participant & fundraising guide - Bike MS - National Multiple ...

PARTICIPANT & FUNDRAISING 

GUIDE 

NYC – Southern NY 

2010 

Two Great Rides. 

One Destination. 

A World Free of MS.

BIKE MS 2010 

By registering for Bike MS 2010, you are joining more than 100,000 people 

across the United States who will raise more than $48 million in the movement 

to help create a world free of multiple sclerosis. With your help, we are 

able to provide vital programs, services, and financial assistance to people 

living with MS, and help fund research initiatives for the cause, treatment and 

cure. You are making a difference! The ultimate goal is much bigger than riding 

– it’s a world free of MS! 

Raise the required $150 or more by September 15, 2010 to guarantee 

your spot and receive your mandatory Bike MS day-of-ride materials in 

the mail! 

Thank you for participating in one of the Bike MS events hosted by the New 

York City -Southern New York Chapter. 

BIKE MS -SOUTHERN NEW YORK 

Date: Sunday, September 26, 2010 

Fundraising Minimum: $150 per rider 

Age Minimum: 12+ 

(Participants ages 12 to 17 must be accompanied 

by a guardian and can only participate in the 20 

mile route option). 

Start/Finish: Tarrytown, NY 

BIKE MS NYC 

Date: Sunday, October 3, 2010 

Fundraising Minimum: $150 per rider 

Age Minimum: 12+ 

(Participants ages 12 to 17 must be accompanied 

by a guardian and can only participate in the 30 

mile route option). 

Start/Finish: Pier 94, Manhattan 

The $150 fundraising minimum per participant is REQUIRED. This 

must be received by September 15 in order to receive your rider materials 

in the mail. If it is not received by September 15, you will need 

to attend one of our packet pick-up locations the week prior to Bike 

MS. There will be NO exceptions to this and there will be NO day-ofride 

packet pick up at EITHER Bike MS locations. 

1. | Visit: bikeMSnyc.org | Call: 212-463-9791 | E-mail: bikems@msnyc.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

About Bike MS ............................................................................3 

Bike MS NYC Route Change ......................................................4 

Why I Ride ...................................................................................5 

Fundraise online and ‘My Participant Center’ .....................6, 7 

Bike MS and Facebook ............................................................10 

Fundraising 101 and Planning a Fundraising Event.........9 - 11 

Matching Gifts and Fundraising Benefits........................11 - 13 

Team Fundraising rewards .................................................13, 14 

Top Fundraiser Clubs and Terrific 200 list ......................15 - 18 

Teams Up ..............................................................................19, 20 

Virtual Rider and Volunteer Opportunities .................... 20, 21 

Cycling Resources and Rules of the Road .........................21, 22 

Training and What to Expect ...........................................23 - 25 

FAQs ...................................................................................26 - 30 

About MS and the NYC- Southern NY Chapter ..............31, 32 

Sponsors .......................................................................Back Cover 

Visit: bikeMSnyc.org | Call: 212-463-9791 | E-mail: bikems@msnyc.org | 2.

WELCOME TO BIKE MS NYC – SOUTHERN NY 

We announced a new and exciting change last fall when the NYC and 

Southern NY chapters joined together. As one of the largest chapters of the 

National MS Society, the New York City – Southern New York Chapter serves 

the 10,000 people living with MS in the five boroughs and Westchester, Putnam, 

Rockland, Orange and Sullivan counties. Our goals are simple: to provide 

additional program opportunities, improve efficiencies, raise more money and 

increase our commitment to national MS research. 

Bike MS NYC – Southern NY 2010 will unite people living with MS, their 

friends and families to reach these goals. 

Opportunities for every registered Bike MS participant: 

• Personal Web page and online fundraising tools 

• Team and fundraising contests with prizes 

• Community of Bike MS supporters on social networking sites such as Facebook 

• Support from National MS Society staff 

Event day activities at each of the Bike MS locations: 

• A light breakfast, BBQ lunch and snacks along the route 

• Beautiful route options: 

Bike MS – Southern NY: Start and finish along the Hudson River in 

Tarrytown, NY, with challenging routes into Rockland County and the 

beautiful Bear Mountain Bridge, and into Westchester County. 

Bike MS NYC offers three unique routes – the 30 mile route is the only 

opportunity to ride the Franklin D. Roosevelt Drive, Harlem River Drive 

and the West Side Highway – TRAFFIC FREE! 

Learn more about Bike MS at 

one of our Bike MS Kick-Off 

parties on August 4, 2010. 

Visit bikeMSnyc.org for more 

details and to RSVP today! 


IMPORTANT: BIKE MS NYC ROUTE CHANGE 

The 66 and 100 mile routes have changed; participants will not circle Manhattan. 

Riders participating in the 66 and 100 mile routes will not be able to 

circle Manhattan traffic free. Instead, they will begin Bike MS by traveling 

through the Lincoln Tunnel, or one of the most exhilarating parts of Bike MS! 

The privilege to ride on open roadways and through the tunnel is dependent 

on extensive coordinated support from authorities such as the NYPD and 

Department of Transportation and, because we are required to ensure cyclists 

are through the tunnel by 10 a.m. (arriving at the NYC-side Tunnel entrance 

by 9:30 a.m), we cannot allow the 66 and 100 milers to circle Manhattan. 

The chapter is extremely grateful to our NYC and transportation partners who 

have enabled us to continue providing Bike MS participants with the exciting 

experience of riding through the Lincoln Tunnel, a uniquely Bike MS NYC - 

Southern NY feature. 

We are in the process of developing a new 66 and 100 mile routes that will 

take cyclists further into New York State. Route distances are subject to 

change. Stay tuned for complete details. Both sites will have: 

• Exciting finish line festivals with informational and interactive booths 

including a sponsor expo, food and beverage samples, massage, entertainment 

and more 

• Recognition areas for top fundraising teams and individuals 


WHY I RIDE 

I will never forget the date February 18, 2000. While sitting in the hospital 

with numb legs, my doctor diagnosed me with multiple sclerosis. Naturally, 

I was terrified – I knew nothing about MS and had always lived a healthy, 

active lifestyle, and didn’t see this coming. At 23 years old, I felt like my life 

was over. 

