Financial Ideas from a Financial Amatuer
President Obama is proposing some changes to 'encourage' saving. Basically it is more focused towards retirement and not the savings necessary for 'rainy days', so I don't think it goes far enough.
My proposals
- The first $25,000 per taxpayer in savings interest is tax exempt. Qualifying accounts must be insured and have a guaranteed rate of return, though it may be adjustable. We need to reward people for saving and having that cushion of money in case of hard times. By excluding stocks, mutual funds and other 'speculative' instruments, we encourage a get rich slow model.
- So banks and credit unions will now have cash on hand and they have to do something with it. Banks and credit unions make money by lending. They need to get the money out to the consumers and businesses in order to make a profit. This will loosen the tight credit markets and existing laws need to be enforced and/or strengthened to prevent a repeat of the Savings and Loan scandals of the last century.
- Forbid the securitization of mortgages. This used to be law and the repeal has proved to be disastrous. This will not impact current mortgages, only future mortgages. Banks and Credit Unions will be offered incentives to purchase existing mortgages and hold them in house. The one restriction will be that the institution must have a full service branch within 20 miles of the physical location of the property. People need to be able to go to an office and work with someone in case of problems.
- One of the justifications for the recent bailout was that some of the banks were too big to fail. And then the bailout money was used to make the banks BIGGER! That is wrong. Do we need to consider a cap on Bank Size? Or sliding tax rates so that larger banks pay more in taxes? Closer government oversight is certainly in order, at all levels.
- Small hometown banks should be the exception not the rule. The federal government should enable small banks to form loose networks, similar to the Credit Union Service Centers that I see in Colorado. As a network member, you can do basic transactions (deposits, cash checks, make loan payments) at any bank that is part of the network.
Why the hell is this news?
Note to reader...read the article and whole note.
http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_12514997There is no reason for this story to be news.
8 months ago, Jorge did a selfless thing and saved 2 girls. That's a great story...and that should have been the end of it.
8 months ago, the insurance company should have stepped up and paid to replace the truck lost in an accident that Jorge did not cause.
8 months ago, the Scoular Company should have stepped up and helped find Jorge interim work so he could at least pay his bills.
8 months ago, the Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association should have stepped up and helped secure a replacement truck.
8 months ago, Goodyear should have stepped up offered a deal on new tires.
7 months ago, Jorge and his replacement truck should have been hauling grain for the Scoular Company because 8 months ago Jorge did the right thing...
and so did everyone else. But 8 months ago...that did not happen.
Let me make this perfectly clear, texting while driving is dangerous and no one should ever do it. Any activity that significantly distracts you while driving should never be done. This means not just texting, but reading, writing, putting on makeup, shaving and watching TV (yes...I saw someone watching TV while driving!). There are
studies that indicate talking on the cell phone while driving is as dangerous as driving drunk. And I think that texting takes more attention and is far more dangerous as it takes both your attention and your eyes from the road.
Don't Text and Drive!"But wait!" you are saying...the title of the blog post says "Pointless Ban"...sounds like you are being rather indecisive! Not doing something and legally banning something are two different things.
Once you legislate an issue, you have to address the issue of enforcement. How will the ban on texting while driving be enforced? As far as I know, there is not techology that enables law enforcement to remotely determine if you are texting. Speed enforcement is relatively easy because your speed can be checked from a distance. Seat belt enforcement is more difficult because there is no reliable way to see seat belt use from a distance...though the act of putting on a seat belt is easier to spot. How can law enforcement determine a driver is texting unless that is witnessed by the officer, who will likely need to be following or next to the vehicle. Holding the phone below the level of the window or dash makes it basically impossible to spot. If the texting driver spots an officer, he/she simply needs to drop the phone on the seat, a movement that is almost transperant.
The ability to enforce is not the same as the willingness to enforce. As I wrote previously, law enforcement seems less than willing to enforce some of the laws that are already on the books. I have personally witnessed law enforcement ignoring violations of the keep right except to pass, maintaining a safe distance, stopping at a red light, coming to a full stop before proceeding (at stop signs and turning left on red lights) laws. The legal prohibition on texting while driving will likely join the ranks of another unenforced law.
There are already laws on the books regarding unsafe operation of a vehicle, which texting certainly falls under, so why do we need another law?
Unenforced or unenforceable legislation is a bad idea. It lessens the impact of the law and diminishes our respect for the law.
NYC Flyby
Okay...so an
unannounced flyby of a large plane being accompanied by a military fighter jet is not the smartest thing to do in New York. There is certainly enough blame to go around (at all levels it appears). But is this a reason to fire someone? Or point out how bad President Obama is?
GET A GRIP PEOPLE!!!!
It was stupid. It was a mistake. I think the reaction of the White House is appropriate. President Obama and his staff are saying that they are upset that this happened and they have apologized. This honesty and reasonable action is what I expect from a leader (unlike many other "leaders" who refuse to admit that they have made any mistakes...and I'm not just talking about the prior administration).
