Play in the City

Miller Lite Ride For the Arts

I did it!

Sunday morning, I woke up at 6:30 a.m. – more remarkably, I got Eric out of bed 15 minutes later – to bike the 50-mile route for the Ride for the Arts!

The 28th annual Miller Lite Ride for the Arts, benefiting the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF), kicked off at 7:15 a.m. Unfortunately though, Eric and I weren’t there at this point due to our lack of preparation the night before and a slue of unanticipated events:

1. We didn’t have our helmets ready since we bought them the night before.
2. My pocket knife wasn’t cutting the helmet’s plastic packaging, not even making a dent in it – why the heck do manufacturers feel the need to make this process such a chore? Or better question: Why did I buy a $1 pocket knife?
3. I needed caffeine. NEEDED it! Or else I turn into Mr. Hyde.
4. Eric’s spicy Indian curry dinner the night before wasn’t sitting well.
5. I lost my sunglasses.

Nevertheless, we made it to the course around 7:30 a.m. with minimal squabbling – okay, a little more bickering than usual, which I blame on the early morning and my detestation for being late to things with prompt start times. But the smell of gear grease and scent of sunscreen and the bright sun and calm morning energized me and I was revved up for the ride.

There were over 12,000 riders divided by courses and waiting in front of the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts for their start time. Since we preregistered for the ride a few weeks in advance, all we had to do was wait for the start of the next wave. We started in waves so that the ride wouldn’t be overly congested – those riding the longest courses (75 and 50-mile) started first. Finally, it was our turn. After Eric and I crossed the starting line, our full speed, 50-mile adventure began!

Most of Water Street, Michigan Street and the Lincoln Memorial Drive were blocked off for the beginning of the ride. Despite the alternated start times, there were many riders packed tightly together for several miles. Actually, there were so many of us that all you could hear were the sounds of chains rotating, wheels spinning, brakes squeaking and shoes clipping in and out of pedals. But because the pace was quite fast, the crowd began to spread out and span many miles.

The first 25 miles were cake! After we left Milwaukee, we headed north through the suburbs. While cycling through the scenic towns of Shorewood and Bayside we admired the gorgeous brick and stone houses and magnificent views of Lake Michigan.

Along the Oak Leaf Trail

So, I might have been a little over-ambitious about the whole Bike to Work Week (BTWW) thing.

To be honest, I probably won’t be able to bike to work. You see, it takes about a half hour to get to my office in Franklin via car along the speedy interstate, so I’d have to roll out of bed at the butt crack of dawn just to make it to work on time. It’s. Not. Going. To. Happen.

Now, I feel like I'm a pharisee.

But, just because I probably won’t partake in BTWW, that doesn’t mean I’m not going to take my bicycle out for a ride a few times this week to commemorate the movement. Plus, it’ll make me feel like less of a hypocrite.

For those of you in the same boat, you shouldn’t feel like you can’t participate in this week’s event either, after all, BTWW conveniently falls into National Bike Month. Thus, with summer fast slowly approaching, there’s ample time to take your bike for a leisurely spin around Milwaukee.

So, even if you won’t be peddling to work, why not keep your car in the lot and ride your bike this week to school, the store, or along the trails? You can also try some of the League of American Bicyclists’ ideas. Here’s their list of suggestions.

Last night, in honor of National Bike Month, I escaped to the Oak Leaf Trail, a hidden treasure for local bike-oholics. Throughout Milwaukee there’s a plethora of terrific bike trails that offer a great alternative to sightseeing, as well as, the opportunity to view the city from a different perspective. The best parts, of course, are the off-road paths, which are surrounded by trees and seem entirely un-urban.

I’ve always been drawn to the rustic beauty of such remote trails where in the summertime you’re cooled by the shade of maple trees, and with each mile you transcend, you are warmly greeted by dozens of passing inline skaters, joggers, walkers, and fellow bikers who are all leaving the bustle of everyday life to exercise or find tranquility in Mother Nature’s splendor.

The Oak Leaf Trail, in particular, features over 100 miles of multiple loops through all of the major parkways and parks that are the framework of the Milwaukee County Park System. The loops are composed of paved off-road trails, park drives and regular municipal streets – you can ride north to Brown Deer, west to 124th Street, south to Ryan Road, and east to Lake Michigan.

National Bike to Work Week

On my way to work this morning, I pulled up to the gas pump near my apartment and as I filled my car with unleaded fuel at $3.89 per gallon, my wallet swelled up and burst into tears.

Okay, okay, that’s obviously an absurd exaggeration, but I did overhear the grumbling of fellow commuters who were reluctantly burning holes into their pocketbooks as they filled their cars with unreasonably priced gasoline.