Up until the time of my diagnosis, I always kept the mentality that “nothing 

was good enough.” As an athlete, I was competitive by nature and it was this 

competitive mindset that made me realize that I had to do something to take 

control of this disease. I spoke to other people living with MS, connected 

with the National MS Society, and consulted with various doctors. While 

I was aggressively researching the disease, I neglected my own body and 

relapsed in the process. I experienced a range of symptoms and side affects – 

numbness, vision impairment, and even weight gain. 

I struggled to accept how the disease had changed me and decided I wouldn’t 

allow anything any of these things to shape my life. I continued with all of 

the recommended medical treatments and therapies, but the solution for me 

was simple when I thought about it – continue to live a healthy lifestyle! 

After nine months, I lost 70 pounds and became very in tune with my body. 

I ride because I want to help others living with MS learn to never settle and 

offer them the support to take charge of their lives. 

- John C. Schiaroli (Team Captain of Johnny’s Crew) 

Everything you need to know about Bike MS 2010 is 

available at bikeMSnyc.org or by calling Bike MS staff 

at 212-463-9791. This participant guide will help keep 

you organized and motivated, as well as provide some 

great tips for having fun while fundraising. 


FUNDRAISE ONLINE 

My Participant Center — How-To Guide 

> Set up your personal Web page > Send e-mails to thank your donors 

> Upload your e-mail address book > Track e-mails sent and actions taken 

> Send e-mails to solicit donations > Track your fundraising progress 

Accessing My Participant Center 

Step 1: Go to bikeMSnyc.org and log in to ‘My Participant Center’. 

Step 2: Enter username and password to access the center. 

Setting Up Your Personal Web Page 

Step 1: From ‘My Participant Center’ select the My Personal Page button. 

Step 2: Utilize this page to change the template or edit the font and color 

scheme. To upload photos and change the text for your personal page, select 

#2 and open the page for editing. Save your changes before you log out. 

Step 3: All photo images must be JPEG files smaller than 200KB. To choose 

a photo from your picture library, click on the browse button to begin your 

search. After you have selected your photo, click on the upload image button 

to complete the selection. 

Step 4: To edit the text on your personal page, click in the text box and begin 

typing. While you are making your changes, save them and save them often. 

Uploading Your Address Book 

Step 1: From ‘My Participant Center’, select the Address Book button. You 

can upload your address book from Outlook, Yahoo, AOL or a generic CSV 

file. To search for the file you’re adding, select the browse button. Once you 

have selected the correct file, click on the ‘Upload Now’ button. 

Tracking Your Progress 

Step 1: From ‘My Participant Center’ select the ‘My Progress’ button. 

Sending E-Mails 

Step 1: From ‘My Participant Center’ select the ‘E-mail’ button. From this section 

of the center you can send e-mails to potential donors to solicit donations 

and send thank you e-mails to those who have already donated. You can use 

the template e-mails or draft your own personal message. You can also send 

e-mails to teammates. 


3) After you 

customize your 

personal page you 

can send out e-mails 

to your friends and 

family. 

1)The first thing you 

should do is customize 

your personal page. 

Bike MS New York City 2010! 

4) As you get close to 

your fundraising goal, it 

is always a good idea to 

increase it! 

2) Create a personal 

URL for your web 

page by adding your 

name to a shortcut 

URL. 

Make the most of your online Participant Center and 

begin fundraising today! To log-in, go to bikeMSnyc.org. 


BIKE MS AND FACEBOOK 

Are you on Facebook? Use your page to help you fundraise! Launch the fundraising 

application for Facebook from your Participant Center – your friends 

will be directed to your fundraising Web page from your Facebook profile. 

Join our Facebook network! Our Bike MS Facebook page is an excellent tool 

to stay up-to-date with Bike MS information, interact with other Bike MS 

supporters, and is a great place to share your cycling experiences! Find Bike 

MS NYC – Southern NY (www.facebook.com/bikeMSnycSNY) and post on 

the page to: 

• Share fundraising ideas with fellow riders 

• Get last minute fundraising blitz day information 

• Organize your own training ride 

• Share bike MS videos and stories 


FUNDRAISING 101 

Fundraising is easy if you keep it simple and start with the basics 

• Set a goal. (Set your goal to $1,000 to be an MVP Top Fundraiser in 2010) 

• Be informed about multiple sclerosis. People are more likely to give money 

to a cause they understand. Learn about MS at www.MSnyc.org. 

• Set up your online fundraising campaign by personalizing your Web page 

and setting up your e-mail campaign in your Participant Center. Be sure to 

share why you are cycling on both your Web site and your e-mails. 

• Kick off your fundraising by making a personal donation. When your donors 

see that you are financially committed to the cause, they will support it too. 

After you have sponsored yourself, ask everyone you know to support your 

efforts by joining the movement to help create a world free of MS. 

• Enhance your fundraising efforts by fundraising online, hosting a fundraising 

event, and doubling your efforts with matching gifts. 

• Make the most of your fundraising efforts- fundraise online using your 

Participant Center! Log-in at www.bikeMSnyc.org 

In 2009, riders who sent 10 

or more e-mails raised $968 

on average- versus $320 

raised by people who sent 

less than 10 e-mails. People 

who didn’t send any e-mails 

raised an average of $295. 


PLAN A FUNDRAISING EVENT 

Fundraising events are a popular way for individuals and teams to meet their 

fundraising goals. Fundraising events may include wine and cheese parties, 

silent auctions, date auctions or garage sales. Many local restaurants and bars 

will host a fundraiser by contributing a percentage of their sales from a specific 

night to you. In most cases, they will only require you to invite guests to the 

restaurant, and notify them of your party’s affiliation with the Society. Contact 

your favorite eatery to see if they will contribute to your fundraising success. 