If you live/work in an environment where a mistake is countered with threats of job loss and overly broad attacks, no wonder people hesitate to be honest and admit a mistake. And not admitting to a mistake is a recipe for disaster.
Humans make mistakes. Honest and forthright people admit their mistakes, work to fix them and learn from them. Dishonest and weak people try to cover up their mistakes, locate scapegoats and create a stifling environment.
Every level of government involved in this needs to simply say "We blew it. It was stupid. We admit our mistakes and will learn from them. We are sorry."
Susan Boyle is amazing, but....
It's hard to check news online without hearing about Susan Boyle. For those of you who have much better things to do than read news online, she is the woman who has amazed the judges of "Britian's Got Talent" and delighted the live and online audience. You can see her performance
here...but
DON'T WATCH IT QUITE YET!!!!Try something for me. Just listen to the performance. Put your mouse cursor over the link, close your eyes and click. Wait until she starts to sing and then picture Susan in your mind...try to match the voice with a physical presence. Once you have an idea of what she looks like...open your eyes.
DON'T READ ON UNTIL you have watched a good portion of the video.
I hope you have taken the time to watch the whole video. It is quite a performance. My (and many others) first impression is "unattractive, unsophisticated, uncouth". Her antics in the first 2 minutes do nothing to dispel this impression. Then she starts to sing...and you hear a voice that is clear, in tune, deep and simply wonderful. This is the sound of a seasoned stage performer...it's just that it is coming out of the body of an "unmarried, unemployed cat lady". The incongruity takes your breath away...but...
Much is being made of her being a great example of not judging a book by it's cover and looking for gifts in everyone, not just the attractive, sophisticated, couth, married and employed. And this is an important lesson...but...
Would she and her performance be as amazing if she looked more like the blonde female judge? Would she be the talk of the net? Perhaps, perhaps not. Regardless of her appearance, the song is haunting and her performance is worthy of the best theatre.
Even as people say "this is a great example of looking past the exterior", I cannot help but think that they are still judging her performance based on her appearance and behavior. Granted, she is no longer a target for eye rolling or cynical laughter, but her appearance is still the reason we are talking about her...so have we really learned the lesson we are espousing?
An open letter to our Colorado state legislators
Regarding the
'Slow Traffic' bill Although the experience Rep.
Michael Merrifield had on Monarch Pass was frustrating, it is nothing new. Anyone who drives in the mountains has had the same experience. The person driving the motor home was inconsiderate and in violation of traffic law (impeding the flow), but without law enforcement to pull over and cite the driver, there was no way to legally and safely resolve the situation.
I am writing to urge you to vote against this bill. Not because traffic and slow drivers blocking others is not a problem, but rather because we have laws on the books already to address this issue (keep right except to pass and impeding traffic). If law enforcement is unwilling to enforce the laws we currently have, how will adding another law change this situation?
I frequently travel the highways in the Front Range area and witness vehicles impeding traffic or failing to keep right except while passing. Even when done in the presence of law enforcement, the violation is rarely addressed. In fact, some of the most frequent and visible violators of the keep right except while passing law is law enforcement themselves (Colorado State Patrol and Jefferson/Douglas County Sheriffs are the ones I see most frequently). What message does this send to the average driver when those who are responsible for enforcing a law are frequently in violation of the law themselves?
A common perception about our traffic law enforcement is that they are less to do with safety than they are about revenue generation. It is common to see law enforcement 'running radar' to catch speeders while ignoring tailgating, impeding traffic, failing to stop at a light/sign. In terms of safety, tailgating and failing to stop seem to have a higher chance of causing accidents and injuries. If law enforcement is about safety, then should not these issues take priority?
If the legislature and law enforcement are serious about traffic safety, they will focus on educating drivers (frequent and clear signage) and enforcing the laws. Another law on the books that is unenforced is not simply pointless, but contributes to the increasing disrespect for our laws and those who are supposed to enforce them. Again, I urge you and your colleagues to reject this bill and focus on education and enforcement of current laws.
An End to Legal Marriage
In California, Arizona and Florida, voters appear to have passed amendments to the respective state constitutions that defines marriage between one man and one woman. In the past, those measures have usually been defeated.
To me the issue is one of legal rights (as opposed to civil rights). The institution of marriage is legally recognized by the various governments and carries with it certain legal obligations and privileges. As such, it is no longer the domain of the church/religion to define marriage and/or engage in political activity in support of their definition (violation of tax code...non-profit status).
It is time for a domestic partnership to be divided into two distinct parts. A legal partnership and a personal one. If two (or more...I'll explain this at the end) people decide that this personal partnership is based on religious beliefs, then that is their choice. They can adhere to the standards and practices of their church's Holy Matrimony. If they choose to opt for the legal partnership only, that is certainly their choice as well.