Milwaukee gas prices are at an all time high – it seems as though we’ve been saying this for the past few years, huh? But, given that gas prices are predicted to exceed $4 per gallon and we’re already on the brink of four bucks around here, it doesn’t seem like we’ll be cut any slack anytime soon. So, do we grin and bare it? Of course not. We’ll just have to find another means to get from place to place.

For instance, as part of National Bike Month, Milwaukee and the rest of the country will be celebrating National Bike to Work Week (BTWW). From Monday, May 12 to Friday, May 16, the League of American Bicyclists encourages both first time commuters and experienced road warriors to consider biking as an alternative to driving to work. After paying an arm and a leg for gas this morning, this event definitely motivates me to bike instead of drive.

Many people are catching onto this movement too. Last year, hordes of commuters biked to work with their ties flapping in the wind, briefcases strapped onto the rear of their bicycles, and a helmet safely secured on top of their heads. I actually saw one woman in stiletto heals peddling along Wisconsin Avenue probably on her way home from the office. Now, that’s dedication!

Evidently, BTWW has quickly turned into one of the fastest growing movements in the country. Young and old alike have started to participate in the annual week-long bicycling commute as it has become a great incentive to get people to bike to work who normally wouldn't or who don't realize the benefits bicycling has over driving.

Ready to Ride!

Wednesday night was lovely, so I decided to take my little red mountain bike out for a spin and to the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts to register for the Miller Lite Ride for the Arts, which is scheduled for Sunday, June 1.

Since the box office is open until 6 p.m., I thought it was a good time to secure my spot on the roster, plus it’s really easy to sign-up and it only costs $35 per person if you register in advance.

There are several ways to sign-up:

1. Online before May 31 by clicking here
2. By mail if you download this registration form
3. In person at the Marcus Center box office between May 27 and 31
4. On ride day, June 1, beginning at 6 a.m. at the Marcus Center (you’ll have to pay an extra $5 then)

And remember that you can register as a family, create a team or ride solo.

This is my second year participating in the Ride and also my second attempt at biking the 50-mile haul.

Conversely, the Ride for the Arts has been rolling to benefit the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) for 28 years. During that time, the ride has generated more than $6 million to support UPAF’s performing arts groups, which enables UPAF Members and Affiliate Groups to touch millions of people through performances, educational programming and outreach each year, according to the website.

This year, the Ride is offering a five, 15, 25, 50 and 75-mile bike route. The Ride starts in downtown Milwaukee at the Marcus Center (929 N. Water Street) and finishes at the Miller Lite Oasis on the Summerfest grounds for the Potawatomi Bingo Casino Finish Line Party. The party includes entertainment, performances from UPAF groups, and children's and sponsor-related activities.

The various routes start at different times and will take you past several Milwaukee landmarks, along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, and through numerous Milwaukee-area communities and parks. Plus, there are rest stops along the way where you can replenish your exhausted body with fresh fruit and energy bars, cold water and Gatorade. You can click here to see the route map. There’s also an online photo tour for each course.

Last year, I’ll admit, wasn’t the easiest of feats. My legs simply weren’t in the shape they were a few years ago and I wasn’t really prepared for such a long ride. Needless to say, peddling that entire distance with noodle legs was a workout and a half, but it also was a true test of willpower.

Nevertheless, I made it to the finish line in less than five hours, which I’m very proud of. To feel triumphant after having the living crap kicked out of me made the Ride well worth it, yes, even the next day when my muscles were screaming.

I really enjoyed waking up to a calm city at 6 a.m. and biking along the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan and down the beautiful streets of Shorewood and Bayside. But, by no means was the Ride a walk in the park. Cutting through thick, sweltering heat and then dodging hammering rain was definitely a challenge!

We traveled up hill, down hill, in mud, through dirt, on roads, across highways, on sidewalks, and after the rain, over streets that were steaming like wet charcoal in a sauna. The Ride literally was the highlight of my summer, which is why I think all of you should register, even if it’s only for the five-mile ride.

This year I’m hoping to make better time and now that I know what to expect, I’m even more excited!

Well, I guess I better start doing some squats and lunges so I’ll have machine-gun legs by June 1. Wish me luck!

For more information on the Miller Lite Ride for the Arts head over here.

Get out that bike

I didn’t know it til this morning, but this week is Bike to Work Week.

I saw it on a church sign and then it was the topic of Jim Stingl’s column today, as well. (I’m going to start putting a dollar in a jar every time I mention Jim Stingl. I will be soon be rich.)

While I am unable to bike to work due to massive construction and some shady areas along Capital Drive, I still think biking to work is a wonderful idea if you can swing it.

The timing of this realization is perfect, since I just went for an 8-mile bike ride last night and was planning to post today about the joys of biking ...

Riding my bike is one thing that makes me feel like a kid again. Even though I’m old enough to drive and old enough to call my own shots, somehow getting on a bike still makes me feel like I’m escaping, like I’m totally free.