The New York City - Southern New York Chapter can support your 

fundraising events in the following ways: 

• We will provide materials about multiple sclerosis and the Society. It is very 

important to remember to incorporate the mission of a world free of MS 

into your fundraising event. 

• We will provide the Walk MS logo for your events (within our branding 

guidelines). Please note all logo usage must be pre-approved by the Society 

staff. 

• A staff member may be able to attend your event. 

For more information, contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org or 212-463-9791. 

There are thousands of bars and restaurants in the New York City and Southern 

New York area. Many of them would be happy to help you host a fundraiser! 


PUT THE FUN IN FUNDRAISING - try one of these 

additional Bike MS fundraising ideas! 

• Tribute donations: Encourage your donors to make donations “in honor of,” 

“in support of,” or “in memory of” someone they know who has been affected by 

multiple sclerosis. This is a great way to make them part of your experience. Suggest 

a donation amount for them to sign a shirt or sticker that you will wear at 

Bike MS, or print their names on an orange ribbon that you will pin to your shirt. 

• Voicemail: Change your voicemail and answering machine messages to announce 

the fact that you are cycling for Bike MS. This will be news to some and a 

reminder for all! 

• Gym: Ask your gym if you, or they, can teach a spinning class as a benefit. 

• Errand runner: Offer to be a friend’s errand runner or personal assistant for 

the day in exchange for a substantial donation. 

• Lunch room: Put up a display in the lunchroom at work (a sign with a picture 

and a note about what you are doing); be sure to include a jar for donations and 

information how to make an online donation. 

• Signing your correspondence: Get in the habit of signing your correspondence 

or e-mails with your name followed by “Donate to my Bike MS fundraising 

efforts.” Add a link to your fundraising page to your e-mail signature. 

• Be sure to ask everyone you know and don’t be afraid to be creative! 

DOUBLE YOUR FUNDRAISING EFFORTS 

WITH MATCHING GIFTS 

Many companies have matching gift and volunteer incentive programs to maximize 

their financial contributions to non-profit organizations. This means they 

will match their employees’ donations to non-profits, increasing your fundraising 

total and bringing us closer to a world free of MS. Ask your donors to contact 

their company’s HR department to learn about their company’s matching 

gift policies and procedures. 

Exchange your creative fundraising ideas on our Bike MS Facebook 

page! You can find us at: www.Facebook.com/BikeMSnycSNY 


FUNDRAISING HAS ITS BENEFITS 

You can earn a variety of benefits for your Bike MS fundraising efforts by participating 

in any or all of the below fundraising benefit opportunities. Please 

note: Other than MVP’s who are eligible for bike jerseys, there will be no 

post-Bike MS prizes; all prizes will be awarded based on pre-event fundraising 

efforts. Start your fundraising today! 

T-shirts 

All participants will earn a Bike MS t-shirt. T-shirts are distributed at the event. 

There are a variety of t-shirts available, based on your fundraising efforts. 

• $150 - $999 – white short-sleeved Bike MS t-shirt 

• $1,000+ - long-sleeved, color MVP Top Fundraiser Bike MS t-shirt 

• Participants living with MS can choose to receive an orange Bike MS 

t-shirt. 

Early fundraising incentive 

Each participant who raises $250 or more by August 4, 2010 is eligible to 

receive a pair of custom Bike MS socks. 

Fundraising Prizes 

Participants who raise $500 or more by September 15, 2010 will be eligible 

to select a prize from our prize site. Please continue to check our Web site for 

up-to-date prize details. 

Is this your first year participating with Bike MS? The #1 

Rookie Bike MS Top Fundraiser* will win a four-night stay 

at the El Conquistador Resort in San Juan Puerto Rico. 

*Winner must be a first time participant and raise at least $2,000. 


Online Fundraising Blitzes 

Throughout the Bike MS campaign, there will be one day fundraising blitzes 

when participants can earn a variety of prizes for the donations raised on the 

specific day. Online fundraising blitzes are chosen at random and prizes are only 

for donations received online during that 24-hour period. Join our Facebook 

network to receive advanced notice about blitzes. 

Bike MS Fundraising Deadline and Rankings 

Your total fundraising amount as of November 5, 2010 is used to rank your individual 

and team fundraising efforts. These rankings are used to determine Terrific 

200 Club eligibility for the following year, Top Fundraising Team rewards, and 

the opportunity to receive a MVP Top Fundraiser custom Bike MS jersey. Final 

rankings are announced at our Bike MS awards party in early 2011. 

TEAM FUNDRAISING REWARDS 

Teams can qualify for great rewards based on their fundraising efforts. 

Top Tier Teams 

Teams that raise $30,000 or more receive these great benefits: 

• An exclusive, private area to meet 

your team and enjoy breakfast the 

morning of the event, and relax 

at the finish line. We provide you 

with tables and chairs, but you get 

the chance to decorate and inspire 

team members. Make your area fun 

and festive! 

• Team photographs. 

• Acknowledgement of your team’s 

accomplishment in Bike MS 

materials. 


Team Village 

Teams that raise $10,000-$29,999 for Bike MS 2010 earn a spot in an exclusive 

Team Village area at the finish line. 

Team Prizes 

Teams that raise $15,000 or more will earn a team prize. 

Visit the Teams section of www.bikeMSnyc.org for more information. 

Mission First Club 

Many of our participants who earn prizes generously donate the cost of the 

prize back to the Society to further support our mission to create a world free 

of multiple sclerosis. By donating the cost of your prize back to the Society, 

you make it possible for us to provide additional funding for the vital programs 

and services that make a difference in the lives of those affected by MS. 

The Mission First Club is set up to honor and recognize these individuals. In 

order to be a part of this club you must donate back at least one Bike MS prize 

you earn and you must notify Bike MS. Mission First Club members will have 

their name listed on our website. 