A legal domestic partnership can be created among the residents of a home. It may be that an adult son/daughter is living with their parents. Perhaps an elderly parent is living with a son/daughter. Perhaps it is a family friend who is living with a family. There are many permutations of 'domestic partnership' that show the need for some sort of legal recognition, tax issues, medical/emergency assistance, etc. If you need to dissolve the partnership, then you can do so (according to the terms of the partnership set forth at the time of creation).
But...what about that little phrase "two (or more..."? Does this mean that I am advocating polygamy? Before I answer that question consider this.
- Why is it legal for a man to have children with many different women as long as he is not married to them or not married to more than one?
- Why is it legal for a woman to have children with many different men as long as she is not married to them or not married to more than one?
Why do these thoughts always occur too late???
Over the past several days, I have heard the "Obama is a socialist. He wants to take money out of your pocket and give it to people who don't want to work." argument too many times. As I was getting ready this morning, I realized the weaknesses of this particular position....too bad I did not come up with this a few weeks ago, but better late than never, eh?
This is an argument about social and fiscal welfare that is not unique to Obama. It is part of the Democratic philosophy (this is not to say that all who identify themselves as Democrats believe this). In fact, as the Republicans have controlled the government for the past 8 years and not done away with this, they are as much to blame as anyone else.
One way to look at this from a national perspective is "Who pays more in taxes than they receive in benefits?" That is a basic example of redistribution of wealth. The Federal Government publishes this information and Jesse Eribaum put it together with the election results from 2004 at http://democraticactionteam.org/redstatesocialism/index.html. Interesting...the highest level of "more benefits than tax dollars" are overwhelmingly Republican states.
The real irony of the position is that it fails to acknowledge the corporate welfare that the Republican party tends to support. Witness the current financial system bailout. $700 billion to banks and other financial institutions...$700 billion that may never see the accounts of 'Joe the Plumber' (Chase is not freeing up credit...they are buying up smaller banks
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/25/business/25nocera.html?_r=1&em&oref=slogin). So, the government is taking hundreds of billions (and probably will end up being trillions) of dollars out of my pocket so AIG execs can shell out $400k on an executive retreat, Goldman Sachs can receive $12 billion in bailout money to hand out $14 billion in executive bonuses (oh...and these are not even American executives!
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1081624/Goldman-Sachs-ready-hand-7BILLION-salary-bonus-package--6bn-bail-out.html) and Chase can grow even larger and pose an even bigger financial threat to our economy (to paraphrase Alan Greenspan...who actually makes sense with this one...'if any company is too big too fail, it is too big').
A final thought...If "Tax and Spend" is such a bad idea...doesn't that make "Just Spend" a worse one?
Labels: Obama, Politics
What every retail website should have
Several times in the past few months, I have been looking for an item or getting information about a restaurant. It is very frustrating when you come across a retail website that is lacking in basic information. As a result, I tend to shop somewhere else.
- Current address, contact information and hours of retail locations. I often use the internet to research local businesses. When they do not include such basic information, they go to the bottom of the list. I really dislike going to a place and finding it closed. For example, I recommended a local restaurant to a friend. She showed up only to find the place closed that day. If the website included their hours, this would not have happened.
- Reasonably accurate inventory information. Why should I drive across town to a store only to find out that they don't have the item in stock? There is no reason why basic inventory information cannot be linked to their retail site. Not exact counts, but perhaps a More/Less than 5 indicator.
A good retail store will figure out how to leverage the internet and technology to attract customers.
A bad retail store will blame the internet and technology instead of fixing their poor customer service.
The wooden arrow industry bailout
I came across an article, "
A tourniquet for a hemorrhaging economy", on Salon.com and read it with absolute disgust. Instead of being responsible and addressing the issue at hand (a questionable issue), our elected officials had to play pork barrel politics.
The Wall Street Journal has published the
entire Act online (sorry it's a pdf). If you are able to get through the 451 pages (did our elected officials read the entire 451 pages in the past 2 days?), you will find some wonderful items. Instead of a common sense bill to take care of individuals who really need help, we have an act full of special interest pork.
I won't go over most of the examples sited in the Salon.com article, but I did come across a few highlights.
- "Exemption from excise tax for certain wooden arrows designed for use by children." As long as they meet the natural wood specifications and are "measures 5⁄16 of an inch or less in diameter"
- "Increase in limit on cover over of rum excise tax to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands."
- "Seven-year cost recovery period for motorsports racing track facility"
Is this what delayed the passage? Our officials needed more time to play politics as usual. Instead of listening to their constituency, they added 350 pages of benefits to special interests.
I'm disgusted. Totally disgusted.
New filing system
I came across a comment somewhere online that made me really think about how I file things at home. The basic question was how often you look at something you have filed once you file it away. The answer is "Almost never". So why do I spend time preparing folders, filing papers, scanning paperwork when you rarely need to look at these papers again.