When I’m done with a bike ride, my legs feel rubbery like I’ve just gotten a great workout, and yet my head is clear and my body is relaxed. I love biking because it makes me feel energized and peaceful at the same time.

Yesterday afternoon I left work and was greeted by warm air and a bright sun for the first time in what felt like weeks. I drove home, sunglasses on and windows down, and when I reached my driveway, I decided I wasn’t prepared to spend such a beautiful evening indoors.

I rode my bike along Lake Drive toward downtown, armed with my camera. I stopped a few times to take some pictures, but the ones I took failed to capture the true beauty of the evening. Maybe I’ll still post them when I get home tonight.

I probably encountered well over 100 people during my 45-minute ride, and while I didn’t speak with any of them, I still felt connected with them, as we were all out getting exercise, enjoying the gorgeous night. It’s hard to explain, but being out for a walk or bike ride and seeing so many others really makes me feel like I’m part of a community, and it makes me happy.

Growing up out in the country, I didn’t encounter many people when I was outside. I’ve only lived in a city for a couple of years, and I still get giddy about all the people surrounding me. Our duplex is surrounded by houses on all sides and – creepy as this sounds – it both comforts and intrigues me that in the evenings, I can see into neighbors’ windows from my apartment, see what they’re watching on TV, what area of their kitchen they’re standing in.

Anyway …

The air had a zest and crispness to it last night that it can only have after days and days of rain, and everything was so lush and green. I smelled so many smells as I rode, from lilacs and wood chips to grilled hamburgers and freshly cut grass. It was awesome, and I felt so refreshed when I got home!

The whole time I was riding, I couldn’t help but wonder about all the people who were indoors, in front of the television or computer. For every biker and jogger I passed, fifty more people were inside. There are so many who come home after work and plop in front of the TV night after night, never thinking to take an evening stroll or head out for a quick game of catch. It almost makes me want to knock on people’s doors next time I’m out, take them by the arm and say “get out here, see what you’re missing!”

After I put my bike in the garage, I was walking up my front steps and my neighbor was on her porch with her cat.

"Did you just get back from a jog?” she asked.

Being in the serene state that I was in, it took me a second to register her question.

“No, a bike ride.”

“Oh, how fun – did you go on the bike trail?”

“No, I rode along the lake.”

“Good for you, honey. We sure are lucky to have that lake of ours.”

We sure are.

Weekend Update

I hope everyone had a good weekend!

I did - though today is a different story. I woke up feeling awful with a fever and a headache and terrible nausea. It's been YEARS since I've had a day like this where I can't even get out of bed! It's 6:30 p.m. and sitting here at this computer is the most strenuous thing I've done all day - and it isn't making me feel too well. I don't think there's anything worse than a complete waste of a day where you don't do one thing productive - I'm going crazy! I even had to call in sick to work. Not cool.

Anyway, Jazz in the Park was fun Thursday night. The weather was fabulous, and Dave and I met my friends, Angelina and Jared, down there. We had to sit behind the stage because the park was so packed. We ate yummy food and drank wine and talked and talked. It's a really nice summer event - and the people-watching is great. You see babies and dogs and families and couples... There are people drinking wine from a box, and wine right out of the bottle. Pretty funny.

I worked Friday night, and Saturday I worked a really big wedding at the restaurant from 2 p.m. until 1:15 a.m. By the time I got home and wound down, it was 2:30, and my alarm went off for the Miller Lite Ride at 5:00 a.m. Ouch. Once I got up, though, I was fine. I had signed Dave up, too, and he was a trooper getting up that early with me after a long day of work himself. We loaded our bikes into my little Corolla and headed downtown.

The ride was fun. It's neat at these things that all these people are up early to come together and ride (or run or whatever) for a good cause. There were tons of people doing various rides - five, 15, 25, 50 and 75 milers. I had considered doing the 25-miler, but after my two and a half hours of sleep, I was VERY relieved that I chose the shorter, 15-mile route. The weather was beautiful - kind of hot, but you'll get no complaints here! Gene Mueller from 94.5 WKTI was there, and so were Mike Gousha and Carol Meekins from Channel 4. I got excited when I saw all of them. :) At 7:40, we were off, and our ride took us through downtown and Bay View and back again. It was slow-going for a lot of the time, but I didn't mind. I was tired!

The guy in the fourth picture above was a protestor who was walking around declaring that beer drinkers are destined for hell unless they repent now. Most people ignored him - and rightfully so - but he was actually a pretty nice guy. He smiled at people and said "God Bless" and he was very cooperative when we snapped his picture!

After the ride, we got a free bike lock from Masterlock (a really nice one!) and some lunch, and then headed home. I worked last night, too, and was really exhausted by the end of the night. I got a lot of sleep last night, so have no idea where this sickness could have come from. Forgive me if this post is rather quick, but I need to lie back down!

I'll post again soon. Bye!