Claiming Your Bike MS Benefits 

All Bike MS participants who earn a prize will be sent an e-mail to claim their 

reward within one week of the contest. You MUST claim your prize to receive 

it, as they will not be automatically sent to winners. If you are not receiving 

e-mails from Bike MS, contact us at bikeMS@msnyc.org or 212-463-9791 

to update your contact record. If you do not have an e-mail on file, a staff 

member from our office will contact you about your prize opportunity. Note: 

in 2010, NO prizes will be awarded after Bike MS; ALL participant prizes will 

be awarded as noted above. 

Early fundraising incentive: Raise $250 by August 4 to earn a 

pair of Bike MS custom socks. 

Fundraising prizes: Raise $500 or more by September 15 to be 

eligible for a Bike MS prize certificate to our online prize site. 


TOP FUNDRAISER CLUBS 

Become a Bike MS MVP Top Fundraiser 

Raise $1,000 or more on or before Bike MS and become an MVP. You will receive 

an MVP t-shirt and access for you and one guest to our Barclays Capital 

Top Fundraiser area at the finish line. All MVPs will be eligible for a Bike MS 

jersey after the November 5 fundraising and rankings deadline. 

Raise $2,500 or more to upgrade your MVP level! 

Raise $1,000 - $2,499 to become an MVP 

Raise $2,500 - $4,999 to become a Steel MVP 

Raise $5,000 - $7,499 to become a Aluminum MVP 

Raise $7,500 - $9,999 to become a Carbon MVP 

Raise $10,000+ to become a Titanium MVP 

Raise $15,000+ to qualify for Tour of Champions* 

*Tour of Champions gives top fundraisers the opportunity to socialize with 

top fundraisers from around the country while celebrating the Society’s 

achievements. We hope to see you for your all-expense paid trip to Chicago in 

November, 2010. 


Become a Bike MS Terrific 200 Club member! 

The top 200 fundraisers of Bike MS NYC and Bike MS Southern New York* 

earn membership into the following year’s Bike MS Terrific 200 Club. Membership 

in this elite club provides a variety of benefits throughout the year 

and at both Bike MS rides the following year. 

The 2010 Terrific 200 Club membership raised over 1.1 million dollars, an 

average of more than $5,500 per participant. Your 2010 fundraising will 

determine your eligibility for the 2011 Terrific 200 Club! 

Benefits of the Terrific 200 Club include the following: 

Pre-event 

• Name and ranking listed on bikeMSnyc.org 

• Name and ranking listed in the Bike MS Participant Guide 

• A dedicated Society staff member to assist you throughout the year 

• Invitation to various special events throughout the year 

At the event 

• Personalized bib number corresponding with member’s 2009 fundraising 

ranking 

• Front of the line start with breakfast and bag check 

• Admission for member and a guest to the Top Fundraiser area at the finish 

line 

• Commemorative 200 Club goodie bags distributed at the event in the 

Top Fundraiser area 

*Members of the 2010 club are participants of the 2009 NYC and the Southern New 

York Bike MS rides and are ranked based on individual fundraising (for example, the 

#1 raised the most money in 2009). Membership is made up of riders from BOTH 

rides; there are not separate Clubs for each ride. 