Once I take care of whatever reason for the paperwork, such as paying a bill, renewing a membership, there is no need to touch it again.
Borrowing from the idea of partitioning, I have come up with a new filing system. I have (will have) 10 plastic see-through tubs (11x20x6) labeled with 0 - 9 (representing the year). For all my papers from 2008, I put in the 8 tub. Once 2009 rolls around, I'll put everything (except my taxes) into the 9 tub. I am also going through my filing cabinet and putting everything into the appropriate tub (lots in 5,6,7...not so much in 9 - 4).
Fast forward to 2018. I pull out the 8 tub and shred all the papers. It is highly unlikely that I will need 10 year old paperwork, so why keep it around? If there is something of sentimental value or very important, I will place that in a special tub, but I expect that to be pretty minimal.
The one exception to this rule are financial agreements (credit cards, savings accounts, home purchase). Those need to be kept in a special place as long as I still have the card/account.
We'll see how this goes...but it sure makes a lot of sense to me! And it makes filing much easier. All I have to do is toss papers in a tub.
A solution in search of a problem
As I ponder the activity around the $700 billion (US) bailout proposal, I began thinking..."What exactly is the problem we are trying to solve?" What exactly is the economic crisis that we are supposed to be solving? Some recent press talks about financial companies collapsing, some about the lack of available funds for loans by banks. For all the talk I have heard from the government, I do not recall hearing a solid, supported explanation for the need for this 'bailout'. Perhaps I am missing something, though I try to keep aware of current events.
In testimony, government officials admitted they had not idea how much money was actually needed. They are basically guessing. These same officials wanted no oversight from anyone else and no review of their decisions or actions.
Hmm... No legitimate data. No oversight. Sound familiar?
The bottom line. Until I hear a solid, supported explanation for our current financial 'crisis' and how any government activity will help, I will continue to demand that no bailout is offered. No longer will I just take the government's word...they have proven themselves less than honest.
The current financial mess
I am disgusted with our government and financial institutions and their involvement in the current financial mess we find ourselves in. If these financial institutions need money from the government to survive, then they need to relinquish critical decision making to someone else. Do not hand over $700 billion to pay multimillion dollar salaries and bonuses.
One reason why our country is in this mess is the abuse of the financial systems by speculators who short sell or take out 125% mortgages on 5 separate properties. Speculators want the government to stay away when they are making money, but want help when they are losing.
Here are a few things I would do if I were in charge...
Adjustable rate mortgages should be allowed only for 80% or less loan-to-value mortgages for primary residence homes only.
Change laws to exempt interest (up to $100,000 annually) for bank savings/cd accounts. This will encourage people to save responsibly and provide banks with larger amounts of cash to fund and hold mortgages.Ban short selling (selling before you actually buy) of all stocks. Stocks and bonds are meant to assist companies/organizations in their operations and to provide investment opportunity.
Courage Classic Day 3 and Recap
Now that I am home and can download my cycling computer data, I have some updated totals and notes.Day 1 - 59 miles and 4607 feet of climbing in 5 hours riding timeI rode most of the day with a broken cleat on my shoes. For the non-riders amongst my readers, some bicycle pedals are 'clipless'. There is a small pedal and you attach your shoe to the pedal for riding (it is often called clipping in/clipping out...a bit of a misnomer with clipless pedals...but I digress). The advantage is that you can pedal a full stroke because you can pull back and up on the pedal as you ride. This is a great help when climbing.
I first realized something was wrong when my left foot came out of the pedal while descending Battle Mountain (a rather disconcerting feeling when traveling in excess of 35 miles per hour down hill). It was not until we stopped for lunch that I actually looked at my shoe and saw part of the cleat was broken. Fortunately, I was still able to attach the cleat (but it was difficult and energy consuming) to the pedal and complete the days ride. More fortunately, one of the local bicycle shops had a merchandise/service tent set up and actually had the cleats that fit my pedals!
Day 2 - 59 miles and 2740 feet of climbing in 3 hours 20 minutes riding time.Drama free...so nothing to add.
And now the rest of the story...Day 3 - Monday, July 28. Copper Mountain to Leadville (26 miles and 1943 feet of climbing in 2 hours 15 minutes riding time).
This morning was one of the most difficult mornings of riding. It was not so much the route, but rather the pre-ride jitters that I (and others) felt. It was very difficult to choke down breakfast (I finally gave up... but not before a cinnamon roll!) and it just felt wrong. Part of it was the long difficult climb that was the first order of business (in other words...no warm up!). We start at 9750 feet and would climb to 11,318 feet in 12 miles. Walt, one of the unofficial leaders of our little gang, injured his back and would not be able to ride. It just was not the same without him.
