melissa Weisse, Brad MacKenna, Kathy Gilchrist and Ashley Picklo have all been super supportive and excited about the trip. I have been impressed with the Leader Dog team as well as very appreciative of their support in getting us going. We will be holding our second teleconference in a few days to go over the planning progress and collaborate on our next steps.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxmhfI0yXo0/T0qi_SNpqRI/AAAAAAAAAEM/hOtNIxHwjGM/s1600/DSCN0394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxmhfI0yXo0/T0qi_SNpqRI/AAAAAAAAAEM/hOtNIxHwjGM/s200/DSCN0394.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BcaHzxBj0CI/T0qilPSMiQI/AAAAAAAAAEE/qUneMx1VkRk/s1600/DSCN0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BcaHzxBj0CI/T0qilPSMiQI/AAAAAAAAAEE/qUneMx1VkRk/s200/DSCN0146.JPG" width="200" /></a>Finally, there has been a lot going on behind the scenes to get ready. First there continues to be lots of training to be ready for the trip. My wife and I just got back from twelve days cycling around the big island of Hawai'i. Yes, I know, it's a tough job but we put in more than 300 miles on the bikes in very diverse conditions and elevations. Some might call it a vacation, we are just calling it a "training ride".<br />
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I am also putting in lots of running as I have several races scheduled this spring. Last but not least, I am making some significant changes to my bicycle that will make the trip much more efficient and safe. I will discuss these changes in future posts so you will just have to come back for more information on that subject.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NGL4Xds-1o/T0qkawjBSSI/AAAAAAAAAEk/beP-Q6FiB2M/s1600/DSCN0121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NGL4Xds-1o/T0qkawjBSSI/AAAAAAAAAEk/beP-Q6FiB2M/s320/DSCN0121.JPG" width="320" /></a>I'm thinking that is all for now. Happy cycling!<br />
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MarkUnknownnoreply@blogger.com3