TERRIFIC 200 CLUB 

1. Peter Goettler 

2. Maya Sudhakaran 

3. Robert Sandler 

4. Michael Gandolfo 

5. Gavin Gilbert 

6. Temmy Lizarzabal 

7. Adam Burinescu 

8. Paige Goodman 

9. Erwin Thomet 

10. Ryan Glascott 

11. Kevin Glascott 

12. Richard Morris 

13. Bridget Boyle 

14. Michael Zimits 

15. Nat Smitobol 

16. Ana Bogdan 

17. Dennis Wan 

18. Sean Murdoch 

19. Brian Wallach 

20. Catherine Tsigakos 

21. Andrew Tunick 

22. Steven Roth 

23. Philip Caracci 

24. Paul Singleton 

25. Barbara Calamusa 

26. Roberto De Azevedo 

27. Stephen Nettler 

28. Lee Albertson 

29. Michael Halsband 

30. Jeannette Varzandeh 

31. James Greebel 

32. Fred Harris 

33. Harlan Wakoff 

34. Savitree Thampirak 

35. James Dillon 

36. Steven Maroti 

37. Manar Zaher 

38. John Beaman 

39. Michael Schenker 

40. Darryl Burke 

41. Mike Morris 

42. Jake Barton 

43. Michael Traverso 

44. John Katzman 

45. Rob Moore 

46. Stephen Wylen 

47. Edward Morr 

48. Ian Shrank 

49. Harris Ferrell 

50. Dan Kusnetz 

51. Susan Sampliner 

52. Michael Baudo 

53. James Chatham 

54. Steven Vince 

55. Edwin Navedo 

56. Celeste Evans 

57. William Donohue 

58. Steven Fuchs 

59. John Tulli 

60. Alan Bernstein 

61. Carole Gambello 

62. Kathleen (Kitty) Benden 

63. Jonathan Pokoik 

64. Rudolf Von Bartesch 

65. William Spitz 

66. Becca Kornfeld 

67. Alland Sy 

68. Patrick Kennedy 

69. Fred Leone 

70. Steven Peragallo 

71. Melissa Weissman 

72. Nancy Marcus 

73. Jack Schmitt 

74. Benjamin Emanuel 

75. Mitchell Kent 

76. Kate Matthews 

77. Ted Berg 

78. Timothy Casey 

79. Robert Hellman 

80. Jason Black 

81. Mark Mutkoski 

82. Winston Crowley 

83. Nicholas Costa 

84. Hillel Katz 

85. Andy Hart 

86. Richard Edmonds 

87. Sean McNeill 

88. Pete Hayes 

89. Mickey Carter 

90. Giovanni Bargelletti 

91. Riley Jason 

92. Michael Mariotti 

93. Jeff Matusow 

94. Michael Novich 

95. Paul Weiss 

96. Jeffrey Solomon 

97. Khin Mee Wong Chan 

98. Robert Sussman 

99. Peter Skae 

100. Chris Hennessy 

101. Heiner Harmeyer 

102. Michael Figliulo 

103. Eric Bromberg 

104. Todd Cymbol 

105. Julie Goldweitz 

106. Rondi Loganzo 

107. Lee Manners 

108. Marty Cammarata 

109. Jeffrey Moroch 

110. Robbi Nagel 

111. Lisa Hannahoe 

112. Luke Hale 

113. Christine Weston 

114. Virginia Bradley 


TERRIFIC 200 CLUB 

115. Carrie Liaskos 

116. Donald Asch 

117. Scott Ades 

118. David Bilmas 

119. Aaron Kirtz 

120. Allan Rubin 

121. Allen Hahn 

122. Patricia Gagliano 

123. Roseanne Macari 

124. Vivian Lazerson 

125. Lexie Mitter 

126. Donna Davis 

127. Stephen Teller 

128. Scott Testa 

129. Laurence Blumberg 

130. Peter Susser 

131. Matthew Huber 

132. Jason Koxvold 

133. Louise Weston 

134. Mitchell Marcus 

135. Paul Hasenfus 

136. Veronica McTiernan 

137. Russell Kolbert 

138. Andrew Persampire 

139. Andrew Caselli 

140. Stephen Baierlein 

141. Christopher Williams 

142. Robert Parisi 

143. Mina Kim 

144. Dawn Madell 

145. Get Lee 

146. Michelle Smith 

147. Barry Schwartz 

148. Thomas Cassidy 

149. Katherine Axt 

150. David Minunni 

151. Raffaele Moro 

152. David Brown 

153. Ken Casatuta 

154. Marshall King 

155. Paul Low 

156. John Truehart 

157. Rishi Nangalia 

158. David Rice 

159. Bruce Bromberg 

160. Hope Tannenbaum 

161. Peggy McKenna 

162. Tom McKenna 

163. Rachel Brach 

164. GianLuigi Cavagna 

165. Robin Crickmore 

166. Douglas Klion 

167. Ladie Whitaker 

168. Robert Young 

169. Al Frankel 

170. Jason Holzman 

171. Eleonora Walczak 

172. Robert Calhoun 

173. Andrew Schweitzer 

174. Brion Bonkowski 

175. Natalie Hennessy 

176. Nancy Hruska 

177. James Scrivanich 

178. Larry Kantor 

179. Kenneth Ilgner 

180. Adam Wolfensohn 

181. David Bober 

182. Shane Shackelford 

183. Delores Rubin 

184. Winnie Wong 

185. Robert Brams 

186. Michael Friedman 

187. Madhu Chowdhry 

188. Simone Zappa 

189. Emily Grishman 

190. Bryan Oconnell 

191. Rene Picazo 

192. Carline Czaja 

193. Rick Schaupp 

194. Adam Budgor 

195. Mary Beth Matterfis 

196. Nancy Gleason 

197. Dominik Loeffler 

198. David Wilsher 

199. William Stern 

200. Leonard Van Orden 


TEAM UP 

Riding is more fun when you are part of a team! You will notice the camaraderie 

and team pride that develops whether your team is comprised of friends 

and family, neighbors, house of worship members, members of a community 

group or co-workers. Teams are the fastest growing group of fundraisers in 

the MS movement! 

Start a team 

Joining the movement as a Bike MS team captain is an experience like no 

other. Taking the step to register as a Bike MS team captain moves us all closer 

to a world free of multiple sclerosis. By forming a Bike MS team, you are not 

only leading your friends, family and co-workers on an adventure of fun, fitness 

and community involvement, you are also making a difference in the lives 

of the thousands of New Yorkers living with MS. 

It’s easy to form a team 

• Choose a team captain 

• Choose a team name 

• Recruit, recruit, recruit… there is no limit to how many team members 

you can have (teams need a minimum of four people in order to be eligible 

for any team rewards). 

Join a team 

Team involvement is a great way to network within your company and in the 

corporate community. By forming or joining a corporate team you can give 

your co-workers or employees the opportunity to work together toward a 

goal in a fun, social setting. 


National MS Society staff are also available to visit your company to promote 

Bike MS and meet with your management team. Schedule a “Lunch and Learn” 

session at your company to encourage team growth and answer questions. The 

National MS Society is here to help every step of the way! 

Joining a team can help make your Bike MS experience even more memorable; 

you can create your own team identity by making signs, jerseys or t-shirts for 

event day. 

Interested in forming a team? Contact teams@msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791, 

option 3. We’ll provide you with recruitment ideas, fundraising and training 

tips. Team captains will also receive team captain e-mails with tips and advice 

on team recruitment and fundraising. 

VIRTUAL RIDER 

Friends and family members do not have to be present or ride at Bike MS to 

be a participant. Encourage them to register and select “Virtual Rider” after 

choosing which ride they want to participate in. Virtual Riders can be members 

of teams, participate in fundraising contests and become Top Fundraisers. 

Virtual Riders can also create a fundraising Web page, and have access to 

all of our online fundraising tools. 


BIKE MS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES 

Volunteers get great benefits! 

• Commemorative Bike MS 2010 volunteer t-shirt 

• Chance to meet new people 

• Opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people living with MS 

• Opportunity to take on a vital leadership role by becoming a Volunteer 

Captain 

What is a Volunteer Captain? 

Volunteer Captains go the extra mile which makes the New York City – Southern 

New York Chapter’s events the best! Volunteer Captains help the day run 

smoother by managing the logistics and volunteers in various areas including 

the food team, start line and information team. Volunteer Captains add an 

extra level of expertise, going above and beyond to learn what goes on behind 

the scenes, while working with amazing staff and volunteers who are all here 

for the same purpose - to create a world free of MS. 