I got a little behind everyone after stopping early with a few others and then dropping my shoe cleat covers (key to keeping the cleats in good shape...though eventually they wear out and break). A bit up the road, a driver in a Lexus SUV decided he/she did not want to share the road with cyclists and demonstrated their feelings by driving at high speed too close to the cyclists (state law requires a 3 foot buffer between cars and bicycles) and honking his/her horn. Fortunately, I was able to flag down one of the Colorado State Patrol Troopers who were supporting the ride and report the driver. The great part (well second greatest part) was that I made the report while still riding and climbing up Freemont Pass. The actual greatest part was speaking with a Trooper at the first rest stop and finding out that they pulled over the driver! Of all the drivers I encountered along the rode, that was the only one that I observed being unsafe.
After stopping at the first rest aid station (5.4 miles and 900 feet of climbing from the start), Roberta and I took off together for the rest of the climb to the summit of Freemont Pass. We both rode at the same pace. It is a great feeling to ride through the mountains of Colorado with a great friend...it helps to take your mind off the pain in your lungs and legs (and feet and butt!). It is just great to share the experience.
We arrived first (for the group) at the top of the pass. We both posed for the required picture at the top of the pass (in case you can't see it all that well, the elevation is 11,318 feet). I am amazed that after climbing 1600 feet in 90 minutes I still had the strength to lift the bike over my head! have to say that the ride started with a very negative feeling (shared by many in the group), but the feeling at the top of the pass was amazingly positive! It is definitely the worst and best of rides!
At the top, we were joined by Walt and Kathy (and Yvonne and Marjorie). Last year, we gathered at the summit and had a brief ceremony to honor the memory of Jen (Walt and Kathy's daughter, Caitlin's sister) who passed away in 2006. This year, we gathered again to celebrate the ride and honor Jen. Lee, a friend of mine from Newcastle, introduced us to the tradition of the quaich when we climbed Ben Nevis in May (Walt, Kathy and Roberta were there as well...along with my friend Peter). Walt poured some Talisker in the quaich and we passed it around twice, each person taking a small sip. There was a drop left, so I looked at Walt, said "This is for Jen" and tossed the last bit of fine single malt into the air for her to share with us.
It was time to depart, so Roberta and I started our descent. In the next 3.5 miles, we descended almost 1000 feet! While I did not achieve the same speed (48 miles per hour) as last year, it was a great descent. After a short hill ascent to get to Leadville, Roberta and I stopped so that we could get the group back together and cross the finish line as one. Walt and Yvonne joined us for this last part of the ride. I know it was not easy for either one from a physical standpoint, but it was a must do from an emotional standpoint.
It took a little bit of route finding, but I was able to lead the group to the finish line...well almost. We were all riding to honor Jen, so it was appropriate that Caitlin and Walt led us across the finish line.
Then it was time for lunch, cake (for Caitlin and Roberta's first Courage Classic and Walt and Roberta's birthdays), a change of clothes and heading for home!
Recap
144 miles, 9290 feet of climbing in 10 hours 35 minutes of riding time
It was a great tour. I definitely improved on my performance from last year and much of the credit is due to my training partner, Roberta, and the rides we did together. None of the climbs were easy, quite the opposite, but I did them in better time and with fewer stops (in the most cases, no stops). I am definitely looking to next year and improving my climbing endurance.
It is also a wonderful feeling to ride with your friends and talk with absolute strangers. The friendship and energy of the Courage Classic is just amazing.
If you have a few spare dollars (euros, pounds) and would like to contribute to a great cause, you can donate at http://www.couragetours.com/2008/danielwfink. Whether it is $5 or $50 (or more) it is greatly appreciated!
Courage Classic Day 1 and 2
*I was beat last night (especially with the after dinner drinks with Walt, Phil and Pat) and went to bed early so I'm filing a double report.
Day 1 - Saturday, July 26. Leadville to Copper Mountain (59 miles, 3800 feet of elevation gain, 5 hours of riding time).
This is the toughest day on the ride. We started out in Leadville (the highest incorporated town in the US at 10,040 feet) in the morning cold (about 45 degrees fahrenheit). Of course, it was not a smooth beginning when I realized that I had left my socks at the condo in Copper Mountain...at least 30 minutes drive away. Fortunately, the local grocery store had some socks that would work, so I know own another 6 pairs of white sports socks. But I had socks! Last year, I forgot to pack my sports supplements...which caused a lot of problems late in the day.
About 4 miles of the route were under construction, so we essentially were riding on packed dirt. Wet, packed dirt. My front tire slipped several times, but not enough to fall. It was a tough section for Roberta, but her ability to navigate it successfully did a lot to boost her confidence on the bike. The next challenge was a 4 mile/400 foot climb of Tennessee Pass, a great way to warm up.
After a quick stop at the aid station (water, food), we headed down the other side of Tennessee Pass (10 miles, 2000 feet of elevation loss). This is a great descent, good road, long straights and only a few turns. Just after starting down, we passed Kathy, a friend who was volunteering). So I stopped as soon as it was safe (about 200 feet down), rode back up, gave her a quick hug (she was supposed to ride but was injured while cycling to work a few weeks back), then started back down the pass. Roberta had gone on ahead, so I rode as fast as I could safely to catch up with her. It is a great feeling to be actually pedaling while going almost 40 miles per hour down hill! I caught up with Roberta (who was also making good time) just before the Camp Hale aid station.
The next climb was Battle Mountain. This is a 3 mile/1000 foot climb (at 10,000 feet) and nearly did me in last year. The nice thing about riding with a friend is that you work together to keep pushing. I kept looking back at Roberta and telling myself that I was not going to stop until she did...and she never did. After a few turns, we finally saw the welcome sign...a yellow traffic sign indicating that a steep descent was ahead!
As we started down the other side of Battle Mountain, we had a sobering experience. A few miles from the summit (just enough to get up some speed), we encountered a police officer telling us to slow down as there was an accident ahead. Unfortunately, it was a fellow cyclist who was being attended to by the medical staff. We had to stop and walk our bikes around the ambulance and continue on our way (after taking a moment to compose ourselves).
Shortly after leaving the accident scene, I came upon a slower rider, checked my mirror to see if anyone was behind me (I could only see Roberta), and called out "On Your Left" to let them know that I was going to be passing them (something
very important when you are descending). I had just moved out to pass the rider when another rider went past me, almost hitting me. He came upon unannounced and in a blind spot of my mirror. This kind of thing is annoying on a 10 mile per hour bike path, but on a 35 mile per hour descent in the mountains it is dangerous not to tell the rider you are approaching and to not give them enough room. Next time you are riding and approach a slower rider, say "On Your Left" (in the appropriate language of course), ring a bell, do something to let them know you will be passing. And give them plenty of room in case they are still startled by your approach.
The life you save may be your own!After a lunch stop in Vail, where we caught up with Walt, Caitlin, Dr. Jody and the assorted characters in our little riding team, we headed up towards Vail Pass. The 45 degree morning had given way to a 90 degree (at least it felt that hot) slog. Riding on roads, we gained about 500 feet over 6 miles...a miserable 6 miles. At one point, I became overheated and stopped in the shade and breeze to cool down. I seriously considered catching a ride up the pass as I do not tolerate the heat well. I could see the next aid station (it looked to be about 42 miles directly above), so I dumped the last of my water over my head and continued on. I spent a few minutes at the aid station cooling down and decided that the gain in elevation would help cool me down (which it did...but at what cost????)
I got back on the bike and started up Vail Pass. This is one of the tougher passes for cycling. You gain almost 2400 feet in less than 8 miles, going from 8300 feet to 10,700 feet. It is also almost a constant uphill (the only downhill is a twisty narrow section...immediately before an amazingly steep section). Slow and steady was the rule of the day (I probably averaged about 5 miles per hour) and I did have to walk the bike in two spots (steep and narrow sections where it is just safer to walk it when you have that many people on the path).
Once at the top, it is a fast 4 miles down to Copper Mountain. And I mean fast! Even in the rain, I made it down the 4 miles in about 10 minutes. I have ridden this path many times and am familiar with it's twists and turns. It is a lot of fun on a dry day...a little nerve wracking on a rainy day.
After rolling across the finish line and collecting handshakes and hugs from friends, it was back to the condo, into the hot tub, a quick shower and dinner (and a couple of Fat Tire Ales with the above mentioned gang).
Day 2 - Sunday, July 27 Copper Mountain/Summit County Out and Back (60 miles, 1700 feet elevation and 4 hours of riding time).
After a leisurely breakfast and team photo, we headed out on a day of undecided duration. The usual routes were changed because of a road closure, so we had options of 35 - 100 miles. We ultimately decided on the 56 mile route out to Blue River. This is a way I have not been before, so it was a great time to check it out (with 2000 of my closest cycling buddies).
As we rode along the highway, we encountered a bit of a head wind. I drafted behind the group for a bit, then decided I needed to stretch my legs, so I passed the group (saying "On Your Left" of course!) and tucked in behind Walt, who was a bit ahead of the rest. After a mile, I passed him to take the lead and let him rest (I am a great person to draft behind). For the next 4 miles...that is how it stayed...me in front, Walt taking it easy behind me (I teased him a little bit about it later). After passing some traffic and a couple of small descents, I lost Walt. We had also lost the headwind, so it was not too bad for him.
After a short rest break, I headed back. I thought I saw the group just behind me...but it turned out to be other members of our team (we are all wearing the same jersey today). The 12 miles back to town were really pretty easy once I got into a good rhythm. Most of the gang caught up with me at the rest station (except Roberta and Phil who decided 60 miles was not enough, so they rode a bit farther from the turnaround point). They caught up with me just in time for me to head out (except for Kate, who arrived a minute or so after me). So Kate and I headed back towards Copper. She passed me at the switchbacks up to the Dillon Dam (young and in shape will drop an old man like me any day!). We caught back up at the end of the Dam (about 1 mile) and rode together to Frisco, where I stopped (I started to get really hungry and had 7 miles/500 feet to go) to get something to eat.