CYCLING RESOURCES 

The National MS Society and Bike MS is committed to providing a quality 

cycling experience by enforcing safety precautions while ensuring that all 

participants enjoy a fun experience. For this reason, tips on group riding, bike 

maintenance, managing road hazards and cycling rules of the road have been 

included. It is our hope that you will find this information useful and easy to 

incorporate into all your cycling experiences. 

Official Bike Shops 

Whether you need new equipment or expert advice, you will find everything 

you need at Bike MS New York City – Southern NY Official Bike Shops. A list of 

current bike shop partners is available on our Web site at bikeMSnyc.org. 


Personnel at official bike shops are ready to assist you with your preparations 

for this year’s ride, including providing free bike safety inspections (repairs 

not included) and a 10% discount (bikes not included) to all registered riders. 

Please remember to call your nearest official bike shop to schedule a time for 

your free safety inspection. 

Interested in getting your local bike shop involved? E-mail us at bikeMS@ 

msnyc.org or call 212-463-9791 for more information. 

RULES OF THE ROAD 

• All participants must wear a helmet! 

• Know and obey all traffic laws: stop at red lights, obey signs, observe 

speed limits, and follow lane markings. Cyclists in New York State have 

the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicle operators. 

• Stay to the right, a few feet from the shoulder and only pass on the left. 

• Cycle with traffic never against it. 

• Never ride more than two abreast on open roads. 

• Watch out for metal plates, potholes and cobblestones in the road which 

can cause falls- especially in wet weather. 

• Bike MS is not a race, ride at your own controllable speed. 

• Respect Bike MS marshals and officials on the route. 

They are there for your safety. 

• Headphones, cell phones, radios 

and similar radio devices are not 

permitted while riding. 

• Visit bikeMSnyc.org for more 

important safety tips! 


TRAINING 

Bike MS is approaching quickly. It is important that you prepare your body 

and bike to complete the ride, by training consistently and adhering to all 

safety precautions. 

Bike MS has once again teamed up with GP Sports and Nutrition to provide 

training ride opportunities for all Bike MS participants. Training rides will 

include a brief safety seminar before the ride begins and have a no rider left 

behind policy. All levels of cyclists are encouraged to attend the rides. Training 

rides will be offered in the New York City and Southern New York region. 

Please continue to check our Web site for up to date training information. 

www.bikeMSnyc.org 

Training rides will begin on Saturday, July 17 and will occur every other 

Saturday until Bike MS. Please check the Web site under Cycling Resources 

for more detailed information such as meeting locations and times. Please 

note, training ride dates are subject to change, always check the Web site for 

updates before attending a ride. 

Saturday, July 17 

Saturday, July 31 

Saturday, August 14 

Saturday, August 28 

Saturday, September 11 

GP Sports and the National MS Society are not liable for any injuries that may 

occur from any incidents or loss/damage of any equipment. 

Here are five easy steps to help get your training started: 

Step 1: Use the Bike MS Online Training Tools at bikeMSnyc.org. 

Step 2: Have your bike professionally inspected by an official Bike MS bike shop. 

Step 3: Track your mileage on gmap-pedometer.com. 

Step 4: Participate in other organized cycling events and/or rides. 

Step 5: Start or join training rides. 


All cyclists should be prepared for the unexpected; it is important to carry 

spare tubes, water bottles and snacks while riding. Basic skills such as changing 

a flat tire and riding in groups will be taught at all training rides hosted 

by GP Sports and Nutrition; all riders, regardless of experience, should know 

how to change a flat and ride in a large group before committing to Bike MS. 

Visit the Training page on our Web site today to learn about TrainingPeaks. 

TrainingPeaks is an interactive, Web-based training log and 

food diary designed to help individuals achieve their health and fitness 

goals. Subscriptions to the basic edition are FREE to our cyclists, 

and they have the opportunity to download custom-written cycling 

training plans for beginner and intermediate cyclists. 

WHAT TO EXPECT 

Start Line 

The start line is an energetic, fun-filled area with fellow riders who are excited 

about the event. Early arrival is suggested so you will have time to turn in 

additional donations, eat a light breakfast, and secure your spot in the line up. 

Note there will be NO packet pick up the morning of EITHER ride. 

Route 

Bike MS offers different route options perfect for cyclists of all levels. All 

routes are fully supported and complete with rest stops, bike mechanic support, 

gear, vehicles and first-aid stations. 

The 66 and 100 mile routes have changed; participants will not circle Manhattan. 

Riders participating in the 66 and 100 mile routes will not be able to 

circle Manhattan traffic free. Instead, they will begin Bike MS by traveling 

through the Lincoln Tunnel one of the most exhilarating parts of Bike MS! 

The privilege to ride on open roadways and through the tunnel is dependent 


on extensive coordinated support from authorities such as the NYPD and 

Department of Transportation and, because we are required to ensure cyclists 

are through the tunnel by 10 a.m. (arriving at the NYC-side Tunnel entrance 

by 9:30 a.m), we cannot allow the 66 and 100 milers to circle Manhattan. 

The chapter is extremely grateful to our NYC and transportation partners who 

have enabled us to continue providing Bike MS participants with the exciting 

experience of riding through the Lincoln Tunnel, a uniquely Bike MS NYC - 

Southern NY feature. 

Please note: Participants aged 12-17 can only participate in the 30 mile route option at Bike MS 

NYC and the 20 mile route option at Bike MS Southern New York and must be accompanied by a 

guardian. NO tagalongs, trailers, youth bike seats or carriers will be permitted. Tandem bikes will 

be permitted as long as both riders are physically able to pedal the bike and are 12 years of age or 

older. Both riders must register, have a rider bib and have met the fundraising minimum by the 

weekend of the ride. Visit the Web site for up to date details about all of the route options. 

How long will it take to pedal the route? 

Beginner cyclists pedal about 10 miles per hour on a flat road. Intermediate 

cyclists in good physical condition ride at approximately 15 miles per hour. 