I pulled across the finish line a little after 2pm, just behind Kate and well ahead of the rest of our little group. After waiting for Roberta, who arrived about 3pm, I went back to the condo and hit the hot tub, shower and drinks with Phil and Walt.
Another great day of riding.
Tomorrow is the final day. We start with an ascent of Fremont Pass (12 miles/1600 feet) and top out at 11,318 feet, our high point for the tour. After a quick descent (I hit almost 50 miles per hour last year), we arrive back at Leadville for a well deserved picnic!
I'll report in on the Monday ride...from the warm and welcome confines of my home!
Courage Classic Day 0
After a lot of training, anticipation and fair amount of anxiety, The Courage Classic is upon us. Today has been hectic, but productive. After taking care of some emails and business, it was time to load up Aggie for her vacation at the Flying Piglet Ranch (she gets to pool, graze and fence fight so she loves it!). Upon my return home, I took care of a few more emails and then loaded up the car, so I could pick up Roberta (training partner and fellow rider) and Amanda (our volunteer driver) and headed up to the mountains. A little traffic, a little rain, some great conversation.
It started to rain when we arrived at Copper Mountain, on which I shall blame my inability to find our check in location (2 u-turns) and condo (1 u-turn). The condo is nice (a little rough hewn, but fitting with the location), unfortunately it is on the 3rd floor...and no elevator! Oh well, good last minute training. The location is good, close to the center village, but far enough away to be quiet.
We registered (I turned in an additional $500 in checks) and picked up our gear. We decided to get some food...fortunately, I picked the restaurant where Walt and Phil were just finishing a beer or two...and ignoring their phone. They were heading back to the condo to drop off some items and wait for the rest of the crowd (most of whom rode last year). About 30 minutes later, the rest of the crowd walked past the restaurant, so I dashed out (nice cloth napkin in hand) to let them know we had arrived and were waiting for their wonderful company. They headed back to the condo to drop off their gear.
We had just finished our dinner when the whole gang (all 9 of them) arrived. It was really nice to chat with the friends from last year (lots of people know the Weavers). Unfortunately, it was also time to get back to the condo to get ready for the ride (I will not repeat my mistake from last year).
Check some email, prepare my sports drink bottles and supplements, write this blog...
Tomorrow will be a tough day. 58 miles and about 4,000 feet of elevation gain (including almost 3000 in the last 1/3 of the ride). Battle Mountain will be the steepest (1,000 feet in under 4 miles), but Vail Pass (2800 in 16 miles) is tough because it comes at the end of the day. Fortunately, the descent to Copper Mountain is fast, but it is also difficult because you have to be totally focused on your descent. It is narrow, twisty, often crowded. I have seen a lot of close calls on this section of the trail and it will take my full attention to make it down safely.
Time to get the last few items ready for tomorrow. Please keep all the riders, volunteers, staff, and families in your thoughts.
More tomorrow!
Riding in the Courage Classic
On July 26, 27 and 28, I will be joining nearly 2000 other cyclists in riding 157 miles (and lots of hills) through the Colorado Rockies in support of one the best pediatric hospitals in the nation: The Children's Hospital of Denver. This is the 19th year for the Courage Classic, and so far, it's raised $17.6 million for Children's. The Children's Hospital of Denver has been around for almost 100 years. The people at Children's take care of some of the sickest kids around, as well as kids who need typical childhood care. They also educate pediatricians, pediatric specialists, nurses and other health-care professionals. Children's is a non-profit, so the people there rely upon donors to help them sustain their excellence.
I would like to raise $2500 for this great cause. Will you please support my ride with a donation? Your gift is tax-deductible. It's easy to give. Follow the link to my
personal Web page and click the Donate Now! link at the top of the page. You can give via credit card, bank account debit or PayPal. You can also send a check to me (contact me for mailing address and details).
Why I support The Children's Hospital- I was born with a heart defect and the doctors, nurses and staff of The Children's Hospital of Detroit provided me with life saving care. Thanks to their efforts and the support of family and friends, I am able to live a full and active life. By riding in the Courage Classic, I am able to assist others and help say "Thank You" to those who have assisted me.
- I ride to support the doctors, nurses and staff at the hospitals around the world that have cared for and will care for the children of my family and friends.
- A few years ago, I spent some time at Children's visiting a friend and her family. The care she received was truly first class. The facility is amazing and the staff among the best I have ever seen.
Please consider making a donation by August 31st, 2008. You'll make my day, and you'll help sick and injured kids get the medical care they need.
For more information visit
www.couragetours.comFollow this link to visit Daniel Fink's page.
Daniel Fink
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If you cannot see or click the link(s), copy and paste the URL(s) into your browser's address field:
http://www.couragetours.com/2008/danielwfink?faf=1&elid=1762285562
Dear Mr. Iacocca
"Am I the only guy in this country who’s fed up with what’s happening? Where the hell is our outrage? We should be screaming bloody murder. We’ve got a gang of clueless bozos steering our ship of state right over a cliff, we’ve got corporate gangsters stealing us blind, and we can’t even clean up after a hurricane much less build a hybrid car. But instead of getting mad, everyone sits around and nods their heads when the politicians say, 'Stay the course.'"I almost agree with you. No, you are not the only guy who's fed up. Many of us are outraged and we do not sit around, not get mad and just nod our heads. We want change, we want to feel proud of our country. Unfortunately, we exist at the whim of the Bully in the office and are worried about voicing our outrage.
Our government (all branches) crushes anyone who dares voice outrage or even tells the truth. Remember Valerie Plame? If our Executive Branch is willing to put the lives of loved one's at risk because you dare to document and publicize their lies, why should I speak up? If they are willing to do this to a person of power, what are they willing to do to someone who can't get press to publicize their plight?
We voted in a substantial number of new Congressional delegates...who promptly forgot their campaign promises and fold when challenged by others in power. They certainly are unwilling to protect us from illegal wire taps and intrusions into our personal lives.
Our court systems have declared it's own citizens guilty until proven innocent. Customs and Border Patrol can seize your computer/camera/phone/pda without cause. Children can be taken away from parents based on a false telephone call. They have told governments that they can take your home and business if they decide to build a WalMart. Police can seize your car and money without ever charging you with a crime...let alone be convicted.
Business owners can steal millions from a company, lay off thousands of employees, change employment terms, rip off customers with impunity. And there is no legal redress...no consequences.
Yes, we are outraged and wonder what is going to happen next. However, we are now in crisis on a personal level. We can barely afford gasoline and health insurance. Basic food staples are being rationed. We are wondering what is going to happen to our home. Yes...we are to blame for much of this. We have been too complacent.
Where were you, Mr. Iacocca, when these problems were fermenting? Why were you silent when we first went to war? When the mortgage industry was taken over by financial speculators? You may be outraged now...but we needed your outrage, your leadership years ago.
Don't get me wrong, I am glad you are finally speaking up. But it would be much better if you were speaking from the head of the room instead of somewhere near the back.
Decisions, Decisions
I need to get a hard sided suitcase for an upcoming trip (will be able to take more abuse). I have identified a good one, just the right size, good price...but I cannot make the decision as to color! Do I go for very easy to see or more subdued? The easy to see is Yellow, the more subdued is Black with Tan handles and edging.
Yellow - easy to see, especially if a baggage agent is trying to locate a misplaced piece.
Black and tan - a little more tasteful (in my opinion), with the tan edging and accents it will still be distinctive from all the black suitcases out there.
What, Oh What should I do?
My most obscure pun...
I was in a bar recently and saw that New Belgium Brewing (makers of Fat Tire) had a new beer, 2 Below. So I asked for a Van Morrison. That is a 2 Below with a touch of honey...
2 Below Honey
Yeah, I know...no one gets it...but I think it's funny...
Why the religious belief of a political candidate matters
Last year, a Catholic Archbishop, Burke from St. Louis, stated that elected officials who do not support official Catholic policy can be refused communion. In one statement, he crossed the line that separates Church and State. Does this mean we are now free to impose our collective will on the Catholic church?
Our elected officials are supposed to represent the voice of the people. That representation must be enlightened representation...there are times the will of the people is opposed to our Constitution or basic human rights (think segregation). But when the will of the people is aligned with the Constitution and basic government requirements (taxes are not fun...put vitally necessary), the representative needs to vote accordingly. If the majority of the constituency believes in "reproductive rights", then a vote opposing such rights is incorrect, regardless of the representative's personal beliefs.
To be honest, I do not care where a politician goes to church (if they go at all). But if a candidate will not agree to uphold the constitution and engage in enlightened adherence to the will of the people, I can't vote for them.
You, Chris Candidate, are to represent me...not the church you attend.
Simon Says
The children's game of Simon Says is very simple. Simon, the leader, issues commands (often pointless) to a group of players. If the command is preceded with "Simon Says", the command must be followed or you are out of the game. If the command is not preceded by "Simon Says" and you follow the command, you are out of the game. The winner is the one who shows near blind obedience to Simon.
Each week brings more governmental misbehavior. The current administration has used 9/11 to make decrees, force the passage of laws (with the complicity of an amazingly weak Congress) and abuse powers. Like Simon, they expect us to adhere to these new rules without question and without really thinking 'Does this make sense?'. This unchallenged abuse of power must be called out.
Look for ongoing entries about what I consider to be the Simon Says issues. Perhaps we can start changing them...then again, perhaps my phone will be tapped, my emails read and my name will be on the No Fly List...