Racers and advanced cyclists cruise at over 20 miles per hour. These speeds 

are estimates and do not include rest stops or mandatory stops. 

Finish Line 

Crossing the finish line is an incredible accomplishment and we intend to help 

you celebrate! After you complete the ride, be sure to get your medal, check 

in your bike at the mandatory bike parking area, and enjoy the finish line festival. 

The festival will include a sponsor expo, food and beverages, music, and 

VIP perks for top fundraisers and teams. 


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

FUNDRAISING 

IS THERE A MINIMUM 

FUNDRAISING REQUIREMENT? 

Yes. The fundraising minimum 

requirement is $150 for all routes 

at both rides. This is in addition to 

the registration fee. All riders are required 

to fulfill their $150 minimum 

prior to participating in Bike MS 

2010. Pending matching gifts will 

not count toward the $150 fundraising 

minimum. 

Please note: If you wish to participate 

in both Bike MS NYC and Bike MS 

Southern New York, you are required 

to raise the $150 fundraising minimums 

for both rides. 

WHERE DO I SEND MY 

DONATIONS? 

National Multiple Sclerosis Society 

Bike MS NYC - Southern NY 

PO Box 10123 

Uniondale, NY 11555-0123 

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY RIDER 

MATERIALS IN THE MAIL? 

All participants must raise a minimum 

of $150 by September 15, 

2010 to receive rider materials in 

the mail. Materials will be mailed 

beginning September 17, 2010. We 

encourage you to make sure your address 

is up to date on September 15, 

2010 but we cannot guarantee that 

the USPS will deliver your packet to 

you. If you raised $150 by September 

15, 2010 and have not received 

your materials two days prior to your 

ride, you will need to attend a Rider 

Check-In the day before your ride. 

WHO SHOULD CHECKS BE 

MADE OUT TO? 

Bike MS NYC or Bike MS Southern 

New York depending on which 

event you are participating in. Also, 

remember to put your name and account 

number in the memo section of 

each check so we know to credit your 

Bike MS account. Your account number 

is located on the mailing label 

of this participant guide and on the 

home page of your online Participant 

Center? 

WHERE DOES MY MONEY GO? 

For every dollar raised, 82 cents is 

spent on local programs and services 

for people living with MS and their 

families living in New York City, 


Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, 

Orange and Sullivan counties, as well 

as funding critical local, national and 

international research into the cause, 

treatment and a cure for MS. 

WHEN SHOULD I TURN IN THE 

DONATIONS I COLLECT? 

We encourage all participants to 

raise donations online or mail donations 

before the ride. All participants 

must raise a minimum of $150 by 

September 15, 2010 to receive rider 

materials in the mail. If you don’t 

reach the $150 minimum by September 

15, you will be required to 

attend a packet pick-up before your 

ride to get your materials. NO rider 

materials will be available for the day 

of EITHER ride. However, you are 

welcome to bring additional donations 

with you to your ride or mail 

after the ride. 

ARE DONATIONS TAX DEDUCT- 

IBLE AND HOW DO I GET A 

RECEIPT? 

Yes. All donations are tax deductible 

to the fullest extent allowed by law. 

Your cancelled check or credit card 

transaction confirmation serves as 

a receipt. Donors giving $250 or 

more will automatically receive an 

acknowledgement from the National 

MS Society by the end of 2010. 

Please note donations are non-refundable 

and non-transferrable. 

WHAT IF MY COMPANY WANTS 

TO MATCH MY DONATION? 

Contact your HR department to learn 

about your company’s matching gift 

policies and procedures. Check to see 

if your company participates by visiting 

http://www.matchinggift.com/. 

Follow the procedure outlined 

by your company’s matching gift 

program; printed materials may be 

mailed to: 

National MS Society, 

NYC - SNY Chapter 

Attn: Matching Gifts 

733 Third Ave., Third Floor 

New York, NY 10017 

We will send a confirmation to your 

company and, upon receipt of the 

check, we will credit your Bike MS 

fundraising efforts. 

HOW LONG AFTER I SEND IN A 

CHECK DOES IT TAKE TO SHOW 

UP ON MY PERSONAL WEB 

PAGE? 


Donations made online are immediately 

posted to your account and 

will appear on your Web page at the 

time of the donation. Donations that 

are mailed prior to the event can take 

two to four weeks to appear on your 

Web page. Donations submitted on 

the day of the event can take up to 

six weeks to appear on your Web 

page. To avoid the wait, encourage 

your donors to sponsor you online; 

online donations are safe and easy. 

WHAT IS AN MVP? 

An MVP is a top fundraising rider 

who raises $1,000 or more by the 

day of Bike MS. MVPs are eligible for 

special perks. Learn more on page 15. 

WHAT IS THE TERRIFIC 200 

CLUB? 

The Terrific 200 Club is an honor 

awarded to our top 200 fundraisers 

from the previous year’s Bike events. 

These 200 individuals have exhibited 

outstanding fundraising achievements 

that deserve to be recognized. 

This exclusive club is made up of 

riders from BOTH rides; there are not 

separate clubs for each ride. Learn 

more on page 16. 

TEAMS 

WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF START- 

ING A TEAM? 

Participating in Bike MS is more fun 

when you are part of a team and 

it’s a fact that team members raise 

more than individual riders. Last 

year, teams were responsible for 

more than 75% of the total overall 

fundraising for Bike MS. Teams get a 

meeting area at the start line of the 

event and get the chance to participate 

in team contests with great 

prizes. Teams can also qualify for 

top fundraising honors and rewards. 

Learn more on page 19. 

HOW MANY PEOPLE DO I HAVE 

TO HAVE ON MY TEAM? 

Teams must consist of four or more 

members in order to receive any 

team benefits, recognition, awards, 

and prizes. 

CAN MY TEAM HAND IN OUR 

DONATIONS ALL TOGETHER 

WITH OUR TEAM CAPTAIN? 

No. All donations must be handed 

in individually. Every participant is 

required to raise a minimum of $150 

in order to be able to ride in Bike 

MS 2010. Fundraising prizes and 

incentives are based on individual 

fundraising success. 


WHAT ARE TOP FUNDRAISING 

TEAM HONORS? 

Top Tier Teams are teams that raise 

$30,000 or more. They receive a 

private meeting area at the start 

and finish lines of Bike MS. Teams 

are able to decorate their individual 

areas for the event. 

The Team Village is an area at the 

Bike MS finish line for teams that 

raise $10,000 - $29,999. Teams are 

able to decorate their individual 

Team Village areas for the event. 

WHAT IF I ALREADY REGISTERED 

AS AN INDIVIDUAL BUT WANT 

TO START OR JOIN A TEAM? 

We can make that change for you. 

Contact us at teams@msnyc.org or 

212-463-9791, option 3. 

EVENT INFORMATION 

WHAT IF IT RAINS? 

Bike MS takes place rain or shine. 

In the event of extreme weather 

conditions, routes may be altered or 

cancelled, but the Bike MS Festival 

will go on except in the case of 

emergency weather situations. These 

decisions are made prior to, and/or 

on the day of the event. We encourage 

you to check our Web site the 

weekend of your ride for updated 

information. 

WHERE CAN I PARK ON THE DAY 

OF BIKE MS? 

Bike MS Southern New York riders 

can park at the start/finish line location 

at Kraft Foods in Tarrytown, NY. 

Follow the signs for Bike MS Parking. 

Bike MS NYC riders can find parking 

lot locations by neighborhood and 

estimated costs at http://nyc.bestparking.com/. 

We highly recommend 

that riders use public transportation 

and carpool, as many roads will be 

closed on the day of Bike MS, and 

there is limited parking near the start 

and finish lines. 

WHAT DO I DO IF I GET A FLAT TIRE? 

We recommend all participants know 

basic safety and repair skills, including 

fixing a flat tire. Be prepared 

and bring your own pump and extra 

tubes for your bike. However, if you 

are still unable to make the repair, 

marshals and SAG vehicles will 

accompany riders along all routes. 

Should you need assistance, just let 

one of the marshals know and, if a 

marshal is unable to assist you with 


the repair, a SAG vehicle will take 

you to a rest stop where mechanical 

support may be available, or to the 

finish line. Please note that the wait 

for assistance and/or a ride to the 

nearest rest stop can be long and by 

waiting, you run the risk of not being 

able to finish the route. Visit your local 

bike shop to learn how to handle 

basic repair needs. 

GENERAL QUESTIONS 

IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE RE- 

QUIREMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN 

BIKE MS? 

Yes. Participants must be at least 12 

years of age in order to ride in either 

of the Bike MS NYC – Southern NY 

rides. Children under the age of 12 

will not be permitted to ride in any 

portion of either Bike MS ride. If you 

are registering a minor aged 12 to 

17, you will need to register offline 

using a registration form and your 

completed registration form must 

accompany the Bike MS notarized 

waiver. 

Participants ages 12 to 17 can only 

participate in the 30 mile route option 

in NYC and the 20 mile route 

option in Southern New York a must 

be accompanied by a guardian. NO 

tagalongs, trailers, youth bike seats 

or carriers will be permitted. Tandem 

bikes will be permitted as long as 

both riders are physically able to pedal 

the bike and both are registered, 

have met the fundraising minimum 

and each has a rider bib. 

Every rider, regardless of age, must 

meet the $150 fundraising minimum 

in order to ride. 

HOW CAN I CONTACT THE BIKE 

MS STAFF? 

You can contact us at bikeMS@ 

msnyc.org or 212-463-9791. 


ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS 

Multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous 

system, interrupts the flow of information within the brain and between 

the brain and the rest of the body. Every hour in the United States, someone is 

newly diagnosed with MS. Symptoms range from reduced or lost mobility to 

numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific 

symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances 

in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most 

people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with at least two 

to three times more women than men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects 

more than 400,000 people in the U.S., and 2.1 million worldwide. 

WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO? 

MS stops people from moving. The National MS Society exists to make sure it 

doesn’t by helping each person address the challenges of living with MS. In 2009 

alone, through its national office and 50 state network of chapters, the Society 

devoted more than $132 million to programs that enhanced more than one million 

lives. To move closer to a world free of MS, the Society also invested nearly 

$36 million to support 375 research projects around the world. Just look at the 

difference it makes in your own community. 


CHAPTER PROGRAMS AND HIGHLIGHTS 

The New York City – Southern New York Chapter of the National MS Society 

is committed to helping the 10,000 residents living with multiple sclerosis in 

the five boroughs and Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange and Sullivan 

counties continue moving their lives forward. The chapter raises funds in 

support of the Society’s critical research initiatives and to provide hundreds of 

annual comprehensive support services and educational programs for people 

living with MS, their family and friends. Our staff and volunteers are dedicated 

to achieving a world free of MS. 

Visit www.MSnyc.org for more information. 

CHAPTER FINANCIAL INFORMATION 

The New York City - Southern New York Chapter depends on community 

support to fund programs and accelerate national research projects to identify 

the cause, treatment and cure for MS. Eighty-two cents of every dollar raised 

is used to fund the hundreds of annual comprehensive programs and services 

provided to people living with MS, their friends and family. We are thankful to 

our members and their friends, event participants, corporate partners and the 

general public who help us move toward a world free of MS. 

Early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference 

for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking 

to your health care professional and contacting the National MS Society at 

nationalMSsociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHT-MS). 


NOTES

NYC – Southern NY 

2010 

733 Third Ave. 

Third Floor 

New York, NY 10017 

www.bikeMSnyc.org 

212-463-9791 

THANK YOU TO OUR OFFICIAL SPONSORS

participant & fundraising guide - Bike MS - National Multiple ...

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?